bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dominant contribution of Asgard archaea to eukaryogenesis
Authors: Tobiasson Victor , Luo Jacob , Wolf Yuri I , Koonin Eugene V
Published: October 2024

Origin of eukaryotes is one of the key problems in evolutionary biology. The demonstration that the Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor (LECA) already contained the mitochondrion, an endosymbiotic organelle derived from an alphaproteobacterium, and the discovery of Asgard archaea, the closest archaeal relatives of eukaryotes inform and constrain evolutionary scenarios of eukaryogenesis. We undertook a comprehensive analysis of the origins of the core eukaryotic genes tracing to the LECA within a rigorous statistical framework centered around evolutionary hypotheses testing using constrained phylogenetic trees. The results reveal dominant contributions of Asgard archaea to the origin of most of the conserved eukaryotic functional systems and pathways. A limited contribution from Alphaproteobacteria was identified, primarily relating to the energy transformation systems and Fe-S cluster biogenesis, whereas ancestry from other bacterial phyla was scattered across the eukaryotic functional landscape, without consistent trends. These findings suggest a model of eukaryogenesis in which key features of eukaryotic cell organization evolved in the Asgard ancestor, followed by the capture of the Alphaproteobacterial endosymbiont, and augmented by numerous but sporadic horizontal acquisition of genes from other bacteria both before and after endosymbiosis.
Greater baseline cortical atrophy in the dorsal attention network predicts faster clinical decline in Posterior Cortical Atrophy
Authors: Katsumi Yuta , Eckbo Ryan , Chapleau Marianne , Wong Bonnie , McGinnis Scott M. , Touroutoglou Alexandra , Dickerson Bradford C. , Putcha Deepti
Published: October 2024

Background and Objectives

Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA) is a clinical syndrome characterized by progressive visuospatial and visuoperceptual impairment. As the neurodegenerative disease progresses, patients lose independent functioning due to the worsening of initial symptoms and development of symptoms in other cognitive domains. The timeline of clinical progression is variable across patients, and the field currently lacks robust methods for prognostication. Here, evaluated the utility of MRI-based cortical atrophy as a predictor of longitudinal clinical decline in a sample of PCA patients.

Methods

PCA patients were recruited through the Massachusetts General Hospital Frontotemporal Disorders Unit PCA Program. All patients had cortical thickness estimates from baseline MRI scans, which were used to predict longitudinal change in clinical impairment assessed by the CDR Sum-of-Boxes (CDR-SB) score. Multivariable linear regression was used to estimate the magnitude of cortical atrophy in PCA patients relative to a group of amyloid-negative cognitively unimpaired participants. Linear mixed-effects models were used to test hypotheses about the utility of baseline cortical atrophy for predicting longitudinal clinical decline.

Results

Data acquired from 34 PCA patients (mean age = 65.41 ± 7.90, 71% females) and 24 controls (mean age = 67.34 ± 4.93, 50% females) were analyzed. Sixty-two percent of the PCA patients were classified as having mild cognitive impairment (CDR 0.5) at baseline, with the rest having mild dementia (CDR 1). Each patient had at least one clinical follow-up, with the mean duration of 2.78 ± 1.62 years. Relative to controls, PCA patients showed prominent baseline atrophy in the posterior cortical regions, with the largest effect size observed in the visual network of the cerebral cortex. Cortical atrophy localized to the dorsal attention network, which supports higher-order visuospatial function, selectively predicted the rate of subsequent clinical decline.

Discussion

These results demonstrate the utility of a snapshot measure of cortical atrophy of the dorsal attention network for predicting the rate of subsequent clinical decline in PCA. If replicated, this topographically-specific MRI-based biomarker could be useful as a clinical prognostication tool that facilitates personalized care planning.
Epigenetic and cognitive signatures of striatal DAT binding among healthy elderly individuals
Authors: Yaghoobi Arash , Seyedmirzaei Homa , Jamaat Marzie , Ala Moein
Published: October 2024

Background

Striatal dopamine transporter (DAT) binding is a sensitive and specific endophenotype for detecting dopaminergic deficits across Parkinson’s disease (PD) spectrum. Molecular and clinical signatures of PD in asymptomatic phases help understand the earliest pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the disease. We aimed to investigate whether blood epigenetic markers are associated with inter-individual variation of striatal DAT binding among healthy elderly individuals. We also investigated whether this potential inter-individual variation can manifest as dysfunction of particular cognitive domains.

Method

We conducted a blood epigenome-wide association study of striatal DAT binding on 96 healthy individuals using the Illumina EPIC array. For functional annotation of our top results, we employed the enhancer-gene mapping strategy using a midbrain single-nucleus multimodal dataset. Finally, we conducted several investigative regression analyses on several neuropsychological tests across five cognitive domains to assess their association with striatal DAT binding among 250 healthy subjects.

Results

We identified seven suggestive (P-value<10−5) CpG probes. Specifically, three probes were colocalized with three risk loci previously identified in PD’s largest Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS).UCN5AandAPOEloci were identified as suggestive DMRs associated with striatal DAT binding. Functional analyses prioritized theFDFT1gene as the potential target gene in the previously reportedCTSBGWAS locus. We also showed that delayed recall memory impairment was correlated with reduced striatal DAT binding, irrespective of age.

Conclusion

Our study suggested epigenetic and cognitive signatures of striatal DAT binding among healthy individuals, providing valuable insights for future experimental and clinical studies of early PD.
In-Patient Repeatability and Sensitivity Study of Multi-Plane Super-Resolution Ultrasound in Breast Cancer
Authors: Morris Megan , Durie Emily , Sinnett Victoria , Toulemonde Matthieu , Roxanis Ioannis , Allen Steven , Downey Kate , Scudder Julie , Gagliardi Tanja , Scott-Mackie Pauline , Nimalasena Samantha , Yan Jipeng , Huang Biao , Hansen-Shearer Joseph , Gothard Lone , Hughes Justine , Blackledge Matthew D , Somaiah Navita , Tang Meng-Xing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Super-resolution ultrasound (SRUS) is a promising imaging modality for detecting early microvascular changes after cancer treatment, offering advantages over tumour-size methods to evaluate response. For clinical application, it is crucial to assess repeatability of SRUS-derived biomarkers and their sensitivity to post-treatment changes.

Experimental Design

Clinical data were collected from breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. 24 repeatability scans were conducted, and 11 participants underwent SRUS response assessment at 2-weeks and 6-months post-radiotherapy. Ultrafast CEUS acquisitions sampled four imaging planes of each tumour, generating 2D SRUS maps of microvascular structure and dynamics. SRUS-derived quantitative parameters were extracted, with repeatability assessed using the Repeatability Coefficient (RC). Changes in quantitative parameters were analysed post-radiotherapy, and the RC defined significant changes. SRUS-derived quantitative parameters were compared to histopathological CD31 staining of biopsy samples.

Results

The RCs of SRUS quantitative parameters improved when averaged over more imaging planes, indicating improved repeatability. Significant changes in SRUS quantitative parameters were observed at 2-weeks post-RT in 5/11 participants. In contrast, only 1/11 participants showed significant tumour size changes. By 2-weeks or 6-months post-RT, significant changes in SRUS quantitative parameter were detected in all participants, while significant changes in tumour size were observed in 6/11 participants. Among 10 participants with corresponding CD31 vessel counts, 7 showed a correlation between the direction of change in histopathological vessel count scores and SRUS vessel density.

Conclusions

This repeatability and response assessment study establishes multi-plane SRUS as a robust and sensitive tool for detecting early tumour microvascular changes in patients undergoing treatment.

Funding

CRUK Convergence Science Centre, Kortuc Inc., NHS, NIHR, ICiC, IAA.
Genomic characterization of a unique population ofLeishmania tropicain a new emerging focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Somali region of Ethiopia
Authors: Abera Adugna , Monsieurs Pieter , Pareyn Myrthe , Beyene Dereje , Tasew Geremew , Aroni-Soto Allison , Belachew Mahlet , Geleta Desalegn , Adinew Bethlehem , Gidey Bokretsion , Tadesse Henok , Gebreegziabxier Atsbeha , Abubeker Rajiha , Ali Abraham , Tafess Ketema , Rinke de Wit Tobias F. , van Griensven Johan , Dujardin Jean-Claude , Wolday Dawit , Domagalska Malgorzata Anna
Published: October 2024

We sequencedLeishmania tropicagenomes directly from eight human skin samples collected in a newly emerging focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Somali region, Ethiopia. We found a new variant with unique genomic signatures of drug resistance. Genomic homogeneity in the sampled population demonstrates the occurrence of aL. tropicaoutbreak.
Reward-driven adaptation of movements requires strong recurrent basal ganglia-cortical loops
Authors: Leblois Arthur , Boraud Thomas , Hansel David
Published: October 2024

The basal ganglia (BG), a set of subcortical nuclei involved in motor control, sensorimotor integration, and procedural learning, modulate movement through tonic inhibition of thalamo-cortical networks. While essential for sensorimotor integration and learning, the BG are not necessary for executing well-learned movements. During skill learning, they guide behavioral corrections via dopamine-dependent cortico-striatal plasticity, but these corrections become BG-independent as modifications occur in the motor cortex. Existing models of BG function often overlook the feedback dynamics of cortico-BG-thalamo-cortical loops, and do not address the relative role of cortex and the BG in the generation and adaptation of movement. In this work, we develop a theoretical model of this multiregional network, integrating anatomical, physiological, and behavioral evidence to explore how its dynamics shape movement execution and reward-based adaptation. We show that the BG-thalamo-cortical network influences motor output through three key factors: (i) the rich dynamics of its closed-loop architecture, (ii) attractor dynamics from recurrent cortical connections, and (iii) classical reinforcement learning via dopamine-dependent cortico-striatal plasticity. Our study highlights that efficient visuomotor adaptation requires strong feedback from the BG to the cortex. Finally, we propose a mechanism for initial movement learning through motor babbling. This model suggests the BG-cortical network shapes motor output through its intricate closed-loop dynamics and cortico-striatal dopamine-dependent plasticity.
Isolating the effect of beat salience on RAS outcomes
Authors: Von Handorf Kristi M. , Jagadeesan Ramkumar , Grahn Jessica A.
Published: October 2024

Rhythmic auditory stimulation (RAS) is an intervention for gait-disordered populations that involves synchronizing footsteps to regular auditory cues. Previous research has shown that high-groove music (music that induces the desire to move or dance to it) improves gait relative to low-groove music, but how this effect occurs is unclear. Greater beat salience in high-groove music may improve gait because salient beats are easier to synchronize with. Here, we manipulated beat salience by embedding metronome tones to emphasize beat onsets in both high- and low-groove music. We expected that, if beat salience drives gait improvements to high-groove music, then embedding metronome in low-groove music would elicit similar gait improvements (e.g. increased stride velocity). Here, we quantified gait synchronization in terms of period-matching (overall step rate to the cue pace) and phase-matching (individual step onsets to beat onsets). We tested a sample of healthy younger and older adults, with auditory cues matched to 10% faster than baseline. Low-groove music with embedded metronome, compared to without, elicited better period-matching; there were no differences between metronome conditions in high-groove music. These findings suggest gait improvements to high-groove music could be due to its high beat salience. On the other hand, embedded metronome did not improve phase-matching accuracy, but high-groove music did. This suggests that beat salience may not improve gait via easing step-to-beat synchronization, but rather through an overall increase in movement vigor.
Amazonian biocultural heritage under climate change
Authors: Cámara-Leret Rodrigo , Roehrdanz Patrick R. , Bascompte Jordi
Published: October 2024

Amazonia harbors one fourth of the world’s plant diversity and over 300 Indigenous groups. So far, however, no study has assessed how climate change may simultaneously impact its biological and cultural heritage. To bridge this gap, we assembled a database on 5,833 utilized plant species and show that climate change will reduce more the ranges of utilized than of non-utilized species by 2070. Locally, Indigenous cultures may lose an average of 65% of their utilized plant species and 50% of their associated services from climate change. Regionally, the loss of threatened languages may result in a 41% reduction in the Amazonian knowledge pool. Overall, our results point to the strong climate vulnerability of Amazonian biocultural heritage.
Associations between prenatal distress, mitochondrial health, and gestational age: findings from two pregnancy studies in the USA and Turkey
Authors: Huang Qiuhan , Shire David , Hollis Fiona , Abuaish Sameera , Picard Martin , Monk Catherine , Duman Elif Aysimi , Trumpff Caroline
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study examined associations between mitochondrial markers—circulating cell-free mitochondrial DNA (cf-mtDNA) and Growth Differentiation Factor-15 (GDF15)—with maternal distress and pregnancy outcomes.

Method

Participants were drawn from two pregnancy studies, EPI (N=187, USA) and BABIP (N=198, Turkey). Plasma cf-mtDNA and GDF15 levels were quantified using qPCR and ELISA assays.

Results

Plasma cf-mtDNA levels did not significantly vary across pregnancy, while plasma GDF15 levels increased from early to late pregnancy and decreased postpartum. Late 2nd trimester plasma GDF15 was negatively correlated with pre-pregnancy BMI (p=0.035) and gestational age (p=0.0048) at birth. Early 2nd trimester maternal distress was associated with lower cf-mtDNA (p<0.05) and a trend for lower GDF15. Higher pre-pregnancy BMI and late-pregnancy maternal distress were linked to smaller postpartum GDF15 declines in EPI (p<0.05).

Conclusion

This study reveals distinct plasma cf-mtDNA and GDF15 patterns during the perinatal period, linking mitochondrial markers to maternal distress and pregnancy outcomes.
Neural-network approach to running high-precision atomic computations
Authors: Bilous Pavlo , Cheung Charles , Safronova Marianna
Published: October 2024

Modern applications of atomic physics, including the determination of frequency standards and the analysis of astrophysical spectra, require prediction of atomic properties with exquisite accuracy. For complex atomic systems, high-precision calculations are a major challenge due to the exponential scaling of the involved electronic configuration sets. This exacerbates the problem of required computational resources for these computations and makes indispensable the development of approaches to select the most important configurations out of otherwise intractably huge sets. We have developed a neural-network (NN) tool for running high-precision atomic configuration interaction (CI) computations with iterative selection of the most important configurations. Integrated with the established atomic codes, our approach results in computations with significantly reduced computational requirements in comparison with those without NN support. We showcase a number of NN-supported computations for the energy levels of Fe16+ and Ni12+ and demonstrate that our approach can be reliably used and automated for solving specific computational problems for a wide variety of systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Hybrid rotational cavity optomechanics using an atomic superfluid in a ring
Authors: Das Sanket , Kumar Pardeep , Bhattacharya M. , Dey Tarak N.
Published: October 2024

We introduce a hybrid optomechanical system containing an annularly trapped Bose-Einstein condensate (BEC) inside an optical cavity driven by Lauguerre-Gaussian (LG) modes. Spiral phase elements serve as the end mirrors of the cavity such that the rear mirror oscillates torsionally about the cavity axis through a clamped support. As described earlier in a related system [P. Kumar , ], the condensate atoms interact with the optical cavity modes carrying orbital angular momentum which create two atomic side modes. We observe three peaks in the output noise spectrum corresponding to the atomic side modes and rotating mirror frequencies, respectively. We find that the trapped BEC's rotation reduces quantum fluctuations at the mirror's resonance frequency. We also find that the atomic side modes-cavity coupling and the optorotational coupling can produce bipartite and tripartite entanglements between various constituents of our hybrid system. We reduce the frequency difference between the side modes and the mirror by tuning the drive field's topological charge and the condensate atoms' rotation. When the atomic side modes become degenerate with the mirror, the stationary entanglement between the cavity and the mirror mode diminishes due to the suppression of cooling. Our proposal, which combines atomic superfluid circulation with mechanical rotation, provides a versatile platform for reducing quantum fluctuations and producing macroscopic entanglement with experimentally realizable parameters.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Elastic properties and thermodynamic anomalies of supersolids
Authors: Rakic Milan , Ho Andrew F. , Lee Derek K. K.
Published: October 2024

We study a supersolid in the context of a Gross-Pitaevskii theory with a nonlocal effective potential. We employ a homogenization technique which allows us to calculate the elastic moduli, supersolid fraction, and other state variables of the system. Our methodology is verified against numerical simulations of elastic deformations. We can also verify that the long-wavelength Goldstone modes that emerge from this technique agree with Bogoliubov theory. We find a thermodynamic anomaly that the supersolid does not obey the thermodynamic relation ∂P/∂V|N=−n(∂P/∂N|V), which we claim is a feature unique to supersolids.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Hydrodynamic Mechanism for Stable Spindle Positioning in Meiosis II Oocytes
Authors: Liao Weida , Lauga Eric
Published: October 2024

Cytoplasmic streaming, the persistent flow of fluid inside a cell, induces intracellular transport, which plays a key role in fundamental biological processes. In meiosis II mouse oocytes (developing egg cells) awaiting fertilization, the spindle, which is the protein structure responsible for dividing genetic material in a cell, must maintain its position near the cell cortex (the thin actin network bound to the cell membrane) for many hours. However, the cytoplasmic streaming that accompanies this stable positioning would intuitively appear to destabilize the spindle position. Here, through a combination of numerical and analytical modeling, we reveal a hydrodynamic mechanism for stable spindle positioning beneath the cortical cap. We show that this stability depends critically on the spindle size and the active driving from the cortex and demonstrate that stable spindle positioning can result purely from a hydrodynamic suction force exerted on the spindle by the cytoplasmic flow. Our findings show that local fluid dynamic forces can be sufficient to stabilize the spindle, explaining robustness against perturbations not only perpendicular but also parallel to the cortex. Our results shed light on the importance of cytoplasmic streaming in mammalian meiosis.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Sheet-on-sheet fixed target data collection devices for serial crystallography at synchrotron and XFEL sources
Authors: Doak R. Bruce , Shoeman Robert L. , Gorel Alexander , Niziński Stanisław , Barends Thomas R.M. , Schlichting Ilme
Published: October 2024

Serial crystallography (SX) efficiently distributes over many crystals the radiation dose absorbed during diffraction data acquisition, enabling structure determination of samples at ambient temperature. SX relies on the rapid and reliable replacement of X-ray-exposed crystals with fresh crystals at a rate commensurate with the data acquisition rate. `Solid supports', also known as `fixed targets' or `chips', offer one approach. These are microscopically thin solid panes into or onto which crystals are deposited to be individually interrogated by an X-ray beam. Solid supports are generally patterned using photolithography methods to produce a regular array of features that trap single crystals. A simpler and less expensive alternative is to merely sandwich the microcrystals between two unpatterned X-ray-transparent polymer sheets. Known as sheet-on-sheet (SOS) chips, these offer significantly more versatility. SOS chips place no constraint on the size or size distribution of the microcrystals or their growth conditions. Crystals ranging from true nanocrystals up to microcrystals can be investigated, as can crystals grown in media ranging from low viscosity (aqueous solution) up to high viscosity (such as lipidic cubic phase). Here, we describe our two SOS devices. The first is a compact and lightweight version designed specifically for synchrotron use. It incorporates a standard SPINE-type magnetic base for mounting on a conventional macromolecular crystallography goniometer. The second and larger chip is intended for both X-ray free-electron laser and synchrotron use and is fully compatible with the fast-scanning XY-raster stages developed for data collection with patterned chips.
Asymmetric connectedness among BSE SENSEX, INR–USD exchange rate, gold price and crude oil price: fresh evidence from nonlinear ARDL
Authors: Bhattacharjee Animesh
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the asymmetric connectedness among the Indian stock market, crude oil price, gold price and the USD–INR exchange rate.

Design/methodology/approach

We construct a nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model that contains the four aforementioned variables. We further used the pairwise Granger causality test to identify the direction of causality.

Findings

The results verify an asymmetrical long-run co-movement between the Indian stock market index, exchange rate, international crude oil prices and gold prices. In the long run, the performance of the Indian stock market is mainly affected by both positive as well as negative shocks in the INR–USD exchange rate, positive shocks in gold prices and positive shocks in crude oil prices. Further, a feedback mechanism is observed between positive shocks in the INR–USD exchange rate and Indian stock market performance.

Originality/value

The research paper revisited the linkage among the variables using a novel methodology proposed by Shin et al. (2014).
Impact of fiscal poverty alleviation funds on poverty mitigation and economic expansion: evidence from provincial panel data in China
Authors: Duan Bingde , Liu Shenglong
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Since 2013, China has implemented targeted poverty alleviation policies, successfully eradicating absolute poverty nationwide by 2021. The fiscal funds allocated for poverty alleviation have significantly contributed to reducing poverty in impoverished areas. However, to date, there has been a lack of scholarly research specifically examining the effects of these fiscal poverty alleviation funds on both poverty reduction and economic growth. This study aims to address two key questions: What role do fiscal poverty alleviation funds play in reducing poverty? Additionally, do these funds contribute to economic growth?

Design/methodology/approach

Provincial panel data in China from 2010 to 2020 are used to test the impact of fiscal poverty alleviation funds on poverty reduction and economic growth. The empirical study of this paper primarily employs panel data within difference and two-stage least squares (2SLS) estimation for causal identification.

Findings

Poverty alleviation funds positively influence China’s economic growth and significantly reduce the rural poverty rate. During the sample period, the contribution of poverty alleviation funds to economic growth reached 7.3%, and the contribution to the reduction of the poverty incidence rate was 8.4%.

Originality/value

The key contribution of this study lies in its novel approach of using empirical methods to probe the impacts of fiscal poverty alleviation funds on provincial economic growth. Additionally, this paper also empirically tests the mechanisms by which fiscal poverty alleviation funds promote growth and reduce poverty, mainly by improving the infrastructure development conditions in impoverished areas.
From industrial territory to sustainable or “green” industrial district? The case of an industrial district’s evolution in Normandy
Authors: Camille Brou , Nadou Fabien
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Through participant observation, this paper aims to show how the existing ecosystem has helped to attract new companies that are integrating and enriching this ecosystem, while helping to decarbonize the region’s industry.

Design/methodology/approach

In France, industrial and carbon-intensive regions are currently facing the challenges of environmental, energy and digital transition. Against a backdrop of reindustrialization, and to meet the objectives set by the French climate and resilience law, these regions are seeking both to support the existing ecosystem in meeting these new challenges and to diversify their economic fabric by welcoming greener industries.

Findings

In Normandy, in the Caux Seine agglo area, new projects linked to bioplastics have led the region to reflect on the creation and structuring of a greener industrial district bringing together manufacturers, a research cluster and a training center.

Originality/value

The authors are studying an industrial region in Normandy that is considered to be a pilot area, experimenting with new directions in terms of low-carbon industry. Based on the petrochemical industry, this little-studied area wants the industrial zone to become a genuine green energy hub. Strong political will and substantial private and public investment have enabled the emergence of a new green chemistry industry.
Investigating the effects of political correctness in social marketing messaging
Authors: Guzmán Francisco , Alvarado-Karste Diego , Ahmad Fayez , Strutton David , Kennedy Eric L.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Obesity imposes myriad negative consequences upon society, the economy and personal well-being. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of using political correctness (PC) in social marketing messages to persuade consumers to change their unhealthy behavior. It also explores various underlying mechanisms that drive this effect. Specifically, this research studies that messaging approach – politically correct vs politically incorrect and gain vs loss message framing – generates higher consumer intentions to change their behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Four experiments were conducted with nationally representative samples to examine the effect of PC and gain vs loss message framing on consumers’ behavior changing intentions.

Findings

Politically correct prosocial marketing messages displayed higher persuasiveness than politically incorrect messages. Each relationship was mediated by the perceived manipulative capacity of the message and consumers’ attitudes toward the message. Message framing performed as a boundary condition for these effects.

Research limitations/implications

This paper sought to contribute to the literature that investigates the effectiveness of social marketing efforts. Three specific contributions related to the effects of message frames on politically correct and incorrect social marketing messages were developed.

Practical implications

The strategies presented in this paper benefit firms wishing to create a more prosocial approach to their business. A firm can present a prosocial message to their target market in a frame focusing on what will be gained instead of lost. Likewise, firms should welcome this type of messaging that embraces politically correct terminology instead of shying away from it.

Originality/value

This paper generates actionable insights for marketers and policymakers regarding how best to communicate with targeted segments about culturally- and personally sensitive topics related to obesity and weight loss. This paper also contributes to the literature that explores the effectiveness of social marketing initiatives. The findings suggest policymakers and social marketers should be cautious and, regardless of today’s sociopolitical environment, avoid falling into the temptation of developing politically incorrect and loss-framed messages.
Revisiting the TAM: adapting the model to advanced technologies and evolving user behaviours
Authors: Ishengoma Fredrick
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the applicability of the technology acceptance model (TAM) in libraries considering the advanced technologies and users’ behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a critical reflective approach to review and synthesize a body of recent academic literature on the use of TAM in libraries. The review included assessing TAM’s historical evolution, its limitations and how it could be improved.

Findings

The findings indicated that, although TAM can be viewed as an appropriate theoretical model to explain the users’ intention towards technology acceptance, it is limited in explaining both the users’ attitude towards advanced technology and their behaviour in advanced library settings.

Research limitations/implications

To enhance the practicality of TAM in libraries, several recommendations for strategic advancements have been proposed such as contextualizing TAM to libraries, exploring AI-driven adoption, integrating library-specific constructs, understanding cultural differences and using holistic research approaches.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of technology adoption in libraries and to the future possibilities of TAM.
School middle leadership: aspirations, identification, appointment, development and advancement
Authors: Lipscombe Kylie , Tindall-Ford Sharon , Grice Christine , De Nobile John , Davidson Janelle
Published: October 2024

Purpose

While current research is reporting on a crisis in school leadership aspirations and appointments, this research sheds light on the mediating factors that school middle leaders (MLs) attribute to their appointment as a leader and their aspirations to senior leadership positions.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data from a larger, mixed-method, research project were collected using an online survey completed by 2,608 MLs in a large public school system in Australia and is analysed using an inductive thematic process.

Findings

The findings suggest that MLs experience varying and non-linear career progressions and that a range of personal and professional factors impact their career aspirations. The support of an “experienced other” such as a principal, mentor or coach and strategic career planning are all important in the identification, support, development and advancement of MLs.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the scarce body of research on middle leadership identification and aspirations. The study recommends a system approach drawn from the empirical data and associated literature that may be useful to inform policymakers, school systems and school leaders in efforts towards middle leadership identification, development and advancement.
Leading during long-term crises: an analysis of perceived effectiveness leadership in K-12 schools
Authors: Mathieu-Sher Reva , Coviello James
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This research explored school leaders', teachers' and paraprofessionals' perceptions of effective leadership in special purpose private schools (SPPS) during long-term crises.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were derived from a purposeful sample of school leaders, teachers and paraprofessionals in Maine. Demographic information and semi-structured interviews were analyzed using a complexity leadership framework and a qualitative interpretive phenomenological approach (IPA).

Findings

The analysis revealed four major themes, including (1) presence, approachability and availability; (2) the need for high emotional intelligence; (3) creating a culture of idea-sharing, compassion, trust, community building and value and (4) understanding and acting on the complexity of long-term crisis.

Research limitations/implications

The research took place in one state and within one subset of specialized schools, thus limiting applicability to leadership outside this subset of schools and in other states.

Practical implications

The results can directly support identification of strategies for leaders in schools where long-term crisis is a factor.

Originality/value

Current research explores factors and strategies for understanding and supporting teachers and paraprofessionals in schools during short-term crises (i.e. school shootings, natural disasters) but largely neglects how to support teachers and paraprofessionals experiencing long-term crises in school settings which is increasing in prevalence post COVID-19. Results and implications of leaders and staff were explored and analyzed in schools that experience long-term crises.
Work autonomy and exit-voice choice: the role of skill utilization, learning from colleagues and future time orientation
Authors: Huo Meng-Long
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Underpinned by the exit-voice and work design models, this study investigates how work autonomy reduces employee turnover intentions and promotes voice behavior via the mediator of skill utilization and how this mediation process is moderated by social (learning from colleagues) and personality (future time orientation) characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypothesized moderated mediation model was tested using regression analysis based on two-wave survey data of 350 Chinese employees.

Findings

The relationships between work autonomy on the one hand and voice behavior and turnover intentions on the other were mediated by skill utilization. Furthermore, such mediated relationships were intensified by collegial learning and future time orientation.

Practical implications

Adopting empowering HR practices (e.g. autonomous work teams and job rotation) that give employees job control and learning opportunities is important to encourage employee voice and reduce turnover.

Originality/value

The paper identifies collegial learning and future time orientation as boundary conditions that regulate the effects of work autonomy. This reconciles the contradictory findings in prior research testing the relationship between autonomy and exit-voice decisions.
Synthesis and evaluation of substituted cyclodiphosph(V)azane sulfonamide and their Fe(III), Ag(I) metal complexes as novel insecticides for protective coatings
Authors: Narmeen El Khashab G. , H. Abd El-Wahab , Salwa Albohy A.H. , Fouda Moustafa G.M. , Carmen Sharaby M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to synthesize new cyclodiphosph(V)azane derivatives, 2,2,4,4-tetrachloro-1,3-di-[o-nitriyl]-2,4-di-[N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide]-1,3,2,4- diazadiphosphetidine(H2L) ligand and their Fe(III) and Ag(I) metal complexes as insecticides for protective coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

The substitutes of cyclodiphosph(V)azane sulfonomide and their Fe(III), Ag(I) metal complexes were prepared and confirmed by a combination of elemental analyses, mass spectra, conductivity measurement-vis, FTIR, 1H,13C-NMR TGA, XRD and Docking investigation of the ligand and some complexes to verify their drug ability. The prepared compounds have been incorporated with a polyurethane (PU) coating formula. Gloss, scratch resistance, flexibility and adhesion are some of the coating attributes investigated; mechanical capabilities include impact resistance and shore hardness and physicochemical properties such as chemical resistance of coated PU samples are also investigated.

Findings

The results of the experiments revealed that all PU coatings based on the prepared compounds had good scratch resistance which varied from >1.8 to >2.2 kg. Gloss value varied from 85 to 95 and impact resistance from 1.4 to 2.0 (J), whereas the authors noticed that there was no effect of the prepared compounds in the flexibility and adhesion test. These PU coatings have excellent chemical resistance except the alkali resistance. Insecticide activities of the prepared compounds are promising for resistance to these insects. It was noticed that, metal complex > incorporated PU with Fe (III) metal complex > incorporated PU with ligand.

Originality/value

Insecticide paints based on cyclodiphosph(V)azane sulfonamide and their Fe(III), Ag(I) metal complexes as insecticide agents are novel.
Asymmetric impact of the COVID-19 on the Moroccan stock exchange
Authors: Kartobi Salah Eddine , Aba Oubida Moulay Abdeljamil , Elhachimi Zineb
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the asymmetric impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the stock market returns of companies listed on the Casablanca Stock Exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this objective, we utilized the SymCovid series, which comprises two sub-series: one representing the deterioration of the pandemic situation (NEG) and the other representing the improvement of the pandemic situation (POS). We employed the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag model, incorporating Bounds Testing as proposed by Pesaran and Shin (1999) and Pesaran et al. (2001), to explore the asymmetry of the pandemic’s impact on stock prices listed on the Casablanca stock exchange.

Findings

Our analysis using the NARDL econometric model reveals an asymmetric effect of COVID-19 on stock prices. Notably, we observe that stock prices react more strongly to a worsening pandemic situation than to an improvement, on average. Furthermore, our main findings indicate that while the improvement in the pandemic situation has no significant long-term impact on stock prices, it does exhibit a significant positive effect in the short term. Conversely, the deterioration in the pandemic situation has a more pronounced negative effect on stock prices in the long term than the short term.

Originality/value

Our study fills a gap in the existing literature by focusing on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on stock returns in the context of the Casablanca Stock Exchange, which has been relatively understudied compared to other regions such as Asia, Europe and the Americas. We go beyond previous research by examining whether stock returns exhibit asymmetric responses to changes in the pandemic situation, highlighting potentially unique dynamics in emerging market economies during crises and providing valuable information for investors, policymakers and researchers.
An intuitive approach to cybersecurity risk assessment for non-governmental organizations
Authors: Saeedi Kawther , Hassan Mariyam Abduljabbar , Alarifi Suaad , Almagwashi Haya
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study proposes a guided tool for cybersecurity risk assessment tailored for nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), enabling them to comply with cybersecurity policies despite limitations in security awareness, funding and expertise.

Design/methodology/approach

A digital transformation is indispensable for ensuring the sustainable operation of NGOs. Embracing a digital manifesto necessitates an awareness of cybersecurity risks, highlighting the critical need for a robust cybersecurity risk assessment methodology. Initial research phases revealed significant shortages in security awareness, funding and expertise. Consequently, this study introduces an intuitive approach tailored specifically for NGOs, supported by a customized tool designed to address their unique requirements. The NIST cybersecurity risk assessment framework and National Cyber-security Authority (NCA) were adopted to define the risk assessment approach. The efficacy of this approach is evaluated qualitatively through a case study involving three NGOs in Saudi Arabia, aimed at assessing their capability to utilize the tool effectively. Following the implementation, a Likert-scale survey gauged satisfaction among NGOs regarding the tool’s utility.

Findings

Results from the case study indicate high satisfaction, affirming its alignment with their operational needs and enhancement of compliance with NCA controls. Furthermore, the use of the tool enhances the awareness of NCA’s cybercity requirements and controls.

Originality/value

Based on theoretical and empirical grounds, this research proposes a novel design of security assessment framework tailored for NGO requirements and supported by initiative tool enabling complying with cybersecurity policies and enhances the awareness of cybersecurity controls.
The influence of remote work on scrum-based information technology projects management: insights for success
Authors: Bany Mohammed Ashraf , Hmoud Hazar , Sultan Luay , Yaseen Husam
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This research examines how recent changes in working practices as a result of COVID-19 – most often making knowledge-based work for technologists remote to the main office – are influencing the success of software projects managed by the Scrum process model. It explores the relationship between remote working and aspects that past empirical research has identified as important to project success within Scrum.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used SPSS for descriptive analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the hypotheses relationships using SmartPLS 4, using a quantitative research design, a questionnaire was used and distributed electronically to the intended sample, which includes IT project managers, developers and designers in Jordan who work in projects that use Scrum methodology for their IT projects.

Findings

The study found that working from home on Scrum projects had a significant influence on project success and highlighted the need to meet the three basic psychological requirements of autonomy, competence and relatedness. Furthermore, this research revealed that both the ability to work from home and the use of Scrum contribute to project success, with Scrum acting as a mediator.

Originality/value

This study provides an understanding of the impact of adapting to remote working on project success using the Scrum framework. By filling this gap in the literature, the study generates insights that can also be extrapolated to situations in which people do not need to work remotely after a pandemic but might still anticipate and plan for new types of disruptions in the workplace.
Intraspecific plant chemodiversity at the individual and plot levels influences flower visitor groups with consequences for germination success
Authors: Sasidharan Rohit , Grond Sean G. , Champion Stephanie , Eilers Elisabeth J. , Müller Caroline
Published: October 2024

Chemodiversity, the diversity of specialised (secondary) metabolites, plays a crucial role in mediating interactions between plants and animals, including insect herbivores and mutualists. Chemodiversity can be observed at both the individual and the population level. However, the impacts of chemodiversity at these two levels on interactions between plants and floral visitors, mainly pollinators and floral herbivores (florivores), are only poorly understood.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of chemodiversity at both individual (chemotype) and plot level on pollinators and florivores, examining their mutual interactions. To investigate these questions, we used individuals of the perennial Tanacetum vulgare differing in their terpenoid composition, representing different chemotypes. We planted individuals of five distinct chemotypes in a common garden design with homogeneous (five plants of the same chemotype) and heterogeneous (five different chemotypes) plots and observed flower visits in dependence of individual chemotype and plot type. Seeds were collected from a subset of plants and germination rates determined.

Our findings revealed that chemodiversity at the plot level significantly influenced pollinator visitation, with more visits on plants of heterogeneous plots. We also observed marginally more pollinators on one of the chemotypes grown in homogeneous plots. In contrast, chemotype but not plot type had a significant effect on florivore visits. Pollinator and florivore species richness did not vary with plot type. Furthermore, a negative correlation was observed between pollinator and florivore visits in 1 year. Germination rates were positively correlated with pollinator visits and affected by chemotype but not by florivore visits or plot type.

Synthesis. Our study emphasises the significance of the spatial level at which plant chemistry is perceived by flower visitors, potentially influencing the germination success of plants. Exploring the ecology of these visitors and the varying selection pressures they exert on floral chemistry can help to elucidate the evolutionary processes that maintain chemodiversity in natural environments.

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