bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Validity and Reliability of HD-DOT TD-fNIRS Resting-State Measurements in Rapid Succession Data Collection Settings
Authors: Oveisi M. Parsa , Momi Davide , Morshedzadeh Taha , Bastiaens Sorenza P. , Griffiths John D. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractFunctional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has long been a cornerstone in the study of brain activity, but its high operational costs, limited availability, and restricted practical applicability have led researchers to seek alternative neuroimaging technologies. Recent advancements in high-density diffuse optical tomography (HD-DOT) and Time-Domain (TD) functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) have emerged as promising solutions, offering the ability to generate detailed tomographic maps of hemodynamic fluctuations associated with neural activity. In this study, using the Kernel Flow device, we assess the performance of HD-DOT TD-fNIRS in terms of signal validity and reliability, particularly in rapid succession data collection settings. We conducted a multiple test-retest experiment involving fNIRS recordings from three participants across 20 ten-minute sessions of eyes-open resting-state brain activity over six days. Our findings indicate that HD-DOT TD-fNIRS systems like the Kernel Flow can reproduce hemodynamic patterns identified by fMRI, albeit with less spatial detail, and can detect resting state networks overall, though some individual network detections are not significant. The system performs consistently over days, with more variability within the time of day, and can capture subject-specific patterns with high accuracy as identified through FC fingerprinting analysis. We conclude that the new generation of HD-DOT TD-fNIRS systems holds significant promise for enhancing and expanding the measurement of functional brain data in both clinical and more naturalistic research settings. This study represents an important step towards a comprehensive understanding of the data quality and consistency achievable with these innovative neuroimaging devices.
Development of antibacterial drug plus bacteriophage combination assays
Authors: Attwood Marie , Griffin Pippa , Noel Alan , Josephs Theo , Adler Karen , Clokie Martha , MacGowan Alasdair 
Published: March 2024

SynopsisBackgroundThe methods to evaluate the interactions between Phages and antibacterials are unclear. As the laboratory methodologies used to assess conventional antibacterials are well established, we asseassed their efficacy in evaluating phage plus antibacterial.Methods100 multidrug resistantE. colistrains were used with three previously isolated and characterisedE. coliphages of known efficacy. These phages UP17, JK08, 113 were assessed both individually and in a 1:1:1cocktail. In a Phage Microbial Inhibitory Concentration (PmIC) assay, a range of phage concentrations from 101-108were inoculated with 5×105/well bacteria in microtitre plates. The first lysed, clear well was taken as the PmIC. Amikacin(AMI) and meropenem(MERO) MICs were determined by microbroth dilution methods(ISO 2776-1:2019) and in combination AMI and MERO MICs were measured with a fixed Phage concentration of 105/well. MICs were performed in triplicate. Time-Kill curves(TKC) were conducted at fosfomycin concentrations of 133, 50 and 5mg/L with and without phage.ResultsThe PmIC50/90for UP17 were >108/>108; JK08 107/>108; 113 107/>108and the 1:1:1 cocktail 106/>108. AMI MIC50/90were 0.5/>16 and MERO 0.12/>16mg/L. The addition of UP17 to AMI increased AMI MICs >2 fold in 78 strains. Equivalent increases in AMI MIC were seen with 39 strains with JK08, 54 strains with 113 and 45 strains with the cocktails. In contrast, meropenem MICs in the presence of phage were reduced >2 fold in 24 strains with UP17. Equivalent decreases in MERO MIC were seen with 34 strains with JK08, 26 strains with 113 and 29 strains with the cocktails. In TKCs addition of phage suppressed regrowth.ConclusionMicrobroth methodologies based on ISO 2776-1:2019 and TKCs allow the interaction between Phages and antibacterials to be studied. Optimisation may produce laboratory-based methods with translational value.
Regulatory influence, board characteristics and climate change disclosures: evidence from environmentally sensitive firms in developing economy context
Authors: Saha Anup Kumar , Khan Imran 
Published: March 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the impact of board characteristics on climate change disclosures (CCDs) in the context of an emerging economy, with a unique focus on regulatory influences.

Design/methodology/approach
This study analyzes longitudinal data (2014–2021) from environmentally sensitive firms listed on the Dhaka Stock Exchange, using a disclosure index developed within the Global Reporting Initiative framework. The authors use a neo-institutional theoretical lens to explore regulatory influences on CCD through board characteristics. This study uses hand-collected data from annual reports owing to the absence of an established database.

Findings
The results indicate that a larger board size, the presence of foreign directors and the existence of an audit committee correlate with higher levels of CCD disclosure. Conversely, a higher frequency of board meetings is associated with lower CCD disclosure levels. This study also observed an increase in CCD following the implementation of corporate governance guidelines by the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission, albeit with a relatively low number of firms making these disclosures.

Research limitations/implications
This study contributes to the climate change reporting literature by providing empirical evidence of regulatory influences on CCD through board characteristics in an emerging economy. However, the findings may not be universally applicable, considering the study’s focus on Bangladeshi listed firms.

Practical implications
This study suggests growing pressures for diverse stakeholders, including researchers and regulatory bodies, to integrate climate change disclosure into routine activities. This study offers a valuable framework and insights for various stakeholders.

Social implications
By emphasizing the influence of good governance and sustainability practices, this study contributes to stakeholders’ understanding, aiming to contribute to a better world.

Originality/value
This study stands out by uniquely positioning itself in the climate change reporting literature, shedding light on regulatory influences on CCD through board characteristics in the context of an emerging economy.
Digitalization in lean manufacturing firms: a cumulative capability development perspective
Authors: Powell Daryl John , Laubengaier Désirée A. , Tortorella Guilherme Luz , Saabye Henrik , Antony Jiju , Cagliano Raffaella 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the digitalization of operational processes and activities in lean manufacturing firms and explore the associated learning implications through the lens of cumulative capability theory.Design/methodology/approachAdopting a multiple-case design, we examine four cases of digitalization initiatives within lean manufacturing firms. We collected data through semi-structured interviews and direct observations during site visits.FindingsThe study uncovers the development of learning capabilities as a result of integrating lean and digitalization. We find that digitalization in lean manufacturing firms contributes to the development of both routinized and evolutionary learning capabilities in a cumulative fashion.Originality/valueThe study adds nuance to the limited theoretical understanding of the integration of lean and digitalization by showing how it cumulatively develops the learning capabilities of lean manufacturing firms. As such, the study supports the robustness of cumulative capability theory. We further contribute to research by offering empirical support for the cumulative nature of learning.
Supervisor-subordinate communication in the audit environment: a review and synthesis of contextual factors affecting subordinate behavior
Authors: Jefferson Devon 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThis paper’s objective is to provide a systematic literature review of the contextual factors affecting downward communication from supervisors to subordinates in the audit environment. In addition, this review identifies emerging research themes and directions for future research.Design/methodology/approachI accomplish this review’s objectives by leveraging communication literature to establish a framework to identify and synthesize contextual factors affecting downward communication in the audit environment. The review identifies 50 published articles in the last 20 years from leading accounting and auditing journals.FindingsThis study consolidates research findings on downward communication under two primary contextual factors: (1) message and (2) channel. Findings indicate that empirical research examining communication in audit is fragmented and limited. Studies examining the message focus heavily on its content and treatment in the areas of feedback, nonverbal cues, and fraud brainstorming, and a handful of additional studies examine the effectiveness of the channel in these areas. Additional research is needed to understand a broader set of supervisor–subordinate communication practices, including those that are computer-mediated, and their effect on subordinate auditors’ judgments and behaviors in the contemporary audit environment.Originality/valueMuch of the audit literature examining communication to date is topic-versus construct-based, making it difficult to see how the research findings relate to one another. This review is the first to synthesize the literature to provide academics recommendations for a way forward, and inform practitioners of communication practices whereby supervisors can be trained to improve audit quality.
An assessment framework to evaluate the critical success factors to Quality 4.0 transition in developing countries: a case experience of sustainable performance of Indian manufacturers
Authors: Joshi Sudhanshu , Sharma Manu , Luthra Sunil , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Anbanandam Ramesh 
Published: March 2024

PurposeThe research aims to develop an assessment framework that evaluates critical success factors (CSFs) for the Quality 4.0 (Q 4.0) transition among Indian firms.Design/methodology/approachThe authors use the fuzzy-Delphi method to validate the results of a systematic literature review (SLR) that explores critical aspects. Further, the fuzzy decision-making trial and laboratory (DEMATEL) method determines the cause-and-effect link. The findings indicate that developing a Q 4.0 framework is essential for the long-term success of manufacturing companies. Utilizing the power of digital technology, data analytics and automation, manufacturing companies can benefit from the Q 4.0 framework. Product quality, operational effectiveness and overall business performance may all be enhanced by implementing the Q 4.0 transition framework.FindingsThe study highlights significant awareness of Q 4.0 in the Indian manufacturing sector that is acquired through various means such as training, experience, learning and research. However, most manufacturing industries in India still follow older quality paradigms. On the other hand, Indian manufacturing industries seem well-equipped to adopt Q 4.0, given practitioners' firm grasp of its concepts and anticipated benefits, including improved customer satisfaction, product refinement, continuous process enhancement, waste reduction and informed decision-making. Adoption hurdles involve challenges including reliable electricity access, high-speed Internet, infrastructure, a skilled workforce and financial support. The study also introduces a transition framework facilitating the shift from conventional methods to Q 4.0, aligned with the principles of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (IR).Research limitations/implicationsThis research exclusively examines the manufacturing sector, neglecting other fields such as medical, service, mining and construction. Additionally, there needs to be more emphasis on the Q 4.0 implementation frameworks within the scope of the study.Originality/valueThis may be the inaugural framework for transitioning to Q 4.0 in India's manufacturing sectors and, conceivably, other developing nations.
EMBODIED URBANIZATIONS AND AMEFRICAN FUTURITIES: Lucia's Epistemology
Authors: Veillette Anne‐Marie 
Published: March 2024

AbstractIn this article, I examine the definition of resistance given by a favela woman from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—Lucia Cabral—and its epistemological potential for urban theory. From a feminist, postcolonial and decolonial point of view, I argue that Lucia's definition of resistance entails an insightful framework to understand urban transformations, because she shifts the question of ‘what they are’ to ‘where they stream from’. I build on my situated position and inter‐relationality with Lucia to argue that, first, urban transformations, which I here refer to as forms of urbanization, can and often do come from the favela; secondly, that these forms of urbanization derive from situated and translocated‐ing Amefrican epistemologies; and thirdly, that women's bodies constitute, in many cases, the very basis of urban futurities in the favelas. I look into embodied forms of urbanization to conclude that it is possible to see, feel, sense and nurture forms of future‐thinking and ‐building that I here call Amefrican futurities, for they emerge from the specific subjectivities and praxis of women living in the favelas.
The association of prehospital systemic corticosteroids with emergency department and in‐hospital outcomes for patients with asthma exacerbations
Authors: Ramgopal Sriram , Naik Vishal V. , Komukai Sho , Owusu‐Ansah Sylvia , Crowe Remle P. , Okubo Masashi , Martin‐Gill Christian 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackgroundTimely administration of systemic corticosteroids is a cornerstone of asthma exacerbation treatment, yet little is known regarding potential benefits of prehospital administration by emergency medical services (EMS) clinicians. We examined factors associated with prehospital corticosteroid administration with hospitalization and hospital length of stay (LOS).MethodsWe performed a retrospective study of EMS encounters for patients 2–50 years of age with suspected asthma exacerbation from a national data set. We evaluated factors associated with systemic corticosteroid administration using generalized estimating equations. We performed propensity matching based on service level, age, encounter duration, vital signs, and treatments to evaluate the association of prehospital corticosteroid administration with hospitalization and LOS using weighted logistic regression. We evaluated the association of prehospital corticosteroid administration with admission using Bayesian models.ResultsOf 15,834 encounters, 4731 (29.9%) received prehospital systemic corticosteroids. Administration of corticosteroids was associated with older age; sex; urbanicity; advanced life support provider; vital sign instability; increasing doses of albuterol; and provision of ipratropium bromide, magnesium, epinephrine, and supplementary oxygen. Within the matched sample, prehospital corticosteroids were not associated with hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] 0.86, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.73–1.01) or LOS (multiplier 0.76, 95% CI 0.56–1.05). Administration of corticosteroids was associated with lower odds of admission and shorter LOS in longer EMS encounters (>34 min), lower admission odds in patients with documented wheezing, and shorter LOS among patients treated with albuterol. In a Bayesian model with noninformative priors, the OR for admission among encounters given corticosteroids was 0.86 (95% credible interval 0.77–0.96).ConclusionsPrehospital systemic corticosteroid administration was not associated with hospitalization or LOS in the overall cohort of asthma patients treated by EMS, though they had a lower probability of admission within Bayesian models. Improved outcomes were noted among subgroups of longer EMS encounters, documented wheezing, and receipt of albuterol.
Should tobacco sales be restricted to state‐run alcohol outlets? Perspectives from 10 US alcohol control states
Authors: Smith Elizabeth A. , McDaniel Patricia A. , Malone Ruth E. 
Published: March 2024

AbstractBackground and aimsThe ubiquity of tobacco retailers helps to sustain the tobacco epidemic. A tobacco retail reduction approach that has not been tried is transitioning tobacco sales to state‐controlled alcohol stores (TTS), which are limited in number and operate under some restrictions, e.g. regarding opening hours or marketing materials. This study summarizes policy experts' and advocates’ views of TTS, including (1) advantages and disadvantages; (2) feasibility; and (3) potential implementation obstacles.DesignThis study was a qualitative content analysis of semi‐structured interviews.SettingTen US states with alcoholic beverage control systems were included.ParticipantsThe participants comprised a total of 103 tobacco control advocates and professionals, public health officials, alcohol policy experts and alcohol control system representatives, including two tribal community representatives.MeasurementsInterviewees’ perspectives on their state's alcoholic beverage control agency (ABC, the agency that oversees or operates a state alcohol monopoly) and on TTS were assessed.FindingsInterviewees thought TTS offered potential advantages, including reduced access to tobacco products, less exposure to tobacco advertising and a greater likelihood of successful smoking cessation. Some saw potential long‐term health benefits for communities of color, due to the smaller number of state alcohol stores in those communities. Interviewees also raised concerns regarding TTS, including ABCs’ limited focus on public health and emphasis on revenue generation, which could conflict with tobacco use reduction efforts. Some interviewees thought TTS could enhance the power of the tobacco and alcohol industries, increase calls for alcohol system privatization or create difficulties for those in recovery.ConclusionsIn the United States, transitioning tobacco sales to state‐controlled alcohol stores (TTS) could have a positive public health impact by reducing tobacco availability, marketing exposure and, ultimately, tobacco use. However, tensions exist between alcohol control system goals of providing revenue to the state and protecting public health. Should a state decide to pursue TTS, several guardrails should be established, including building into the legislation an explicit goal of reducing tobacco consumption.
Soluble MICA in endometriosis pathophysiology: Impairs NK cell degranulation and effector functions
Authors: Marin Maria Lucia Carnevale , Rached Marici Rached , Monteiro Sandra Maria , Kalil Jorge , Abrao Mauricio Simoes , Coelho Verônica 
Published: March 2024

AbstractProblemEndometriosis exhibits several immune dysfunctions, including deficient natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity. MICA (MHC class I chain‐related molecule A) is induced by biological stress and soluble MICA (sMICA) negatively modulates the expression of the activating receptor, NKG2D, reducing NK cells activities. We investigated the involvement of soluble MICA in NK cell‐deficient activity in endometriosis.Methods of studysMICA levels (serum and peritoneal fluid—PF) were evaluated by ELISA. Circulating NK cell subsets quantification and its NKG2D receptor expression, NK cell cytotoxicity and CD107a, IFN‐γ and IL‐10 expressions by NK cells stimulated with K562 cells were determined by flow cytometry.ResultsWe found higher sMICA levels (serum and PF) in endometriosis, especially in advanced and deep endometriosis. Endometriosis presented lower percentages of CD56dimCD16+ cytotoxic cells and impaired NK cell responses upon stimulation, resulting in lower CD107a and IFN‐γ expressions, and deficient NK cell cytotoxicity. NK cell stimulation in the MICA‐blocked condition (mimicking the effect of sMICA) showed decreased cytotoxicity in initial endometriosis stages and the emergence of a negative correlation between CD107a expression and sMICA levels.ConclusionsWe suggest that soluble MICA is a potential player in endometriosis pathophysiology with involvement in disease progression and severity, contributing to NK cell impaired IFN‐γ response and degranulation. NK cell compartment exhibits multiple perturbations, including quantitative deficiency and impaired cytotoxicity, contributing to inadequate elimination of ectopic endometrial tissue.
Anatomy of muscle connections in the male urethra and anorectal canal
Authors: Muro Satoru , Shoji Sunao , Suriyut Janyaruk , Akita Keiichi 
Published: March 2024

ObjectivesTo elucidate the male urethral muscular structure and its relationship with the anorectal canal muscles, as establishing an anatomical foundation for urethral function will contribute to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of urinary incontinence.MethodsEight male cadavers were used. Using a multifaceted approach, we performed macroscopic anatomical examination, histological analysis of wide‐range serial sectioning and immunostaining, and three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction from histological sections. In the macroscopic anatomical examination, pelvic halves were meticulously dissected in layers from the medial aspect. In the histological analysis, the tissue, including the urethra and anorectal canal, was serially sectioned in the horizontal plane. The muscular structures were reconstructed and visualised in 3D.ResultsThe membranous portion of the urethra had three muscle layers: the longitudinal and circular muscles (smooth muscle) and the external urethral sphincter (skeletal muscle). The circular muscle was connected posteriorly to the longitudinal rectal muscle. The external urethral sphincter had a horseshoe shape, with its posterior ends continuing to the external anal sphincter, forming a 3D ring‐like sphincter.ConclusionThis study revealed skeletal and smooth muscle connections between the male urethra and anorectal canal, enabling urethral compression and closure. These anatomical muscle connections suggest a functional linkage between them.
Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel quinoxaline aryl ethers as anticancer agents
Authors: Nakka Srinuvasu , Raza Asif , Chaitanya Kosana Sai , Bandaru Naga Venkata Madhusudhan Rao , Chandu Ala , Murugesan Sankaranarayanan , Devunuri Nagaraju , Sharma Arun K. , Chandrasekhar Kondapalli Venkata Gowri 
Published: March 2024

AbstractWe designed and synthesized thirty novel quinoxaline aryl ethers as anticancer agents, and the structures of final compounds were confirmed with various analytical techniques like Mass, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FTIR, and elemental analyses. The compounds were tested against three cancer cell lines: colon cancer (HCT‐116), breast cancer (MDA‐MB‐231), prostate cancer (DU‐145), and one normal cell line: human embryonic kidney cell line (HEK‐293). The obtained results indicate that two compounds, FQ and MQ, with IC50 values < 16 μM, were the most active compounds. Molecular docking studies revealed the binding of FQ and MQ molecules in the active site of the c‐Met kinase (PDB ID: 3F66, 1.40 Å). Furthermore, QikProp ADME prediction and the MDS analysis preserved those critical docking data of both compounds, FQ and MQ. Western blotting was used to confirm the impact of the compounds FQ and MQ on the inhibition of the c‐Met kinase receptor. The apoptosis assays were performed to investigate the mechanism of cell death for the most active compounds, FQ and MQ. The Annexin V/7‐AAD assay indicated apoptosis in MDA‐MB‐231 cells treated with FQ and MQ, with FQ (21.4%) showing a higher efficacy in killing MDA‐MB‐231 cells than MQ (14.25%). The Caspase 3/7 7‐AAD assay further supported these findings, revealing higher percentages of apoptotic cells for FQ‐treated MDA‐MB‐231 cells (41.8%). The results obtained from the apoptosis assay conclude that FQ exhibits better anticancer activity against MDA‐MB‐231 cells than MQ.