bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Astrocyte gap junctions and Kir channels contribute to K+buffering and regulate neuronal excitability
Authors: Bojovic Danica , Dagostin Andre , Sullivan Steve J. , von Gersdorff Henrique , Mishra Anusha 
Published: February 2025

ABSRACTAstrocytes are connected in a functional syncytium via gap junctions, which is thought to contribute to maintenance of extracellular K+homeostasis. The prevailing hypothesis is that K+released during neuronal firing is taken up by astrocytes via Kirchannels and then distributed among neighboring astrocytes via gap junctions. Previous reports examining the role of Kirchannels and gap junctions have shown both hyperexcitability and depression when each mechanism is blocked. Here, we tested the effect of blocking Kirchannels and gap junctions, both independently and simultaneously, on field activity of cortical slices in response to a 3 s, 20 Hz stimulation train. Independently blocking either Kirchannels or gap junctions increased the amplitude of the first fEPSC (field excitatory post-synaptic current) in response to a stimulation train, followed by suppression of fEPSCs during sustained stimulation. Surprisingly, blocking both gap junctions and Kirchannels enhanced the suppression of neuronal activity, resulting in a ∼75% decrease in fiber volley (pre-synaptic action potentials) amplitude in the first response, followed by a fast and strong suppression of sustained fEPSCs. Our results demonstrate that blocking Kirchannels and gap junctions can increase the excitability of neurons when firing is sparse, but suppression results when the firing frequency is increased to cortical physiological ranges. This suggest that K+buffering via Kirand gap junctions, likely mediated by astrocytes, together play a critical role in maintaining neuronal excitability, particularly during sustained activity.
Divergent stem cell mechanisms governing the primary body axis and appendage regeneration in the axolotl
Authors: Wang Liqun , Song Li , Yi Chao , Zhou Jing , Yong Zhouying , Hu Yan , Pan Xiangyu , Qiao Na , Cai Hao , Zhao Wandong , Zhang Rui , Yang Lieke , Liu Lei , Peng Guangdun , Tanaka Elly M , Li Hanbo , Liu Yanmei , Fei Ji-Feng 
Published: February 2025

SUMMARYExploring the fundamental mechanisms of organ regeneration is crucial for advancing regenerative medicine. The axolotl tail represents a unique opportunity to study regeneration of the primary axis including segmented muscle, vertebrae and skin. During tail development, muscle stem cells (MuSCs) displayed expected specificity to the muscle lineage. Tail amputation, however, induced expansion of MuSC potential yielding clonal contribution to muscle, connective tissue including cartilage, pericytes, and fibroblasts. This expanded potential was not observed during limb regeneration, and cross-transplantation showed these differences in potential are intrinsic. ScRNA-Seq profiling revealed that tail MuSCs revert to an embryonic mesoderm-like state. Through genetic manipulation involving the over-expression of constitutively active TGF-β receptors or Smad7 (antagonist of TGF-β signaling) in MuSCs, we demonstrated that the levels of TGF-β signal determine the fate outcome of MuSCs to connective tissue lineage or muscle respectively. Our findings illustrate a fundamental difference between regeneration of primary axis versus limb and offers a novel stem cell source for regeneration of axial skeletal tissues.
Axion-induced pair production: A new strategy for axion detection
Authors: Arias-Aragón Fernando , Giannotti Maurizio , Grilli di Cortona Giovanni , Mescia Federico 
Published: February 2025

We revisit and update the axion-induced pair production process in a nuclear electric field mediated by the axion-electron coupling, a+XZA→XZA+e++e−. This process emerges as one of the most efficient channels for detecting axions with energies above a few MeV in large underground detectors. It is particularly relevant for detecting axions produced in nuclear reactions, such as the p+d→He3+a(5.5  MeV) reaction in the solar pp-chain, and for axions originating in supernovae. Despite recent interest in detecting high-energy axions, the pair production process has received limited attention, even in scenarios where it is the dominant detection channel. This study fills this gap by demonstrating that pair production is a highly effective detection mechanism for high-energy axions. We apply our results to axions from supernovae and the solar 5.5 MeV line, recasting the current bounds of Borexino and comparing the detection capabilities of the JUNO and Hyper-Kamiokande detectors.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Exploring the drivers of concession period in transport public–private partnerships
Authors: Mangano Giulio , Castelblanco Gabriel , De Marco Alberto , Ottaviani Filippo Maria 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThe influence of internal and external factors impacting the duration of the concession period in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) is essential for project outcomes considering its implications on operational expenses, payback periods in project finance and long-term uncertainties. In this context, this research analyzes a set of key factors that may influence the duration of the concession period of PPP transport projects.Design/methodology/approachA triangulation approach combining both quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. This mixed-method approach incorporates an in-depth literature review to identify the factors that potentially affect the public sector decision on concession periods within transportation PPP programs. The information from all the transportation PPP projects (roads, ports, rails and airports) procured in 58 countries in Europe, Africa and Asia was retrieved from public databases, official records in each of the countries and academic papers. The information retrieved from each of the identified parameters was further examined through analysis of variance and linear regression to test the hypotheses.FindingsResults demonstrate that user-pay PPPs should restrict minimum concession periods to prevent excessive user tariffs, which could result in societal resistance and potential long-term traffic underperformance. Additionally, PPP market’s willingness to accept longer concession periods depends on country’s risk profile and regulatory framework transparency. Conversely, high-risk countries may seek longer concession periods by utilizing payment mechanisms that allocate demand risk to the public sector.Originality/valueThis study provides relevant insights for better negotiating the concession duration to increase the value for money associated with the PPP project.
Strategic renewal influenced by the perception of gender issues and stakeholder pressure: a managerial cognition perspective
Authors: Torp Sofie , Lien Raina , Gil Miguel , Ramírez-Solís Edgar Rogelio 
Published: February 2025

PurposeResearch in managerial cognition has proved the influence of managerial perceptions in strategic renewal. Moreover, contingency theory argues that strategic renewal is an organisational reaction to perceived contingencies. Nevertheless, previous literature has rarely examined the interaction of these two theoretical approaches in the context of perceived gender issues. This paper explores how managers' perceptions of gender issues and stakeholder pressure, independently and in combination, influence organisations’ strategic renewal.Design/methodology/approachThis study collected quantitative data through an online survey sent to managers in Sweden. The final sample consisted of 101 valid responses examined using linear regression analysis. This analysis consisted of three models. Two models examined the direct impact of perceptions of gender issues and stakeholder pressure on strategic renewal, while a third model investigated their interactive effect.FindingsThe regression analysis showed a positive relationship between managers’ perceptions of gender issues and strategic renewal. Moreover, stakeholder pressure experienced by managers was positively associated with strategic renewal, and the interaction between the perception of gender issues and strategic renewal did not significantly influence strategic renewal.Originality/valueThe results provide at least three theoretical contributions, demonstrating the importance of managerial cognition in strategic renewal through the lens of perceived gender issues. Also, the results show that the interaction of perception of gender issues and stakeholder pressure does not automatically translate into strategic renewal, highlighting more complexity than generally assumed. Finally, our findings underscore the significance of perceived gender issues, even within a context widely regarded as advanced in gender equality, such as Sweden, thereby adding value and relevance to the research.
Positioning accuracy improvement of a large parallel pose alignment mechanism based on comprehensive error analysis
Authors: Li Hongbin , Sun Nina , Wang Zhihao 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to improve the positioning accuracy of a large-scale parallel pose alignment mechanism by calibration and error compensation.Design/methodology/approachThe dynamic modelling of the parallel pose alignment mechanism is achieved using the Newton Euler method. Combined with a deformation compatibility analysis, the support force at the spherical hinge and the friction of the follow-up prismatic pair are calculated. The deformation of the moving platform in multi-pose space is analysed by the integral method, and a corresponding deformation model is established. Based on the calculated support force, friction and deformation, the deformation error is analysed. Combined with the calculated deformation error, kinematics calibration and positioning error compensation are carried out.FindingsThe simulation results show that the deviation of structural error identification is decreased from 3.03 × 10–1 mm to 6.8 × 10–2 mm. The experimental results show that the maximum pose errors after compensation are reduced from 2.77 mm to 6.5 × 10–1° to 3.9 × 10–1 mm and 3.7 × 10–1°, which verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method.Originality/valueThis method can be used in the field of aircraft assembly for the calibration and error compensation of a large-scale parallel pose alignment mechanism based on positioners.
Magnetohydrodynamic ternary hybrid nanofluid slip flow past a permeable shrinking sheet: boundary layer flow control and optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: Wahid Nur Syahirah , Abu Bakar Shahirah , Mustafa Mohd Shafie , Md Arifin Norihan , Pop Ioan 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) in nanofluids is crucial in boundary layer flow as it enables the manipulation of fluid motion through magnetic fields, which leads to improved stability and efficiency. This study aims to introduce a model and solutions for the boundary layer flow of a ternary hybrid nanofluid past a permeable shrinking sheet, integrating both magnetohydrodynamic and slip effects.

Design/methodology/approach
The model is firstly expressed as partial differential equations and subsequently converted into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) through a similarity transformation technique. A finite difference scheme with the Lobatto IIIa formula in MATLAB is applied to numerically solve the ODEs, where the respective outcomes provide insights into the skin friction coefficient, Nusselt number, velocity profiles and temperature profiles.

Findings
The results highlight the significance of enhancing magnetohydrodynamic effects and first-order velocity slip to reduce skin friction, improve heat transfer, delay boundary layer separation, increase flow velocity and lower fluid temperature. In addition, the stable numerical solution is scrutinized using response surface methodology (RSM) to validate and optimize flow control. The RSM optimization confirms that higher suction, magnetohydrodynamic effects and first-order slip levels are essential for minimizing skin friction and maximizing heat transfer simultaneously.

Originality/value
The presented model together with the numerical and statistical results can be used as a guidance to control the flow and heat transfer that occur within a related practical application, especially in engineering and industrial activities such as cooling technologies, energy harvesting or fluid transport in nanotechnology, where precise control of heat transfer and fluid dynamics is essential for optimizing performance and reducing energy consumption.
Modern slavery in supply chains: toward a theoretically based research agenda
Authors: Montgomery Nicolle A. 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
Although the literature on modern slavery (MS) is continually increasing, there remains a paucity of theory-driven research. Hence, this study aims to develop a multitheoretical framework and research agenda for MS.

Design/methodology/approach
This study comprised two steps. First, it reviews the literature on supply chain (SC) social sustainability to identify the typically used theories. Six of them were selected for this study: institutional, stakeholder, resource-based, resource dependence, principal agent and transaction cost economics theories. Second, it conducts a systematic literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines to analyze relevant literature on social issues in SCs, and thematically synthesizes the findings. The six theoretical perspectives and key themes that emerged from the literature were used to develop future research directions (RDs) for MS.

Findings
This study develops a multitheoretical framework and research agenda comprising 20 theory-driven RDs for MS, focusing on the environmental, firm and transaction levels.

Research limitations/implications
This study provides a reference for future MS research. Although the study used only six theories, future studies can develop further research agendas for MS based on diverse theories.

Practical implications
Practitioners can use this framework to understand MS from varied perspectives and identify and mitigate MS risks in SCs.

Originality/value
To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study presents the first comprehensive and theoretically grounded research agenda that positions MS research onto a stronger theoretical foundation.
Impact pathways: navigating risks in the pharmaceutical supply chain – a multi-actor perspective
Authors: Ciceri Claudia , Borsani Camilla , Guida Michela , Farinelli Marco , Caniato Federico 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to comprehensively map and prioritize risks in the pharmaceutical supply chain, focusing on European and North American countries through a multi-actor perspective.Design/methodology/approachThrough a structured literature review on supply chain risk management in the pharmaceutical supply chain, we identified 84 risks. After shortlisting the 15 most critical ones, we applied the analytic hierarchy process to prioritize risks affecting the pharmaceutical supply chain, considering both the perspective of individual actors and the entire supply chain.FindingsThis study first analyzed the pharmaceutical supply chain risk management literature to identify the most critical risks. It then offered a novel perspective on risk prioritization through a multi-actor analytic hierarchy process, revealing how different actors assign varying levels of priority to these risks based on their unique roles and business contexts.Originality/valueRecent disruptions, such as COVID-19 and the Ukraine conflict, reshaped pharmaceutical supply chain risk priorities, revealing a ranking that diverges significantly from the literature. Each supply chain actor prioritized risks differently based on their role, highlighting a fragmented approach and emphasizing the need for more collaborative, systemic risk management. This study introduces new research directions to address unmet, real-world needs within pharmaceutical supply chain risk management.
Exploring impact of production volume and product quality on manufacturers' profitability: analytical modeling and empirical validation
Authors: Goswami Mohit , Ramkumar M. , Anthony Jiju , Jayaraman Raja , Cudney Beth , Chan Felix T.S. 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to develop analytical models that consider product quality and production volume as essential drivers for profitability in the marketplace. It also considers product demand and price dynamics to understand related nuances backed by empirical validation.Design/methodology/approachThe pricing mechanism is influenced by production quality, while product demand is influenced by both price and quality. The study considers cost elements, including production cost and quality loss cost which in turn are influenced by production volume and product quality. It establishes analytical conditions for optimal product quality and applies them to numerical analyses considering four distinct industry settings.FindingsThe study reveals that unique solutions exist for optimal product quality at each production level in four industry scenarios. The optimal production volume depends on product quality, and empirical research validates these findings from analytical models and numerical analysis.Originality/valueThis study represents a pioneering effort to investigate operational strategies in both analytical and empirical contexts, thus contributing to the existing body of knowledge in this area.
Artificial intelligence in the preservation of native languages and bridging the information access gap for indigenous peoples
Authors: Horna-Saldaña Cesar Jhonnatan , Perez Perez Juan Ernesto , Toro Galeano Manuel Leonardo 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to demonstrate how artificial intelligence contributes to the preservation of the cultural identity of native peoples as well as to reduce the gap in access to verified information in native languages of Peru.Design/methodology/approachAn analysis of the context of artificial intelligence in the field of preservation of native languages was developed. Subsequently, the case of the digital tool Quispe Chequea was highlighted, which uses artificial intelligence to produce journalistic content of verification in three native languages of Peru (Quechua, Aimara and Awajún). Finally, a reflection was made on the contributions of artificial intelligence in reducing the gap in access to information, vindication and preservation of native Peruvian languages.FindingsThe findings evidenced the importance of the principles of indigenous data sovereignty to respect cultural rights. Also, it was determined that artificial intelligence contributes to the preservation of cultural values of ethnic groups. It also provides verified information in the native language in order to promote inclusion. Finally, this enabling technology proved to be an important resource in reducing social and cultural gaps.Practical implicationsThe use of artificial intelligence will enable the preservation of the native languages of marginalized and ethnic groups. It also favors the dissemination and communication of truthful information in native languages.Originality/valueThis opinion article highlights a little-explored context in the field of native Peruvian languages. It highlights the contribution that artificial intelligence can bring to ethnic groups, especially in the preservation of their languages and the reduction of the information access gap.
From stigma to trend: the destigmatization of children’s thrift stores in the light of social practice theory
Authors: Freitas Thalita , Brescia Davi , Christino Juliana Maria Magalhães 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study examines the destigmatization of second-hand consumption in a developing country through the lens of social practice theory. It explores media and institutional discourses surrounding children’s thrift stores, identifying key argumentative emphases that reshape perceptions of the second-hand market.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology involves leveraging journalistic and institutional materials to gain insights into the practices molding the second-hand market. Content analysis is used to identify these sources’ pivotal themes and recurring categories, which were then divided into objects, doing and meanings, forming the basis for creating a “gear of practice.”FindingsThe findings reveal a complex network of practices that underpin the destigmatization of second-hand consumption. Specifically, they identify three circuits of practices forming a “gear of practice,” where suppliers, thrift store owners and customers play interchangeable roles, with their actions shaping the meanings and perceptions associated with second-hand goods.Originality/valueThis study introduces the innovative “gear of practice,” which represents a theoretical contribution to understand how practices intersect, considering the perspectives of various stakeholders. Furthermore, this framework advances theoretical discussion by providing insights into how businesses can navigate sustainable consumption trends, considering the role of consumer participation and organizational practices (doings), infrastructure investment and product attributes (objects) and diverse meanings (e.g. sustainability, economic advantage and participation in a new trend) in destigmatizing second-hand markets.
Non-restrictive investments under Islamic bank governance: a comparative study of Gulf Cooperative Council and Southeast Asian banks
Authors: Haddou Samira , Mkhinini Sawssen 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This paper aims to examine the role of Islamic banks’ (IBs) governance in the management of investment funds. This is achieved by comparing the returns to shareholders with those to the Unrestricted Profit-Sharing Iinvestment Account Holders (UPSIAHs), referred to as the spread.

Design/methodology/approach
This study is based on a dynamic panel data analysis using the generalized method of moments for a panel of IBs based in Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) and Southeast Asian (SEA) countries observed over the 2006–2019 period.

Findings
The authors find that governance quality reduces the spread of SEA-IBs compared to GCC-IBs, suggesting that Asian banks have access to a wider choice of investment and growth options. The authors also find a positive association between GCC-based IBs governance quality and the widening spread between returns to shareholders and UPSIAHs, which suggests that while IBs are enhancing profitability through better governance, this may not lead to fair profit-sharing with UPSIAHs.

Research limitations/implications
It would be beneficial to expand the sample to include more representative IBs from various countries.

Practical implications
The widening spread between returns to shareholders and UPSIAHs makes the latter feel displaced, which could eventually exacerbate the displaced commercial risk. This highlights the need for targeted governance reforms and investment strategies to better align the interests of stakeholders, thereby improving bank performance and mitigating financial disparities.

Originality/value
This paper is, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the first to empirically examine the effect of various governance mechanisms on the spread between returns to shareholders and Unrestricted Profit-Sharing Investors’ Account Holders (UPSIAHs) in IBs.