bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss cone shielding
Authors: Teboul Odelia , Stone Nicholas C , Ostriker Jeremiah P
Published: October 2023

A star wandering close enough to a massive black hole can be ripped apart by the tidal forces of the black hole. The advent of wide-field surveys at many wavelengths has quickly increased the number of tidal disruption events (TDEs) observed, and has revealed that (i) observed TDE rates are lower than theoretical predictions and (ii) E+A galaxies are significantly overrepresented. This overrepresentation further worsens the tension between observed and theoretically predicted TDEs for non-E+A galaxies. Classical loss cone theory focuses on the cumulative effect of many weak scatterings. However, a strong scattering can remove a star from the distribution before it can get tidally disrupted. Most stars undergoing TDEs come from within the radius of influence, the densest environments of the Universe. In such environments, close encounters rare elsewhere become non-negligible. We revise the standard loss cone theory to take into account classical two-body interactions as well as strong scattering, collisions, tidal captures, and study under which conditions close encounters can shield the loss cone. We (i) analytically derive the impact of strong scattering and other close encounters, (ii) compute time-dependent loss cone dynamics including both weak and strong encounters, and (iii) derive analytical solutions to the Fokker–Planck equation with strong scattering. We find that (i) TDE rates can be reduced to up to an order of magnitude and (ii) strong shielding preferentially reduces deeply plunging stars. We also show that stellar overdensities, one possible explanation for the E + A preference, can fail to increase TDE rates when taking into account strong scattering.
PlantPAD: a platform for large-scale image phenomics analysis of disease in plant science
Authors: Dong Xinyu , Zhao Kejun , Wang Qi , Wu Xingcai , Huang Yuanqin , Wu Xue , Zhang Tianhan , Dong Yawen , Gao Yangyang , Chen Panfeng , Liu Yingwei , Chen Dongyu , Wang Shuang , Yang Xiaoyan , Yang Jing , Wang Yong , Gao Zhenran , Wu Xian , Bai Qingrong , Li Shaobo , Hao Gefei
Published: October 2023

Plant disease, a huge burden, can cause yield loss of up to 100% and thus reduce food security. Actually, smart diagnosing diseases with plant phenomics is crucial for recovering the most yield loss, which usually requires sufficient image information. Hence, phenomics is being pursued as an independent discipline to enable the development of high-throughput phenotyping for plant disease. However, we often face challenges in sharing large-scale image data due to incompatibilities in formats and descriptions provided by different communities, limiting multidisciplinary research exploration. To this end, we build a Plant Phenomics Analysis of Disease (PlantPAD) platform with large-scale information on disease. Our platform contains 421 314 images, 63 crops and 310 diseases. Compared to other databases, PlantPAD has extensive, well-annotated image data and in-depth disease information, and offers pre-trained deep-learning models for accurate plant disease diagnosis. PlantPAD supports various valuable applications across multiple disciplines, including intelligent disease diagnosis, disease education and efficient disease detection and control. Through three applications of PlantPAD, we show the easy-to-use and convenient functions. PlantPAD is mainly oriented towards biologists, computer scientists, plant pathologists, farm managers and pesticide scientists, which may easily explore multidisciplinary research to fight against plant diseases. PlantPAD is freely available at http://plantpad.samlab.cn.
Designing an implementation strategy to increase health-related social needs screening: Applying the PRISM framework in a resource-limited clinical setting
Authors: Byhoff Elena , LeClair Amy M , Smith Cara N , Roy Tuhin K , Drainoni Mari-Lynn
Published: October 2023

Despite growing acceptability of health-related social needs (HRSN) screening and increasing policy incentives for adoption, clinical implementation of HRSN screening remains low. HRSN screening has been particularly difficult for Community Health Centers (CHCs), which have limited resources to implement and sustain new workflows. While CHCs provide care to patients with disproportionately high levels of unmet social needs, identifying HRSN screening implementation strategies that take CHC-specific contexts into account remains elusive. This study uses the Practical Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model (PRISM) to design an implementation strategy accounting for the unique context of CHCs. We used Rapid Ethnographic Assessment observations and stakeholder focus groups to identify current workflow barriers and facilitators to HRSN screening, and to develop implementation strategies that include multi-level contexts and perspectives. We identified eight themes contributing to low screening implementation: perceived stigma around screening; need for community-based solutions; re-confirming organizational priorities and values; Electronic Medical Record (EMR) limitations; multi-tasking pressures limiting implementation; staff turnover; limited knowledge of regulatory requirements; and community resource availability for referral. Based on the themes, we identified implementation strategies including non-EMR data collection; integration into the workflow for multiple staff members; creation of new training and educational modules; and identification of peer champions for retraining in real time. Administrative requirements are necessary but not sufficient for implementation of HRSN screening in CHCs. Resource-constrained settings benefit from context-specific stakeholder engagement to improve implementation success. The use of PRISM ensured contextual factors were central to the implementation strategy design.
Using the AS04C-adjuvanted hepatitis B vaccine in patients classified as non-responders
Authors: Fernández Sánchez-Escalonilla Sara , Gonzalez-Rubio Jesus , Najera Alberto , Cantero Escribano Jose Miguel , Molina Cabrero Francisco Jesús , García Guerrero Jesús
Published: October 2023

Background

Chronic hepatitis B (HB) remains a significant global health concern, despite the widespread availability of the HB vaccine. While the standard vaccine demonstrates an impressive serological response rate exceeding 90%, a subset of individuals exhibit suboptimal immunity. This study aims to elucidate the efficacy of the AS04C-adjuvanted HB vaccine in addressing non-responsiveness.

Methods

Conducted at the Preventive Medicine Service of the University Albacete Hospital in Spain from 2017 to 2021, this single-center observational study enrolled 195 patients. Among them, 126 (65%) were classified as non-responders following one or two complete standard vaccination courses.

Results

After the administration of a complete four-dose regimen of the AS04C-adjuvanted vaccine, 73.81% of non-responder patients exhibited antibody titers indicative of robust immunity (anti-HBs >10).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the pivotal role of the AS04C-adjuvanted HB vaccine in addressing non-responsiveness, emphasizing its potential as a crucial tool in augmenting immunization strategies for various populations. This includes non-responders to standard vaccination, individuals with chronic kidney disease, those requiring seroprotection due to factors like immunosuppression or occupational hazards, as well as patients for whom conventional revaccination strategies have proven futile. Additional research is needed to expand on the promising results obtained through our protocol.
Phylogeny-based taxonomic revision and niche modelling of the rove beetle genus Loncovilius Germain, 1903 (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Staphylininae)
Authors: Reyes-Hernández José L , Hansen Aslak Kappel , Jenkins Shaw Josh , Solodovnikov Alexey
Published: October 2023

Using a phylogenetic analysis as a baseline, we conducted a taxonomic revision of the genus Loncovilius Germain, 1903 which now includes 10 valid species. Of them, six species, all restricted to the southern Andean region, are described as new for science: Loncovilius barclayisp. nov., L. cantharoidessp. nov., L. carlsbergisp. nov., L. hammondisp. nov., L. impunctussp. nov., and Loncovilius variabilissp. nov. A lectotype is designated for Loncovilius edwardsianus and an updated key is provided for the identification of all species of the genus. Apoquediusstat. nov. and Lienturiusstat. nov. initially described as a subgenera, are given a status of separate genera within Amblyopinini. Our phylogeny necessitated the following new combinations: Apoquedius aeneipennis, comb. nov., A. piciformis, comb. nov., Lienturius leiocephalus, comb. nov., Sphingoquedius discoideus, comb. nov. and S. brevis, comb. nov. and Sphingoquedius nanus, comb. nov. The ecological niche modeling analyses predict a substantial contraction of the local distribution range of L. cantharoides, L. edwardsianus, and L. lividipennis during the warmer periods of the future. For L. variabilis most areas are predicted to remain suitable.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Effect of Remote Ischaemic Conditioning in an Animal Model of Necrotising Enterocolitis
Authors: Jones Ian , Collins Jane , Hall Nigel , Heinson Ashley
Published: October 2023

Background and Aims

Previously, we reported that remote ischaemic conditioning (RIC) reduces bowel injury in an animal model of Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). We investigated the mechanisms by which RIC confers this protective effect using RNA-Seq.

Methods

Related rat-pups were randomly assigned to four groups: SHAM, intestinal ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), RIC and RIC+IRI. Anaeasthetised IRI animals underwent 40 minutes of intestinal ischaemia, followed by 90 minutes of reperfusion. Animals that underwent RIC had three 5 minute cycles of alternating ischaemia/reperfusion by ligature application to the hind limb.

Illumina NextSeq 550 High Throughput NG Sequencing and genome alignment was performed with Qiagen’s CLC read mapper to produce raw gene counts. Transcriptome analysis was done usingRv 3.6.1.

Results

Differential expression testing showed 868 differentially expressed genes, in animals exposed to RIC alone compared to SHAM, 135 differentially expressed with IRI/RIC compared to IRI alone. Comparison between these two sets showed 25 genes were differentially expressed in both groups. Of these, several genes involved in pro-inflammatory pathways, including NF-ĸβ2, Cxcl1, SOD2 and Map3k8, all showed reduced expression in response to RIC. Targeted analysis revealed increased expression in PI3K which is part of the RISK-pathway identified as a response to RIC in cardiac tissue.

Conclusions

Expression patterns suggest that within the intestine, RIC suppresses pro-inflammatory pathways and that an equivalent of the RISK-pathway may be present in the intestine. The cross-over between the pro-inflammatory pathways suppressed here and those that are involved in several stages of the pathogenesis of NEC, further support the potential for RIC as a treatment for NEC.
Geographic Distribution of a Missense Mutation in theKRT38Gene and Its Association with Heat Tolerance in Chinese Indigenous Cattle Breeds
Authors: Chen Jialei , Liu Xin , Liu Jianyong , Zhang Jicai , Huang Bizhi , Lei Chuzhao
Published: October 2023

Context

China has a vast area across many temperature zones and a variety of cattle breeds. These cattle resources are ideal models to research their adaptability to the environment. TheKRT38gene is an acidic protein, and its coding product can be used as a component of hair production.

Aims

The objective of this study was to investigate the diversity of theKRT38gene in Chinese local cattle and the association of different genotypes with mean temperature (T), relative humidity (RH) and temperature humidity index (THI).

Methods

A missense mutation g.41650738 A > G in theKRT38gene was screened from the database of bovine genomic variation (BGVD), was genotyped in a total of 246 samples from 15 local cattle breeds in China by PCR amplification and sequencing. Finally, the correlation between the locus and the three climatic factors was analysed.

Key results

We successfully obtained the frequency of this SNP in three groups of cattle in northern, central and southern China. The frequency of allele A gradually declined from north to south, while the frequency of allele G showed the opposite trend with a clear geographic distribution.

Conclusions

Our results indicate thatKRT38variation in Chinese indigenous cattle might be linked to heat tolerance.

Implications

Our analysis may support in finding out its importance as a genetic signal for heat tolerance in cattle reproduction and genetics.
Neural and muscular contributions to the age-related loss in power of the knee extensors in men and women
Authors: Wrucke David J. , Kuplic Andrew , Adam Mitchell , Hunter Sandra K. , Sundberg Christopher W.
Published: October 2023

The mechanisms for the loss in limb muscle power in old (60-79 years) and very old (≥80 years) adults and whether the mechanisms differ between men and women are not well-understood. We compared maximal power of the knee extensor muscles between young, old, and very old men and women and identified the neural and muscular factors contributing to the age-related loss of power. 31 young (22.9±3.0 years, 15 women), 83 old (70.4±4.9 years, 39 women), and 16 very old adults (85.8±4.2 years, 9 women) performed maximal isokinetic contractions at 14 different velocities (30- 450°/s) to identify peak power. Voluntary activation (VA) and contractile properties were assessed with transcranial magnetic stimulation to the motor cortex and electrical stimulation of the femoral nerve. The age-related loss in power was ∼6.5 W·year-1for men (R2=0.62,p<0.001), which was a greater rate of decline (p=0.002) than the ∼4.2 W·year-1for women (R2=0.77,p<0.001). Contractile properties were the most closely associated variables with power output for both sexes, such as the rate of torque development of the potentiated twitch (men:R2=0.69,p<0.001; women:R2=0.57,p<0.001). VA was weakly associated with power in women (R2=0.13,p=0.012) but not men (p=0.191), whereas neuromuscular activation (EMG amplitude) during the maximal power contraction was not associated with power in men (p=0.347) or women (p=0.106). These data suggest that the age-related loss in power of the knee extensor muscles is due primarily to factors within the muscle for both sexes, although neural factors may play a minor role in older women.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY

The accelerated age-related loss in power relative to the loss in muscle mass of the knee extensors was primarily due to factors altering the contractile properties of the muscle for both old and very old (≥80 yr) adults. The mechanisms for the decrements in power with aging appear largely similar for men and women, although neural factors may play more of a role in older women.
A spatial human thymus cell atlas mapped to a continuous tissue axis
Authors: Yayon Nadav , Kedlian Veronika R. , Boehme Lena , Suo Chenqu , Wachter Brianna , Beuschel Rebecca T. , Amsalem Oren , Polanski Krzysztof , Koplev Simon , Tuck Elizabeth , Dann Emma , Van Hulle Jolien , Perera Shani , Putteman Tom , Predeus Alexander V. , Dabrowska Monika , Richardson Laura , Tudor Catherine , Kreins Alexandra Y. , Engelbert Justin , Stephenson Emily , Kleshchevnikov Vitalii , De Rita Fabrizio , Crossland David , Bosticardo Marita , Pala Francesca , Prigmore Elena , Chipampe Nana-Jane , Prete Martin , Fei Lijiang , To Ken , Barker Roger A. , He Xiaoling , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Bayraktar Omer , Patel Minal , Davies Graham E. , Haniffa Muzlifah A. , Uhlmann Virginie , Notarangelo Luigi D. , Germain Ronald N. , Radtke Andrea J. , Marioni John C. , Taghon Tom , Teichmann Sarah A.
Published: October 2023

T cells develop from circulating precursors, which enter the thymus and migrate throughout specialised sub-compartments to support maturation and selection. This process starts already in early fetal development and is highly active until the involution of the thymus in adolescence. To map the micro-anatomical underpinnings of this process in pre- vs. post-natal states, we undertook a spatially resolved analysis and established a new quantitative morphological framework for the thymus, the Cortico-Medullary Axis. Using this axis in conjunction with the curation of a multimodal single-cell, spatial transcriptomics and high-resolution multiplex imaging atlas, we show that canonical thymocyte trajectories and thymic epithelial cells are highly organised and fully established by post-conception week 12, pinpoint TEC progenitor states, find that TEC subsets and peripheral tissue genes are associated with Hassall’s Corpuscles and uncover divergence in the pace and drivers of medullary entry between CD4 vs. CD8 T cell lineages. These findings are complemented with a holistic toolkit for spatial analysis and annotation, providing a basis for a detailed understanding of T lymphocyte development.
Pervasive translational control of photosynthesis genes during photomorphogenesis is acquired by C4genes
Authors: Reyna-Llorens Ivan , Lastovka Filip , Schreier Tina B. , Singh Pallavi , Chung Betty Y.W. , Hibberd Julian M.
Published: October 2023

C4photosynthesis allows increased efficiency and has evolved in more than sixty-six plant lineages. Underpinning this repeated appearance of the C4pathway is a major transcriptional reprogramming of photosynthesis genes. Here we investigated whether evolution has also significantly modified translational control by defining the translational dynamics of C3rice and C4sorghum during photomorphogenesis. In the dark rice photosynthesis transcripts are low abundance but highly translated. After exposure to light translational efficiency declines. The same phenomena occur in sorghum but in addition C4cycle genes show this response. We propose a model in which translational control of photosynthesis genes permits a rapid response to light and that this translational regulation is gained by C4genes during the evolution of the C4pathway.
ATAC and SAGA histone acetyltransferase modules facilitate transcription factor binding to nucleosomes in an acetylation independent manner
Authors: Chesnutt Kristin , Yayli Gizem , Toelzer Christine , Cox Khan , Gautam Gunjan , Berger Imre , Tora László , Poirier Michael G.
Published: October 2023

Transcription initiation involves the coordination of multiple events, starting with activators binding specific DNA target sequences, which recruits transcription co-activators to open chromatin and enable binding of general transcription factors and RNA polymerase II to promoters. Two key human transcriptional coactivator complexes, ATAC (ADA-Two-A-Containing) and SAGA (Spt-Ada-Gcn5-acetyltransferase), target genomic loci to increase promoter accessibility. To better understand the function of ATAC and SAGA histone acetyltransferase (HAT) complexes, we usedin vitrobiochemical and biophysical assays to characterize human ATAC and SAGA HAT module interactions with nucleosomes and how a transcription factor (TF) coordinates these interactions. We found that ATAC and SAGA HAT modules bind nucleosomes with high affinity, independent of post-translational modifications (PTMs) and TFs. ATAC and SAGA HAT modules directly interact with the VP16 activator domain and a TF containing this domain enhances HAT module acetylation activity. Surprisingly, ATAC and SAGA HAT modules increase TF binding to its DNA target site within the nucleosome by an order of magnitude independent of histone acetylation. Altogether, our results reveal synergistic coordination between HAT modules and a TF, where ATAC and SAGA HAT modules: (i) acetylate histones to open chromatin, and (ii) facilitate TF targeting within nucleosomes independently of their acetylation activity.
Does transcriptome of freshly hatched fish larvae describe past or predict future developmental trajectory?
Authors: Debernardis Rossella , Palińska-Żarska Katarzyna , Judycka Sylwia , Panda Abhipsa , Jarmołowicz Sylwia , Jastrzębski Jan P. , de Almeida Tainá Rocha , Błażejewski Maciej , Hliwa Piotr , Krejszeff Sławomir , Żarski Daniel
Published: October 2023

Transcriptomic analysis of freshly hatched fish larvae offers insights into phenotype development, yet it remains uncertain whether it reflects parental influence or predicts individual growth. This research scrutinizes the transcriptome of 16 Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis) larval groups alongside pre- and post-hatching traits. Despite consistent fertilization rates, significant variations in embryonic development and larval performance highlight diverse phenotypes studied. It enabled to bring our attention to the fact that larval transcriptome can serve as a window into both the parental contributions and the future performance of the larvae. Our further analysis shed light on ribosome biogenesis, neurogenesis, and the cell cycle, as important processes shaping early larval performance. Additionally, we propose a set of predictive, validated gene markers associated with further larval performance and key aquaculture traits, such asselenoo(associated with cannibalism),trim16(fulton’s condition factor),slc15a1(specific growth factor), andcipc(final weight). This study delves into the descriptive and predictive nature of the transcriptomic portrait of newly hatched larvae, paving the way to comprehend the intricate developmental pathways from fertilization towards juvenile stage.
Comparative profiling of cellular gait on adhesive micropatterns defines statistical patterns of activity that underlie native and cancerous cell dynamics
Authors: Ahn John C. , Coyle Scott M.
Published: October 2023

Cell dynamics are powered by patterns of activity, but it is not straightforward to quantify these patterns or compare them across different environmental conditions or cell-types. Here we digitize the long-term shape fluctuations of metazoan cells grown on micropatterned fibronectin islands to define and extract statistical features of cell dynamics without the need for genetic modification or fluorescence imaging. These shape fluctuations generate single-cell morphological signals that can be decomposed into two major components: a continuous, slow-timescale meandering of morphology about an average steady-state shape; and short-lived “events” of rapid morphology change that sporadically occur throughout the timecourse. By developing statistical metrics for each of these components, we used thousands of hours of single-cell data to quantitatively define how each axis of cell dynamics was impacted by environmental conditions or cell-type. We found the size and spatial complexity of the micropattern island modulated the statistics of morphological events—lifetime, frequency, and orientation—but not its baseline shape fluctuations. Extending this approach to profile a panel of triple negative breast cancer cell-lines, we found that different cell-types could be distinguished from one another along specific and unique statistical axes of their behavior. Our results suggest that micropatterned substrates provide a generalizable method to build statistical profiles of cell dynamics to classify and compare emergent cell behaviors.
Neuro-Cognitive Multilevel Causal Modeling: A Framework that Bridges the Explanatory Gap between Neuronal Activity and Cognition
Authors: Grosse-Wentrup Moritz , Kumar Akshey , Meunier Anja , Zimmer Manuel
Published: October 2023

Explaining how neuronal activity gives rise to cognition arguably remains the most significant challenge in cognitive neuroscience. We introduce neuro-cognitive multilevel causal modeling (NC-MCM), a framework that bridges the explanatory gap between neuronal activity and cognition by construing cognitive states as (behaviorally and dynamically) causally consistent abstractions of neuronal states. Multilevel causal modeling allows us to interchangeably reason about the neuronal- and cognitive causes of behavior while maintaining a physicalist (in contrast to a strong dualist) position. We introduce an algorithm for learning cognitive-level causal models from neuronal activation patterns and demonstrate its ability to learn cognitive states of the nematodeC. elegansfrom calcium imaging data. We show that the cognitive-level model of the NC-MCM framework provides a concise representation of the neuronal manifold ofC. elegansand its relation to behavior as a graph, which, in contrast to other neuronal manifold learning algorithms, supports causal reasoning. We conclude the article by arguing that the ability of the NC-MCM framework to learn causally interpretable abstractions of neuronal dynamics and their relation to behavior in a purely data-driven fashion is essential for understanding more biological systems whose complexity prohibits the development of hand-crafted computational models.
Plexin-B1 and Plexin-B2 play non-redundant roles in GABAergic synapse formation
Authors: Adel Susannah S. , Pranske Zachary J. , Kowalski Tess F. , Kanzler Nicole , Ray Roshni , Carmona Catherine , Paradis Suzanne
Published: October 2023

Synapse formation in the mammalian brain is a complex and dynamic process requiring coordinated function of dozens of molecular families such as cell adhesion molecules (CAMs) and ligand-receptor pairs (Ephs/Ephrins, Neuroligins/Neurexins, Semaphorins/Plexins). Due to the large number of molecular players and possible functional redundancies within gene families, it is challenging to determine the precise synaptogenic roles of individual molecules, which is key to understanding the consequences of mutations in these genes for brain function. Furthermore, few molecules are known to exclusively regulate either GABAergic or glutamatergic synapses, and cell and molecular mechanisms underlying GABAergic synapse formation in particular are not thoroughly understood. However, we previously demonstrated that Semaphorin-4D (Sema4D) regulates GABAergic synapse development in the mammalian hippocampus while having no effect on glutamatergic synapse development, and this effect occurs through binding to its high affinity receptor, Plexin-B1. Furthermore, Plexin-B2 contributes to GABAergic synapse formation as well but is not required for GABAergic synapse formation induced by binding to Sema4D. Here, we perform a structure-function study of the Plexin-B1 and Plexin-B2 receptors to identify the protein domains in each receptor that are required for its synaptogenic function. We also provide evidence that Plexin-B2 expression in presynaptic parvalbumin-positive interneurons is required for formation of GABAergic synapses onto excitatory pyramidal neurons in CA1. Our data reveal that Plexin-B1 and Plexin-B2 function non-redundantly to regulate GABAergic synapse formation and suggest that the transmembrane domain may underlie these functional distinctions. These findings lay the groundwork for future investigations into the precise signaling pathways required for synapse formation downstream of Plexin-B receptor signaling.
Sharia boards, managerial strategies and governance practices in Islamic banks: a Goffmanesque discourse
Authors: Karbhari Yusuf , Benamraoui Abdelhafid , Hassan Ahmad Fahmi Sheikh
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The study applies Erving Goffman's (1974) “frame analysis” principles to examine how Sharia governance is practiced in Islamic banks and explores the interaction and strategies adopted by bank managers to influence the decisions of Sharia scholars. The study also aims to identify inherent flaws in the Sharia compliance review system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the principles of Goffman as a lens to critically analyse a rich dataset obtained through interviews undertaken with 46 key players operating in the governance framework of the Malaysian Islamic banking industry due to its progressive Islamic governance framework.

Findings

The study demonstrates that managers of Islamic banks may engage in “passing” and “covering” strategies while interacting within the governance structure. Concurrently, Sharia boards (SBs) implement “protective practices” during their interactions, adding complexity to their responsibilities within the banks. Consequently, SBs cannot merely be viewed as instruments for legitimising banking operations. This raises questions about the “impression management,” “concealment” and “competence” strategies employed by managers and SB members, as suggested by Goffman's framework. These findings indicate that there is room for further enhancement in the governance practices of Islamic banks.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could explore aspects related to the governance of Islamic banks, such as investigating the independence and effectiveness of internal Sharia officers. Examining the strategies employed during their interactions with external Sharia boards and other stakeholders could provide further valuable insights.

Practical implications

By highlighting shortcomings in the governance and compliance review process, the findings could serve as a valuable resource for policymakers. The insights derived could inform the development of regulations aimed at reducing opportunistic behaviour and promoting accountability in the Islamic banking sector.

Originality/value

This study uniquely employs Goffman's concepts of “frontstage” and “backstage” strategies to offer insights into the interactions between Islamic bank managers and SBs and the impact of these interactions on Sharia compliance. The study contributes to the understanding of the dynamics between key players in the governance of Islamic banks and the factors influencing their adherence to Sharia principles.
Replacing the old with the new: long-term issues of teacher professional development reforms in Indonesia
Authors: Revina Shintia , Pramana Rezanti Putri , Bjork Christopher , Suryadarma Daniel
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper is among the first case studies in developing countries that comprehensively investigate the historical evolution of a country's teacher professional development (TPD) system, the outcomes of the current TPD and the factors underlying the stagnation of TPD quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data from three types of sources—documents, observations and interviews. Documents examined included the handbooks of the TPD program, handouts for teachers, training modules from TPD workshop sessions and research publications or reports on TPD programs in Indonesia introduced from the 1970s to 2018. The authors conducted formal interviews with trainers, education stakeholders and teachers who participated in recent TPD.

Findings

The findings indicate that, on paper, TPD initiatives in Indonesia have included some of the positive features of TPD highlighted in the literature. However, these factors have not been consistently included in the reforms rolled out over the decades, and, indeed, many of the less desirable features of those reforms have endured. The analysis also reveals the absence of four key factors in multiple TPD reforms that led to teachers' and other stakeholders' dissatisfaction with the TPD implementation. These include consideration of teachers' skills, background and capacities; relevance of training; feedback provided to teachers; and workshop follow-up.

Originality/value

The research indicates that the long-term issues of ineffectiveness of TPD in Indonesia are driven by the incoherence of different elements of the education system. This extends beyond the technical and operational elements of the TPD itself. The absence of a clear vision of the purposes of teacher development has created confusion and uncertainty for teachers.
Linking frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision to work engagement: job insecurity as the game-changing mediation and job alternative as a moderator
Authors: Wu Xiaoli , Zhang Lianying , Zhang Cailin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This research focuses on exploring a psychological mechanism between abusive supervision and job engagement via job insecurity and job alternative to understand how frontline construction workers' perceived abusive supervision impacts on their work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on the conservation of resources theory (COR) to postulate that workers' job insecurity acts as a mediation between abusive supervision and work engagement, and the perception of job alternative moderates the impact of abusive supervision on job insecurity. This study empirically tests survey data from 357 frontline construction workers and adopts partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the proposed model.

Findings

This paper proved the dark-side of abusive supervision, dual character of job insecurity and moderating role of job alternative. The game-changing mediation effects of job insecurity were examined, which suggested that work engagement would be higher when abusive supervision stimulates stronger job insecurity. Furthermore, the result indicated that the relationship between abusive supervision and job insecurity should be weaker when job alternative is high.

Practical implications

This research suggests construction project managers (CPMs) must take steps such as enhancing supervisors' emotional management skills to control frequency of abuse and thus lessen compromising engagement. Moreover, overall understanding frontline workers' job insecurity is meaningful for better construction performance management.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the disputed leadership style (abusive supervision) and positive psychology knowledge (work engagement) in construction projects by unveiling the psychosocial mechanism (game-changing effects of job insecurity) of construction frontline workers positive engaged feeling. This study highlights the function of personal and job resources in process of resource conservation.
Islamic versus conventional financial market: a meta-literature review of spillover effects
Authors: Foo Siong Min , Ab Razak Nazrul Hisyam , Kamarudin Fakarudin , Azizan Noor Azlinna Binti , Zakaria Nadisah
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study comprehensively aims to review the key influential and intellectual aspects of spillovers between Islamic and conventional financial markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the bibliometric and content analysis methods using the VOSviewer software to analyse 52 academic documents derived from the Web of Sciences (WoS) between 2015 and June 2022.

Findings

The results demonstrate the influential aspects of spillovers between Islamic and conventional financial markets, including the leading authors, journals, countries and institutions and the intellectual aspects of literature. These aspects are synthesised into four main streams: research between stock indexes; studies between stock indexes, oil and precious metal; works between Sukuk, bond and indexes; and empirical studies review. The authors also propose future research directions in spillovers between Islamic and conventional financial markets.

Research limitations/implications

Our study is subject to several limitations. Firstly, the authors only used the WoS database. Secondly, the study only includes papers and reviews written in English from the WoS. This study assists academic scholars, practitioners and regulatory bodies in further exploring the suggested issues in future studies and improving and predicting economic and financial stability.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no extant empirical studies have been conducted in this area of research interest.
The nature and fundamental elements of digital service innovation
Authors: Vargo Stephen L. , Fehrer Julia A. , Wieland Heiko , Nariswari Angeline
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This paper addresses the growing fragmentation between traditional and digital service innovation (DSI) research and offers a unifying metatheoretical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in service-dominant (S-D) logic's service ecosystems perspective, this study builds on an institutional and systemic, rather than product-centric and linear, conceptualization of value creation to offer a unifying framework for (digital) service innovation that applies to both physical and digital service provisions.

Findings

This paper questions the commonly perpetuated idea that DSI fundamentally changes the nature of innovation. Instead, it highlights resource liquification—the decoupling of information from the technologies that store, transmit, or process this information—as a distinguishing characteristic of DSI. Liquification, however, does not affect the relational and institutional nature of service innovation, which is always characterized by (1) the emergence of novel outcomes, (2) distributed governance and (3) symbiotic design. Instead, liquification makes these three characteristics more salient.

Originality/value

In presenting a cohesive service innovation framework, this study underscores that all innovation processes are rooted in combinatorial evolution. Here, service-providing actors (re)combine technologies (or more generally, institutions) to adapt their value cocreation practices. This research demonstrates that such (re)combinations exhibit emergence, distributed governance and symbiotic design. While these characteristics may initially seem novel and unique to DSI, it reveals that their fundamental mechanisms are not limited to digital service ecosystems. They are, in fact, integral to service innovation across virtual, physical and blended contexts. The study highlights the importance of exercising caution in assuming that the emergence of novel technologies, including digital technologies, necessitates a concurrent rethinking of the fundamental processes of service innovation.
A short peptide protects from age‐onset proteotoxicity
Authors: Elsana Hassan , Bruck‐Haimson Reut , Zhu Huadong , Siddiqui Atif Ahmed , Zaretsky Adam , Cohen Irit , Boocholez Hana , Roitenberg Noa , Moll Lorna , Plaschkes Inbar , Naor David , Cohen Ehud
Published: October 2023

Aberrant protein aggregation jeopardizes cellular functionality and underlies the development of a myriad of late‐onset maladies including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Huntington's disease (HD). Accordingly, molecules that mitigate the toxicity of hazardous protein aggregates are of great interest as potential future therapeutics. Here we asked whether a small peptide, composed of five amino acids (5MER peptide) that was derived from the human pro‐inflammatory CD44 protein, could protect model nematodes from the toxicity of aggregative proteins that underlie the development of neurodegenerative disorders in humans. We found that the 5MER peptide mitigates the toxicity that stems from both; the AD‐causing Aβ peptide and a stretch of poly‐glutamine that is accountable for the development of several disorders including HD, while minimally affecting lifespan. This protection was dependent on the activity of aging‐regulating transcription factors and associated with enhanced Aβ and polyQ35‐YFP aggregation. A transcriptomic analysis unveiled that the peptide modifies signaling pathways, thereby modulating the expression of various genes, including these, which are known as protein homeostasis (proteostasis) regulators such as txt‐13 and modifiers of proteasome activity. The knockdown of txt‐13 protects worms from proteotoxicity to the same extent as the 5MER peptide, suggesting that the peptide activates the transcellular chaperone signaling to promote proteostasis. Together, our results propose that the 5MER peptide should be considered as a component of future therapeutic cocktails for the treatment of neurodegenerative maladies.
Risk of stillbirth and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a third pregnancy when an earlier pregnancy has ended in stillbirth
Authors: Al Khalaf Sukainah , Kublickiene Karolina , Kublickas Marius , Khashan Ali S. , Heazell Alexander E. P.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Our study evaluated how a history of stillbirth in either of the first two pregnancies affects the risk of having a stillbirth or other adverse pregnancy outcomes in the third subsequent pregnancy.

Material and Methods

We used the Swedish Medical Birth Register to define a population‐based cohort of women who had at least three singleton births from 1973 to 2012. The exposure of interest was a history of stillbirth in either of the first two pregnancies. The primary outcome was subsequent stillbirth in the third pregnancy. Secondary outcomes included: preterm birth, preeclampsia, placental abruption and small‐for‐gestational‐age infant. Adjusted logistic regression was performed including maternal age, body mass index, smoking, diabetes and hypertension. A sensitivity analysis was performed excluding stillbirths associated with congenital anomalies, pregestational and gestational diabetes, hypertension and preterm stillbirths.

Results

The study contained data on 1 316 175 births, including 8911 stillbirths. Compared with women who had two live births, the highest odds of stillbirth in the third pregnancy were observed in women who had two stillbirths (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 11.40, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 2.75–47.70), followed by those who had stillbirth in the second birth (live birth–stillbirth) (aOR 3.59, 95% CI 2.58–4.98), but the odds were still elevated in those whose first birth ended in stillbirth (stillbirth–live birth) (aOR 2.35, 1.68, 3.28). Preterm birth, pre‐eclampsia and placental abruption followed a similar pattern. The odds of having a small‐for‐gestational‐age infant were highest in women whose first birth ended in stillbirth (aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.66–2.24). The increased odds of having a stillbirth in a third pregnancy when either of the earlier births ended in stillbirth remained when stillbirths associated with congenital anomalies, pregestational and gestational diabetes, hypertension or preterm stillbirths were excluded. However, when preterm stillbirths were excluded, the strength of the association was reduced.

Conclusions

Even when they have had a live‐born infant, women with a history of stillbirth have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes; this cannot be solely accounted for by the recurrence of congenital anomalies or maternal medical disorders. This suggests that women with a history of stillbirth should be offered additional surveillance for subsequent pregnancies.
Anxiety and depression among women with newly diagnosed vulvar cancer – A nationwide longitudinal study
Authors: Zach Diana , Jensen Pernille T. , Falconer Henrik , Kolkova Zuzana , Bohlin Katja Stenström , Kjølhede Preben , Åvall Lundqvist Elisabeth , Flöter Rådestad Angelique
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Our objective was to investigate the trajectories of anxiety, depression, emotional and social functioning in women with newly diagnosed vulvar cancer from the time of diagnosis to 12 months after treatment. A further aim was to identify risk factors for high levels of anxiety.

Material and methods

PROVE (PROspective Vulvar Cancer Evaluation) is a nationwide longitudinal cohort study investigating quality of life in women with newly diagnosed vulvar cancer by the following validated patient‐reported outcome measures at diagnosis, and 3 and 12 months after treatment: The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire C30, and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Vulvar module VU34. Mean scores, changes over time and associations were analyzed by generalized estimated equations and log‐linear regression models, adjusted for possible confounders.

Results

Between 2019 and 2021, 105 (69%) women completed the questionnaires at all three time points. At diagnosis, 42% of the women reported elevated anxiety levels, decreasing significantly to 30% during the first 12 months. Insomnia, persisting vulvar symptoms and high information needs were significantly associated with a high level of anxiety (relative risk [RR] 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.7 for insomnia; RR 2.8, 95% CI 1.7–4.6 for vulvar symptoms, RR 2.7, 95% CI 1.5–4.9 for information needs). We found a trend towards a higher level of anxiety in younger women (<65 years: RR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.5). Participants reported a low and stable prevalence of depression (14%) and high social functioning throughout the study period.

Conclusions

Women with newly diagnosed vulvar cancer report a high level of anxiety at diagnosis. Despite a significant improvement, anxiety remains widely prevalent during the first year of follow‐up. Targeting insomnia, vulvar symptoms and unmet needs may decrease anxiety during surveillance.
Sunflower cake versus soybean meal and alfalfa for nitrogen utilization when crude protein and non‐fiber carbohydrate levels are equivalent
Authors: Liu Chunyan , Asano Sanae , Ishii Nae , Kashimura Takuma , Niimi Keita , Nomizo Takuya , Numata Youichi , Takahashi Kei , Kajikawa Hiroshi
Published: October 2023

The reported efficiency of N usage by sunflower cake (SFC) was inferior to that of soybean meal (SBM) in a study in which the non‐fiber carbohydrate (NFC) content was lower in the SFC diet. Here, we adjusted crude protein (CP) and NFC levels to near‐equivalence among three diets containing SFC or SBM for four non‐lactating Holstein cows. Alfalfa hay was also added to the comparison. The results demonstrated that the total digestible nutrient contents were not significantly different among the diets. Intake N, fecal N, absorbed N, urinary N, and retained N did not differ significantly among the diets. The efficiency of N usage in the body (retained N/absorbed N) did not differ significantly among the diets. No between‐diet difference was observed in the protein‐ and energy‐related ruminal and blood properties, including the estimated microbial protein synthesis in the rumen. These results suggest that regardless of the quality and balance of amino acids in a feed, the efficiency of N usage can be improved by a supply of digestible carbohydrates, which leads to an increase in ruminal microbial protein.
Achieving active aging of older people with gratitude, independence, and government support—A biographical narrative approach
Authors: You Yong‐Lim , Han Jeong‐Eun , Kim Soo‐Young
Published: October 2023

This article aims to explore the perspectives and experiences of elderly individuals in Korea regarding active aging in their daily lives. The research utilizes Schütze's biographical narrative approach and involves six participants, comprising two males and four females aged between 73 and 82. The data collected undergoes analysis using Schütze's six‐step biographical narrative analysis method, resulting in the following key findings. The first significant finding in their biographical stories is that participants have gone through poverty, lack of education, economic activity, early marriage, dedicated child‐rearing, and the challenging times in Korea following the end of Japanese colonial rule and the Korean War. Secondly, the study discovered that older people could achieve a balanced and active life obtained from the love of family and friends, sincere faith, enjoyable social activities, precious jobs, and safety concerns by adopting a positive and appreciative approach toward life. The study's third finding highlights that older individuals wish to be self‐reliant, value government benefits, seek more economic opportunities, and need better social services to assist them during their vulnerable later years for active aging. Therefore, the thesis recommends that the Korean government provide older individuals with expanded healthcare management, caregiving services, and employment opportunities.