bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective real-time transmission estimations incorporating population viral load distributions amid SARS-CoV-2 variants and pre-existing immunity
Authors: Meng Yu , Lin Yun , Xiong Weijia , Lau Eric H. Y. , Ho Faith , Wong Jessica Y. , Wu Peng , Tsang Tim K. , Cowling Benjamin J. , Yang Bingyi
Published: May 2024

Background

Population-level viral load distribution, measured by cycle threshold (Ct), has been demonstrated to enable real-time estimation of Rtfor SARS-CoV-2 ancestral strain. Generalisability of the framework under different circulating variants and pre-existing immunity remains unclear.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the impact of evolving variants and population immunity on the generalizability of Ct-based transmission estimation framework.

Methods

We obtained the first Ct record of local COVID-19 cases from July 2020 to January 2023 in Hong Kong. We modeled the association between daily viral load distribution and the conventional estimates of Rtbased on case count. We trained the model using data from wave 3 (i.e., ancestral strain with minimal population immunity) and predicted Rtfor wave 5, 6 and 7 (i.e., omicron subvariants with > 70% vaccine coverage). Cross-validation was performed by training on the other 4 waves. Stratification analysis by disease severity was conducted to evaluate the impact of the changing severity profiles.

Results

Trained with the ancestral dominated wave 3, our model provided accurate estimation of Rt, with the area under the ROC curve of 0.98 (95% confidence interval: 0.96, 1.00), 0.62 (95% CI: 0.53, 0.70) and 0.80 (95% CI: 0.73, 0.88) for three omicron dominated waves 5 to 7, respectively. Models trained on the other four waves also had high accuracy. Stratification analysis suggested potential impact of case severity on model estimation, which coincided with the fluctuation of sampling delay.

Discussion

Our findings suggested that incorporating population viral shedding can provide accurate real-time estimation of transmission with evolving variants and population immunity. Application of the model needs to account for sampling delay.
Engineering cardiolipin binding to an artificial membrane protein reveals determinants for lipid-mediated stabilization
Authors: Abramsson Mia L. , Corey Robin A. , Škerle Jan , Persson Louise J. , Andén Olivia , Oluwole Abraham O. , Howard Rebecca J. , Lindahl Erik , Robinson Carol V. , Strisovsky Kvido , Marklund Erik G. , Drew David , Stansfeld Phillip J. , Landreh Michael
Published: May 2024

Integral membrane proteins carry out essential functions in the cell, and their activities are often modulated by specific protein-lipid interactions in the membrane. Here, we elucidate the intricate role of cardiolipin (CDL), a regulatory lipid, as a stabilizer of membrane proteins and their complexes. Using thein silico-designed model protein TMHC4_R (ROCKET) as a scaffold, we employ a combination of molecular dynamics simulations and native mass spectrometry to explore the protein features that facilitate preferential lipid interactions and mediate stabilization. We find that the spatial arrangement of positively charged residues as well as local conformational flexibility are factors that distinguish stabilizing from non-stabilizing CDL interactions. However, we also find that even in this controlled, artificial system, a clear-cut distinction between binding and stabilization is difficult to attain, revealing that overlapping lipid contacts can partially compensate for the effects of binding site mutations. Extending our insights to naturally occurring proteins, we identify a stabilizing CDL site within theE. colirhomboid intramembrane protease GlpG and uncover its regulatory influence on enzyme substrate preference. In this work, we establish a framework for engineering functional lipid interactions, paving the way for the design of proteins with membrane-specific properties or functions.
RNA adapts its flexibility to efficiently fold and resist unfolding
Authors: Jang Sukjin S. , Ray Korak Kumar , Lynall David G. , Shepard Kenneth L. , Nuckolls Colin , Gonzalez Ruben L.
Published: May 2024

Recent studies have demonstrated that the mechanisms through which biopolymers like RNA interconvert between multiple folded structures are critical for their cellular functions. A major obstacle to elucidating these mechanisms is the lack of experimental approaches that can resolve these interconversions between functionally relevant biomolecular structures. Here, we dissect the complete set of structural rearrangements executed by an ultra-stable RNA, the UUCG stem-loop, at the single-molecule level using a nano-electronic device with microsecond time resolution. We show that the stem-loop samples at least four conformations along two folding pathways leading to two distinct folded structures, only one of which has been previously observed. By modulating its flexibility, the stem-loop can adaptively select between these pathways, enabling it to both fold rapidly and resist unfolding. This paradigm of stabilization through compensatory changes in flexibility broadens our understanding of stable RNA structures and is expected to serve as a general strategy employed by all biopolymers.
Towards a Health-Associated Core Keystone (HACK) index for the human gut microbiome
Authors: Goel Abhishek , Shete Omprakash , Goswami Sourav , Samal Amit , CB Lavanya , Kedia Saurabh , Ahuja Vineet , O’Toole Paul W , Shanahan Fergus , Ghosh Tarini Shankar
Published: May 2024

Variations in the normal gut microbiome and the existence of context-dependent disease associations have confounded the identification of microbiome markers of health. A reliable indexing of taxa based on their association with host health and microbiome resilience could accelerate development of microbiome-based therapeutics including selection of live biotherapeutics and facilitate microbiome comparisons in diverse study populations.

Here we first investigated 196 taxa for their association with three hallmark properties of health and microbiome-resilience, namely prevalence/community-influence in non-diseased subjects, longitudinal stability and host health, using a discovery cohort of 39,926 publicly available adult (> 18 years) gut microbiomes from 127 studies spanning 42 countries and 28 disease conditions (including 9,434 longitudinal samples). We identified 18 species-level-taxa, referred to as ‘Health-Associated Core Keystones’ (HACKs), with association-strengths in the top 30 percentile for all three properties. We integrated these association-strengths into a single value, the HACK-index, that ranks taxa based on their estimated contribution to both microbiome stability and host health. We then demonstrate the reproducibility of these indices for the taxon associations with the three properties, using a validation cohort of 4,500 gut microbiomes (from 11 studies with various demographics and diseases). Specific consortia of high HACK-index taxa are also associated with positive response to Mediterranean Diet interventions and Immuno-Checkpoint-Inhibitor therapies. We finally identify the distinguishing microbial genomic functions associated with high HACK-indices/HACK-taxa that can be investigated using targeted mechanistic studies to identify microbiome effectors of improved health.

The availability of HACK-indices provides a rational basis for microbiome comparisons and will facilitate the selection and design of microbiome-based therapeutics.
Strong conservation of spacer lengths in NrdR repressor DNA binding sites
Authors: Shahid Saher , Balka Mateusz , Lundin Daniel , Daley Daniel O. , Sjöberg Britt-Marie , Grinberg Inna Rozman
Published: May 2024

The ribonucleotide reductase-specific repressor NrdR, from the human pathogensListeria monocytogenesandStreptococcus pneumoniae, form tetramers that bind to DNA when loaded with dATP and ATP. If loaded with only ATP they form different oligomeric complexes that cannot bind to DNA. The DNA binding site inL. monocytogenesis a pair of NrdR boxes separated by 15-16 bp, whereas inStreptococcus pneumoniaethe NrdR boxes are separated by 25-26 bp. However,Streptococcus pneumoniaeNrdR binds stronger to the relatedStreptococcus thermophilusbinding sites with NrdR boxes separated by 15-16 bp. This observation triggered a comprehensive binding study of four NrdRs fromL. monocytogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coliandStreptomyces coelicolorto a series of synthetic dsDNA fragments where the NrdR boxes were separated by 12-27 bp. All four NrdRs bound well to NrdR boxes separated by 14-17 bp, and also to NrdR boxes separated by 24-27 bp. The worst binding occurred when NrdR boxes were separated by 20 bp. Thein vitroresults were confirmedin vivoinE. colifor spacer distances 12-27 bp. We conclude that NrdR repressors bind most efficiently when there is an integer number of DNA turns between the center of the two NrdR boxes.
The Role of Metabolism in Shaping Enzyme Structures Over 400 Million Years of Evolution
Authors: Lemke Oliver , Heineike Benjamin Murray , Viknander Sandra , Cohen Nir , Steenwyk Jacob Lucas , Spranger Leonard , Li Feiran , Agostini Federica , Lee Cory Thomas , Aulakh Simran Kaur , Nielsen Jens , Rokas Antonis , Berman Judith , Zelezniak Aleksej , Gossmann Toni Ingolf , Ralser Markus
Published: May 2024

The functions of cells and proteins depend on their biochemical microenvironment. To understand how biochemical constraints shaped protein structural evolution, we coupled the extensive genetic and metabolic data from theSaccharomycotinasubphylum with the capability of AlphaFold2 to systematically predict protein structures from sequence. Determining how 11,269 enzyme structures catalysing 361 different metabolic reactions evolved over 400 million years alongside their molecular functions, we report that metabolism has shaped the structural evolution of enzymes at different levels: the organism’s overall metabolism; the topological organisation of the metabolic network; and each enzyme’s molecular properties. For example, structural evolution depends on each enzyme’s reaction mechanism, on the variability rather than the amount of metabolic flux, and on biosynthetic cost. Evolutionary cost-optimization is stronger on highly abundant enzymes and acts differently on different structural domains, with the exception of small-molecule binding sites, which are prioritised over other structural domains and lack cost-optimisation. Finally, while enzyme surfaces are less constrained, surface residues can also be exposed to positive selection for the co-evolution of protein-protein interaction sites. Accessing AlphaFold’s power to predict protein structures systematically and across species barriers, facilitating the integration of protein structures with functional genomics, we were thus able to map biological constraints which shape protein structural evolution at scale and over long timelines.
Conjugation mediates large-scale chromosomal transfer inStreptomycesdriving diversification of antibiotic biosynthetic gene clusters
Authors: Choufa Caroline , Gascht Pauline , Leblond Hugo , Gauthier Anthony , Vos Michiel , Bontemps Cyril , Leblond Pierre
Published: May 2024

Streptomycesare ubiquitous soil dwelling bacteria of special importance as a source of metabolites used in human and veterinary medicine, agronomy and industry. Conjugation is the main mechanism ofStreptomycesHorizontal Gene Transfer, and this process has long been known to be accompanied by mobilization of chromosomal DNA. However, the magnitude of DNA transfer, or the localization of acquired DNA across their linear chromosome, has remained undetermined. We here show that conjugative crossings in sympatric strains ofStreptomycesresult in the large-scale, genome-wide distributed replacement of up to one third of the recipient chromosome, a phenomenon for which we propose the name ‘StreptomycesChromosomal Transfer’ (SCT). Such chromosome blending results in the acquisition, loss and hybridization of Specialized Metabolite Biosynthetic Gene Clusters, leading to a novel metabolic arsenal in exconjugant offspring. Harnessing conjugation-mediated SMBGC diversification holds great promise in the discovery of new bioactive compounds including antibiotics.
Unifying the analysis of bottom-up proteomics data with CHIMERYS
Authors: Frejno Martin , Berger Michelle T. , Tüshaus Johanna , Hogrebe Alexander , Seefried Florian , Graber Michael , Samaras Patroklos , Fredj Samia Ben , Sukumar Vishal , Eljagh Layla , Brohnshtein Igor , Mamisashvili Lizi , Schneider Markus , Gessulat Siegfried , Schmidt Tobias , Kuster Bernhard , Zolg Daniel P. , Wilhelm Mathias
Published: May 2024

Proteomic workflows generate vastly complex peptide mixtures that are analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), creating thousands of spectra, most of which are chimeric and contain fragment ions from more than one peptide. Because of differences in data acquisition strategies such as data-dependent (DDA), data-independent (DIA) or parallel reaction monitoring (PRM), separate software packages employing different analysis concepts are used for peptide identification and quantification, even though the underlying information is principally the same. Here, we introduce CHIMERYS, a novel, spectrum-centric search algorithm designed for the deconvolution of chimeric spectra that unifies proteomic data analysis. Using accurate predictions of peptide retention time, fragment ion intensities and applying regularized linear regression, it explains as much fragment ion intensity as possible with as few peptides as possible. Together with rigorous false discovery rate control, CHIMERYS accurately identifies and quantifies multiple peptides per tandem mass spectrum in DDA, DIA and PRM experiments.
Screening clinicalCandida albicansisolates for invasiveness by mimicking the human environment
Authors: Vulin Clément , Sutter Julian , Schweizer Tiziano A. , Andreoni Federica , Baer Julian , Bernasconi Alexandra , Bulut Karl , Posteraro Brunella , Saunguinetti Maurizio , Zinkernagel Annelies S.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Candida albicanscolonizes a wide range of human body niches, but also causes severe invasive infections, such as candidemia. No screening method exists to predict which colonizer may lead to invasive infections. Invasiveness and virulence are associated with yeast filamentation, triggered by environmental factors encountered in the host. Here, we monitored the filamentation profile and colony appearance time of aC.albicansstrain isolated from a patient’s abscess. Using eight additionalC.albicansclinical isolates, we established anin vitroscreening-framework of filamentation to assess the invasiveness potential of individual isolates.

Methods

We monitored the filamentation pattern of nineC.albicansclinical isolates over 14 days in 48 environmental conditions, including combinations of glucose/nitrogen concentrations, pH and temperature, to mimic host environment variations. Additionally, we tested invasiveness by growing isolates on modified filtration membranes, mimicking physical human body barriers usually colonized byCandida. An automated image analysis pipeline was developed to quantify filamentation.

Results

Two types of colony filamentation morphology were differentiated, star and hazy. The total filamentation area depended on environmental factors. Based on their filamentation response to environmental changes, the isolates clustered in three distinct groups reflecting their site of isolation in the host. We moreover found that filamentation morphologies on modified filtration membranes could be predictors of invasiveness.

Conclusion

This work lays the ground for screening assays, which could help assessing the potential of a colonizingCandidaisolate to cause invasive disease, paving the way for tailored preventive therapy regimens in the future.
Soil viral community dynamics over seven years of heat disturbance: spatial variation exceeds temporal in annually sampled soils
Authors: Barnett Samuel E. , Shade Ashley
Published: May 2024

Viruses are important components of the soil microbiome, influencing microbial population dynamics and the functions of their hosts. However, the relationships and feedbacks between virus dynamics, microbial host dynamics, and environmental disturbance is not understood. Centralia, PA, USA, is the site of an underground coal seam fire that has been burning for over 60 years. As the fire moves along the coal seam, previously heated soils cool to ambient temperature, creating a gradient of heat disturbance intensity and recovery. We examined annual soil viral population dynamics over seven consecutive years in Centralia using untargeted metagenome sequencing. Viral communities changed over time and were distinct between fire-affected and reference sites. Dissimilarity in viral communities was greater across sites (space) than within a site across years (time), and cumulative viral diversity more rapidly stabilized within a site across years than within a year across sites. There also were changes in CRISPR investment as soils cooled, corresponding to shifts in viral diversity. Finally, there were also differences in viral-encoded auxiliary metabolic genes between fire-affected and reference sites. These results indicate that despite high site-to-site soil viral diversity, there was surprising viral community consistency within a site over the years and shifting host-viral interactions in soils recovering from disturbance. Together, these results provide insights into how viral and host communities collectively respond to unpredicted environmental disturbance.

Highlights

In a seven-year annual study of temperate soils affected by an underground fire, viral communities displayed greater variability across sites (spatial) than over time (temporal).

Viral communities were distinct between heated and unheated soils throughout sampling.

Soil bacterial community composition correlated to viral community composition, though this relationship weakened when accounting for edaphic properties of soil temperature and pH.

Soil viral communities may be less resilient to press disturbance than their host bacterial communities.

Viral-host interactions may shift during soil recovery from long-term heating.
Molecular and epistatic interactions between pioneer transcription factors shape nucleosome dynamics and cell differentiation
Authors: Coux Rémi-Xavier , Dubois Agnès , Chervova Almira , Festuccia Nicola , Gonzalez Inma , Vandormael-Pournin Sandrine , Cohen-Tannoudji Michel , Navarro Pablo
Published: May 2024

Pioneer transcription factors (TF) bind nucleosome-embedded DNA motifs to activate new regulatory elements and promote differentiation. However, the complexity, binding dependencies and temporal effects of their action remain unclear. Here, we dissect how the pioneer TF GATA6 triggers Primitive Endoderm (PrE) differentiation from pluripotent cells. We show that transient GATA6 binding exploits accessible regions to decommission active enhancers and promote pluripotency gene silencing. Simultaneously, GATA6 targets closed chromatin and initiates an extensive remodeling culminating in the establishment of fragile nucleosomes flanked by ordered nucleosome arrays and increased accessibility. This is directly enhanced by rapidly expressed PrE TFs (SOX17) and by pluripotency TFs repurposed for differentiation (OCT4/SOX2). Furthermore, GATA6 mediates the replacement of essential nuclear receptors for PrE differentiation, from ESRRB to ESRRA. Therefore, pioneer TFs orchestrate a complex gene regulatory network involving many if not all available pioneer TFs, including those required to support the original identity of differentiating cells.
Chordin-mediated BMP shuttling patterns the secondary body axis in a cnidarian
Authors: Mörsdorf David , Prünster Maria Mandela , Genikhovich Grigory
Published: May 2024

BMP signaling patterns secondary body axes throughout Bilateria and, strikingly, in the bilaterally symmetric corals and sea anemones – members of the bilaterian sister clade Cnidaria. It has been suggested that the secondary, “directive” axis in the sea anemoneNematostella vectensisrequires Chordin-mediated “shuttling” of BMP ligands, like inDrosophilaor frog, however, an alternative “local inhibition” model is also possible. To choose between these two options, we generated localized Chordin sources in the Chordin morphant background and showed that in the presence of BMP ligands inNematostella, mobile Chordin is necessary and sufficient to establish a peak of BMP signaling at the side of the embryo opposing the Chordin source. In contrast, membrane-tethered Chordin-CD2 promotes weak BMP signaling within the Chordin-CD2 source. These results provide the first mechanistic evidence for BMP shuttling in a cnidarian and suggest that BMP shuttling may have been functional in the cnidarian-bilaterian ancestor.
Bridging the gap between machine learning and particle accelerator physics with high-speed, differentiable simulations
Authors: Kaiser Jan , Xu Chenran , Eichler Annika , Santamaria Garcia Andrea
Published: May 2024

Machine learning has emerged as a powerful solution to the modern challenges in accelerator physics. However, the limited availability of beam time, the computational cost of simulations, and the high dimensionality of optimization problems pose significant challenges in generating the required data for training state-of-the-art machine learning models. In this work, we introduce heetah, a yorch-based high-speed differentiable linear beam dynamics code. heetah enables the fast collection of large datasets by reducing computation times by multiple orders of magnitude and facilitates efficient gradient-based optimization for accelerator tuning and system identification. This positions heetah as a user-friendly, readily extensible tool that integrates seamlessly with widely adopted machine learning tools. We showcase the utility of heetah through five examples, including reinforcement learning training, gradient-based beamline tuning, gradient-based system identification, physics-informed Bayesian optimization priors, and modular neural network surrogate modeling of space charge effects. The use of such a high-speed differentiable simulation code will simplify the development of machine learning-based methods for particle accelerators and fast-track their integration into everyday operations of accelerator facilities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Delay-induced spontaneous dark-state generation from two distant excited atoms
Authors: Alvarez-Giron W. , Solano P. , Sinha K. , Barberis-Blostein P.
Published: May 2024

We investigate the collective non-Markovian dynamics of two fully excited two-level atoms coupled to a one-dimensional waveguide in the presence of delay. We demonstrate that analogous to the well-known superfluorescence phenomena, where an inverted atomic ensemble synchronizes to enhance its emission, there is a “subfluorescence” effect that synchronizes the atoms into an entangled dark state depending on the interatomic separation. The phenomenon can lead to a two-photon bound state in the continuum. Our results are pertinent to long-distance quantum networks, presenting a mechanism for spontaneous entanglement generation between distant quantum emitters.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Evolutionary tinkering enriches the hierarchical and nested structures in amino acid sequences
Authors: Zhang Zecheng , Liu Chunxiuzi , Zhu Yingjun , Peng Lu , Qiu Weiyi , Tang Qianyuan , Liu He , Zhang Ke , Di Zengru , Liu Yu
Published: May 2024

Genetic information often exhibits hierarchical and nested relationships, achieved through the reuse of repetitive subsequences such as duplicons and transposable elements, a concept termed “evolutionary tinkering” by François Jacob. Current bioinformatics tools often struggle to capture these, particularly the nested, relationships. To address this, we utilized ladderpath, an approach within the broader category of algorithmic information theory, introducing two key measures: order rate η for characterizing sequence pattern repetitions and regularities, and ladderpath-complexity κ for assessing hierarchical and nested richness. Our analysis of amino acid sequences revealed that humans have more sequences with higher κ values, and proteins with many intrinsically disordered regions exhibit increased η values. Additionally, it was found that extremely long sequences with low η are rare. We hypothesize that this arises from varied duplication and mutation frequencies across different evolutionary stages, which in turn suggests a zigzag pattern for the evolution of protein complexity. This is supported by simulations and studies of protein families such as ubiquitin and NBPF, implying species-specific or environment-influenced protein elongation strategies. The ladderpath approach offers a quantitative lens to understand evolutionary tinkering and reuse, shedding light on the generative aspects of biological structures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Matter-wave interferometers with trapped strongly interacting Feshbach molecules
Authors: Li Chen , Liang Qi , Paranjape Pradyumna , Wu RuGway , Schmiedmayer Jörg
Published: May 2024

We implement two types of matter-wave interferometers using trapped Bose-condensed Feshbach molecules, from weak to strong interactions. In each case, we focus on investigating interaction effects and their implications for the performance. In the Ramsey-type interferometer where interference between the two motional quantum states in an optical lattice is observed, interparticle interactions are found to induce energy shifts in the states. Consequently, this results in a reduction of the interferometer frequency and introduces a phase shift during the lattice pulses used for state manipulation. Furthermore, nonuniformity leads to dephasing and collisional effects contribute to the degradation of contrast. In the Michelson-type interferometer, where matter waves are spatially split and recombined in a waveguide, interference is observed in the presence of significant interaction, however coherence degrades with increasing interaction strength. Notably, coherence is also observed in thermal clouds, indicating the white-light nature of the implemented Michelson-type interferometer.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The description of octahedral crystals using five parameters
Authors: Stepenshchikov Dmitry G. , Pavlushin Anton D.
Published: May 2024

The shape of a flat-faceted octahedral crystal can be uniquely defined by the measured distances between pairs of its parallel facets and the length of one of its false edges. In total, only five numerical values are involved in this approach. Some interdependencies of parameters that allow one to control the correctness of measurements were derived. The proposed method is suitable for describing the shape as full-faceted, or as incomplete octahedral crystals (e.g. diamond) with unequally developed facets. This so-called `real crystal form' can be considered as one of the typomorphic features of minerals, connecting the dissymmetry to the anisotropy of the host rock. The measurement results can be used in crystallo-morphological analysis, restoration of the lost crystal shape in the case of man-made damage and in the practice of diamond prospecting.
Managing workplace interpersonal conflicts: Harnessing employees’ emotional intelligence and organizational learning
Authors: Vapiwala Fatima , Pandita Deepika
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The present study explores the need to strengthen the organizational learning culture to aid constructive conflict management through high levels of employees’ emotional intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

In the current study, with relevant support from the literature, the authors review the need to develop a high degree of emotional intelligence through knowledge acquisition, sharing and utilization for constructive conflict management in the workplace.

Findings

Emotional intelligence significantly aids employees in integrating newly obtained information with the organization’s established processes. Individuals with a high degree of emotional intelligence possess the aptitude to deal with dysfunctional task, process, and relationship conflicts with a centralized focus on organizational learning.

Originality/value

The authors have proposed a learning model which indicates that individuals with a high degree of emotional intelligence possess the aptitude to deal with dysfunctional task, process and relationship conflicts. With a focus on organizational learning, the model can aid managers in developing training initiatives for knowledge acquisition, knowledge sharing and knowledge utilization among employees.
Students career interest and understanding of corporate governance education in Ghana
Authors: Awaah Fred , Hilton Sam Kris
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Given the perceived weak corporate governance systems in Ghana, corporate governance education curriculum requires empirical investigations to ascertain factors that can enhance student knowledge in governance systems based on their career interests and programme of study. Therefore, we investigate whether students with a career interest in corporate governance exhibit a significantly different level of comprehension compared to those without such an interest. Furthermore, we explore whether the comprehension of course concepts differs across various business-related programmes, investigating potential variations in understanding among students from diverse programme backgrounds.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a descriptive design, we adopt a quantitative approach and survey method to collect cross-sectional data from 1,050 undergraduate students in selected Ghanaian public universities. We analyse the data using t-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA).

Findings

We establish no statistically significant difference in comprehension levels of corporate governance concepts between students with a career interest in corporate governance and those with no career interest. However, we find statistically significant differences in the comprehension of corporate governance concepts among students pursuing different business-related programmes.

Practical implications

Our findings imply that the corporate governance course should be taught practically, giving students insights into what the course entails from an industrial viewpoint. This may entail engaging experts from industry as visiting lecturers at intervals to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Students could also benefit from mentorship programmes from industry, internships and related placements to ensure an understanding of theoretical concepts from practical perspectives.

Originality/value

Our study is novel and contributes to extant literature because it is the first empirical study on corporation governance education that emphasizes on students career interests and programme of study from a developing country perspective.
A bibliometric analysis of Quality 4.0: current status, trends and future research directions
Authors: Kushwaha Dilip , Talib Faisal
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This review paper aims to explore and investigate the Quality 4.0 current knowledge, emerging areas, and trends available in the literature and provide insights for future research directions. The bibliometric analysis determines the most prominent journals, authors, countries, articles, and themes. The Citation and PageRank analysis identifies the most influential and prestigious articles. The author's keyword analysis identifies the research theme, patterns, and trends within a particular area of research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilised the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis) declaration as a review protocol, and the data is retrieved accordingly. Therefore, 104 articles from Scopus and 28 from Web of Science were combined in R-Environment, and 25 duplicates were removed using RStudio. Finally, 107 papers were selected for further analysis. After the abstract level screening, the study reviewed 99 articles bibliographically published in peer-reviewed journals from prominent academic databases Scopus and WoS between 2011 to April 2023. We used the VOSviewer software tool for analysing bibliometric networks that allow the construction, visualisation, and exploration of maps based on any form of network data.

Findings

The review identified emerging themes: artificial intelligence, digitalization, sustainability, root cause analysis, topic modelling, and digital voice-of-customers. To establish the intellectual structure of the field and identify gaps, co-citation and content analysis were used. The content of 49 papers in the identified clusters was then carefully analysed. The four primary themes are the relationship of Quality 4.0 with Industry 4.0, the conceptualization of Quality 4.0, recommendations for the new Quality 4.0 model, and the impact of Quality 4.0. The findings provide an excellent foundation for future research in this field for policymakers, managers, practitioners, and academia.

Originality/value

This is the first systematic literature review-cum-bibliometric analysis on quality 4.0 that covers the field comprehensively. Based on the present review, the paper proposes six possible future research directions to investigate.
Enhancing audit quality in non-Big 4 firms: the role of remote auditing and audit staff capabilities
Authors: Al Shbail Mohannad Obeid , Jaradat Zaid , Al-Hawamleh Ahmad , Hamdan Allam , Musleh Alsartawi Abdalmuttaleb M.A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of remote auditing on audit quality in non-Big 4 firms in Jordan. It also examines the role of auditors’ capabilities in this relationship, emphasizing their importance in implementing this technology effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The perspectives of non-Big 4 audit firms regarding the influence of remote auditing on audit quality were gathered through the administration of a comprehensive questionnaire.

Findings

This study demonstrates that remote auditing can enhance audit quality in non-Big 4 firms. The strength of this effect is bolstered by the auditor’s technical knowledge, communication skills and professional skepticism.

Practical implications

Remote auditing is a promising alternative to traditional methods for non-Big 4 firms, with significant implications. Effective remote audits require technical knowledge, communication skills and professional skepticism. To succeed, firms must invest in training programs that equip auditors with the necessary remote auditing techniques.

Originality/value

This groundbreaking study investigates the effects of remote auditing on audit quality in Jordanian non-Big 4 firms and examines the influence of auditors’ capabilities. Results show that auditors’ capabilities enhance the positive impact of remote auditing on audit quality.
Empowering co-creation of services with artificial intelligence: an empirical analysis to examine adoption intention
Authors: Behera Rajat Kumar , Bala Pradip Kumar , Rana Nripendra P. , Irani Zahir
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Co-creation of services (CCOS) is a collaborative strategy that emphasises customer involvement and their expertise to increase the value of the service experience. In the service ecosystem, artificial intelligence (AI) plays a key role in value co-creation. Therefore, this study is undertaken to empirically uncover how AI can empower CCOS.

Design/methodology/approach

The source data were collected from 305 service provider respondents and quantitative methodology was applied for data analysis.

Findings

New service development augmented with AI provides tangible value to service providers while also providing intangible value to supportive customers. With AI, service providers adapt to new innovations and enrich additional information, which eventually outperforms human-created services.

Research limitations/implications

AI adoption for CCOS empowerment in service businesses brings “service-market fit”, which represents the significant benefits wherein customers contribute to creativity, intuition, and contextual awareness of services, and AI contributes to large-scale service-related analysis by handling volumes of data, service personalisation, and more time to focus on challenging problems of the market.

Originality/value

This study presents theoretical concepts on AI-empowered CCOS, AI technological innovativeness, customer participation in human-AI interaction, AI-powered customer expertise, and perceived benefits in CCOS, and subsequently discusses the CCOS empowerment framework. Then, it proposes a novel conceptual model based on the theoretical concepts and empirically measures and validates the intention to adopt AI for CCOS empowerment. Overall, the study contributes to novel insight on empowering service co-creation with AI.
Qualea grandiflora Mart. (Vochysiaceae) seed reserves and aluminum: Usage and mobilization during germination and seedling development
Authors: Castro Laísa Maria de Resende , Vinson Christina Cleo , Almeida Andrea Lanna , Cury Natália Faustino , André Michelle de Souza Fayad , Williams Thomas Christopher Rhys , Pereira Luiz Alfredo Rodrigues
Published: May 2024

Qualea grandiflora Mart. is an aluminum (Al)‐accumulating Cerrado species with a metabolic dependency on Al. This study aimed to determine the presence and concentration of Al and other reserve components in Q. grandiflora seeds, as well as their respective distribution patterns, mobilization, and usage during germination and seedling growth. Thus, the concentration of Al and other minerals in seeds, seedlings, and soils was measured. Also, histochemical and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses were performed to observe the distribution of Al, proteins, and lipids in Q. grandiflora seeds and seedlings. Additionally, the concentration of proteins and lipids was assessed as well. Hence, even in soils with low exchangeable Al3+, Q. grandiflora seeds accumulated about 6.43 g of Al/kg of dry matter (DM) together with considerable concentrations of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg. Exogenous Al had no effect on the germination properties of Q. grandiflora seeds. Furthermore, approximately 60% of the seed Al was translocated to seedling leaves. Proteins and lipids were the main organic reserves in Q. grandiflora seeds. The histochemical analysis revealed that the bulk of Al in seeds was in the cotyledons, which were also the location sites of proteins and lipids. Proteins and lipids were the primary source of energy and carbon for seedling growth. Therefore, fatty acids, proteins, and Al could play a central role during seed germination and seedling establishment, which could help to explain why this species is one of the most widespread plants in the Cerrado.
How can local government be better supported to collaborate for community health and wellbeing?
Authors: Morgan Michelle J. , Stratford Elaine , Rowbotham Samantha , Harpur Siobhan
Published: May 2024

Collaboration is a key strategy among local governments as expectations of the sector grow and resources to meet them fall short. Thus, more research is needed to consider how local governments can be supported to collaborate with others, not least for community health and wellbeing outcomes. In an earlier study, we explored inter‐municipal cooperation using social network analysis and local government perspectives on community health and wellbeing in the Australian state of Tasmania. Extending that study in ways reported here, we interviewed elected representatives and council staff to understand how and why Tasmanian local governments might collaborate with others to support community health and wellbeing. Findings show participants want councils to work more collaboratively to effectively deal with common challenges but are impeded by factors such as isolation and resource shortages. Tasmania's local government reform and Healthy Tasmania strategic plan are significant opportunities for collaborative practice to be enhanced among its local governments generally, and specifically in relation to community health and wellbeing. We advocate for a more considered approach to collaboration for community health and wellbeing that could deliver far‐reaching benefits for local governments and their communities.

Points for practitioners

Collaboration in local government is often described in terms of ‘shared services’ and tends to focus on transactional services that require little tailoring to local communities.

Our study found municipal personnel want their councils to work more collaboratively to address common place‐specific issues related to community health and wellbeing, but are influenced by cultures of self‐sufficiency, organisational capacity and support, connections, and legislation and policy processes.

Local government collaborative practices could be supported by the development of a place‐based policy framework to guide collaboration across local government service types, establishment of an informal statewide community health and wellbeing network for councils to facilitate peer learning and support, funding guidelines that explicitly support and encourage collaboration, and identifying collaboration as a priority in strategic plans, policies, and frameworks.
Somatic burden of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder across the lifecourse
Authors: Libutzki Berit , Neukirch Benno , Reif Andreas , Hartman Catharina A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

A thorough and comprehensive knowledge base on the extent of comorbidity of attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and somatic conditions is needed.

Method

We compared the prevalence of a wide range of somatic conditions in individuals with and without ADHD and described sex and lifecourse differences. Individuals with an ADHD diagnosis (N = 87,394) and age and sex‐matched individuals without an ADHD diagnosis were identified from a large health claims dataset representative of the general German population, including both primary and specialized care (N = 4.874,754). Results were provided for the full sample as well as stratified for sex and age (<12 years, 13–17 years, 18–29 years, 30–59 years, ≥60 years).

Results

The results showed that ADHD is associated with a wide variety of somatic conditions across the entire lifecourse. Specifically neurological disorders such as Parkison's disease (odds ratio [OR]: 5.21) and dementia (OR: 2.23), sleep‐related disorders (OR: 2.38) and autoimmune disorders affecting the musculoskeletal, digestive, and endocrine system (fibromyalgia OR: 3.33; lupus OR: 2.17) are strongly and significantly associated with ADHD. Additionally, ADHD is associated with higher occurrence of common acute diseases typically treated by the general practitioner, hinting at an overall general lower health status. Sex differences in somatic comorbidity were not prominent. Age differences, in contrast, stood out: in particular endocrine, cardiovascular, and neurological disorders had an early onset in individuals with compared to individuals without ADHD.

Conclusion

This research underlines the high burden of disease due to somatic conditions among individuals with ADHD. The findings indicate the need for preventive measures to reduce comorbidity.
Using language to identify a bladder pain component in women with Dysmenorrhoea‐Related Pelvic Pain: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Schofield Eleanor , Sussex Roland , Crotti Tania , Evans Susan
Published: May 2024

Background

Dysmenorrhoea‐Related Pelvic Pain (DRPP) is a common condition, which may or may not include bladder‐related symptoms. Primary health care practitioners (PHCP) rely heavily on language for diagnosis of DRPP‐related conditions. However, there are no established pain descriptors to assist PHCP to determine whether an individual's DRPP may include a bladder component.

Aims

To identify differences in the use of pain descriptors in women with DRPP with and without a co‐existing bladder pain component, through an exploratory study of the language of pelvic pain in women.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey of Australian and New Zealand women (n = 750, ages 18–49) who have self‐identified pelvic pain. Free text and predetermined pain descriptors used by women with a self‐perceived bladder pain component (DRPPB+, n = 468) were compared to those without bladder pain (DRPPB−, n = 282). Statistical analysis included Pearson χ2, logistic regression and analysis of variance tests using StataCorp Stata Statistical Software combined with qualitative data from AntConc concordance software.

Results

Within free‐form text, bloating (P = 0.014) and pressure (P = 0.031) were used more commonly to describe dysmenorrhoea in women with DRPPB+, while the word excruciating (P < 0.001) was more commonly used by women with DRPPB−. From a pre‐determined list of descriptors, pounding (P < 0.001), tingling (P < 0.001), stabbing (P = 0.010), burning (P = 0.002) and cramping (P = 0.021) were more commonly used by women with DRPPB+, than women with DRPPB−.

Conclusions

Systematic patterns of word use should encourage practitioners to further enquire about bladder symptoms that may co‐exist with dysmenorrhoea. Knowledge of these words may be useful in targeting diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Subtotal fistulectomy and sliding anoderm flap: A new sphincter‐sparing technique for anal fistula
Authors: Tsunoda A. , Kusanagi H.
Published: May 2024

Aim

The underlying causes of failure or recurrence after ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract are postulated to be refistulization, breakdown of the closure wound in the intersphincteric plane and faecal contents entering the internal opening, thereby causing recurrent infection. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the outcomes of subtotal fistulectomy with sliding anoderm flaps to prevent refistulization.

Method

This retrospective study used prospectively collected data. Patients with transsphincteric or intersphincteric fistulas were enrolled between August 2021 and July 2023. An anal manometric study was performed before and after surgery. Faecal incontinence was evaluated using the faecal incontinence severity index (FISI). Failure was defined as nonhealing of the surgical wound or fistula.

Results

Fifty‐one patients who underwent subtotal fistulectomy with a sliding anoderm flap were included. After a median follow‐up of 12 months (range 4–27 months), primary healing was achieved in 49 patients (96%). Two patients experienced treatment failure, while none developed postoperative recurrence. The median healing time was 10 weeks (range 6–24 weeks). The FISI scores did not change significantly after the surgery. The median resting pressure significantly reduced after surgery [125 cmH2O (range 59–204 cmH2O) vs. 99 cmH2O (range 36–176 cmH2O); p = 0.0001]. The median squeeze pressure significantly decreased after surgery [356 cmH2O (range 137–579 cmH2O) vs. 329 cmH2O (range 72–594 cmH2O; p = 0.005)].

Conclusion

Subtotal fistulectomy with a sliding anoderm flap showed excellent healing rates with no postoperative deterioration of anal function.