bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and classification of the genomes of novel Microviruses in poultry slaughterhouse
Authors: Xie Ke-Ming , Lin Ben-Fu , Zhu Peng , Sun Xin-Yu , Liu Chang , Liu Guang-Feng , Cao Xu-Dong , Pan Jing-Qi , Qiu Sui-Ping , Yuan Xiao-Qi , Liang Meng-Shi , Jiang Jing-Zhe , Yuan Li-Hong
Published: January 2024

Microviridae is a family of phages with circular ssDNA genomes and they are widely found in various environments and organisms. In this study, Virome techniques were employed to explore potential members of Microviridae in poultry slaughterhouse, leading to the identification of 98 novel and complete microvirus genomes. Using a similarity clustering network classification approach, these viruses were found to belong to at least 6 new subfamilies within Microviridae and 3 higher-level taxonomic units. Analysis of their genomes found that the genome size, GC content and genome structure of these new taxa showed evident regularities, validating the rationality of our classification method. Compared with the 19 families classified by previous researchers for microviruses dataset, our method can divide microviruses into about 45 more detailed clusters, which may serve as a new standard for classifying Microviridae members. Furthermore, addressing the scarcity of host information for microviruses, this study significantly broadened their host range and discovered over 20 possible new hosts, including important pathogenic bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori and Vibrio cholerae, as well as different taxa demonstrated differential host specificity. The findings of this study effectively expand the diversity of the Microviridae, providing new insights for their classification and identification. Additionally, it offers a novel perspective for monitoring and controlling pathogenic microorganisms in poultry slaughterhouse environments.
Halofilins as Emerging Bactofilin Families of Archaeal Cell Shape Plasticity Orchestrators
Authors: Curtis Zachary , Escudeiro Pedro , Mallon John , Leland Olivia , Rados Theopi , Dodge Ashley , Andre Katherine , Kwak Jasmin , Yun Kun , Isaac Berith , Martinez Pastor Mar , Schmid Amy K. , Pohlschroder Mechthild , Alva Vikram , Bisson Alex
Published: January 2024

Bactofilins are rigid, non-polar bacterial cytoskeletal filaments that link cellular processes to specific curvatures of the cytoplasmic membrane. Although homologs of bactofilins have been identified in archaea and eukaryotes, functional studies have remained confined to bacterial systems. Here, we characterize representatives of two new families of archaeal bactofilins from the pleomorphic archaeonHaloferax volcanii, halofilin A (HalA) and halofilin B (HalB). HalA and HalB polymerizein vitro, assembling into straight bundles. HalA polymers are highly dynamic and accumulate at positive membrane curvaturesin vivo, whereas HalB forms more static foci that localize in areas of local negative curvatures on the outer cell surface. Gene deletions and live-cell imaging show that halofilins are critical in maintaining morphological integrity during shape transition from disk (sessile) to rod (motile). Morphological defects in ΔhalAresult in accumulation of highly positive curvatures in rods but not in disks. Conversely, disk-shaped cells are exclusively affected byhalBdeletion, resulting in flatter cells. Furthermore, while ΔhalAand ΔhalBcells imprecisely determine the future division plane, defects arise predominantly during the disk-to-rod shape remodeling. In fact, the deletion ofhalAin the haloarchaeonHalobacterium salinarum, whose cells are consistently rod-shaped, impacted morphogenesis but not cell division. Increased levels of halofilins enforced drastic deformations in cells devoid of S-layer, suggesting that HalB polymers are more stable at defective S-layer lattice regions. Our results set halofilins apart from their bacterial correlate, where they provide mechanical scaffolding instead of directing envelope synthesis.
Standardised Measurements for Monitoring and Comparing Multiphoton Microscope Systems
Authors: Lees Robert M. , Bianco Isaac H. , Campbell Robert A.A. , Orlova Natalia , Peterka Darcy S. , Pichler Bruno , Smith Spencer LaVere , Yatsenko Dimitri , Yu Che-Hang , Packer Adam M.
Published: January 2024

The goal of this protocol is to enable better characterisation of multiphoton microscopy hardware across a large user base. The scope of this protocol is purposefully limited to focus on hardware, touching on software and data analysis routines only where relevant. The intended audiences are scientists using and building multiphoton microscopes in their laboratories. The goal is that any scientist, not only those with optical expertise, can test whether their multiphoton microscope is performing well and producing consistent data over the lifetime of their system.
DEFICIENCY OF THE NUTRIENT SENSOR CPT1c IN SF1 NEURONS DISRUPTS THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM RESULTING IN COMPROMISED SATIETY AND FUEL SELECTION UPON FAT INTAKE
Authors: Fosch A , Pizarro DS , Zagmutt S , Reguera AC , Batallé G , Rodríguez-García M , García-Chica J , Freire-Agulleiro O , Miralpeix C , Zizzari P , Serra D , Herrero L , López M , Cota D , Rodríguez-Rodríguez R , Casals N
Published: January 2024

The SF1 neurons of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) are pivotal in governing body weight and adiposity, particularly in response to a high-fat diet (HFD). Previous studies have shown that the activation of SF1 neurons induces satiety, increases energy expenditure, and promotes the preferential use of fats as energy substrate. Furthermore, SF1 neurons are necessary for recovering from insulin-induced hypoglycemia. Here we demonstrate the essential role of the nutritional sensor CPT1c in the activation of SF1 neurons by dietary fats. Mice deficient in CPT1C in SF1 neurons (SF1-CPT1c-KO) are unable to adjust their caloric intake during the initial exposure to a HFD. This is associated with an impaired metabolic transition in the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue, despite a normal response to a glucose or insulin challenge. During chronic HFD exposure, SF1-CPT1c-KO mice are more prone to obesity and glucose intolerance than controls. CPT1c deficiency in SF1 neurons also leads to alterations in hypothalamic endocannabinoid levels and their metabolism. Our findings posit CPT1C in SF1 neurons as a sensor for dietary fats, regulating satiety responses and nutrient partitioning likely through the modulation of the endocannabinoid system.
Exploring social modulation: Microglia as a key mediator of individual immune response, plasticity and pathology in App-NL-G-F mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ehret Fanny , Doludda Birte , Liu Hang , Nexhipi Sindi , Huang Hao , Barde Warsha , Rost Fabian , Overall Rupert , Dahl Andreas , Schmidt Mirko HH , Sieweke Michael , Kempermann Gerd
Published: January 2024

This study explores the influence of lifestyle on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression using App-NL-G-F mice in a complex enrichment system. Mice exhibited social deficits before plaque pathology or memory impairment, revealing a crucial link between lifestyle, behavior, and neuroinflammation. Plasma analysis indicates early inflammation and apoptosis-related changes, setting the stage for identifying markers predicting plaque manifestation. Beyond pathology, social behavior is linked to adult neurogenesis and microglia coverage, forming a dynamic connection with microglia activation. Further, sc-RNA sequencing unveiled a decrease in interferon-responsive microglia and alteration in antigen processing with enrichment. These findings underscore the beneficial impact of social housing on microglia and interconnected factors, pointing to microglia as a critical mediator of the behavior-pathology-plasticity interplay in AD. The study enhances our understanding of AD complexity and offers insights into potential therapeutic strategies, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of AD progression and the role of lifestyle in shaping its course.
Biphasic Changes in Hippocampal Granule Cells after Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Danielewicz Joanna , Llamosas Nerea , Durá Irene , Barros de Souza Danillo , Rodrigues Serafim , Encinas-Pérez Juan Manuel , Mateos Diego Martin
Published: January 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to a wide range of long-lasting physical and cognitive impairments. Changes in neuronal excitability and synaptic functions in the hippocampus have been proposed to underlie cognitive alterations. The dentate gyrus (DG) acts as a “gatekeeper” of hippocampal information processing and as a filter of excessive or aberrant input activity. In this study, we investigated the effects of controlled cortical impact, a model of TBI, on the excitability of granule cells (GCs) and excitatory postsynaptic transmission in the DG at three time points, 3 days, 15 days and 4 months after the injury. Our results indicate that changes in the short term are related to intrinsic properties, while changes in the long term are more related to input and synaptic activity, in agreement with the notion that TBI-related pathology courses with an acute phase and a later long-term secondary phase. A biphasic response, a reduction in the shorter term and an increase in the long term, was found in TBI neurons in the frequency of sEPSC. These changes correlated with a loss of complexity in the pattern of the synaptic input, an alteration that could therefore play a role in the chronic and recurrent TBI-asssociated hyperexcitation.
Posture-dependent modulation of marmoset cortical motor maps detected via rapid multichannel epidural stimulation
Authors: Takemi Mitsuaki , Tia Banty , Kosugi Akito , Castagnola Elisa , Ansaldo Alberto , Ricci Davide , Fadiga Luciano , Ushiba Junichi , Iriki Atsushi
Published: January 2024

In this study, rapid topographical changes were detected in the forelimb motor maps in the primary motor cortex (M1) of awake marmoset monkeys using our previously developed accurate short-time stimulation mapping procedure (Takemi et al. 2017; Kosugi et al. 2018). The results revealed that although the hotspot (the location in M1 that elicited a forelimb muscle twitch with the lowest stimulus intensity) remained constant across postures, the stimulus intensity required to elicit the forelimb muscle twitch in the perihotspot region and the size of motor representations were posture-dependent. Hindlimb posture was particularly effective in inducing these modulations. The angle of the body axis relative to the gravitational vertical line did not alter the motor maps. These results provide a proof of concept that a rapid stimulation mapping system with chronically implanted cortical electrodes can capture the dynamic regulation of forelimb motor maps in natural conditions. The flexible nature of the motor maps necessitates the reconsideration of the results of motor control and neuroplasticity studies. Neural mechanisms regulating forelimb muscle representations in M1 by the hindlimb sensorimotor state warrant further exploration.
Intra-condensate demixing of TDP-43 inside stress granules generates pathological aggregates
Authors: Yan Xiao , Kuster David , Mohanty Priyesh , Nijssen Jik , Pombo-García Karina , Rizuan Azamat , Franzmann Titus M. , Sergeeva Aleksandra , Passos Patricia M. , George Leah , Wang Szu-Huan , Shenoy Jayakrishna , Danielson Helen L. , Honigmann Alf , Ayala Yuna M. , Fawzi Nicolas L. , Mittal Jeetain , Alberti Simon , Hyman Anthony A.
Published: January 2024

Cytosolic aggregation of the nuclear protein TDP-43 is associated with many neurodegenerative diseases, but the triggers for TDP-43 aggregation are still debated. Here, we demonstrate that TDP-43 aggregation requires a double event. One is up-concentration in stress granules beyond a threshold, and the other is oxidative stress. These two events collectively induce intra-condensate demixing, giving rise to a dynamic TDP-43 enriched phase within stress granules, which subsequently transitions into pathological aggregates. Mechanistically, intra-condensate demixing is triggered by local unfolding of the RRM1 domain for intermolecular disulfide bond formation and by increased hydrophobic patch interactions in the C-terminal domain. By engineering TDP-43 variants resistant to intra-condensate demixing, we successfully eliminate pathological TDP-43 aggregates in cells. We conclude that up-concentration inside condensates and simultaneous exposure to environmental stress could be a general pathway for protein aggregation, with intra-condensate demixing constituting a key intermediate step.
Tau-related reduction of glucose metabolism in mild cognitive impairment occurs independently of APOE ε4 genotype and is gradually modulated by β-amyloid
Authors: Carbonell Felix , McNicoll Carolann , Zijdenbos Alex P. , Bedell Barry J. ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2024

Background

PET imaging studies have shown that spatially distributed measurements of β-amyloid are significantly correlated with glucose metabolism in Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) independently of the APOE ε4 genotype. In contrast, the relationship between tau and glucose metabolism at different stages of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) has not been fully understood.

Objective

We hypothesize that spatially distributed scores of tau PET are associated with an even stronger reduction of glucose metabolism, independent of the APOE ε4 genotype and gradually modulated by β-amyloid.

Methods

We applied a cross-sectional statistical analysis to concurrent [18F]flortaucipir PET, [18F]florbetapir PET, and 2-[18F]fluoro-2-deoxyglucose (FDG) PET images from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) study. We employed a Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) approach to the cross-correlation matrix between tau and the FDG images, as well as between tau and β-amyloid PET images. The resulting SVD-based tau scores are associated with cortical regions where a reduced glucose metabolism is maximally correlated with distributed patterns of tau, accounting for the effect of spatially distributed β-amyloid.

Results

From a population of MCI subjects, we found that the SVD-based tau scores had their maximal spatial representation within the entorhinal cortex and the lateral inferior temporal gyrus, and were significantly correlated with glucose metabolism in several cortical regions, independently from the confounding effect of the β-amyloid scores and APOE ε4. Moreover, β-amyloid gradually modulated the association between tau and glucose metabolism.

Conclusions

Our approach uncovered spatially distributed patterns of the tau-glucose metabolism relationship after accounting for the β-amyloid effects. We showed that the SVD-based tau scores have a strong relationship with decreasing glucose metabolism. By highlighting the more significant role of tau, rather than β-amyloid, on the reduction of glucose metabolism, our results could have important consequences in the therapeutic treatment of AD.
Targeting resident astrocytes attenuates neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury
Authors: Zhao Qing , Zhu Yanjing , Ren Yilong , Zhao Lijuan , Zhao Jingwei , Yin Shuai , Ni Haofei , Zhu Rongrong , Cheng Liming , Xie Ning
Published: January 2024

Astrocytes derive from different lineages and play a critical role in neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury (SCI). Whether selective eliminating these main origins of astrocytes in lumbar enlargement could attenuate SCI-induced neuropathic pain remains unclear. Through transgenic mice injected with an adeno-associated virus vector and diphtheria toxin, astrocytes in lumbar enlargement were lineage traced, targeted and selectively eliminated. Pain-related behaviors were measured with an electronic von Frey apparatus and a cold/hot plate after SCI. RNA sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, molecular experiment and immunohistochemistry were used to explore the potential mechanisms after astrocyte elimination. Lineage tracing revealed that the resident astrocytes but not ependymal cells were the main origins of astrocytes-induced neuropathic pain. SCI induced mice to obtain significant pain symptoms and astrocyte activation in lumbar enlargement. Selective resident astrocytes elimination in lumbar enlargement could attenuate neuropathic pain and activate microglia. Interestingly, the type I interferons (IFNs) signal was significantly activated after astrocytes elimination, and the most activated Gene Ontology terms and pathways were associated with the type I IFNs signal which was mainly activated in microglia and further verified in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, different concentrations of interferon and Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist could activate the type I IFNs signal in microglia. These results elucidate that selectively eliminating resident astrocytes attenuated neuropathic pain associated with type I IFNs signal activation in microglia. Targeting type I IFNs signal is proven to be an effective strategy for neuropathic pain treatment after SCI.
Exploring High-Purity Multiparton Scattering at Hadron Colliders
Authors: Andersen Jeppe R. , Monni Pier Francesco , Rottoli Luca , Salam Gavin P. , Soto-Ontoso Alba
Published: January 2024

Multiparton interactions are a fascinating phenomenon that occur in almost every high-energy hadron-hadron collision yet are remarkably difficult to study quantitatively. In this Letter, we present a strategy to optimally disentangle multiparton interactions from the primary scattering in a collision. That strategy enables probes of multiparton interactions that are significantly beyond the state of the art, including their characteristic momentum scale, the interconnection between primary and secondary scatters, and the pattern of three and potentially even more simultaneous hard scatterings. This opens a path to powerful new constraints on multiparton interactions for LHC phenomenology and to the investigation of their rich field-theoretical structure.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effectiveness of simulation-based learning in Malaysian higher education: a case study of MonsoonSIM
Authors: Mohd Khalil Aisyah , Lee Khai Loon , Kamaruzzaman Zetty Ain , Ong Chin An
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Higher education institutions (HEIs) face the formidable responsibility of equipping students with the requisite knowledge and skills essential for a successful transition into the professional workforce. In contemporary education, simulation-based learning (SBL) has emerged as a pivotal tool employed by HEIs to facilitate and enhance the learning experience. MonsoonSIM stands out as a notable simulation-based experiential learning platform, encompassing a wide spectrum of business processes. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of SBL in Malaysian HEI, with a specific focus on utilizing MonsoonSIM to bolster students' knowledge and skills.

Design/methodology/approach

To gather empirical evidence, an online survey questionnaire was methodically distributed to 254 students enrolled in Malaysian HEIs, employing purposive sampling techniques. A total of 114 valid responses were collected and subjected to rigorous analysis using SmartPLS4, leveraging the partial least squares structural equation modeling methodology.

Findings

The outcomes of this investigation shed light on the positive influence of marketing management knowledge on the effectiveness of SBL. However, it was observed that problem-solving and critical thinking skills, financial management and production management knowledge did not exhibit a statistically significant impact on the effectiveness of SBL.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering valuable insights into how students engage with and derive learning outcomes from simulation-based educational tools. The findings underscore the pivotal role of integrating SBL into the broader pedagogical framework to enhance the overall learning experience.
The relationship between learning orientation, firm performance and market dynamism in MSMEs operating in technology parks in Poland: an empirical analysis
Authors: Karpacz Jarosław , Wojcik-Karpacz Anna
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The authors analyzed the relationship between learning orientation (LO) and performance in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by investigating the moderating role of environmental dynamism to answer the need for systematic research of models between LO and firm performance (FP).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigated the (in)direct relationship between LO and FP. The authors collected data from 182 MSMEs operating in technology parks (TPs) in Poland. The authors used two methods in the quantitative empirical research. The authors used linear regression models to test the hypotheses, which allowed for a global assessment of relationships among all analyzed variables. Dynamic capabilities (DCs) framework guided the study.

Findings

The study results show that FP benefits from LO-related behaviors. LO is an important stimulant of FP. Meanwhile, the authors did not classify market dynamism (MD) as a moderator of the LO-FP relationship.

Research limitations/implications

By design, the authors surveyed only MSMEs open to participate in the survey, which potentially limits generalizability. Furthermore, future researchers may consider other types of strategic orientations (SOs) to further explain the impact of multiple SOs on FP in specific industries.

Originality/value

This article presents arguments that allow for recognizing LO as a strategic organizational factor shaping FP.
Structuring organizations for supporting knowledge management and nurturing dynamic capabilities
Authors: Gupta Bindiya , Achhnani Bhumika
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Till now no study has been undertaken which test the knowledge management processes for creating dynamic capabilities on the basis of organization structures with interpersonal trust as an important variable. This paper serves as a preliminary study proposing an integrated conceptual model that unmistakably unifies the notions of knowledge management and dynamic capability.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an exhaustive literature review, the study explores the role of knowledge management in building dynamic capabilities within the organizations. Through the available literature, authors have attempted to study the relevance of knowledge management against the backdrop of Structuration theory.

Findings

Through their proposed framework, authors posit that the structural elements of an organization set the tone for knowledge management within the organization. Organizations face dynamic challenges from the external environment, and in absence of interpersonal trust the creation of dynamic capabilities becomes difficult.

Originality/value

First, the current study enriches the growing research interest in Knowledge management. Second, the study connects Knowledge management and interpersonal trust within the organizations, which in turn is influenced by the structure of the organization. Structures created in the organization decide the direction, quality and quantity of knowledge sharing within the organizations both through social systems and through formal reporting systems. Thus, this paper serves as a preliminary study proposing an integrated conceptual model that unmistakably unifies the notions of knowledge management and dynamic capability.
The impact of job burnout on job satisfaction and intention to change occupation among accountants: the mediating role of psychological well-being
Authors: Hameli Kujtim , Çollaku Lum , Ukaj Lekë
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of job burnout on job satisfaction and the intention to change occupation within the accounting profession. It also examines the mediating role of psychological well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive research design was used in this study. Survey data were physically collected from 230 accounting employees in the private sector. Structural equation modeling was used to test the theoretical model.

Findings

The results showed that job burnout significantly affects psychological well-being and that psychological well-being significantly mediates the relationship between job burnout and job satisfaction, as well as between job burnout and the intention to change occupation.

Research limitations/implications

This study has significant implications for accounting organizations, suggesting the adoption of strategies to promote psychological well-being. These initiatives have the potential to enhance job satisfaction and reduce accountants’ intention to change their profession.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the mediating role of psychological well-being in linking job burnout with job satisfaction and the intention to change occupation among accounting professionals.
Cost Malmquist productivity analysis during the COVID-19 outbreak: evidence from the largest dual banking industry
Authors: Alsharif Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study attempts to comprehensively analyze the cost Malmquist productivity index of conventional and Islamic banks in Saudi Arabia, the largest dual banking sector in the world, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the novel approach of cost Malmquist productivity index, which focuses on production costs, to measure the change in cost productivity so that the actual impact of the COVID-19 pandemic could be captured.

Findings

The Saudi Central Bank has successfully mitigated the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on the Saudi banking sector by implementing several policies and services. This success is reflected in the large positive shift in the production frontier of Saudi banks. Moreover, it was found that Islamic Saudi banks were by far more productive than conventional Saudi banks during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the total cost productivity index (CMPCH) of Islamic Saudi banks starts to decline sharply in the last quarter of 2022 compared to conventional Saudi banks, indicating that Islamic banks in Saudi Arabia are suffering the most from the tighter monetary policy recently implemented by the Saudi Central Bank.

Practical implications

The results provide insights for policymakers and investors on how different types of banks respond differently to economic crises and monetary policy changes. Targeted support measures may be needed to ensure all banks remain productive and efficient.

Originality/value

To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to use this innovative methodology to assess the impact of COVID-19 on bank performance in a dual banking sector.
Decision support factors evaluative model for affordable PPP public housing delivery in Ghana
Authors: Kwofie Titus Ebenezer , Addy Michael Nii , Duah Daniel Yaw Addai , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Owusu Emmanuel Banahene , Olympio George Felix
Published: January 2024

Purpose

As public–private partnerships (PPPs) have become preferred and veritable approach to deliver affordable housing, the seemingly lack of understanding of the significant factors that impact on success has become a notable setback. This study aims to delineate significant factors that can support decisions in affordable PPP public housing delivery.

Design/methodology/approach

Largely, a questionnaire survey was adopted to elicit insights from practitioners, policymakers and experts to develop an evaluative decision support model using an analytical hierarchy process and multi-attribute utility technique approach. Further, an expert illustration was conducted to evaluate and validate the results on the housing typologies.

Findings

The results revealed that energy efficiency and low-cost green building materials scored the highest weighting of all the criteria. Furthermore, multi-storey self-contained flats were found to be the most preferred housing typology and were significantly influenced by these factors. From the model evaluation, the scores on the factors of sustainability, affordability, cultural values and accountability were consistent across all typologies of housing whereas that of benchmarking, governance and transparency were varied.

Originality/value

The decision support factors captured varied dimensions of key factors that impact on affordable PPP housing that have not been considered in an integrated manner. These findings offer objective and systematic support to decision-making in affordable PPP housing delivery.
Short-term and long-term effects of foreign direct investment on tax revenue: empirical evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Musah Abubakar , Kodjie Peter Kwasi , Abdulai Munkaila
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the short- and long-run effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) on tax revenue in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts the autoregressive distributed lag approach to estimate FDI’s long-run and short-run effects on tax revenue. The study uses time-series data from 1983 to 2019 for Ghana, mainly obtained from The Bank of Ghana, the World Bank and the IMF.

Findings

The results show that, in the short-run, FDI has no significant effect on direct tax revenue and total tax revenue but significantly hurts indirect tax revenue. In the long run, however, the results show that FDI has significant positive effects on indirect tax revenue and total tax revenue but no significant effect on direct tax revenue.

Originality/value

Empirical studies often fail to analyse the short-run and long-run effects of FDI on tax revenue. This study contributes to the mixed literature by analysing the short-run and long-run effects of FDI on tax revenue in an emerging market context. Additionally, this study employs three tax revenue measures in analysing the nexus.
Teacher growth mindset and ICT integration in Indonesian classrooms: insights from in-service and preservice teacher programs
Authors: Baharuddin Fiskia Rera , Amiruddin Amiruddin , Nurlaela Nurlaela , Setialaksana Wirawan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study explores the relationships among multiple factors, including growth mindset, lifelong learning and continuous professional development (CPD), influencing teachers’ integration of information and communication technology (ICT) into their teaching methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved 1,095 Indonesian vocational high school teachers who participated in in-service or preservice teacher development programs. Data was collected through a survey, and a structural equation model with partial least squares parameter estimation was used to analyze the relationships and mediations.

Findings

Structural equation modeling revealed that a growth mindset positively affects both lifelong learning and CPD. Moreover, lifelong learning positively impacts CPD. Furthermore, all of these variables demonstrate a positive effect on teachers’ ICT integration in the classroom. The findings indicate that lifelong learning and CPD partially mediate the relationship between a growth mindset and ICT integration.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on the determinants of teachers’ ICT usage postparticipation in in-service and preservice teacher programs. The findings underscore the significant impact of a growth mindset on teachers’ ICT use in the classroom.
Quality assurance: a conceptual framework for teaching and learning standards in vocational and technical education programs
Authors: Wafudu Satumari John , Bin Kamin Yusri
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The issue of quality assurance in vocational and technical education (VTE) programs identifies a perilous need to develop a conceptual framework for teaching and learning standards. This study aims to identify standard components for teaching and learning to ensure quality delivery for the achievement of VTE objectives. The quality assurance framework for teaching and learning is envisioned as a closed-loop management process that functions as an effective operational scheme to coordinate teaching processes that support the structure for quality assurance in VTE programs.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected through a questionnaire developed to examine the quality standards for teaching and learning in VTE from 259 respondents from colleges of education. The identified quality components for teaching and learning and their quality indicators were analysed.

Findings

The conceptual framework for teaching and learning with the 12 quality components and 62 quality indicators is the key standard for improving quality teaching and learning to meet the desired goals of VTE programs.

Originality/value

The framework proposed is flexible and can be applied to many other programs to ensure that teachers are professional enough to teach effectively to provide adequate learning outcomes.
Investigating the large strain compression properties of PLA parts manufactured by FDM using experiments and constitutive modeling
Authors: Maheshwari Shrushti , Alam Zafar , Singh Sarthak S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to experimentally investigate the large deformation compression characteristics of fused deposition modelling (FDM)-printed poly lactic acid (PLA), considering the combined effect of infill density and strain rate, and to develop a constitutive viscoplastic model that can incorporate the infill density to predict the experimental result.

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental approach focuses on strain rate-dependent (2.1 × 10−4, 2.1 × 10−3, and 2.1 × 10−2 s−1) compression testing for varied infill densities. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging of compressed materials is used to investigate deformation processes. A hyperelastic-viscoplastic constitutive model is constructed that can predict mechanical deformations at different strain rates and infill densities.

Findings

The yield stress of PLA increased with increase in strain rate and infill density. However, higher degree of strain-softening response was witnessed for the strain rate corresponding to 2.1 × 10−2 s−1. While filament splitting and twisting were identified as the damage mechanisms at higher strain rates, matrix crazing was observed as the primary deformation mechanism for higher infill density (95%). The developed constitutive model captured yield stress and post-yield softening behaviour of FDM build PLA samples with a high R2 value of 0.99.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the need to analyse and predict the mechanical response of FDM print polymers (PLA) undergoing extensive strain-compressive loading through a hyperelastic-viscoplastic constitutive model. This study links combined effects of the printing parameter (infill density) with the experimental parameter (strain rate).
Impact of cat-assisted therapy (Ca-AT) among elderly patients with Alzheimer’s disease at home: a case study
Authors: Shawish Najah , Kawafha Mariam , Abu Kamel Andaleeb , Al-Maghaireh Dua’a , Bani Hani Salam
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the effects of cat-assisted therapy (Ca-AT) on a patient in their homes, specifically investigating the effects on patient’s memory, behavioral pathology and ability to perform activities of daily living, independently.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study design was used in patient’s homes using three measuring scales, namely, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Barthel index (BI) and Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) Rating Scale.

Findings

The MMSE and BI mean scores were increased, whereas the Behavioral Pathology mean score was decreased. Patient negative behaviors were improved specifically, aggressiveness, anxieties, phobias, and caregiver burden was decreased.

Practical implications

Patients with AD could significantly benefit from Ca-AT in their own homes, and it could decrease caregiving burden.

Originality/value

Ca-AT is a newly developed type of animal-assisted therapy that uses cats to treat patients, especially elderly people with AD, in their homes.
Companion animals and/or social media use among Portuguese community-dwelling older adults: profile and impact on well-being and social interaction
Authors: Sousa Liliana , Fernandes Jéssica , Sá-Couto Pedro , Tavares João
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Companion animals and social media are two important factors of social interaction and well-being among the older population. This study aims to compare social media use and/or having companion animals with respect to sociodemographic variables in conjunction with loneliness, social isolation, depression, satisfaction with life and satisfaction with social support.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study involves a sample of 250 older community-dwelling adults. The questionnaire comprised sociodemographic, companion animals and social media questions and scales to assess social isolation, loneliness, satisfaction with life and social support and depression. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

Four groups emerged: “companion animal/s, no social media” (37.6%); “none” (33.6%); “social media and companion animal/s” (14.4%); and “social media, no companion animal/s” (14.4%). Social media users (with or without companion animals) are the youngest and with higher levels of education; caregivers of companion animals (no social media use) are in-between in terms of age and level of education; and those without companion animals and no social media users are the oldest and with less formal education.

Originality/value

This research examines and compares two key influencers of older adults’ well-being and social interaction (social media and companion animals), that have been researched mostly separately. Findings underlined the cohort effect in the use of social media, suggesting that future older adult cohorts will use more social media whether they have or do not have companion animals.
Environmental policies with the excess burden of public funds and privatisation
Authors: Kim Doori , Lee Sang‐Ho
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the interaction of environmental policies with the shadow cost of public funds and the efficiency of green research and development (R&D), while considering the presence of a public firm. In the policy combination of emission taxes and green R&D subsidies, we find that it has an implementable region where the shadow cost is neither high nor low, but the green R&D efficiency is high. We also demonstrate that the privatisation of public firms decreases the rates of both emission taxes and green R&D subsidies under a single policy regime. This increases (decreases) the implementable region of the policy combination of the emission tax (green subsidy) and is only implementable in the presence of a public firm. Finally, privatisation is shown to increase welfare when the shadow cost is lowest and green R&D is less efficient. These findings highlight that public ownership substitutes for environmental policies, while the shadow cost of public funds and the green R&D efficiency are critical when privatising public firms.
Performance Feedback and Innovative Search Strategies: An Integrative Perspective of Motivation and Capacity for Risk Taking
Authors: Zhang Zhiqun , Gu Xin , Yang Xue
Published: January 2024

Innovative search is a critical component of strategic decision making, and its different dimensions convey various levels of risk. Prior research on the behavioural theory of the firm has focused on motivation logic or capacity logic to predict the effects of performance feedback on risk taking but has paid limited attention to their joint effects. To construct a comprehensive framework in the behavioural theory of the firm, we consider both motivation and capacity logic to analyse the impact of performance feedback on risk taking. We argue that underperformance feedback positively affects innovative search scope and that overperformance feedback entails a U‐shaped relationship with innovative search scope, while innovative search depth shows the opposite trend. Using a unique dataset consisting of 9,730 firm‐year observations of 2,102 Chinese listed firms from 2008 to 2018, we conduct fixed‐effect regression analyses to test our hypotheses and find support for most theoretical predictions. We also identify the boundary roles of environmental dynamism. This study contributes to the literature on the behavioural theory of the firm by predicting innovative search strategies using a consistent and integrative framework.
Analyst Coverage and Synchronous Knowledge Search: Evidence from a Natural Experiment
Authors: Xiao Fenglong
Published: January 2024

This study develops a theory concerning the ways in which firms manage knowledge search in relation to the search behaviours of competitors. While the search behaviours of competitors provide information cues regarding the possible distribution of valuable innovation opportunities in the knowledge space, a focal firm may search with competitors synchronously (i.e. searching with competitors in the same knowledge areas at the same time) or asynchronously (i.e. searching in different knowledge areas from competitors). This study examines the quest for legitimacy under institutional pressure as a key contingency that shapes firms’ propensity to search with competitors synchronously or asynchronously. Focusing on scrutiny by security analysts as a source of institutional pressure, and employing mergers and acquisitions of brokerage houses as a natural experiment that results in exogenous drops in analyst coverage, this study finds that firms are more prone to search with competitors asynchronously following an exogenous drop in analyst coverage, providing support to the theory. Additional analysis shows that the positive relationship between an exogenous drop in analyst coverage and a firm's asynchronous search behaviour is less pronounced when the firm in question has proven its ability to capture valuable innovation opportunities via high innovation performance.
Integrated Devices: A New Regulatory Pathway to Promote Revolutionary Innovation
Authors: CHO TED , GOWDA VRUSHAB , SCHULZRINNE HENNING , MILLER BRIAN J.
Published: January 2024

Policy Points

Current medical device regulatory frameworks date back half a century and are ill suited for the next generation of medical devices that involve a significant software component.

Existing Food and Drug Administration efforts are insufficient because of a lack of statutory authority, whereas international examples offer lessons for improving and harmonizing domestic medical device regulatory policy.

A voluntary alternative pathway built upon two‐stage review with individual component review followed by holistic review for integrated devices would provide regulators with new tools to address a changing medical device marketplace
Contextual factors influencing the association between the Affordable Care Act's Medicaid expansion and Veteran VA‐Medicaid dual enrollment
Authors: O'Mahen Patrick N. , Eck Chase S. , Jiang Cheng (Rebecca) , Petersen Laura A.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate changes in dual enrollment after Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion by VA priority group, (e.g., service connection), sex, and type of state expansion.

Study Setting

Our cohort was all Veterans ages 18–64 enrolled in VA and eligible for benefits due to military service‐connection or low income from 2011 to 2016; the unit of analysis was person‐year.

Study Design

Difference‐in‐difference and event‐study analysis. The outcome was dual VA‐Medicaid enrollment for at least 1 month annually. Medicaid expansion, VA priority status, whether a state expanded by a Section 1115 waiver, and sex were independent variables. We controlled for race, ethnicity, age, disease burden, distance to VA facilities, state, and year.

Data Extraction Methods

We used data from the VA Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW) regarding age and VA Priority Group to select our cohort of VA‐enrolled individuals. We then took the cohort and crossed checked it with Medicaid Analytic Extract (MAX) and T‐MSIS Analytic Files (TAF) to determine Medicaid enrollment status.

Principal Findings

Service‐connected Veterans experienced lower dual‐enrollment increases across all sex and state‐waiver groups (3.44 percentage points (95% CI: 1.83, 5.05 pp) for women, 3.93 pp (2.98, 4.98) for men, 4.06 pp (2.85, 5.27) for non‐waiver states, and 3.00 pp (1.58 to 4.41) for waiver states) than Veterans who enrolled in the VA due to low income (8.19 pp (5.43, 10.95) for women, 9.80 pp (7.06, 12.54) for men, 10.21 pp (7.17, 13.25) for non‐waiver states, and 7.39 pp (5.28, 9.50) for waiver states).

Conclusions

Medicaid expansion is associated with dual enrollment. Dual‐enrollment changes are greatest in those enrolled in the VA due to low income, but do not differ by sex or expansion type. Results can help VA identify groups disproportionately likely to have potential care‐coordination issues due to usage of multiple health care systems.
Preliminary examination of the histochemistry of the semitendinosus muscle microstructure in Bali cattle (Bos javanicus) and the correlations with muscle score
Authors: Prawira Andhika Yudha , Supratikno  , Anwar Saiful , Khaerunnisa Isyana , Furqon Ahmad , Novelina Savitri , Prihatin Koko Wisnu
Published: January 2024

Bali cattle (Bos javanicus) are a local breed from Indonesia with the potential for beef production, but its meat has been reported to be tough. This indicates that there is a need to develop various methods that can be used for assessment to improve the quality of the meat. One such method is muscle scoring (MS), which is often used to predict the amount of meat in the carcass from live animals, but the muscle microstructure contributing to the quality is often neglected. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the correlation between the muscle score of Bali cattle and the quality of muscle microstructure in terms of myofibril morphometric and connective tissue composition using a histochemistry approach. The population consisted of 31 Bali cattle, and MS was performed by evaluating the muscle line using a range of 1 to 15. The three individuals with the highest scores (Hi) and the three with the lowest (Lo) were sampled for semitendinosus muscle microstructural observation. The results showed that cattle in the Hi group had a higher surface area of myofibril and sarcomere length, but had a significantly lower relative percentage of intramuscular collagen compared to others in the Lo group (p < 0.05). Generally, muscle score had a positive correlation with body weight, surface area of myofibril and sarcomere length. In all cattle, the fibres identified were similar, where the thick types were dominant in the epimysium and perimysium, followed by the thin variants. Furthermore, the endomysium prominently contained non‐fibrous or other types of fibre. This study can provide the basic data that can be used as a pilot for future studies of muscle score assessment in Indonesian cattle.