bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identifying Potential Drug Targets for Prostate Cancer from a Genetic Perspective: A Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Huang Jiaqing , Li Zhiqiang , Lin Yunqiao 
Published: January 2025

AbstractBackgroundThis study aimed to identify novel therapeutic targets for prostate cancer (PCa) utilizing expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data through Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis, while exploring the potential underlying mechanisms.MethodsWe employed MR analysis to evaluate the causal relationships between eQTLs and PCa. Cis-expression quantitative trait loci (cis-eQTL, exposure) data were obtained from the eQTLGen Consortium. GWAS data for prostate cancer were obtained from the UK Biobank Consortium and the FinnGen Consortium, with the UK Biobank Consortium data used for primary discovery and the FinnGen Consortium data used for replication and validation. Additionally, we conducted enrichment analysis, constructed protein interaction networks, predicted potential drugs, and performed molecular docking experiments to elucidate the functional significance and therapeutic reliability of identified targets.ResultsOur findings revealed that HOXA9, MPHOSPH6, SLC45A3, PBX2, and HLA-A are positively correlated with PCa risk, whereas PPARGC1A, FLOT2, TKT, CARNS1, GPBAR1, CSF1R, and TRAV21 showed negative associations. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that GPBAR1 exhibited the highest binding affinity among the top five predicted drugs.ConclusionsThis study identified 12 promising drug targets for PCa through MR analysis. Therapeutics developed to target these genes are anticipated to enhance the success rate in clinical trials, thus enabling more efficient development of PCa treatments and potentially lowering overall drug development costs.
The Cholinergic Anti-Inflammatory Reflex as a Function of Depression Severity in Adolescent Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
Authors: Nguyen Thomas P. , Baumeister-Lingens Luise , Markser Anna , Rösch Anna-Sophia , Kaess Michael , Koenig Julian 
Published: January 2025

AbstractA growing body of research has demonstrated a link between non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and mood disorders with pro-inflammatory states. The cholinergic anti-inflammatory reflex is a neural pathway that helps modulate the body’s inflammatory response and has been posited as a potential avenue for adjuvant treatment in mental disorders. However, no study to date has investigated the functioning of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory reflex in a clinical adolescent population with NSSI. This study measured heart rate variability (HRV; a proxy for vagus nerve activity), inflammatory markers (leukocytes, c-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL- 6)) and several clinical measures in female adolescents with NSSI (n = 154) along with healthy controls (n = 46). Statistical analyses tested for group differences and correlations between HRV, inflammatory markers and depression in the NSSI group. Mediation analyses were conducted to test direct and indirect effects. The NSSI group showed greater depressive symptoms and leukocyte levels, but lower HRV compared to the control group. In the full sample, depression severity was positively correlated with leukocyte and CRP levels and negatively correlated with HRV. HRV was also negatively correlated with leukocyte and CRP levels. Depression severity mediated the association between leukocytes and HRV. Overall, this study supports the notion that lower vagal activity is associated with increased inflammatory markers in a sample of adolescents with NSSI which suggests altered functioning of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory reflex.
Dissipation in the
1/D
expansion for planar matrix models
Authors: Anegawa Takanori , Iizuka Norihiro , Kabat Daniel 
Published: January 2025

We consider the thermal behavior of a large number of matrix degrees of freedom in the planar limit. We work in 0+1 dimensions, with D matrices, and use 1/D as an expansion parameter. This can be thought of as a noncommutative large-D vector model, with two independent quartic couplings for the two different orderings of the matrices. We compute a thermal two-point correlator to O(1/D) and find that the degeneracy present at large D is lifted, with energy levels split by an amount ∼1/D. This implies a timescale for thermal dissipation ∼D. At high temperatures dissipation is predominantly due to one of the two quartic couplings.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Markov-bridge generation of transition paths and its application to cell-fate choice
Authors: Le Treut Guillaume , Ancheta Sarah , Huber Greg , Orland Henri , Yllanes David 
Published: January 2025

We present a method to sample Markov-chain trajectories constrained to both the initial and final conditions, which we term Markov bridges. The trajectories are conditioned to end in a specific state at a given time. We derive the master equation for Markov bridges, which exhibits the original transition rates scaled by a time-dependent factor. Trajectories can then be generated using a refined version of the Gillespie algorithm. We illustrate the benefits of our method by sampling trajectories in the Müller-Brown potential. This allows us to generate transition paths which would otherwise be obtained at a high computational cost with standard kinetic Monte Carlo methods because commitment to a transition path is essentially a rare event. We then apply our method to a single-cell RNA sequencing dataset from mouse pancreatic cells to investigate the cell differentiation pathways of endocrine-cell precursors. By sampling Markov bridges for a specific differentiation pathway, we obtain a time-resolved dynamics that can reveal features such as cell types which behave as bottlenecks. The ensemble of trajectories also gives information about the fluctuations around the most likely path. For example, we quantify the statistical weights of different branches in the differentiation pathway to alpha cells.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Fractional derivative in continuous-time Markov processes and applications to epidemics in networks
Authors: D'Alessandro Matteo , Van Mieghem Piet 
Published: January 2025

Continuous-time Markov processes are governed by the Chapman-Kolmogorov differential equation. We show that replacing the standard time derivative of the governing equation with a Caputo fractional derivative of order 0<α<1, leads to a fractional differential equation whose solution can describe the state probabilities of a class of non-Markovian stochastic processes. We show that the same state probabilities also solve a system of equations that describe semi-Markov processes in which the sojourn times follow a Mittag-Leffler distribution, contrasting the usual Markov processes with exponentially distributed sojourn times. We apply the fractional framework to the ɛ−SIS epidemic process on any contact graph and we propose a microscopic epidemic description in which infection and curing events follow a Mittag-Leffler distribution and are not independent. We analytically prove that the description exactly solves the fractional extension of the Chapman-Kolmogorov differential equation, and we provide an extensive study of how the dependence between events strongly affects the dynamics of the spreading process. We conclude verifying the proposed framework with Monte Carlo simulations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Corporate governance and energy sector sustainability performance disclosure
Authors: Hussien Lina Fuad , Alrawashedh Nahed Habis , Deek Anan , Alshaketheep Khaled , Zraqat Omar , Al-Awamleh Hasan Khaled , Zureigat Qasim 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
The energy sector is one of the most important sectors with an impact on the environment, and therefore, sustainable performance in this sector is considered a sensitive issue for sustainability. It is, therefore, necessary to know how to address stakeholders’ interest in sustainability through governance mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to look into the role of corporate governance (CG) on sustainable performance disclosure (SPD) in the energy sector.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses panel data covering the period 2019–2023 among 12 companies in the energy sector in Jordan. Fixed-effect regression models were estimated for board size, board independence, chief executive officer (CEO) duality, board diligence, board gender diversity, sustainability committee existence and sustainability disclosure. The data analysis tool of choice was a multiple regression approach because it was deemed appropriate. The disclosure index was created using global reporting initiative standards and provides the number and quality of disclosures on key sustainability indicators.

Findings
The study found a significant and positive relationship between board size, percentage of independent directors, board audit, board gender diversity, existence of sustainability committee and level of SPD. On the other hand, the study establishes that CEO duality has an inverse relationship with SPD.

Practical implications
The findings of this study have significant implications for managers and corporate decision-makers in the energy sector. The findings affirm that the improved design of CG motivations and realizations conducive to robust measures of SPD necessitates effective CG.

Originality/value
The value of this applied study stems from the importance of SPD for various categories of stakeholders, and conducting such an applied study is crucial to improving the existing realization of the factors that can have a significant impact on the level of SPD in Jordanian energy sector companies. The results of this paper may be of procedural value to regulatory authorities and decision-makers.
Understanding NEET status in Cameroon and Chad: determinants and gender disparities
Authors: Zamo Akono Christian , Medjo Obia Liliane Odette 
Published: January 2025

PurposeThis study aims to examine the association between Not in Employment, Education, or Training (NEET) status and a set of individual and household socioeconomic factors, including potential gender-based variations, for young people aged 15–34 years in Cameroon and Chad.Design/methodology/approachUsing data from the 2021 Survey on Youths’ Transition to the Labour Market in Francophone Africa, logistic regressions were conducted to identify the determinants of NEET status, and the multivariate decomposition for nonlinear response models was employed to examine gender disparities in the likelihood of being NEET.FindingsIn Cameroon, the likelihood of being NEET is linked to factors such as age, being female, being in a couple, having dependent children, financial difficulties and urban residency. In Chad, NEET status is associated with higher education, age, being female, being in a couple and having dependent children, but decreases with secondary education, technical education and balancing work and study. Gender disparities in NEET status are largely explained by individual characteristics, accounting for 56.16% of the disparity in Cameroon and 73.72% in Chad. The main contributors in Cameroon are higher education, marital status and having children, while in Chad they are secondary and technical education, studying STEM, age, marital status and having children.Originality/valueThis paper makes two key contributions: first, it is the pioneering study on the determinants of entering the NEET category in sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on individual characteristics; second, it offers the first comprehensive decomposition of factors driving gender disparities in the likelihood of being NEET.
Marketing strategies and dynamics in online mobile gaming: a diffusion model
Authors: Makki Mahshidsadat , Jafari Mostafa , Parsanejad Mohammadreza 
Published: January 2025

PurposeGrowing technology adoption is a significant opportunity for the growth of the mobile gaming market. Rising smartphones allow game developers to reach more players and make more money. The study offers guidance for mobile game developers to increase profits and extend the longevity of their games. It aims to assist in making better marketing policy decisions by providing valuable insights into effective approaches for both early and subsequent market penetration stages.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a model for analyzing factors that influence the attraction and retention of mobile gamers, which is based on a literature review of mobile gaming and uses the Bass diffusion model and system dynamics method for modeling and simulation.FindingsIn the initial stages of a game release, influencer marketing can be more effective than other marketing tools in increasing visibility. As the game progresses, incorporating referral programs can enhance user engagement, promote the game further, and reduce the number of uninstalls. Influencer marketing can also help the games reach a wider audience, generating more interest, and increasing installations for more tremendous success in the market. However, referral programs can extend the lifespan of games, mainly when gamers are engaged.Originality/valueThe study used new marketing strategies in the mobile game industry to gain insights into the growth and evolution of this industry. Development managers can use insights for effective policies and success. The model aids in understanding the dynamics of mobile games and informed decisions for game developers.
Does the business strategy matter? The mandatory regulation of corporate social responsibility and earnings quality relationship
Authors: Hamed Ruba , Al-Shattarat Wasim , Al-Shattarat Basiem 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting and earnings management (EM) activities following the Companies Act 2006 Regulation 2013. Further, it examines the moderating role of business strategy in the association between mandatory CSR reporting and EM practices.

Design/methodology/approach
The study uses a sample of UK-listed companies on the London Stock Exchange from 2006 to 2020. It uses a quantitative approach to examine the main hypotheses.

Findings
The study finds that the new regulation of CSR reporting has increased the tendency of managers to act opportunistically through real earnings management (REM). Moreover, it finds that the defender business strategy negatively affects the association between mandated CSR reporting and REM but is positively related to accrual earnings management (AEM). Moreover, the results demonstrate that the prospector business strategy does not moderate the association between mandatory CSR reporting and EM practices.

Practical implications
Policymakers should consider business strategy when designing CSR regulations to prevent unintended consequences, introducing safeguards like stricter disclosure requirements and enhanced auditing standards. For investors and auditors, understanding the factors influencing EM helps make informed decisions and conduct rigorous audits, especially for companies with high CSR reporting levels.

Originality/value
This study addresses a significant gap in the literature concerning the impact of introducing new CSR legislation (The Companies Act 2006) on EM practices. It enhances our understanding of the role that CSR reporting and functions play in capital markets. Furthermore, it contributes to the CSR literature by highlighting how business strategy influences the relationship between CSR reporting and EM practices.
Way beyond the care cliff: exploring a housing and support service for care experienced people over 25
Authors: Rogers Justin , Thomas Ian , Mendes Philip 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study explores the experiences of care-experienced people living in supported housing provided by the Rees Foundation in England. This study aims to understand the challenges faced by those over 25 who have aged out of statutory support and explores how the Rees Foundation’s services help address these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews with five tenants and five staff members from the housing project. Thematic analysis identified key themes related to homelessness, safety, stability and the importance of relationships with outreach workers.

Findings
The findings reveal that care leavers often face a “cliff edge” when statutory support ends, resulting in risks such as homelessness and social isolation. The Rees Foundation’s approach, which includes ongoing emotional and practical support, plays a crucial role in fostering safety, stability and hope among tenants.

Originality/value
This study offers original insights into the effectiveness of sustained support for care-experienced people beyond the age of 25, an age group that has been largely overlooked in existing research. By focusing on a population often neglected in care leaver studies, it highlights the need for extended support services to prevent long-term adverse outcomes, contributing to the broader understanding of post-care transitions.
Subtle success of digitalization in hospitality: a triangulation study
Authors: Chen Yihong , Ye Huiyue , Law Rob 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
Digitalization in hospitality and tourism (DHT) is undergoing a profound revolution, yet its actual effect remains overlooked. This paper aims to delve into the actual effect of DHT and uncover the underlying mechanisms that trigger its subtle success.

Design/methodology/approach
Triangulation was used by leveraging complementary multisource data and mixed methods to explore DHT’s challenges. First, regression and statistical analysis revealed intricate outcome of DHT at the regional level. Then, DistilBERT and nonnegative matrix factorization were used to cluster the tourists’ complaints about DHT. Finally, based on a modified diffusion innovation system and stakeholder theory, this study proposed the Integrated Framework for Digitalization Mismatch in Hospitality and Tourism (IFDMHT).

Findings
The quantitative techniques identified the subtle contributions of digitalization on demand. The qualitative technique explored the strategy–practice and demand–supply mismatches as the core of the failure.

Originality/value
This study synthesizes macroregional and micropsychological perspectives to examine the actual effect of DHT. An IFDMHT model is established to investigate the underlying factors influencing the subtle successes of DHT. The findings provide targeted recommendations to assist stakeholders in developing sustainable DHT.
A path towards sustainability through the circular economy phenom: indicators from the Spanish agri-food sector
Authors: García-Granero Eva M. , Piedra-Muñoz Laura , Galdeano-Gómez Emilio , Sorroche-del-Rey Yolanda 
Published: January 2025

Purpose
This study aims to propose a comprehensive framework for assessing circular economy (CE) performance in the agri-food sector. It identifies those indicators that should be used to measure circularity regarding CE strategies, applies them at a microeconomic level and examines the impact of key business determinants (financial, internalization, knowledge, awareness and digitalization).

Design/methodology/approach
A literature review was conducted with a focus on CE strategies and related indicators. The framework obtained is applied on a Spanish agri-food sector survey to provide an empirical CE analysis at firm level. A partial least squares based-structural equation modelling method is applied.

Findings
The research suggests a set of circularity indicators to assess CE strategies at micro level. The findings reveal the heterogeneity of CE sub-indicators related to narrowing, slowing, closing and regenerating strategies. It also highlights the strong effects that the drivers tested have on CE, especially awareness and knowledge.

Practical implications
This study provides a framework that can guide public policies and business decisions in sectors with significant environmental impacts. It provides a conceptual framework that explains which CE indicators should be considered by governments and regulators when developing policies that seek to promote circular strategies.

Social implications
In the case of companies, the results show that acquiring more environmental awareness and knowledge is essential for promoting more sustainable work habits that enhance CE.

Originality/value
The paper offers a novel contribution to the CE literature by introducing a multidimensional indicator framework comprehensively applied to the agri-food sector, integrating miscellaneous pillars of circular strategies and business determinants.
Dancing with the devil: Could native predators inside ‘predator‐free’ havens be good for the conservation of threatened native prey species?
Authors: Harrison Natasha D. , Phillips Ben L. , Mitchell Nicola J. , Macmahon Brian , Rasmussen Deanna , Lacey Peter , Fanson Kerry , Wayne Adrian F. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

As invasive predators continue to drive global biodiversity loss, predator‐free havens are rapidly being established to recover threatened fauna. An unintended consequence of these efforts is that havened populations can lose anti‐predator traits, making them poorly suited for reintroduction into landscapes that contain predators.

One approach showing promise in preventing the loss of these critical responses from havened populations is in situ predator exposure. Here we evaluate this via experimental translocations to determine whether predation pressure from a native mesopredator (chuditch; Dasyurus geoffroii) is effective in retaining behavioural and morphological anti‐predator traits in the Endangered woylie (Bettongia penicillata ogilbyi). We conducted replicated reintroductions of semi‐havened (free from invasive predators but exposed to chuditch) and non‐havened (control) woylies into vacant bushland containing chuditch, feral foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and feral cats (Felis catus). We monitored woylie survival, reproduction, physiology (faecal glucocorticoid metabolites, fGCM), and proxies for behavioural and morphological anti‐predator traits before and for 10 months after their release.

We found no effects of source population on weight, pes length, agitation behaviour or fGCM. Survival probability was higher for males, and individuals with higher fGCM levels, but we could not attribute differences in woylie survival to whether they originated from a haven.

These findings suggest that sustained predation pressure from chuditch inside the haven has been effective in maintaining anti‐predator responses and supporting the survival of woylies faced with novel invasive predators.

Synthesis and Applications. In situ predator exposure can be a valuable tool for preserving anti‐predator traits in havened populations. However, it will be crucial to understand thresholds of predation pressure across contexts that havened fauna can withstand before recommending broad‐scale adoption of this strategy.