bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthetic photorespiratory bypass improves rice productivity by enhancing photosynthesis and nitrogen uptake
Authors: Chen Guoxin , Li Yanni , Jin Kaining , Gao Jiabei , Wu Suting , Cui Xuean , Mao Chuanzao , Yin Xinyou , Lu Tiegang , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: January 2025

Photorespiration, often considered as a wasteful process, is a key target for bioengineering to improve crop yields. Several photorespiratory bypasses have been designed to efficiently metabolize 2-phosphoglycolate and increase the CO2 concentration in chloroplasts, thereby reducing photorespiration. However, the suppression of primary nitrate assimilation remains an issue when photorespiration is inhibited. In this study, we designed a carbon and nitrogen metabolism–coupled photorespiratory bypass, termed the GCBG bypass, in rice (Oryza sativa) chloroplasts. Our results demonstrated efficient assembly and expression of the GCBG bypass in rice chloroplasts, which affected the levels of typical metabolites and their derivatives of natural photorespiration and enhanced the photosynthetic efficiency. Metabolomic analyses revealed that oxaloacetate, produced from glycolate in chloroplasts, positively impacted amino acid synthesis, energy metabolism, and sugar synthesis. The engineered GCBG plants showed an average yield increase of 19.0% (17.8% to 20.2%) compared with wild-type plants under natural growth conditions, alongside improved nitrogen uptake, which compensated for 44.1% of yield losses under nitrogen-limited conditions. In summary, the GCBG bypass substantially improved the photosynthetic efficiency, biomass, and yield in rice by integrating carbon and nitrogen metabolism. This study introduces a strategy for engineering high-yielding rice or other crops with improved photosynthetic efficiency and nitrogen uptake.
Anakinra improves retention rate of targeted treatments in Erdheim–Chester disease
Authors: Campochiaro Corrado , Tomelleri Alessandro , Catamerò Francesco , Pegoraro Francesco , Vaglio Augusto , Dagna Lorenzo
Published: January 2025

Objective

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis that exhibits a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. The recent identification of activating mutations in the MAPK–ERK pathway in patients with ECD has led to the introduction of targeted therapies. The most commonly used targeted therapies are BRAF and MEK inhibitors, which are highly effective but also carry significant toxicity. The aim of our study was to assess drug retention of targeted therapies in ECD patients from two Italian referral centres and to investigate the influence of a combined anakinra plus targeted therapy approach.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed drug retention rate (DRR) in a cohort of ECD patients who received targeted therapies, alone or combined with anakinra.

Results

Among 52 patients undergoing 60 treatment courses, vemurafenib (72%) was the most used drug, followed by cobimetinib (23%), trametinib (3%) and dabrafenib (2%). The overall 18-month DRR for all the treatment courses was 72%, with no significant differences between agents. Adverse reactions were the leading cause (76%) of discontinuation. Sixteen patients (27%) received a combined treatment with anakinra. This combination therapy was associated with a significantly higher 18-month DRR (94% vs 65%, P = 0.0251). Survival analysis also showed that drug retention was better in the anakinra group (log-rank test P = 0.040).

Conclusions

ECD patients on targeted therapies showed an overall 18-month DRR of 72%, with no significant differences between specific molecules. The combination of anakinra and targeted therapies was associated with a significantly improved drug retention.
Phytophthora alni Infection Reinforces the Defense Reactions in Alnus glutinosa - Frankia Roots to the Detriment of Nodules
Authors: Vincent Mathilde , Boubakri Hasna , Fournier Pascale , Parisot Nicolas , Pétriacq Pierre , Cassan Cédric , Flandin Amélie , Miotello Guylaine , Armengaud Jean , Hay Anne-Emmanuelle , Herrera-Belaroussi Aude
Published: January 2025

Alnus glutinosa, able to establish symbiosis with mutualistic bacteria of the genus Frankia, is one of the main species in European riparian environments, where it performs numerous biological and socio-economic functions. However, riparian ecosystems face a growing threat from Phytophthora alni, a highly aggressive waterborne pathogen causing severe dieback in A. glutinosa. To date, the tripartite interaction between the host plant, the symbiont Frankia and the pathogen remains unexplored but is critical for understanding how pathogen-induced stress influences the nodule molecular machinery and so on the host-symbiont metabolism. In the present study, we aimed to explore for the first time how P. alni affects the overall molecular processes of Alnus glutinosa – Frankia nodules, with a special focus on unraveling the spatial expression of defense mechanisms within these tissues. We conducted a laboratory experiment based on P. alni infection of young A. glutinosa seedlings nodulated with Frankia alni ACN14a, non-infected or infected with the pathogen P. alni. Multi-omics analyses were carried out on nodules (N) and associated roots (AR) of the same plant in order to underline the impact on the nodule molecular processes (i.e. N/AR markers) when the host plant is infected compared to non-infected plants. Our results revealed that P. alni infection modified the molecular nodule processes and induced reprograming of defense-related markers by a shift in associated roots to the detriment of nodules. These findings suggest that A. glutinosa reinforces locally its immune responses in roots but moderates this activation in nodule to preserve its Frankia symbiont.
Bone Scintigraphy Prediction of Postoperative Femoral Head Avascular Necrosis in Children With Hip Trauma and Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis
Authors: Grewal Rajvarun S. , Hollnagel Katharine F. , Curran Patrick F. , Bomar James D. , Upasani Vidyadhar V.
Published: January 2025

Background:

Femoral head avascular necrosis (AVN) is a devastating complication that can occur in the setting of trauma to the pediatric hip. Bone scintigraphy (BoS) can be used to evaluate femoral head perfusion, but current evidence in support of its use in the pediatric population is lacking. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of BoS to diagnose femoral head AVN in children.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent BoS to assess femoral head perfusion following treatment of traumatic femoral neck fracture, hip dislocation, or SCFE at a single pediatric hospital. All patients had a minimum radiographic follow-up of 1 year. Assessment of intraoperative femoral head perfusion was also recorded if performed. Results of BoS and intra-op assessments were compared with RAVN (radiographic findings of AVN) at final follow-up.

Results:

Forty-eight hips were included, and 75% were male. The mean age at the time of surgery was 12.5±1.6 years. The mean age at BoS was 12.7±1.7 years. The mean follow-up was 23.3±13.1 months. RAVN developed in 15% (7/48) of hips. Nine hips had an abnormal BoS: 7 hips had absent perfusion and 2 hips had diminished perfusion. All 7 hips with absent perfusion on BoS went on to develop RAVN with collapse. Neither hip with diminished perfusion on BoS went on to femoral head collapse. No hip with normal BoS developed radiographic evidence of AVN at the final follow-up. BoS demonstrating absent perfusion had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 95% in predicting RAVN. Evidence of femoral head perfusion at the time of surgery (drilling or IOP) had a sensitivity of 17% and a specificity of 80% in predicting RAVN.

Conclusions:

BoS demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for predicting postoperative RAVN. Clinicians should have increased suspicion of impending femoral head collapse if there is absent perfusion on BoS at 6 to 12 weeks post-op, even with evidence of preserved femoral head perfusion at the time of surgery.
Punctate Inner Choroidopathy (PIC)-like Reaction in Stage 3 Extensive Macular Atrophy with Pseudodrusen-like Appearance (EMAP)
Authors: Trinco Andrea , Romano Francesco , Invernizzi Alessandro , Zaffalon Chiara , Bosello Francesca , Casati Stefano , Zicarelli Federico , D'Introno Rossella , Staurenghi Giovanni , Salvetti Anna Paola
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

To describe a rare complication in a patient with extensive macular atrophy with pseudodrusen-like appearance (EMAP), suggesting immune dysregulation in advanced stages of the disease.

Methods:

Case Report. Multimodal imaging –including true-color fundus photography, blue autofluorescence, high-resolution optical coherence tomography (Hi-Res OCT), swept-source OCT angiography, and dye-based angiography– was used to evaluate retinal alterations.

Results:

A 53-year-old woman with stage 3 EMAP presented with moderately hyperreflective subretinal material co-localizing with a large rupture of the Bruch’s membrane (BrM) in the right eye. Multimodal imaging ruled out macular neovascularization, suggesting a diagnosis of punctate inner choroidopathy (PIC)-like reaction. Treatment with oral steroids led to complete regression of the subretinal inflammatory lesion.

Conclusions:

This case highlights a novel inflammatory complication in EMAP. Our findings emphasize a potential role of immune dysregulation in late-stage EMAP and underscore the value of multimodal imaging in the management and follow-up of these patients.
Prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index in older patients with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Gürdal Ahmet , Serin Ebru , Sarilar Mert , Sümerkan Mutlu Çağan , Kalender Erol , Değirmenci Hasan , Şahin Sinan , Keskin Kudret
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Contemporary studies assessing the importance of the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in older patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) are scarce. This study investigated the impact and prognostic value of the SII regarding long-term mortality in older patients with ACS.

Methods

The study included 401 older patients aged 75 years and above admitted with ACS between May 2015 and December 2022. Predictors of mortality were determined using multivariate Cox regression analysis. Survival curves were generated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

The patients’ median age was 81 (77–85) years, and 197 (49.1%) were male. The median follow-up was 23 months (Q1–Q3 : 4–43, maximum: 102). All short- and long-term deaths, including in-hospital deaths, were significantly high in patients with high SII (P = 0.001). Inflammatory variables, including C-reactive protein, SII, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio, and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, were positively correlated with the SYNTAX score (for SII; R = 0.492, P = 0.001). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that age [hazard ratio (HR): 1.082, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.051–1.114, P = 0.001], estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR: 0.988, 95% CI: 0.982–0.994, P = 0.001), SII (HR: 1.004, 95% CI: 1.001–1.006, P = 0.001), and left ventricular ejection fraction (HR: 0.959, 95% CI: 0.947–0.97, P = 0.001) were independent predictors of mortality in older patients with ACS. Kaplan–Meier analysis also showed that patients with high SII had a significantly higher mortality rate (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

A high SII is an independent predictor of long-term mortality in older patients with ACS.
Adding New Components to a Composite Quality Metric
Authors: Salerno Stephen , Yang Eileen , Dahlerus Claudia , Hirth Richard A. , Han Peisong , Xu Tao , Eckard Ashley , Agbenyikey Wilfred , Horton Golden M. , Clark Stephanie , Messana Joseph M. , Li Yi
Published: January 2025

Objectives:

This study illustrates how the statistical reliability of an individual measure relates to the overall reliability of a composite metric, as understanding this relationship provides additional information when evaluating measures for endorsement.

Background:

National quality measure endorsement processes typically evaluate individual metrics on criteria such as importance and scientific acceptability (eg, reliability). In practice, quality measures may be used in composite rating systems, which aid in the interpretation of overall quality differences.

Methods:

We define an individual measure’s reliability by its intraclass correlation and analytically establish the relationship between a composite’s reliability and the reliability of its components. We use real data to confirm this relationship under various scenarios. We are motivated by 8 quality measures, which comprise the Quality of Patient Care Star Ratings on Dialysis Facility Care Compare. These measure 4 primary outcomes (mortality, hospitalizations, readmissions, and blood transfusions), vascular access (2 measures), and facility processes (2 measures).

Results:

Depending on the reliability of the individual measures, their respective weights in the composite, and their pairwise correlations, there are circumstances when adding a new measure, even if it is less reliable, increases the composite’s reliability. For the dialysis facility Star Ratings, we find that the combined reliability of measures grouped within certain domains of care exceeded the reliability of the individual measures within those domains.

Conclusions:

New quality measures may add utility to a composite rating system under certain circumstances—a consideration that should, in part, factor into quality measure endorsement processes.
Learning Health Systems Research
Authors: Tisdale Rebecca L. , Sarkar Urmimala
Published: January 2025

Background:

Learning health systems research (LHSR) builds on concepts of systems-based participatory research to form a new paradigm for partnered research.

Objective:

Defines LHSR and its ongoing challenges and future directions.

Research Design:

Qualitative description of relevant dimensions of LHSR.

Results:

In LHSR, researchers and health system stakeholders co-create research with dual aims of producing internal quality improvement and generalizable, disseminable knowledge. This approach aligns research priorities with community and health system needs, resulting in interventions that are both feasible and acceptable in real-world settings and effective. LHSR methods and outcomes reflect elements of implementation science, particularly participatory implementation science and the use of mixed methods, but the field is distinct in its emphasis on co-creation with health system leaders and the use of theory to inform rather than drive the work. Practitioners of LHSR face challenges related to the complex and multi-stakeholder nature of the field, including the time-intensive nature of building partnerships, conflicting project time horizons, imprecision inherent in real-world data, and barriers to publication of the smaller studies that typically result from LHSR.

Conclusions:

Continued advancement of the field requires confronting these challenges with a variety of interventions, including explicit institutional support and incentives for this type of work, training and career development opportunities, a diversity of funding sources, investment in data resources and expertise, and inclusive research governance structures.
Tetracycline residues in retailed pork meat and liver in public markets of Davao city, Philippines
Authors: Develos Kimberly Marie S. , Nerio Kaizen John O. , Fuentes Kyla Diane C. , Lanaban Alfea B. , Mapundo Kaye Jara B. , Guillen Cherry Ann Keith O. , Dumagan Harvie Marie B. , Buelis Glenn Charls L. , Cadotdot Nelyn Mae , Insular Natasha Lyn , Northrup Camela Mae A. , Rivera Justine Mae , Hinay Alfredo A.
Published: January 2025

The misuse of antibiotics, including tetracycline, is a significant issue in veterinary medicine because of their widespread use, leading to antibiotic residues in animal tissues. Residues pose health risks to consumers and promote antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to detect tetracycline residues in retail pork meat and liver samples from selected public markets in Davao city. A total of 146 pork samples were tested, comprising 74 meat and 72 liver samples. Detection was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that all samples were positive for tetracycline residue with a mean concentration level of 67.12±11.29 ng/g for meat samples and 74.01±16.43 ng/g in liver samples. However, none reached or exceeded the maximum residue levels of 200 ng/g and 600 ng/g for meat and liver, respectively. Liver samples had significantly higher mean tetracycline concentrations than meat samples from three public markets in Davao city. The detected levels were within the regulatory limits, and the significant difference between liver and meat samples highlights the need for continued monitoring of antibiotic residues in different animal tissues.
Preparation of house cricket peptide by enzymatic hydrolysis and development of herbal peptide drink
Authors: Prommajak Trakul , Chailangka Kamonlak , Fong-in Suwalee , Khwanchai Paideang , Chaibarn Patcharin
Published: January 2025

As environmental concerns drive a shift toward sustainable protein sources, insects have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional animal proteins. House crickets (Acheta domestica) are particularly notable for their high protein content and minimal ecological impact. However, the development of cricket peptide products faces a key challenge in enhancing sensory properties for consumer acceptance. This study compared the effects of two enzymes - papain and alkaline protease - on the quality of cricket peptides, focusing on peptide yield, degree of hydrolysis, and sensory attributes. Although the alkaline protease-derived peptide provided higher peptide yield, the papain-derived peptide demonstrated superior foaming capacity, lower bitterness, and higher overall acceptance. Subsequently, the papain-derived peptide was combined with natural sweeteners and herbal ingredients to formulate a herbal peptide beverage. Three herbal recipes were evaluated for their ability to mask undesirable flavors, with the recipe containing monk fruit, chrysanthemum, and lemongrass, achieving the highest consumer acceptance. This study highlights the potential of cricket peptides as a sustainable protein source in functional beverages and underscores the importance of careful enzyme selection and flavor formulation in developing consumer-friendly products.
Changes in total dietary fiber content and quality of brown rice bran by complex fermentation
Authors: Kim Sun Hwa , Oh Shin Young , Kang Ju Beom , Jeong Yong-Jin
Published: January 2025

This study analyzed total dietary fiber content and quality characteristics according to complex fermentation (enzyme and yeast) of brown rice bran as a recycling resource. The initial fermentation conditions were set at 30°C and 50 rpm, and the results of fermentation for 48, 60, and 72 h are as follows. When fermented for 60 h. The total dietary fiber content (61.23 g/100 g) was higher than that of the control group (31.54 g/100 g). Under the set conditions (30°C, 50 rpm for 60 h), complex fermentation was performed to investigate quality. The pH changes on decreased from pH 6.56 (control) to pH 3.99-4.01. Total dietary fiber content was rice bran not prozyme GA & Saccharomyces cerevisiae treatment (RB_NT) (61.23 g/100 g) and rice bran prozyme GA & Saccharomyces cerevisiae treatment (RB_T) (62.39 g/100 g). β-glucan content tended to decrease with RB_NT (18.01% (w/w)) and RB_T (16.55% (w/w)). Water-holding capacity increased by 1.84 g water/g solid in the control to RB_NT (4.37 g water/g solid) and RB_T (4.51 g water/g solid). As a result of the above, the conditions for complex fermentation of brown rice bran were 30°C and 50 rpm for 60 h, and basic data for industrial materialization could be established.
Discovering Novel Genome Mutations Associated with Liver and Pancreas Disorders: Insights from a Radiogenomics Study
Authors: Koohi-Moghdam Mohamad , Vardhanabhuti Varut , Wang Junwen , Chan Albert , Bae Kyongtae Tyler
Published: January 2025

Radiogenomics provides a powerful approach to identify genetic variants linked to imaging-derived phenotypes, offering insights into the genetic underpinnings of organ function and disease susceptibility. The liver and pancreas are critical to metabolism, digestion, and detoxification, with their dysfunction leading to conditions such as pancreatitis, diabetes, and cancer. This study used a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify genetic variants associated with liver and pancreas radiomics phenotypes derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from 38,844 unique subjects in the UKBiobank, each with available MRI scans and genome sequences. We identified several novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with liver and pancreas characteristics. Notable findings include associations with rs1800562 (HFE gene), rs58542926 (TM6SF2 gene), rs738409 (PNPLA3 gene), and rs855791 (TMPRSS6 gene). These findings may contribute to our understanding of the genetic basis of organ function and could potentially help in future preventive healthcare.
Self-organization of high-dimensional geometry of neural activity in culture
Authors: Nakamuta Asahi , Akita Dai , Zhang He , Kawahara Yuta , Takahashi Hirokazu , Teramae Jun-nosuke
Published: January 2025

A vast number of neurons exhibit high-dimensional coordination for brain computation, both in processing sensory input and in generating spontaneous activity without external stimuli. Recent advancements in large-scale recordings have revealed that this high-dimensional population activity exhibits a scale-free structure, characterized by power law and distinct spatial patterns in principal components (PCs). However, the mechanisms underlying the formation of this high-dimensional neural coordination remain poorly understood. Specifically, it is unclear whether the characteristic high-dimensional structure of population activity emerges through self-organization or is shaped by the learning of sensory stimuli in animals. To address this question and clearly differentiate between these two possibilities, we investigated large-scale neural activity in dissociated neuronal culture using high-density multi-electrode arrays. Our findings demonstrate that the high-dimensional structure of neural activity self-organizes during network development in the absence of explicit sensory stimuli provided to animals. As the cultures mature, the PC variance exhibits a power-law decay, and the spatial structures of PCs transition from global to localized patterns, driven by the temporal correlations of neural activity. Furthermore, we observed an unexpected co-occurrence between the power-law decay in PCA and neuronal avalanches, suggesting a link between self-organized criticality and high-dimensional activity. Using a recurrent neural network model, we show that both phenomena can arise from biologically plausible heavy-tailed synaptic connectivity. By highlighting a developmental origin of the high-dimensional structure of neural activity, these findings deepen our understanding of how coordinated neural computations are achieved in the brain.
Structural basis for the evolution of a domesticated group II intron-like reverse transcriptase to function in host cell DNA repair
Authors: Park Seung Kuk , Guo Mo , Stamos Jennifer L. , Kim Wantae , Lee Sidae , Zhang Y. Jessie , Lambowitz Alan M.
Published: January 2025

A previous study found that a domesticated bacterial group II intron-like reverse transcriptase (G2L4 RT) functions in double-strand break repair (DSBR) via microhomology-mediated end joining (MMEJ) and that a mobile group II intron-encoded RT has a basal DSBR activity that uses conserved structural features of non-LTR-retroelement RTs. Here, we determined G2L4 RT apoenzyme and snap-back DNA synthesis structures revealing novel structural adaptations that optimized its cellular function in DSBR. These included a unique RT3a structure that stabilizes the apoenzyme in an inactive conformation until encountering an appropriate substrate; a longer N-terminal extension/RT0-loop with conserved residues that together with a modified active site favors strand annealing; and a conserved dimer interface that localizes G2L4 RT homodimers to DSBR sites with both monomers positioned for MMEJ. Our findings reveal how a non-LTR-retroelement RT evolved a dedicated cellular function and suggest new ways of optimizing these RTs for genome engineering applications.
Continuous data assimilation closure for modeling statistically steady turbulence in large-eddy simulation
Authors: Ephrati Sagy R. , Franken Arnout , Luesink Erwin , Cifani Paolo , Geurts Bernard J.
Published: January 2025

A closure model is presented for large-eddy simulation (LES) based on the three-dimensional variational data assimilation algorithm. The approach aims at reconstructing high-fidelity kinetic energy spectra in coarse numerical simulations by including feedback control to represent unresolved dynamics interactions in the flow as stochastic processes. The forcing uses statistics obtained from offline high-fidelity data and requires only a few parameters compared to the number of degrees of freedom of LES. This modeling strategy is applied to geostrophic turbulence on the sphere and enables simulating indefinitely at reduced cost. The method accurately recovers the energy spectra and the zonal velocity profiles in the coarse model for three generic situations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Simulating quantum circuits using the multi-scale entanglement renormalization ansatz
Authors: Berezutskii A. V. , Luchnikov I. A. , Fedorov A. K.
Published: January 2025

Understanding the limiting capabilities of classical methods in simulating complex quantum systems is of paramount importance for quantum technologies. Although many advanced approaches have been proposed and recently used to challenge quantum advantage experiments, novel efficient methods for the approximate simulation of complex quantum systems are still in high demand. Here, we propose a scalable technique for approximate simulations of intermediate-size quantum circuits on the basis of the multi-scale entanglement renormalization ansatz (MERA) and Riemannian optimization. The MERA is a tensor network, whose geometry together with orthogonality constraints imposed on its tensors allow approximating many-body quantum states lying beyond the area-law scaling of the entanglement entropy. We benchmark the proposed technique for brick-wall quantum circuits of up to 243 qubits with various depths up to 20 layers. Our approach paves a way to exploring efficient simulation techniques for quantum many-body systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
First-principles calculations of quartz–coesite interfaces
Authors: Schaffrinna Tim , Milman Victor , Winkler Björn
Published: January 2025

Atomistic interface structures compatible with periodic boundary conditions for the strain-induced subsolidus martensitic transition between quartz and coesite have been investigated. We identified layers of atoms that remained unchanged in terms of neighbor interactions throughout the transformation. Our analysis revealed that the orientation relationships between quartz and coesite, namely (1011)Qz||(010)Coe and (1321)Qz||(010)Coe, are consistent with experimental observations. Using density-functional-theory-based tight-binding model calculations, we determined an interface energy of approximately 660 mJ m−2 for these interfaces and strain energies of 196 (6) and 2760 (160) J mol−1 atom−1 for the (1321)Qz||(010)Coe and (1011)Qz||(010)Coe oriented interfaces, respectively. To visualize these interface structures and facilitate their identification in experiments, we simulated high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images and electron diffraction patterns.
I buy green because I feel green pressure: the effect of destination social responsibility on tourists’ green product purchase behavior
Authors: Liu Danping , Fang Hedan , Huang Mei , Jiang Changchun , Ma Jingchen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Encouraging green consumption is a proven strategy for supporting destination sustainability. Nonetheless, extant research approaches destination sustainability mainly from an economic perspective. In this study, we explore the effectiveness of destination social responsibility (DSR) as a way to encourage green consumption among tourists from a social interaction perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

We used a mixed-method approach with two studies (i.e. a scenario experiment and a survey) to test our hypotheses. The scenario experiment included four versions of a narrative scenario with 40 samples each, and 421 valid questionnaires were obtained in the survey.

Findings

Our findings indicate that there is a significant relationship between DSR and green pressure. And DSR positively influences tourists’ green product purchase behavior (GPB). Tourists who have a high fear of negative evaluation (FNE) experience more pressure when exposed to DSR than those with low FNE.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the mechanisms through which DSR influences tourists’ GPB from a stress transaction perspective and also offers practical implications for tourism marketing and destination management.
The role of the rework cycle from system dynamics modelling for project management: challenges and future research agenda
Authors: Calderon-Téllez Javier Andrés , Herrera Milton M. , Bell Gary
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to a better understanding of the relationship between the rework cycle with system dynamics (SD) models and the Project Management Institute (PMI) process group.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the aim of this paper, 84 articles that blended SD models and project management (PM) were analysed to identify key variables used in PM modelling. The key variables were utilised to build an extended SD model with multiple rework cycles to explain the link between the rework cycle SD model and PMI process group.

Findings

The results show that SD might be a favourable approach to capture the reality of the project life cycle when it is extended to represent front-ending, delivery and back-ending. In fact, SD models could potentially be extended to the agile and hybrid methodologies for improving the PM.

Research limitations/implications

Although this paper provides a better understanding about the extended project life cycle by SD modelling, the results reported herein should be considered in future research that comprises the design of a SD model considering the agile and hybrid methodologies for PM.

Practical implications

This paper shows how the rework cycle can be applied to the extended project life cycle and the PMI process groups. Additionally, it highlights why SD modelling is a crucial tool for assisting managers with long-term decision-making in PM.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to explore the integration of rework cycle SD models within the PMI process groups. Specifically, it may prove valuable in supporting decision-making for project managers at each stage of a project’s extended life cycle. As a result, the research also contributes to the ongoing discussion on integrating PM with sustainability and innovation considerations.
An investigation into bio-digester toilet facilities and their environmental effect on ageing in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Pim-Wusu Mark , Simpeh Eric Kwame , Kortto Mansfield Selasi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Bio-digester toilet handling in Ghana has become a modern trend, shadowing the traditional septic tank approach and other sewage methods. This practice raises environmental concerns that could affect human ageing. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of bio-digester toilet facilities and their environmental effect on ageing in Accra, Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts quantitative and qualitative strategies. A purposive sampling technique was used to select households with bio-digester toilet facilities across the study area through a field survey questionnaire during Phase 1. A semi-structured interview was adopted for an in-depth perspective of the respondents, and laboratory analysis was performed on bio-digester effluent samples to validate phase one as a third stage. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics and laboratory analysis using standard methods for Escherichia coli, total coliform, dissolved oxygen, potential of hydrogen and temperature. The qualitative data was analysed using content analysis.

Findings

Laboratory analyses of effluent samples revealed that the bio-digester toilet facility could harm human health when its effluent is discharged into public drains. The study further discovered that only district and municipal assembly-certified technicians must construct the bio-digester toilet facilities, and households need regular education on the proper use and maintenance of the facility.

Originality/value

The revelation of this research means that it is essential for the country at large to make appropriate bylaws to regulate toilet waste handling and their environmental effect on ageing regarding households that discharge bio-digester toilet effluents into public drains for the betterment of the global agenda of sustainable development.
A qualitative exploration of motivations for entry into the firefighting profession in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Salina Sharlene J. D. , Wallace Wendell C.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explored the motivations of individuals who entered the firefighting profession in Trinidad and Tobago in an attempt to gauge their stimulus for entry into the profession. The research was conducted due to the unavailability of literature on the phenomenon under inquiry in the Caribbean, more specifically, Trinidad and Tobago.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 24 male and female firefighters from the 4 divisions of the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service (TTFS), namely north, south, central and Tobago divisions, and the personal motivations for entry into the TTFS were explored.

Findings

The findings indicate that motivations for males who entered the firefighting profession were job security, opportunity to assist people, benefits, salary and job stability, while the motivations for females were opportunity to assist people, family, benefits, job security and job stability. Several themes emerged, namely altruism, job security, benefits and job stability.

Research limitations/implications

As with most studies, this research has limitations. The main limitations were the small sample size of the study’s population and the use of a lone jurisdiction (Trinidad and Tobago) to situate the study. Despite the aforementioned limitations, the study is useful as it appears to be the first of its kind in the Caribbean and thus provides useful insights as well as a starting point for future research. Looking forward, research on motivations to become a firefighter should examine the phenomenon via a more expansive Caribbean lens, as firefighting units are an undeniable feature of the national security landscape in the region.

Originality/value

The current study appears to be the first of its kind in the Caribbean, as voracious searches failed to unearth similar studies.
The role of leadership in digital transformation – a paradox way to improve operational performance
Authors: Dióssy Kitti , Losonci Dávid , Aranyossy Márta , Demeter Krisztina
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Leadership has been identified as a crucial driver of efficient deployment of any Operations Management (OM) paradigm. Our work focuses on digitalisation, a recent OM paradigm, and analyses the mediating effect of digital transformation (DT) on the relationship between task-oriented and relationship-oriented leadership styles (LSs) and operational performance (OP) improvements in the manufacturing context.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed survey data from Hungarian manufacturing firms. Hypotheses are tested using structural equation modelling.

Findings

Task-oriented and relationship-oriented LSs exert distinct influences on DT and OP improvements. The results indicated that task-oriented LS drives OP improvements through its impact on DT. The relationship-oriented LS does not influence DT. Regarding the implications for OP improvements, we revealed a leadership paradox as the indirect positive impact of task-oriented LS may be offset by the direct negative influence of relationship-oriented LS.

Research limitations/implications

The results are most pertinent to manufacturing firms that have already started their digital journey. Further studies must clarify how managers’ cultural embeddedness (i.e. general perceptions about efficient leadership in their country or region, national culture) could influence findings. Finally, to learn about the effective long-term behaviours of leaders might require different empirical methods.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study represents one of the first survey-based examinations of CEOs on the ways how LSs drive the effective deployment of DT in manufacturing firms. Our findings demonstrate a leadership paradox at the nascent stages of DT in manufacturing firms.
Does intellectual capital predict future stock returns? An Indian perspective
Authors: Ghazal Sameena , Aziz Tariq
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of the present research is to explore the relationship between intellectual capital and subsequent stock returns.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study has applied the Fama–French (1993) portfolio formation technique to calculate the portfolios and find the relationship with future stock returns for the duration of 22 years, i.e. 2000–2021, on all listed nonfinancial firms of India.

Findings

The findings suggest that intellectual capital proxied by VAIC (Pulic, 2000) shows a negative relationship with subsequent stock returns. Along with overall VAIC, components of VAIC, i.e. value-added human capital (VAHU), value-added capital employed (VACA) and Structural capital value added (SCVA) have also been explored. The results suggest that Indian firms still rely on financial and physical capital as compared to human and structural capital. There exists heterogeneity across industries while predicting the subsequent stock returns. Sub-period analysis shows that the latest duration is positively, however, insignificantly impacting the VAIC and stock return relationship. Age and size as control variables have also been explored. The results show that young-low VAIC and small-low VAIC firms are more significant as compared to high VAIC firms.

Practical implications

The paper reveals that physical capital plays an important role in predicting future stock returns.

Originality/value

The present study will prove to be an impetus in finding the relationship between intellectual capital and future stock returns, as it is an unexplored area both in the global as well as in the Indian context.
Growing up in the modern world: how does artificial intelligence enhance firm growth?
Authors: Dong Yunjiang , Willcott Neal , Yang Xingwei , Yang Yan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper examines the relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology development and firm growth. Specifically, it aims to explore how the availability of AI influences firm growth and whether larger firms benefit more from AI-driven technological advancements compared to smaller firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a dataset from CRSP-Compustat covering public firms from 1975 to 2023, this study employs price per memory (PPM) as a proxy for AI technology accessibility to assess its impact on firm growth. The analysis focuses on three key growth metrics: total assets, tangible assets and market capitalization. By examining how data processing capacity influences these growth rates, the study compares the performance of large firms to small firms. A panel data regression is conducted, controlling for macroeconomic trends and industry-specific effects on firm growth. Additionally, the study investigates the heterogeneous impacts of AI technology accessibility across firms of different sizes.

Findings

The findings reveal that PPM, as a proxy for AI technology availability, significantly affects firm growth. Specifically, larger firms experience faster growth, especially in recent years, as AI technology becomes more accessible and cost-effective. These results suggest that large firms gain the most substantial benefits from AI advancements, further widening the growth gap between large and small firms.

Originality/value

This research extends prior studies on the impact of AI on firm growth by introducing PPM as a novel proxy for AI availability. It provides new insights into how AI technologies disproportionately benefit larger firms and offers important policy implications regarding firm financing and information regulation. This study also highlights areas for future empirical research on the role of AI in the financial industry.
Development of a Web-based records management system: an ERMS initiative for the Office of Senior Citizen Affairs in the Philippines
Authors: Libadia Monira , Botangen Khavee Agustus , Lucero Pauline Joy , Tecson Jolene
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to design and develop a web-based Electronic Records Management System (ERMS) for the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) in the Philippines. The ERMS seeks to centralize record-keeping and streamline the collection, storage and processing of records and member information. By addressing challenges associated with manual record-keeping, the system seeks to enhance the overall efficiency of record management within the organization. The utilization of web and data capturing technologies is expected to optimize record management workflows, enabling quick and accurate information retrieval at the OSCA.

Design/methodology/approach

This work provides a practical case example of an ERMS implementation. Problems and requirements are identified through interviews and feasibility analysis. Process and data flow diagrams, along with use-case scenarios, capture system needs. The system is developed using MySQL for the database and Laravel for the web interface, including database modeling, interface design and coding. Thorough testing of the database, web forms and source code is conducted using white-box testing. Evaluation follows the ISO 25010 product quality model, involving IT experts and users. The system is piloted on selected sites to further identify bugs or usage problems.

Findings

The system provides integrated modules with various functionalities, such as real-time data monitoring, task management, member registration, reports generation and system settings management. The evaluation confirms the system’s usability, reliability, data management efficiency, user-friendly interface and security.

Originality/value

This work introduces a tailor-fit record management system that integrates an in-depth understanding of the membership record-keeping process of the OSCA with the utilization of web and data-capturing technologies. By leveraging this synergy, the system optimizes and enhances the existing record management workflow, presenting a comprehensive and innovative approach to record-keeping practices at the OSCA. The system incorporates fundamental record management processes, including the classification and storage of records, controlled access and ensuring the availability of records when needed – all while upholding privacy and confidentiality in adherence to existing government rules and regulations.
Has COVID‐19 vaccination success increased the marginal willingness to pay taxes?
Authors: Durán‐Cabré José María , Esteller‐Moré Alejandro , Rizzo Leonzio , Secomandi Riccardo
Published: January 2025

The COVID‐19 vaccination campaign can be regarded as a public‐sector success story. Given the shock caused by the pandemic, the highly visible and successful response of the public authorities in rolling out the vaccination might have elicited an increase in public trust. We test whether the vaccination process increased the marginal willingness to pay taxes (MWTP). Taking advantage of the different paths taken by the vaccination roll‐out in Spain, we employ a difference‐in‐differences empirical strategy, complemented by an event study, to infer causality running from vaccination coverage to MWTP. We find an increase in MWTP caused by the good governance of the vaccination campaign.
Estimating location premia using fixed effects—A semi‐local approach
Authors: Longhofer Stanley D. , Redfearn Christian L.
Published: January 2025

In this article, we develop a novel method for measuring the value of location within a metropolitan area. By estimating overlapping “semi‐local” regressions and exploiting the symmetry among them, we are able to construct a surface of the relative value of location within a metropolitan area. This methodology maintains the simplicity of using location fixed effects while resolving the omitted variable bias that arises from the traditional application in hedonic regressions. We demonstrate our semi‐local approach using a flexible, hex‐based geography. We also show that it can be generalized and applied to other geographies such as census tracts. Using data from Maricopa County (Phoenix), we find that every geography we employ supports the same conclusion: the premium for location is decidedly nonmonocentric, asymmetric, and highly dynamic. This dynamism conflicts with the typical assumptions associated with the use of fixed effects in the construction of aggregate price indexes, and potentially complicates the interpretation of difference‐in‐difference methods.
Isogenic Transplantation of Hybrid Artificial Pleural Tissue Consisting of Rat Cells and Polyglycolic Acid Nanofiber Sheet Induces Restoration of Mesothelial Defects in Rat Model
Authors: Tani Kengo , Kimura Daisuke , Asano Yoshiya , Song Cheng‐Yang , Shimoda Hiroshi , Minakawa Masahito
Published: January 2025

Background

Impairment of the visceral pleura following thoracic surgery often leads to air leaks and intrathoracic adhesions. For preventing such complications, mesothelial cell proliferation at the pleural defects can be effective. To develop new materials for pleural defects restoration, we constructed a hybrid artificial pleural tissue (H‐APLT) combining polyglycolic acid (PGA) nanofiber sheets with a three‐dimensional culture of mesothelial cells and fibroblasts and evaluated its therapeutic efficacy in a rat pleural defect model.

Methods

After rat lungs were harvested, pleural mesothelial cells and lung fibroblasts were cultured separately. To construct H‐APLT, the cells were then coated with multiple layers of fibronectin and gelatin, followed by a single layer of mesothelial cells on top of multiple layers of fibroblasts accumulated onto a collagen‐coated PGA nanofiber sheet. Left lateral thoracotomy was performed, and H‐APLTs were transplanted into a rat model with pleural defects (N = 8). After 2–12 weeks of transplantation, lung resection and histological analyses were performed.

Results

H‐APLTs exhibited a pleural structure with a highly integrated mesothelial layer in vitro. After transplantation, all eight rats survived until sacrifice. At 12 weeks post‐transplantation, the mesothelial layer on the lung surface was observed to be without defects with no intrathoracic adhesions detected.

Conclusion

Successful isogenic engraftment of H‐APLTs was achieved in a rat model of pleural defects. The combination of accumulated fibroblasts and collagen‐coated PGA nanofiber sheets contributed to the maintenance of the mesothelial layer's structure and function, potentially preventing air leaks and intrathoracic adhesions.