bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Accelerated amyloid deposition in SARS-CoV-2 infected mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Parekh Parag , Badachhape Andrew A. , Redd JeAnna R. , Bonilla Lauren J. , Bhandari Prajwal , Kneubehl Alexander R. , Bhavane Rohan , Clinton Jennifer L.S. , Admane Prasad , Menon Renuka , Srivastava Mayank , Sun Xianwei , Narang Saphal , Tanifum Eric , Ghaghada Ketan B. , Ronca Shannon E. , Annapragada Ananth V. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractFamilial Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involving known AD causing genes accounts for a small fraction of cases, the vast majority are sporadic. Neuroinflammation, secondary to viral infection, has been suggested as an initiating or accelerating factor. In this work we tested the hypothesis that SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) viral infection accelerates the development of AD pathology in mouse models of AD. We profiled transcriptomic changes using transgenic APP/PSEN1 and P301S mouse models that develop AD pathology and k18hACE2 mice that express the humanized ACE2 receptor used by SCV2 to enter cells. This study identified the interferon and chemokine responses constituting key shared pathways between SCV2 infection and the development of AD pathology. Two transgenic mouse models of AD: APP/PSEN1 (develops amyloid pathology) and 3xTg AD (develops both amyloid and tau pathology) were crossed with k18-hACE2 mice to generate hybrid hACE2-3xTg and hACE2-APP/PSEN1 mice. Neuroinflammation and amyloid deposition in the brain of infected mice were imagedin vivousing molecular MRI (mMRI) probes and confirmed postmortem by histopathology. Results show that 11-14-month-old SCV2 infected hACE2-3xTg mice exhibit neuroinflammation 10 days post infection and 4–5-month-old hACE2-APP/PS1 hybrid mice develop amyloid deposits, while age-matched uninfected mice exhibit neither phenotype. This suggests that SCV2 infection could induce or accelerate AD when risk factors are present.
SARITA: A Large Language Model for Generating the S1 Subunit of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein
Authors: Rancati Simone , Nicora Giovanna , Bergomi Laura , Buonocore Tommaso Mario , Czyz Daniel M , Parimbelli Enea , Bellazzi Riccardo , Salemi Marco , Prosperi Mattia , Marini Simone 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted global health, economics, and daily life, with over 776 million cases and 7 million deaths from December 2019 to November 2024. Since the original SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain emerged, the virus has evolved into variants such as Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron, all characterized by mutations in the Spike glycoprotein, critical for viral entry into human cells via its S1 and S2 subunits. The S1 subunit, binding to the ACE2 receptor and mutating frequently, affects infectivity and immune evasion; the more conserved S2, on the other hand, facilitates membrane fusion. Predicting future mutations is crucial for developing vaccines and treatments adaptable to emerging strains, enhancing preparedness and intervention design. Generative Large Language Models (LLMs) are becoming increasingly common in the field of genomics, given their ability to generate realistic synthetic biological sequences, including applications in protein design and engineering. Here we present SARITA, an LLM with up to 1.2 billion parameters, based on GPT-3 architecture, designed to generate high-quality synthetic SARS-CoV-2 Spike S1 sequences. SARITA is trained via continuous learning on the pre-existing protein model RITA. When trained on Alpha, Beta, and Gamma variants (data up to February 2021 included), SARITA correctly predicts the evolution of future S1 mutations, including characterized mutations of Delta, Omicron and Iota variants. Furthermore, we show how SARITA outperforms alternative approaches, including other LLMs, in terms of sequence quality, realism, and similarity with real-world S1 sequences. These results indicate the potential of SARITA to predict future SARS-CoV-2 S1 evolution, potentially aiding in the development of adaptable vaccines and treatments.
Determination of scales and measures for assessing social sustainability practices in construction projects
Authors: Kordi Nurul Elma , Belayutham Sheila , Che Ibrahim Che Khairil Izam 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis paper addresses the scarcity of research on social sustainability (SS) in sustainable construction (SC) by establishing indicators and descriptors for SS throughout the construction project life cycle. The objective is to provide an objective assessment and improve SS practices.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs a comprehensive methodology involving literature review, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions and structured interviews. A total of 42 indicators were identified from the literature and presented to 20 expert panels, resulting in the addition of seven indicators. A refined set of 49 indicators was then presented to 25 experts via focus group discussions, and structured interviews were conducted to determine suitable descriptors and scales for each indicator.FindingsThe study identified 19 indicators for the pre-construction phase, 25 for the construction phase and 4 for the post-construction phase. These findings offer an objective assessment of SS practices across the construction project life cycle. The indicators and descriptors serve as a valuable tool for industry practitioners to monitor and improve social aspects, fostering SC.Research limitations/implicationsThe study’s limitations include the context-specific nature of the findings and the potential subjectivity introduced through the selection of expert panels.Practical implicationsThe identified indicators and descriptors have practical implications for industry practitioners, providing guidelines to enhance social sustainability practices throughout the project life cycle.Originality/valueThis study fills a research gap by focussing on SS in construction. The comprehensive methodology contributes to theory development and provides practical tools for practitioners to advance social sustainability practices.
A measurement model of trust in construction projects
Authors: Wu Hongyue , Chen Yunfeng , Cox Robert F. , Jin Ruoyu 
Published: December 2024

PurposeLack of trust in construction projects will lead to poor project performance or project failure, indicating the importance of trust-building. Existing studies have developed various trust models, while most studies covered limited trust factors, failed to clarify their meanings and relationships or lacked qualitative or quantitative evidence. Thus, this study aims to develop a measurement model of trust in construction projects with theoretical justification as well as qualitative and quantitative data.Design/methodology/approachA literature review was conducted to identify conceptual types, factors and indicators of trust. Individual interviews and focus groups were performed to test the proposed framework with qualitative data. A survey and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) method were utilized to build the measurement model of trust using quantitative data in BIM-assisted projects.FindingsThe proposed trust framework covered the four conceptual types, four factors (integrity, competency, benevolence and commitment) and 13 indicators, supported by the results of interviews and focus groups. The measurement model of trust from CFA results supported the significant, positive, and one-to-one relationships between 13 indicators and four factors of trust in BIM-assisted projects.Originality/valueTheoretically, the study provides new insights into the multi-dimensional nature of trust. In practice, the findings could facilitate trustors and trustees to better understand, build, measure and enhance trust in construction projects.
Many hands make light work: the cross-level influence of top management team behavioral integration on group ambidextrous innovation
Authors: Xia Yuhuan , Gai Mingzhe , Han Changlin , Liu Xiyao , Liu Zhen , Xu Lei 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis study aims to explore the cross-level effect of the top management team (TMT) on group ambidextrous innovation and to analyze the mediating role of group behavioral integration and the moderating effect of group expertise heterogeneity.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a multi-source and multi-stage survey. We collected valid data from 43 companies in China, resulting in 141 samples from 43 TMTs and 462 valid responses from 111 organizational groups. The proposed theoretical model and hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling.FindingsThe study findings demonstrated that TMT behavioral integration was positively related to group behavioral integration. Group behavioral integration mediates the relationship between TMT behavioral integration and these two types of innovations. Furthermore, we found that group expertise heterogeneity magnified the positive effect of group behavioral integration on exploratory innovation.Originality/valueThis study reveals the cross-level effects of TMT behavioral integration on other organizational groups and enriches the existing literature on TMT behavioral integration and ambidextrous innovation.
Does employee innovation matter in the UK hotel industry? The mediating role of psychological safety
Authors: Alzyoud Sultan , Partington Shobana Nair , Dandis Ala' Omar 
Published: December 2024

PurposeIn the current turbulent and highly competitive environment, hotels’ management is under pressure to be innovative and improve their products and services continuously to meet and exceed guests’ expectations. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to develop and test a framework of the factors that can promote employee psychological safety and help drive employee innovation in hotels in the UK.Design/methodology/approach A survey questionnaire was constructed and distributed to employees in four- and five-star hotels in the UK. Non-probability convenience sampling was performed in this study. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the research’s model and hypotheses.Findings The findings revealed a positive and significant association between psychological safety and employee innovation. Furthermore, psychological safety was found to fully mediate the influence of leader inclusiveness, respectful relationships at work and autonomy on employee innovation. Also, leader inclusiveness and role clarity were discovered to be associated with autonomy, whereas proactive personality was found to be related to employee innovation directly. The outcomes also showed that a proactive personality fully mediates the impact of autonomy and respectful relationships on employee innovation.Originality/value This study presents an original chain-mediation model that illustrates the mechanism of how employee innovative behavior can be encouraged by focusing on the mediation of psychological safety. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first attempts to shed light on the role of psychological safety in promoting employee innovation in the hotel sector.
Impact of corporate governance structure on performance of listed firms: empirical evidence from Palestine
Authors: Talalwa Mohammad , Magableh Fu’ad , Badwan Nemer 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of corporate governance structure corporate governance on a firm’s performance in the Palestinian business environment between 2016 and 2023. The specific environment of the developing Palestinian economy is the main motivation and emphasis of this investigation.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered from 49 financial and non-financial firms listed on the Palestine Stock Exchange between 2016 and 2023. While the random and fixed effects estimates were utilized to be the most suitable for this particular investigation, they were used to undertake the data analysis procedure. The study employed two-stage least squares (2SLS) to assess the robustness and correctness of data to bolster the findings and subsequent implications.FindingsThe findings show that the return on equity, a measure of corporate performance, was positively but not significantly impacted by the presence of women on the executive boards of Palestinian companies. This suggests that the variable in question had no bearing on the success of the firms. In terms of moderating influence, corporate governance structure had no bearing on the link between dual chief executives, institution ownership, government ownership, independent directors and firm performance. Family ownership and board size had negative, significant impacts on performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe research limitations of this study are that it focuses exclusively on manufacturing firms listed on the Palestine Exchange (PEX) over a seven-year period, which limits its generalizability to other industries and regions. Furthermore, due to a lack of data, the model did not account for global diversity on boards of directors.Practical implicationsThe findings of this research help managers understand how management structures impact business success and provide regulatory authorities with insights into gender diversity and corporate governance legislation in Palestine. It suggests enhancing company performance, competitiveness and capital acquisition by improving governance information quality, building investor confidence, raising standards and reforming governance systems.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by enhancing the understanding of how corporate governance and gender diversity affect the financial performance of listed firms, addressing a research gap in the Palestinian market. It is one of the few studies examining company performance during political turmoil, specifically focusing on the increased role of women on Palestinian boards.
Nurturing sustainability practices: a qualitative inquiry into environmental innovations as a catalyst in manufacturing enterprises in an emerging economy
Authors: Alinda Kassim 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThis study explores how medium and large manufacturing firms integrate environmental innovations to foster sustainability practices. It seeks to uncover the specific challenges these firms face and the strategies they employ to effectively implement sustainable initiatives in response to growing environmental pressures.Design/methodology/approachUsing a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study analyzes twelve detailed case studies, engaging in conversational interviews to capture the lived experiences of key stakeholders. Through direct quotations and thematic analysis, the research offers in-depth insights into the practical implementation of sustainability practices driven by environmental innovations.FindingsThe study identifies those environmental innovations – both in products and processes – are critical drivers for addressing specific sustainability challenges. Firms that successfully implement these innovations do so by leveraging internal resources and external collaborations, which enable them to navigate environmental regulations, reduce waste and enhance operational efficiency. However, the findings also highlight significant barriers such as financial constraints and resistance to change within traditional manufacturing systems.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is limited by the use of a convenience sampling method and potential biases in interview responses. Future research should adopt more robust sampling techniques and explore longitudinal impacts to mitigate subjectivity and enhance generalizability.Practical implicationsThe findings offer practical insights for manufacturing firms seeking to implement sustainability practices. By understanding the mechanisms through which environmental innovations can be integrated into their operations, firms can develop more effective strategies for enhancing environmental performance.Originality/valueThis study contributes original insights into the strategic application of environmental innovations within the manufacturing sub-sector. It highlights the role of innovations in overcoming sustainability challenges, offering a nuanced understanding of how firms can align operational goals with environmental imperatives.
Quality in qualitative research: a relational process
Authors: Timonen Virpi , Foley Geraldine , Conlon Catherine 
Published: December 2024

PurposeDemonstrating quality in qualitative research is challenging. Excessive reliance on checklists can lead to poor quality qualitative research masquerading as high quality. We seek to equip readers with foundational understanding of how to ensure quality of their qualitative research by emphasizing a relational approach to research.Design/methodology/approachWe outline existing paradigm-specific and cross-paradigm accounts of the constituents of quality in qualitative research and identify credibility and relevance as the shared criteria. We define quality in qualitative research as a relational process wherein the relations constitutive of credibility and relevance are actively constructed throughout the research process.FindingsQuality cannot be ensured with the help of checklists alone. Quality arises from formulating a research question that is relevant; sampling for (or accessing) data through a credible process pertaining to the relevant concern; engaging analysis in a credible manner and doing justice to the data while continuing to remain relevant to the studied concern. Quality in qualitative research is a set of relationships, threaded through the entire research process, between the researcher and the researched concern, participants, data, data analysis and audience. The foundations of qualitative inquiry, across all paradigms, demand an engaged, committed researcher attending iteratively and with care – relationally – to every stage of the research process in pursuit of quality.Originality/valueWe elaborate parsimonious quality criteria that are specific to qualitative research. Adopting a relational ethic of commitment to quality at each stage of the research process is conducive towards high-quality qualitative research.
Do private equity investors value ESG and SDGs? Evidence from Tunisia
Authors: Ben Noamene Tarek 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
This study aims to explore the perceptions of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles by private equity investors in Tunisia and evaluate how these perceptions are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Design/methodology/approach
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with private equity investors operating in Tunisia to assess their level of understanding and awareness of ESG concepts and their expectations regarding the adoption of ESG criteria in their investment decisions.

Findings
This study reveals that while private equity (PE) investors in Tunisia are familiar with sustainability principles, their knowledge of ESG concepts is limited. ESG criteria are generally not incorporated into investment decisions unless mandated by foreign partners. The findings of this study also indicate that most Tunisian PE investors emphasize the importance of aligning ESG principles with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to meet international standards and remain competitive in raising global funds and forming partnerships with foreign partners.

Research limitations/implications
Despite the insightful findings, this study has limitations primarily because of its qualitative nature and relatively small sample size. Conducting extensive quantitative research involving a broader range from the PE ecosystem would provide deeper insights into the integration of ESG principles in Tunisia.

Originality/value
This study provides valuable insights into ESG perceptions within a specific investor niche – the PE industry – and contributes to the limited body of literature on ESG, particularly in emerging markets like Tunisia.
Tax Subsidy Disclosure and Local Economic Effects
Authors: DE SIMONE LISA , LESTER REBECCA , RAGHUNANDAN ANEESH 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTWe examine if the effectiveness of business tax subsidies varies based on state disclosure laws. The prior accounting literature on government disclosure documents substantial variation in the quality of such disclosures, raising questions about their effectiveness for monitoring. State and local business subsidies for investment and employment have tripled in size over the past 30 years, but transparency problems inhibit clear assessments of whether subsidies achieve their intended outcomes. We examine both internal disclosure laws, which mandate subsidy reporting by the granting state agency to other state oversight agencies, and external disclosure laws, which mandate reporting to the public. We find positive effects of subsidies on local employment when subsidies are subject to internal disclosure laws; by implementing such regimes, governments could forego 1.2–1.7 subsequent subsidies per county, saving $419.0–$593.5 million in aggregate. In contrast, we observe little effect of external disclosure, which we show is due to governments either substituting to other types of incentives or posting stale information that impedes public monitoring. We contribute to the government disclosure literature by demonstrating the real employment effects of internal government disclosures, and we provide policy‐relevant evidence about the conditions under which external disclosure regimes facilitate public monitoring.
Imperative for a health‐centred focus on climate change in radiology
Authors: Taboun Omar , DesRoche Chloe , Hanneman Kate 
Published: December 2024

SummaryClimate change negatively impacts individual and population‐level health through multiple pathways, including poor air quality, extreme heat and changes in infectious disease. These health effects will lead to higher health system and medical imaging utilisation. At the same time, the delivery of radiology services generates substantial greenhouse gas emissions. Mitigation strategies to reduce the environmental impact of medical imaging and adaptation strategies to build resiliency to current and future impacts of climate change in radiology should be centred on human health. A health‐centred response in radiology reinforces the role of radiologists as physicians and emphasises the opportunity for medical imaging to promote health and advance our understanding of climate‐related health effects. This review discusses the need for a health‐centred focus on climate change in radiology, including the effects of climate change on human health and health systems, intersection of climate change with health equity, health benefits of climate action and opportunities to leverage medical imaging to improve human health.