bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting Fathers in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Hull William , Rodriguez Alejandra , Talarico Nathan , Bordelon Curry
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

This scoping review explores the critical yet often overlooked role of fathers in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment, particularly during the emotionally tumultuous period following the birth of a critically ill infant.

Background:

The birth of an infant significantly disrupts family dynamics and may impact the role of each parent. Fathers in the NICU are frequently overlooked, leading to feelings of isolation and stress. Fathers often face confusion, stress, and a sense of exclusion, which are compounded by the trauma of having a critically ill infant.

Discussion:

Using the Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis model, the authors identified 18 articles that provide guidance on potential solutions to supporting an inclusive NICU environment for families, including fathers. The articles also consider the need for staff and provider training for a sustainable and inclusive NICU environment. Outcomes from the scoping review highlight the need for inclusive support for fathers, emphasizing that their involvement is crucial for the well-being of the infant and the family.

Implications for practice:

Creating a welcoming NICU environment, training staff to address fathers’ needs, and providing flexible policies can improve paternal engagement. Effective communication and support systems, including peer-led groups, are vital.

Precis Statement:

Inclusive practices, better communication, and tailored support for fathers in the NICU can enhance paternal involvement and engagement.
Pregnancy outcomes in Greek women with inflammatory bowel disease: a longitudinal national retrospective study
Authors: Papathanasiou Evgenia , Kokkotis Georgios , Axiaris Georgios , Bellou Georgia , Chalakatevaki Konstantina , Christidou Angeliki , Christodoulou Dimitrios K. , Foteinogiannopoulou Kalliopi , Gatopoulou Anthia , Giouleme Olga , Gkoumas Konstantinos , Κalogirou Maria , Karatzas Pantelis , Κarmiris Konstantinos , Κatsanos Konstantinos , Κourikou Anastasia , Κoutroubakis Ioannis E. , Liatsos Christos , Mantzaris Gerassimos J. , Μathou Nicoletta , Michalopoulos George , Μantaka Aikaterini , Nikolaou Penelope , Oikonomou Michael , Papatheodoridis George , Polymeros Dimitrios , Skouloudis Epameinondas , Soufleris Konstantinos , Stergiou Evdoxia , Theodoulou Aggelos , Theodoropoulou Angeliki , Theoxaris Georgios , Tsafaraki Styliani , Tsiolakidou Georgia , Tsironi Eftychia , Tzouvala Maria , Viazis Nikos , Michopoulos Spyridon , Bamias Giorgos , Zampeli Evanthia
Published: September 2024

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) commonly affects patients of reproductive age. The effect of disease activity on the outcome of pregnancy and its impact on neonatal health are areas of intense research.

Methods

Α national retrospective study of pregnancies in women with IBD between 2010 and 2020 was carried out in 22 IBD reference centers in Greece.

Results In total

223 pregnancies in 175 IBD patients [122 Crohn’s disease (CD)] were included. Mean age at diagnosis was 26 years (12–44) with a mean duration of 7.4 (0–23). Pregnancy as a result of IVF occurred in 15 cases (6.7%). At the beginning of gestation, 165 patients (74%) were under treatment: 48 (29%) with anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha agents, 43 (26%) with azathioprine, 101 (61%) with 5-aminosalicylates, and 12 (7%) with steroids. Forty-nine cases (22%) of IBD flares were recorded: Two-thirds (n = 30) were in clinical remission at the onset of pregnancy, whereas treatment with corticosteroids was required in 22 (45%). Patients with ulcerative colitis were at greater risk for flare compared to those with CD (P < 0.001). All but two pregnancies (99.1%) resulted in an uncomplicated delivery. In 147 cases (67.1%), c-section was performed. Two late fetal deaths (0.9%) were reported, both in patients with persistently active disease. After delivery, 75 patients (34%) presented with a disease flare, associated with active disease at the beginning of pregnancy (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The majority of Greek patients with IBD have a favorable pregnancy outcome. Active inflammation during gestation and a diagnosis of ulcerative colitis are negatively associated with pregnancy outcomes.
Pancreatic Cancer Risk in Prediabetes
Authors: Jain Akhil , Keesari Praneeth Reddy , Pulakurthi Yashwitha Sai , Katamreddy Rewanth , Dhar Meekoo , Desai Rupak
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Pancreatic cancer and prediabetes pose significant public health challenges. Given the lack of strong evidence we performed a meta-analysis to assess the risk of pancreatic cancer in prediabetes.

Materials and Methods

We performed a thorough search of the major databases over the last 10 years to identify relevant articles. The pooled odds ratio (OR) and hazard ratio (HR) were combined to calculate the effect size (ES).

Results

We analyzed 5 studies including 5,425,111 prediabetic individuals and 16,096,467 normoglycemic population across 5 countries with a median follow-up of 8.5 years. We identified a noteworthy association between prediabetes and pancreatic cancer, reporting an unadjusted ES of 1.36 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.77, P = 0.02) and an adjusted ES of 1.40 (1.23–1.59, P < 0.01). Subgroup analyses by age revealed variations in risk, with studies involving participants aged 60 and above exhibiting a higher ES (ES 1.83, 95% CI 1.28–2.62, P < 0.01). Geographical differences were also observed, with Japanese studies reporting a higher risk (ES 1.89, 95% CI 1.15–3.10, P < 0.01) compared with those from the United States (ES 1.32, 95% CI 1.13–1.53, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

We identified 40% higher risk of pancreatic cancer in patients with prediabetes than those with normal blood glucose necessitating urgent attention for further research and policy change.
Responsiveness of the Australian Spasticity Assessment Scale to botulinum neurotoxin injection into spastic wrist flexors after acquired brain injury
Authors: Bayram Korhan Bariş , Şengül İlker , Aghazada Nazrin , Aşkin Ayhan , Elmali Ferhan
Published: September 2024

The Australian Spasticity Assessment Scale (ASAS) is a relatively new scale used to rate the severity of spasticity. Although the reliability of the ASAS has been investigated, its ability to detect a clinically important change (responsiveness) has not. The objective of this study was to investigate the responsiveness of the ASAS in adult patients with acquired brain injury-related wrist flexor spasticity treated with botulinum neurotoxin A. The responsiveness of the ASAS was assessed by the standardized response mean at the group level. At the individual level, responsiveness was assessed by the percentage of responders and nonresponders. Those who had at least a 1 grade reduction in spasticity severity were considered responders. In addition, the magnitude of the goniometric change in R1 (angle of catch response) across the responders and nonresponders was studied as a distribution of frequency. Significant improvements in R1 and ASAS were achieved with the treatment. The standardized response mean based on the ASAS grades was 1.50 with a 95% confidence interval of 1.16–1.89. At the individual level, 40 of all cases (78.4%) were responders, and 11 (21.6%) were nonresponders. Three of the 11 nonresponders (27.3%) improved R1 beyond the 10 ° margin of error (20, 50, and 50 °). In contrast, the percentage of responders who had a change within the margin of error was 27.5% (11 out of 40). Although ASAS can reveal a decrease in wrist flexor spasticity, it has some shortcomings in detecting the potentially clinically important response at the individual level.
Challenges of using data analytics in health services
Authors: Khalil Hanan
Published: September 2024

Purpose of review

This review will discuss the challenges associated with using data analytics in health services.

Recent findings

The integration of data analytics in health services holds promise for transforming healthcare delivery, enhancing patient outcomes, and optimizing operational efficiency. However, this Undertaking is associated with challenges that include ethical, legal, financial, and organizational domains. Ethical concerns arise from biases in algorithms and the imperative for transparency in decision-making processes. Legal complexities include navigating stringent regulations to safeguard patient privacy and data security. Financial implications involve the substantial costs of infrastructure development, resource allocation, and ongoing maintenance required for effective data analytics implementation. Moreover, resistance to change among healthcare professionals poses a significant barrier, driven by concerns over unfamiliarity with data-driven methodologies.

Addressing these challenges requires adopting best practices and innovative solutions. Establishing robust data governance frameworks and adherence to ethical guidelines are crucial steps to ensure fairness, accountability, and transparency in data analytics practices. Technological advancements, including cloud computing and advanced analytics platforms, offer scalable solutions to enhance data integration and interoperability across healthcare systems. Leadership support, comprehensive training programs, and effective communication strategies are essential for overcoming resistance to change and fostering a data-driven culture within healthcare organizations.
HPV Infection and Prevention in Patients With Immune-Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Goulenok Tiphaine , Sacré Karim
Published: September 2024

Background/Historical Perspective

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are a significant public health concern as they cause various cancers, including those of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, penis, and oropharynx, in both women and men.

Summary Integrating the Current Published Literature

Individuals with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus, have an increased risk of developing persistent HPV infection and subsequent precancerous lesions due to their immunosuppression.

Major Conclusions

Vaccination and screening for precancerous lesions are 2 central management strategies that must be implemented in patients with immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Although HPV vaccination has been proven to be safe and effective in these patients, coverage remains low and should be encouraged. Screening for cervical cancer should be more widely implemented in this population, as recommended in guidelines for other immunosuppressed patients.

Future Research Directions

Catch-up vaccination, vaginal self-sampling screening for HPV detection, and therapeutic vaccination are new options that should be considered.
Reproductive Health in Scleroderma, Vasculitis, and Sjögren Syndrome
Authors: Crisafulli Francesca , Lazzaroni Maria Grazia , Nalli Cecilia , Orabona Rossana , Franceschini Franco , Tincani Angela
Published: September 2024

Women with systemic chronic inflammatory disease, such as those with scleroderma, systemic vasculitis, and Sjögren syndrome, need preconception evaluation by a multidisciplinary team. Counseling and pregnancy management should be tailored to patients' needs, considering specific disease features, organ involvement, treatment options, and risk factors to minimize risks of maternal-fetal complications during pregnancy.

Additionally, considerations regarding fertility, assisted reproductive techniques, and contraception also need to be addressed for these women.

In this narrative review, we integrate the current published literature with our expert opinion to address the issues faced by patients with the aforementioned inflammatory conditions.
Oral Testosterone Therapy in Hypogonadal Men: A Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Safety, Efficacy, and Secondary Health Outcomes
Authors: Borges Julian Y.V.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the safety and efficacy of oral testosterone therapy in hypogonadal men. The primary outcome is the assessment of safety, focusing on cardiovascular risks, liver toxicity, and prostate safety. Secondary outcomes include evaluations of bone mass, cardiovascular benefits, cognitive function, and potential reductions in mortality.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, identifying peer-reviewed studies published until August 2024. The search included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cohort studies, and large clinical trials. The studies involved a total of 3,183 hypogonadal men. Data were extracted and analyzed to assess primary and secondary outcomes. Statistical methods for meta-analysis included fixed-effects and random-effects models to calculate pooled estimates and assess heterogeneity.

Results

The analysis included 21 studies, encompassing a total of 3,183 hypogonadal men. Oral testosterone therapy demonstrated a safety profile comparable to other testosterone replacement therapies (TRT). No significant increase in liver toxicity was observed, supported by studies showing no liver damage after long-term oral testosterone undecanoate (TU) administration. Cardiovascular safety results were mixed; some studies noted minor increases in systolic blood pressure, but there was no consistent evidence of a significant increase in major cardiovascular events compared to other TRT forms. The prostate safety profile was consistent with existing TRT modalities, with only minor increases in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels noted.Secondary outcomes were generally favorable: bone density improved, fat mass was reduced, and there were indications of cognitive benefits, although these findings varied across studies. However, the evidence for mortality reduction was inconclusive, with no strong data supporting a significant effect of oral testosterone on reducing mortality.

Conclusion

Oral testosterone therapy appears to be a safe and effective treatment for hypogonadal men, with a risk profile comparable to other TRT forms. It offers potential benefits in bone health and cognitive function but requires careful monitoring of cardiovascular health and prostate safety during treatment. The findings suggest that oral testosterone therapy can be a valuable option for hypogonadal men, though long-term studies are needed to better understand its full range of effects, particularly concerning mortality and cardiovascular outcomes.
Stepwise Isolation of Diverse Metabolic Cell Populations Using Sorting by Interfacial Tension (SIFT)
Authors: Shulman Matthew , Mathew Thomas , Trivedi Aria , Gholizadeh Azam , Colcord Charlotte , Wiley Ryan , Allen Kiron S. , Thangam Lakshmi , Voss Kelsey , Abbyad Paul
Published: September 2024

We present here a passive and label-free droplet microfluidic platform to sort cells stepwise by lactate and proton secretion from glycolysis. A technology developed in our lab, Sorting by Interfacial Tension (SIFT), sorts droplets containing single cells into two populations based on pH by using interfacial tension. Cellular glycolysis lowers the pH of droplets through proton secretion, enabling passive selection based on interfacial tension and hence single-cell glycolysis. The SIFT technique is expanded here by exploiting the dynamic droplet acidification from surfactant adsorption that leads to a concurrent increase in interfacial tension. This allows multiple microfabricated rails at different downstream positions to isolate cells with distinct glycolytic levels. The device is used to correlate sorted cells with three levels of glycolysis with a conventional surface marker for T-cell activation. As glycolysis is associated with both disease and cell state, this technology facilitates the sorting and analysis of crucial cell subpopulations for applications in oncology, immunology and immunotherapy.
The Neural Underpinnings of Aphantasia: A Case Study of Identical Twins
Authors: Megla Emma , Prasad Deepasri , Bainbridge Wilma A.
Published: September 2024

Aphantasia is a condition characterized by reduced voluntary mental imagery. As this lack of mental imagery disrupts visual memory, understanding the nature of this condition can provide important insight into memory, perception, and imagery. Here, we leveraged the power of case studies to better characterize this condition by running a pair of identical twins, one with aphantasia and one without, through mental imagery tasks in an fMRI scanner. We identified objective, neural measures of aphantasia, finding less visual information in their memories which may be due to lower connectivity between frontoparietal and occipitotemporal lobes of the brain. However, despite this difference, we surprisingly found more visual information in the aphantasic twin’s memory than anticipated, suggesting that aphantasia is a spectrum rather than a discrete condition.
Breast cancer spheroids prefer activated macrophages as an accomplice: An in vitro study
Authors: Teli Abhishek , Iyer Ranjani , Shanbhag Karthik , Gawarguru Rahul , Gayan Sukanya , Shaikh Sumaiya , Tamhankar Anup , Kamat Siddhesh S. , Dey Tuli
Published: September 2024

Cancer, a heterogeneous disease in nature, often requires help from diverse pro-tumor or tumor-associated- cells, which are recruited and persevered within the stroma. Pro-tumor stromal cells provide the essential support needed for tumor growth, metastasis, and development of drug resistance in due time. Tumor-associated macrophages, one of such cells, are essential to tumor microenvironment and tumor survival. In recent years, TAMs have been identified as potential drug targets and therapeutic agents, which encourages the in-depth characterization of their crosstalk with the tumors. The current study has successfully developed a cost-effective in vitro platform for Chemokine Assisted Recruitment of Macrophages to spheroids mimicking the physiology of TAM recruitment. Firstly, monocytic cell line (U937) were converted into activated naive macrophages (M0) and pro-and anti-inflammatory (M1 and M2) subtypes. Monocytes, M0, M1, and M2 macrophages are characterized extensively. Secondly, the naive and polarized macrophages were subjected to chemokine-dependent recruitment into monotypic and heterotypic breast cancer spheroids. The nature of the recruitment is further investigated by assessing the profile of chemokines and chemokine receptors. Recruited macrophages are also observed to manipulate spheroid behavior in many ways. The recruited macrophages also exhibit an increased level of Siglec-1 (CD169), one of the potential TAM markers. The current platform’s potential for application can be extended to understand the recruitment process of other immune/stromal cells to solid tumors. It could be a potential addition to the arrays of in vitro platforms developed to screen the efficiency of cell-based immunotherapeutics in the future.
Diversity and abundance of ring nucleases in type III CRISPR-Cas loci
Authors: Hoikkala Ville , Chi Haotian , Grüschow Sabine , Graham Shirley , White Malcolm F.
Published: September 2024

Most type III CRISPR-Cas systems facilitate immune responses against invading mobile genetic elements such as phages by generating cyclic oligoadenylates (cOAs). Downstream effectors activated by cOAs are typically non-specific proteins that induce damage to essential cellular components, thereby preventing phage epidemics. Due to these toxic effects, it is crucial that the production and concentration of cOAs remain under tight regulatory control during infection-free periods or when deactivating the immune response after clearing an infection. Type III CRISPR loci often encode enzymes known as ring nucleases (RNs) that bind and degrade specific cOAs, while some effectors are auto-deactivating. Despite the discovery of several classes of RNs, a comprehensive bioinformatic analysis of type III CRISPR-Cas loci in this context is lacking. Here, we examined 38,742 prokaryotic genomes to provide a global overview of type III CRISPR loci, focussing on the known and predicted RNs. The candidate RNs Csx16 and Csx20 are confirmed as active enzymes, joining Crn1-3. Distributions and patterns of co-occurrence of RNs and associated effectors are explored, allowing the conclusion that a sizeable majority of type III CRISPR systems regulate cOA levels by degrading the signalling molecules, which has implications for cell fate following viral infection.
The Effects of Adverse Life Events on Brain Development in the ABCD Study®: A Propensity-weighted Analysis
Authors: Elton Amanda , Lewis Ben , Nixon Sara Jo
Published: September 2024

Longitudinal studies of the effects of adversity on human brain development are complicated by the association of stressful events with confounding variables. To counter this bias, we apply a propensity-weighted analysis of the first two years of The Adolescent Brain Cognitive DevelopmentSM(ABCD) Study® data, employing a machine learning analysis weighted by individuals’ propensity to experience adversity. Data included 338 resting-state functional connections from 7190 youth (46% female), divided into a training group (80%) and an independent testing group (20%). Propensity scores were computed using 390 variables to balance across two-year adverse life event exposures. Using elastic net regularization with and without inverse propensity weighting, we developed linear models in which changes in functional connectivity of brain connections during the two-year period served as predictors of the number of adverse events experienced during that same period. Haufe’s method was applied to forward-transform the backward prediction models. We also tested whether brain changes associated with adverse events correlated with concomitant changes in internalizing or externalizing behaviors or to academic achievement. In the propensity-weighted analysis, brain development significantly predicted the number of adverse events experienced during that period in both the training group (ρ=0.14, p<0.001) and the independent testing group (ρ=0.10, p<0.001). The predictor indicated a general pattern of decreased functional connectivity between large-scale networks and subcortical brain regions, particularly for cingulo-opercular and sensorimotor networks. These network-to-subcortical functional connectivity decreases inversely associated with the development of internalizing symptoms, suggesting adverse events promoted adaptive brain changes that may buffer against stress-related psychopathology. However, these same functional connections were also associated with poorer grades at the two-year follow-up. Although cortical-subcortical brain developmental responses to adversity potentially shield against stress-induced mood and anxiety disorders, they may be detrimental to other domains such as academic success.
Revisiting oxygen toxicity: evolution and adaptation to superoxide in a SOD-deficient bacterial pathogen
Authors: Huete Samuel G. , Leyva Alejandro , Kornobis Etienne , Cokelaer Thomas , Lechat Pierre , Monot Marc , Duran Rosario , Picardeau Mathieu , Benaroudj Nadia
Published: September 2024

Defenses against oxidants are crucial for the virulence of pathogens, with superoxide scavenging enzymes (SOSEs) playing a vital role for most aerobes. However, our knowledge of superoxide adaptation primarily stems from the study of SOSE-encoding bacteria. Here, we investigated the evolution of a naturally SOSE-deficient pathogen (Leptospiraspp.), along with the alternative mechanisms it recruits to combat superoxide stress. We demonstrate that emergence of pathogenicLeptospiracorrelated with SOD loss, but that a long-lasting adaptation to superoxide remains possible. We reveal that cysteine and leucine biosynthesis are the most induced pathways in response to superoxide and demonstrate the importance of sulfur metabolism in superoxide adaptation in this SOSE-deficient model. We also propose cysteine oxidation as a key mediator of superoxide toxicity in the absence of SOSEs. This study challenges our conventional understanding of the oxygen toxicity theory and proposes a new model of superoxide adaptation through metabolic rewiring in bacteria.
Sub-chronic and acute toxicity of 6PPD-quinone to early-life stage rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Roberts Catherine , Kohlman Evan , Jain Niteesh , Amekor Mawuli , Alcaraz Alper James , Hogan Natacha , Brinkmann Markus , Hecker Markus
Published: September 2024

N-(1,3-Dimethylbutyl)-N’-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPD-Q) is a derivative of rubber tires which leaches into surface waters when tire particles are swept into roadway runoff. 6PPD-Q has been identified as a potential cause of urban runoff mortality syndrome in coho salmon, and subsequent research has determined a wide species variation in toxicity among fishes. While adult rainbow trout are known to be sensitive, there is limited research on their early-life stages. Given that early-life stages of fish are often more sensitive than adults, the aim of these studies was to assess the acute and sub-chronic toxicity of 6PPD-Q in early-life stage rainbow trout. Rainbow trout alevins were exposed from hatch until 28 days post-hatch (dph) to time-weighted average 6PPD-Q concentrations ranging from 0.06-2.35μg/L. From these studies, a 28-day median lethal dose (LC50) of 0.56μg/L was derived. Morphological deformities were observed during the exposure period, including pooling of blood in the caudal fin. A follow-up acute study with exogenously feeding rainbow trout fry revealed a 96-hour LC50of 0.47μg/L. These studies indicate that early-life stage rainbow trout are more sensitive than previously studied sub-adults, with exogenously feeding fry being the most sensitive life stage studied so far, and that sub-chronic exposure to 6PPD-Q can result in developmental abnormalities. This research highlights the importance of utilizing early-life stage studies to determine the most sensitive benchmark concentrations and their value in determining sub-lethal effects.
Non-Optical, Label-free Electrical Capacitance Imaging of Microorganisms
Authors: Incandela Joseph T. , Hu Kangping , Joshi Pushkaraj , Rosenstein Jacob K. , Larkin Joseph W.
Published: September 2024

Many fundamental insights into microbiology have come from imaging, which is typically synonymous with optical techniques. However, the sample preparation needed for many optical microscopy methods such as labeling, fixing, or genetic modification, limits the range of species and environments we can investigate. Here we demonstrate the use of electrical capacitance measurements as a non-optical method for imaging live microbial samples. In electrical capacitance imaging (ECI), samples are positioned in contact with a semiconductor sensor array, and localized capacitance measurements are made across the array. From these measurements, we generate textured images of a variety of microbial colonies. We determine that capacitance is correlated with local sample thickness by comparing ECI data to 3D confocal scans. We further illustrate with ECI that a difference in capacitance signal allows microbial species to be spatially distinguished in co-culture conditions. In order to highlight the versatility of our system, we capture the cross-sectional development of floating pellicle biofilms in a liquid culture at millimeter length scales during weeks-long time-lapse experiments. These novel results establish a new low-cost and portable platform which can be used for spatially and temporally resolved experiments in diverse environments with a wide variety of microbial species.

IMPORTANCE

Microbes live in diverse environments, and occupy biological roles across many timescales. Investigating the full scope of microbial activity requires imaging systems appropriate to each context. Though optical microscopy is powerful, the use of light, lenses, and other hardware limits where it can be applied. At the same time, existing non-optical imaging methods are frequently destructive to samples and require extensive equipment. In this paper we present a non-optical imaging system that is small, cheap, requires no sample labeling, and is compatible with a variety of microbial species. Our system uses semiconductor chips to measure the inherent material properties of a sample with spatial sensitivity, producing images of microbes contrasted against their environment and each other. Our technique captures label-free, micrometer-resolution images with a pocket-sized device, enabling microbiological imaging experiments in new environments with new species.
Dynamical generation of the baryon asymmetry from a scale hierarchy
Authors: Chang Jae Hyeok , Jeong Kwang Sik , Lee Chang Hyeon , Shin Chang Sub
Published: September 2024

We propose a novel baryogenesis scenario where the baryon asymmetry originates directly from a hierarchy between two fundamental mass scales: the electroweak scale v and the Planck scale MP, in the form of YB∼vMP. This relation straightforwardly gives the observed baryon yield today YB, which can be a hint for underlying fundamental physics. We provide an example of baryogenesis models that yield this relation. Our model is based on the neutrino-portal Affleck-Dine mechanism, which generates the asymmetry of the Affleck-Dine sector during the radiation-dominated era and subsequently transfers it to the baryon number before the electroweak phase transition. The observed baryon asymmetry is then a natural outcome of this scenario. The model is testable as it predicts the existence of a Majoron with a keV mass and an electroweak scale decay constant. The impact of the relic Majoron on the effective number of neutrinos (ΔNeff) can be measured through near-future cosmic microwave background observations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Extreme thunderstorm ground enhancements registered on Aragats in 2023
Authors: Chilingarian A. , Sargsyan B. , Karapetyan T. , Aslanyan D. , Chilingaryan S. , Kozliner L. , Khanikyanc Y.
Published: September 2024

In 2023, a series of intense thunderstorm ground enhancements (TGEs) were recorded on Mount Aragats in Armenia, with seven events exceeding the fair-weather cosmic ray flux by more than 75%. This study comprehensively analyzes these TGEs, investigating the atmospheric conditions and electric fields contributing to their occurrence. Key insights include discovering relationships between TGE electron content and the location of atmospheric electric fields, recovering electron and gamma-ray energy spectra, and the impact of the cloud charge structure. The findings offer a deeper understanding of TGEs’ role in atmospheric physics and its synergy with high-energy astrophysics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum entanglement in a mixed-spin trimer: Effects of a magnetic field and heterogeneous
g
factors
Authors: Adamyan Zhirayr , Ohanyan Vadim
Published: September 2024

Mixed spin-(1/2,1/2,1) trimer with two different Landé g factors and two different exchange couplings is considered. The main feature of the model is nonconserving magnetization. The Hamiltonian of the system is diagonalized analytically. We presented a detailed analysis of the ground-state properties, revealing several possible ground-state phase diagrams and magnetization profiles. The main focus is on how nonconserving magnetization affects quantum entanglement. We have found that nonconserving magnetization can bring a continuous dependence of the entanglement quantifying parameter (negativity) on the magnetic field within the same eigenstate, while for the case of uniform g factors it is a constant. The main result is an essential enhancement of the entanglement in the case of uniform couplings for one pair of spins caused by an arbitrary small difference in the values of g factors. This enhancement is robust and brings almost a sevenfold increase of the negativity. We have also found a weakening of entanglement for other cases. Thus, nonconserving magnetization offers a broad opportunity to manipulate the entanglement by means of a magnetic field.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Percolation without trapping: How Ostwald ripening during two-phase displacement in porous media alters capillary pressure and relative permeability
Authors: Adebimpe Ademola Isaac , Foroughi Sajjad , Bijeljic Branko , Blunt Martin J.
Published: September 2024

Conventional measurements of two-phase flow in porous media often use completely immiscible fluids, or are performed over time scales of days to weeks. If applied to the study of gas storage and recovery, these measurements do not properly account for Ostwald ripening, significantly overestimating the amount of trapping and hysteresis. When there is transport of dissolved species in the aqueous phase, local capillary equilibrium is achieved: this may take weeks to months on the centimeter-sized samples on which measurements are performed. However, in most subsurface applications where the two phases reside for many years, equilibrium can be achieved. We demonstrate that in this case, two-phase displacement in porous media needs to be modeled as percolation without trapping. A pore network model is used to quantify how to convert measurements of trapped saturation, capillary pressure and relative permeability made ignoring Ostwald ripening to account for this effect. We show that conventional measurements overestimate the amount of capillary trapping by 20–25%.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Spillovers of U.S. monetary policy shocks on housing prices in nine emerging economies and their stabilizing capital controls
Authors: Nguyen Trung Ba , Le Chon Van , Nguyen Tri Anh Duc
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims  to examine the dynamic spillovers of Federal Reserve’s monetary policy shocks on real house price indices in nine emerging economies, namely China, Brazil, Thailand, Chile, Peru, Mexico, Malaysia, Indonesia and South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the local projection method with a panel data set of these countries spanning from 2005Q3 to 2019Q4 to estimate local projections at each period rather than extrapolating into distant periods from a given model.

Findings

A pure tightening monetary policy shock is associated with a decline in housing prices in the nine emerging markets. However, the optimistic information about the US macro-economic fundamentals that is embedded in the tightening announcement would increase housing prices. Therefore, the net transmission effects of the US policy rate shocks may be smaller than what previous studies reported. In addition, the authors also find that capital control actions executed by emerging countries are effective in mitigating the spillovers of the US monetary policy.

Originality/value

First, the paper aims to investigate the effects of US monetary policy shocks on housing prices in emerging economies which have not received sufficient scholarly attention. Second, the analysis focuses on both pure monetary policy shocks and the Federal Reserve's information on economic fundamentals contained in its rate announcements. Third, the authors also assess the effectiveness of capital controls imposed by policymakers in emerging countries in mitigating the spillovers of US policy rate shocks on housing prices in emerging markets.
Bricks and sustainability: a look at how environmental variables impact housing markets
Authors: Alqaralleh Huthaifa
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the interaction between environmental challenges and policy interventions in shaping housing prices. It emphasises the need to understand how policy interventions and environmental conditions can disproportionately affect housing affordability, population growth and building density, especially for vulnerable communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a panel quantile ARDL regression model to thoroughly investigate the asymmetric impact on a sample of 16 UK cities spanning the period 2000–2023.

Findings

The study reveals that pollution significantly impacts house prices, with cleaner areas experiencing faster price changes. Cleaner air pollution has a greater impact on property prices in cities with cleaner air. Climate policies and superior environmental technologies also influence consumer purchases. Addressing affordability has little short-term effect on house values, but building activity temporarily affects pricing. Investment in clean technology and climate action legislation may boost house prices and attract environmentally conscious individuals.

Practical implications

Based on these findings, policymakers seeking equitable and sustainable housing outcomes should consider these finding. It proposes evaluating city environmental features, eliminating environmental inequities, encouraging clean technology, balancing affordability and environmental concerns, monitoring and lowering pollutants and supporting sustainable building practices.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first to analyse how environmental conditions, regulations on environmental action and demand-supply affect housing prices in 16 major UK cities. The connection between these factors is also examined in 8 cities with high and 8 cities with extremely low pollution. The research seeks to explore how environmental issues affect policy interventions to promote sustainable and equitable housing development. The asymmetric impact is examined using a panel quantile ARDL regression model. If property values are asymmetrical, the government should enforce severe environmental laws.
Pre-post examination of residents’ destination image toward mega event hosting country with strained bilateral relations
Authors: Byon Kevin K. , Yoon Juha , Gang Alex , Park Juho , Pedersen Paul M.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The current study applied the concept of country image to a context of bilateral relations for two post-Soviet states to examine the impact of a mega sport event on the image of the host country Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveys were collected before and after the World Cup to assess any changes among Georgians with regard to their views on Russia and intentions to visit.

Findings

The results showed a significant change in Russia’s pre-perceived cognitive image related to reputation, respect and development, as well as the emotional aspect and overall country image after the mega sport event. Interestingly, the affective image of Russia carried more weight in shaping the overall country image compared to the cognitive aspects, suggesting the increasing importance of emotional perceptions over beliefs. However, despite these changes, the study found that mega sport events did not significantly moderate the association between country image and behavior intentions in the context of Russo-Georgian hostile bilateral relations.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first examinations of the impact of hosting mega sport events in countries with hostile bilateral ties. The findings support that mega sport events can be an effective mechanism to gain soft power in that such events can arouse changes in people’s emotions and feelings towards the host country, even for those living in a country with a hostile relationship with the host country. The scope of applicability of these findings can be extended to other contexts, including future hosts of mega sport events in their geo-political contexts.
Performance of shariah-compliant and non-shariah-compliant ETFs: a comparative study
Authors: Prati Ali Hachim , Ashfaq Muhammad , Ullah Shakir , Hasan Rashedul
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to elucidate the performance discrepancies between shariah-compliant and non-shariah-compliant exchange-traded funds (ETFs), aiming to enrich the academic and practical understanding of Islamic finance‘s nuances in the ETF sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Initiating with a broad literature review to cement a theoretical backdrop on Islamic investment principles and the mechanics of shariah-compliant ETFs, the research progresses to devise a comparative analytical framework. This framework focuses on assessing ETF performance through metrics like net asset value returns and volatility, specifically analyzing Blackrock ETFs to draw distinctions in portfolio outcomes and asset compositions.

Findings

The examination highlights discernible variances in portfolio performance between shariah-compliant and their conventional counterparts, presenting instances where shariah-compliant ETFs, such as ISUS from Blackrock, deliver competitive returns despite their generally lower net assets compared to conventional ETFs like VUSA from Vanguard. Moreover, the ISUS ETF‘s holdings investigation revealed discrepancies with AAOIFI standards, questioning its strict Shariah compliance and adding depth to the analysis of Islamic financial instruments‘ integrity.

Originality/value

This paper significantly advances the scholarly dialogue on Islamic financial practices within the ETF landscape, providing empirical evidence of performance differentials and compliance intricacies. While prior research has touched upon Islamic investing, this study pioneers a detailed comparative scrutiny, equipped with a novel methodological approach, to dissect the shariah-compliant ETFs‘ operational and ethical frameworks, offering invaluable insights for investors, financial analysts and Islamic finance scholars.
Fair value accounting and untraceable financial crime
Authors: Cardao-Pito Tiago
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to inquire about the structural possibility of “fair value” accounting being used to commit and conceal financial crimes such as fraud, theft, money laundering, tax evasion and corruption.

Design/methodology/approach

This study builds on the embezzler test, a recently developed test that examines whether normative architectures are sufficiently well equipped to cope with illicit financial flows that cross the boundaries of organizations and countries. This test was applied to both the entire “fair value” system and the “fair value” accounting that have been gradually introduced in modified historical cost accounting systems.

Findings

“Fair value” accounting is formulated in such a manner that it does not provide a means of detecting and penalizing potential criminals. Therefore, owing to the malfunctioning of its normative architecture, evidence of criminal wrongdoing that could be associated with “fair value” accounting systems is difficult to find because of the deprivation of mechanisms for detection and subsequent disciplining. Indeed, rather than reduce financial crime, “fair value” accounting reduces the possibility of finding criminal evidence.

Research limitations/implications

A new research field can explore how “fair value” accounting allows financial crimes such as fraud, theft, money laundering, tax evasion and corruption to remain undetected and unpunished.

Practical implications

Unless private accounting standard setters as IASB and FASB can solve this fundamental problem regarding financial crime detection and penalizing, the case can be made for the phasing out of “fair value” accounting systems. The return of accounting norms to the government sphere may be a necessary pathway. This can only happen if policymakers produce necessary legislation.

Originality/value

To present a new research argument against “fair value” accounting systems, which demonstrates the limitations and fragilities of this accounting system regarding illicit financial flows and other financial crimes that rely on illicit financial flows.
Mentoring matters: decoding the impact of downward envy on interpersonal conflict, workplace ostracism, and displaced aggression
Authors: Li Miaomiao , Qin Yinglin , Le Jiaqi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study investigates how downward envy affects interpersonal conflict, workplace ostracism and displaced aggression in the mentoring context. It seeks to deepen our understanding of how these dynamics influence a mentor–protégé relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a three-wave research design, this study uses a sample of 176 participants in mentoring relationships to test our proposed moderated mediation model.

Findings

Downward envy can increase interpersonal conflict, workplace ostracism and displaced aggression. A mentor’s social comparison orientation moderates these effects by amplifying the negative impacts of downward envy.

Research limitations/implications

These findings have practical implications for both mentors and protégés.

Practical implications

These findings have practical implications for both mentors and protégés.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by focusing on downward envy within the mentoring context, yielding valuable insights to navigate mentoring experiences at work.
Modeling the relationship between leverage and firm performance: a threshold analysis using the PSTR model
Authors: Omri Neji Al-Eid , Neffati Nizar , Guenichi Hassan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The relationship between leverage and firm performance has been a subject of great interest to researchers, but the empirical findings are, at best, mixed. Against this background, we attempt to investigate this controversial issue by hypothesizing the nonlinearity of this relationship. Specifically, we aim to determine whether there exists an optimal threshold of firm size above which increasing levels of debt stop undermining (or start enhancing) firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study uses a nonlinear modeling specification, that is, the Panel Smooth Transition Regression (PSTR) model proposed by González et al. (2005). This model is a fixed-effects panel that accounts for cross-country heterogeneity and time variability, while also allowing for smooth transitions between a limited number of “extreme regimes.”

Findings

The study reveals a statistically significant negative relationship between leverage and firm performance for firms below size thresholds. But after exceeding these thresholds, firms can experience a substantial increase in accounting and financial performance.

Originality/value

The authors offer novel insights into the contingent role played by firm size on the capital structure–performance nexus. To our knowledge, few studies have delved into the threshold effects of leverage on firm performance. The threshold firm size level can be considered, therefore, as a benchmark for firms in optimizing their capital structure. From this perspective, small-sized firms are invited to prioritize internal financing to avoid the detrimental impact of depts on their performance. However, large-sized firms may find it advantageous to leverage external financing through debt in order to potentially enhance their performance.