bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-range genomic loci stochastically assemble into combinatorial forms of chromosome skeleton
Authors: Zhang Jingyu , Wang Siyuan , Watkins Simon C , Xing Jianhua
Published: February 2025

One fundamental yet open question is how eukaryotic chromosomes fold into segregated territories, a process essential for gene transcription and cell fate. Through analyzing Hi-C and chromatin-tracing DNA-FISH data, we identify long-range chromo skeleton loop structures that span over 100 Mb, extending beyond the reach of loop extrusion models. Spatial density analyses point to assembly formation independent of major nuclear structures. A subset of genomic loci serves as nucleation centers, driving loop clustering. These complexes are highly stable, as shown by live-cell imaging with sequence-specific fluorescent labeling, and biophysical model analyses reveal a multivalent binding mechanism. Our findings suggest a redundant, distributed cluster mechanism that ensures robustness across cell types and against mutations, guiding both chromosome compaction and the formation of smaller-scale chromosomal structures.
3-D Reconstruction of Fingertip Deformation during Contact Initiation
Authors: Doumont Donatien , Kao Anika R , Lambert Julien , Wielant François , Gerling Gregory J , Delhaye Benoit P , Lefèvre Philippe
Published: February 2025

Dexterous manipulations rely on tactile feedback from the fingertips, which provides crucial information about contact events, object geometry, interaction forces, friction, and more. Accurately measuring skin deformations during tactile interactions can shed light on the mechanics behind such feedback. To address this, we developed a novel setup using 3-D digital image correlation (DIC) to both reconstruct the bulk deformation and local surface skin deformation of the fingertip under natural loading conditions. Here, we studied the local spatiotemporal evolution of the skin surface during contact initiation. We showed that, as soon as contact occurs, the skin surface deforms very rapidly and exhibits high compliance at low forces (<0.05 N). As loading and thus the contact area increases, a localized deformation front forms just ahead of the moving contact boundary. Consequently, substantial deformation extending beyond the contact interface was observed, with maximal amplitudes ranging from 5% to 10% at 5 N, close to the border of the contact. Furthermore, we found that friction influences the partial slip caused by these deformations during contact initiation, as previously suggested. Our setup provides a powerful tool to get new insights into the mechanics of touch and opens avenues for a deeper understanding of tactile afferent encoding.
PU.1 and TGF-β signaling transactivate CD103 expression in mast cells and dendritic cells: Opposite roles of GATA2 in the expression of mucosal mast cell-specific genes
Authors: Ishii Kenta , Nagata Kazuki , Akimoto Yuta , Zhao Weiting , Inoue Mariko , Ito Naoto , Kasakura Kazumi , Nishiyama Chiharu
Published: February 2025

Mucosal mast cells (MMCs) are distinguished from connective tissue MCs by the specific expression of integrin CD103 (αE/β7) and MC proteases Mcpt1 and Mcpt2. Although the expression of theMcpt1andMcpt2genes is cooperatively regulated by the transcription factor GATA2 and TGF-β signaling in MMCs, the transcriptional mechanism of CD103 expression remains unknown. Here, we found that surface CD103 andItgaemRNA levels were significantly increased by the knockdown (KD) ofGata2in bone marrow-derived MCs (BMMCs), which was accelerated by a TGF-β stimulation. Since the mRNA levels ofSpi1(encoding PU.1) were increased inGata2KD BMMCs, we examined the effects of PU.1 on CD103 expression. As expected, CD103 levels on BMMCs were significantly decreased bySpi1KD and increased bySpi1overexpression.Spi1KD suppressedItgaeexpression even in the presence of TGF-β in BMMCs and peritoneal MCs, whereasGata2KD amplified the TGF-β-induced increase inItgaeexpression. The amount of PU.1 binding to thecis-element in theItgaegene was significantly and moderately increased byGata2KD and the TGF-β stimulation, respectively. Since PU.1 is an essential transcription factor for dendritic cells (DCs), we examined the role of PU.1 in CD103 expression on DCs. The KD experiment using BMDCs showed a significant decrease in CD103 levels inSpi1siRNA-transfected BMDCs.

We concluded that PU.1 affected CD103 expression on MMCs and DCs by transactivating theItgaegene, and also that GATA2, which positively regulated the MMC-specific expression of Mcpt1 and 2, inhibited CD103 expression by repressing PU.1.
Intrinsic immunity against HAdV is achieved by a novel epigenetic silencing complex
Authors: Mai Julia , Karimi Maryam , Kuderna Anna , Heider Anna , Günther Thomas , Friedel Caroline C. , Grundhoff Adam , Stamminger Thomas , Schreiner Sabrina
Published: February 2025

The DNA double-stranded genome of human adenoviruses (HAdV) is preferentially targeted by host factors involved in chromatin remodeling, such as SPOC1 and KAP1 to inhibit efficient viral gene expression. HAdV genomes undergo alterations through association with host histones and epigenetic modifications; however, the precise underlying mechanism remains elusive. A recently discovered silencing mechanism for retrotransposons and retroviruses involves the Human Silencing Hub (HUSH) complex. This complex of MPP8, TASOR, and PPHLN1 safeguards the human genome by utilizing histone H3 Lys9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) to block transcription. Through the recruitment of SETDB1 and MORC2, the HUSH complex silences host genes and condenses target genomes to combat infections such as HIV, MLV, and AAV. Here, we present evidence that the HUSH complex effectively restricts HAdV infection. To counteract the repressive function of this epigenetic silencing complex, HUSH factors are inhibited through binding of HAdV proteins and subsequent relocalization. We observe that MPP8 is targeted by the adenoviral E3 ubiquitin ligase, thus recruited by the viral early proteins E1B-55K and E4orf6 for proteasomal degradation. In summary, we provide evidence that the HUSH complex is a previously unrecognized host factor that restricts HAdV gene expression and replication. Based on these novel findings, we propose that HUSH represents a promising therapeutic target to combat HAdV infection.
Dissecting the role of RNA-binding proteins in early herpes simplex virus 1 transcription using acute protein depletion
Authors: Barke Niclas , Masser Sawinee , Stalling Doerte , Wyler Emanuel , Zinzen Robert Patrick , Schreiner Sabrina , Bosse Jens , Landthaler Markus
Published: February 2025

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infects about 50-80% of the entire human population and persists in the neurons of affected individuals. A fraction of affected individuals suffer from recurrent cold sores caused by reactivating virus, in rare but severe cases the virus can cause encephalitis.

During lytic infection, the virus relies on host factors such as RNA polymerase II and accessory proteins involved in transcription to express its genes and ensure successful replication. In general, RNA molecules in cells are bound by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) during their entire lifecycle. Importantly, RBPs are increasingly described to also regulate transcription, an aspect long time outside the scope of investigations, especially during viral infections. Here, we examined the impact of five nuclear proteins (FUBP1, SLBP, SFPQ, SPT5 and SAF-B) with known RNA-binding activities on HSV-1 transcription. Additionally, we evaluated their importance for human adenovirus C5 (HAdV) growth to assess whether these host factors are specific to HSV-1 infections or might have broader relevance for the general transcription of dsDNA viruses.

We show that the transcriptional elongation factor SPT5 coded by SUPT5H accumulates on HSV-1 genomes early during the infection and is required for the transcription of the immediate-early gene UL54. Its depletion affects also HAdV replication, indicating a general role in transcription of viruses that depend on the host transcriptional machinery.

In contrast, depletion of the transcriptional repressor and paraspeckle protein SFPQ reduces UL54 RNA levels in HSV-1 infection, but does not cause significant changes in HAdV growth. Since SFPQ does not co-localize with HSV-1 genomes, this suggests a function not directly associated to viral DNA.
Identification of the client-binding site on the Golgi membrane protein adaptor Vps74
Authors: Lesniak Agnieszka Monika , YE Ziyun , Banfield David K
Published: February 2025

Vps74 and its mammalian counterpart GOLPH3 are COPI associated protein sorting adaptors that function to maintain the cisternal distributions of certain Golgi integral membrane protein clients. The GOLPH3 adaptors accommodate a diversity of clients by binding to their short cytoplasmically exposed N-termini. Here, we identify the client-binding site on yeast GOLPH3 (Vps74) which maps to two evolutionarily conserved unstructured regions on the membrane-facing surface of the protein. The client-binding site includes residues previously shown to mediate binding of GOLPH3s to PI4P, as well as the membrane-binding β-hairpin. Clients have varying requirements for the binding interface, and our study thus reconciles how a diversity of client N-termini can be accommodated by Vps74. We establish that the binding site for the PI4P phosphatase Sac1 and the COPI-coatomer associated GTPase Arf1 overlaps with and obscures client access, suggesting a regulatory role for these proteins in opposition to the adaptor. Furthermore, we identify an additional mode for the recruitment of the adaptor from the cytoplasm to Golgi membranes whereby Vps74 binds directly to its client N-termini.
Eye blinks synchronize with musical beats during music listening
Authors: Wu Yiyang , Teng Xiangbin , Du Yi
Published: February 2025

Auditory-motor synchronization, the alignment of body movements with rhythmic patterns in music, is a universal human behavior, yet its full scope remains incompletely understood. Through four experiments with 123 young non-musicians, integrating eye-tracking, neurophysiological recordings, white matter structural imaging, and behavioral analysis, we reveal a previously unrecognized form of synchronization: spontaneous eye blinks synchronize with musical beats. Blinks robustly synchronized with beats across a range of tempi and independently of melodic cues. EEG recordings revealed a dynamic correspondence between blink timing and neural beat tracking. Individual differences in blink synchronization were linked to white matter microstructure variation in the left arcuate fasciculus, a key sensorimotor pathway. Additionally, the strength of blink synchronization reflected the modulation of dynamic auditory attention. These findings establish blink synchronization as a novel behavioral paradigm, expanding the auditory-motor synchronization repertoire and highlighting the intricate interplay between music rhythms and oculomotor activity. This discovery underscores a cross-modal active sensing mechanism, offering new insights into embodied music perception, rhythm processing, and their potential clinical applications.
Deep Learning Derived Adipocyte Size Reveals Adipocyte Hypertrophy is under Genetic Control
Authors: Jørsboe Emil , Kubitz Phil , Honecker Julius , Flaccus Andrea , Mvondo Dagmar , Raggi Matthias , Hansen Torben , Hauner Hans , Blüher Matthias , Charles Philip D. , Lindgren Cecilia M. , Nellåker Christoffer , Claussnitzer Melina
Published: February 2025

Fat distribution and macro structure of white adipose tissue are important factors in predicting obesity-associated diseases, but cellular microstructure of white adipose tissue has been less explored. To investigate the relationship between adipocyte size and obesity-related traits, and their underlying disease-driving genetic associations, we performed the largest study of automatic adipocyte phenotyping linking histological measurements and genetics to date. We introduce deep learning based methods for scalable and accurate semantic segmentation of subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue histology samples (N=2,667) across 5 independent cohorts, including data from 9,000 whole slide images, with over 27 million adipocytes. Estimates of mean size of adipocytes were validated against Glastonbury et al. 2020. We show that adipocyte hypertrophy correlates with an adverse metabolic profile with increased levels of leptin, fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin and triglycerides, and decreased levels of adiponectin and HDL cholesterol. We performed the largest GWAS (NSubcutaneous= 2066, NVisceral= 1878) and subsequent meta-analysis of mean adipocyte area, and find two genome-wide significant loci (rs73184721, rs200047724) associated with increased 95%-quantile adipocyte size in respectively visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue. Stratifying by sex, in females we find two genome-wide significant loci, with one variant (rs140503338) associated with increased mean adipocyte size in subcutaneous adipose tissue, and the other (rs11656704) is associated with decreased 95%-quantile adipocyte size in visceral adipose tissue.
Astrocytic PI3Kα controls synaptic plasticity and cognitive function via serine metabolism
Authors: Fernández-Rodrigo Alba , García-Vilela Celia , Eraso-Pichot Abel , López-Merino Esperanza , Maroto Irene B. , Gutiérrez-Eisman Silvia , Sánchez-Castillo Carla , Boers-Escuder Cristina , Merino-Casamayor Eneko , Graupera Mariona , Cuartero María I. , Quintana Albert , Marsicano Giovanni , Esteban José A.
Published: February 2025

Astrocytes are known to modulate neuronal activity by gliotransmission and through metabolic regulation. However, the connection between these two processes is still poorly defined. In this work we show that the p110α isoform of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) in astrocytes is required for long-term potentiation (LTP) and has an impact on learning and memory. Using a specific deletion of p110α from hippocampal astrocytes in adult mice, we found that LTP depends on astrocytic p110α to sustain D-serine levels for the activation of NMDA receptors during LTP induction. This requirement is based on the L-serine biosynthetic pathway of the astrocyte, which is defective in the absence of p110α because of a reduced glycolytic flux. Accordingly, the behavioral impairment in mice lacking p110α can be rescued byin vivoadministration of L-serine. These results link for the first time the function of PI3K in astrocytes to cerebral metabolism and its influence in synaptic plasticity and cognition.
ArabidopsisPIEZO regulates magnetic field-mediated root growth under blue light
Authors: Peng Ziai , Yang Wenjing , Dong Man , Bai Hanrui , Lei Yan , Pan Ninghui , Xie Yong , Guo Liwei , Liu Changning , Du Yunlong
Published: February 2025

The mechanosensitive protein PIEZO has a function in root growth. However, the mechanisms underlying the effects ofPIEZOresponses to magnetic field (MF) remain elusive. Here, we report thatArabidopsis PIEZOgene regulation of root growth was responsive to MF and blue light. Mutation ofPIEZOresults in a shorter root length under MF treatment and blue light. Moreover, expression ofPIEZOin root tips was up-regulated by an unknown blue-light-induced signal, transferred from the leaves to the roots in the presence of a MF. Furthermore,PIEZOwas able to regulate calcium ion efflux and disturb auxin transport under MF and blue light. Interestingly, the blue light receptors CRY1 and 2 were necessary both for MF perception and regulation of root growth. Transcriptome analysis of thepiezo-clmutant grown in a MF and under blue light revealed that thePIEZOinvolved in regulation of root growth is also involved in indirect or direct interactions with gibberellin 4 (GA4), ethylene, calcium ion-related genes, mechanosensors and microRNA. Moreover, the expression ofmiR5648-5pconferred MF sensitivity and showed a way thatPIEZOcould be negatively regulated in a MF and blue light. Our data reveal the mechanism ofPIEZOresponds to MF and blue light to regulate root growth, in which converges different pathways, involving phytohormones, mechanosensors, calcium ions and blue light, as key components.

One-Sentence Summary:PIEZO perceives magnetic fields and blue light to regulateArabidopsisroot growth
Testosterone exposure during fetal masculinization programming window determines the kidney size in adult mice
Authors: Junnila Arttu , Rytkönen Kalle T. , Martinez-Nieto Guillermo , Perk Mats , Li Hao , Airaksinen Jenni , Hyötyläinen Ida , Mehtovuori Oliver , Laiho Asta , Ohlsson Claes , Elo Laura L. , Kuure Satu , Poutanen Matti , Sipilä Petra
Published: February 2025

Kidney size is sex-dimorphic and regulated by androgens in adult humans and mice. However, the effects of developmental androgen deficiency on kidneys remain elusive. We hypothesized that androgens program future kidney growth during a fetal development. Male mice lacking main testosterone-producing enzyme HSD17B3 had reduced testosterone at embryonic day 15.5, but the concentrations increased by E18.5, creating a short time window of androgen deficiency resulting in reduced kidney size in adult males. In male Hsd17b3-/-kidneys, nephron development was qualitatively normal, but number of glomeruli and proliferation of proximal tubules was reduced. Testosterone supplementation at E14.5-17.5 normalized the renal size in adult Hsd17b3-/-males. Our data suggests that androgen receptor and Hnf4a jointly regulate Igfbp5, FOXO1 and mTOR signaling to convey male-specific kidney growth. In conclusion, we have identified a novel developmental programming effect on male kidneys, where fetal androgen deficiency reduces kidney growth and androgen responsiveness in adult males.
Axonal Mechanotransduction Drives Cytoskeletal Responses to Physiological Mechanical Forces
Authors: Swaim Grace L , Glomb Oliver V. , Xie Yi , Emerson Chloe , Li Zhuoyuan , Beaudet Daniel , Hendricks Adam G. , Yogev Shaul
Published: February 2025

Axons experience strong mechanical forces due to animal movement. While these forces serve as sensory cues in mechanosensory neurons, their impact on other neuron types remains poorly defined. Here, we uncover signaling that controls an axonal cytoskeletal response to external physiological forces and plays a key role in axonal integrity. Live imaging of microtubules at single-polymer resolution in aC. elegansmotor neuron reveals local oscillatory movements that fine-tune polymer positioning. Combining cell-specific chemogenetic silencing with targeted degradation alleles to distinguish neuron-intrinsic from extrinsic regulators of these movements, we find that they are driven by muscle contractions and require the mechanosensitive protein Talin, the small GTPase RhoA, and actomyosin activity in the axon. Genetic perturbation of the axon’s ability to buffer tension by disrupting the spectrin-based membrane-associated skeleton leads to RhoA hyperactivation, actomyosin relocalization to foci at microtubule ends, and converts local oscillations into processive bidirectional movements. This results in large gaps between microtubules, disrupting coverage of the axon and leading to its breakage and degeneration. Notably, hyperpolarizing muscle or degrading components of the mechanotransduction signaling pathway in the axon rescues cytoskeletal defects in spectrin-deficient axons. These results identify mechanisms of an axonal cytoskeletal response to physiological forces and highlight the importance of force-buffering and mechanotransduction signaling for axonal integrity.
Fast sequence alignment for centromere with RaMA
Authors: Zhang Pinglu , Wei Yanming , Tian Qinzhong , Zou Quan , Wang Yansu
Published: February 2025

The release of the first draft of the human pangenome has revolutionized genomic research by enabling access to complex regions like centromeres, composed of extra-long tandem repeats (ETRs). However, a significant gap remains as current methodologies are inadequate for producing sequence alignments that effectively capture genetic events within ETRs, highlighting a pressing need for improved alignment tools. Inspired by UniAligner, we develope Rare Match Aligner (RaMA), using rare matches as anchors and 2-piece affine gap cost to generate complete pairwise alignment that better capture genetic evolution. RaMA also employs parallel computing and the wavefront algorithm to accelerate anchor discovery and sequence alignment, achieving up to 13.66 times faster processing and using only 11% of UniAligner's memory. Downstream analysis of simulated data and the CHM13 and CHM1 Higher Order Repeat (HOR) arrays demonstrates that RaMA achieves more accurate alignment, effectively capturing true HOR structures. RaMA also introduces two methods for defining reliable alignment regions, further refining and enhancing the accuracy of centromeric alignment statistics.
Space charge effects in fourth-generation light sources: The PETRA IV and SOLEIL II cases
Authors: Antipov S. A. , Gubaidulin V. , Agapov I. , Cortés García E. C. , Gamelin A.
Published: February 2025

It is a truth universally acknowledged that space-charge effects in ultrarelativistic electron storage rings are irrelevant due to the steep inverse dependence of their strength on the Lorentz factor. Yet, with the push toward the diffraction limit, the state-of-the-art light sources are approaching the point where their emittance becomes so small that the space-charge force can no longer be ignored. In this paper, we demonstrate how space-charge effects influence the injection dynamics, dynamical aperture, and collective beam stability using the example of fourth-generation light sources PETRA IV and SOLEIL II.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Confined active particles with spatially dependent Lorentz force: An odd twist to the “best Fokker-Planck approximation”
Authors: Wittmann René , Abdoli Iman , Sharma Abhinav , Brader Joseph M.
Published: February 2025

We derive a version of the so-called “best Fokker-Planck approximation” (BFPA) to describe the spatial properties of interacting active Ornstein-Uhlenbeck particles in arbitrary spatial dimensions. In doing so, we also take into account the odd-diffusive contribution of the Lorentz force acting on a charged particle in a spatially dependent magnetic field, sticking to the overdamped limit. While the BFPA itself does not turn out to be widely useful, our general approach allows us to deduce an appropriate generalization of the Fox approximation, which we use to characterize the stationary behavior of a single active particle in an external potential by deriving analytic expressions for configurational probability distributions (or effective potentials). In agreement with computer simulations, our theory predicts that the Lorentz force reduces the effective attraction and thus the probability to find an active particle in the vicinity of a repulsive wall. Even for an inhomogeneous magnetic field, our theoretical findings provide useful qualitative insights, specifically regarding the location of accumulation regions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Jet Definition and Transverse-Momentum–Dependent Factorization in Semi-inclusive Deep-Inelastic Scattering
Authors: Caucal Paul , Iancu Edmond , Mueller A. H. , Yuan Feng
Published: February 2025

Using the color dipole picture of deep inelastic scattering (DIS) and the color glass condensate effective theory, we study semi-inclusive jet production in DIS at small x in the limit where the photon virtuality Q2 is much larger than the transverse momentum squared P⊥2 of the produced jet. In this limit, the cross section is dominated by aligned jet configurations, that is, quark–antiquark pairs in which one of the fermions—the would-be struck quark in the Breit frame—carries most of the longitudinal momentum of the virtual photon. We show that physically meaningful jet definitions in DIS are such that the effective axis of the jet sourced by the struck quark is controlled by its virtuality rather than by its transverse momentum. For such jet definitions, we show that the next-to-leading order cross section admits factorization in terms of the (sea) quark transverse momentum dependent distribution, which in turn satisfies a universal Dokshitzer-Gribov-Lipatov-Altarelli-Parisi and Sudakov evolution.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Ising Hamiltonian minimization: Gain-based computing with manifold reduction of soft spins vs quantum annealing
Authors: Cummins James S. , Salman Hayder , Berloff Natalia G.
Published: February 2025

We investigate the minimization of Ising Hamiltonians, comparing the performance of gain-based computing paradigms based on the dynamics of semiclassical soft-spin models with quantum annealing. We systematically analyze how the energy landscape for the circulant couplings of a Möbius graph evolves with increased annealing parameters. Our findings indicate that these semiclassical models face challenges due to a widening dimensionality landscape. To counteract this issue, we introduce the manifold reduction method, which restricts the soft-spin amplitudes to a defined phase space region. Concurrently, quantum annealing demonstrates a natural capability to navigate the Ising Hamiltonian's energy landscape due to its operation within the comprehensive Hilbert space. Our study indicates that physics-inspired or physics-enhanced optimizers will likely benefit from combining classical and quantum annealing techniques.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Mechanistic Insights into Z-Ring Formation and Stability
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Srinivasan Ramanujam , Chaudhuri Debasish
Published: February 2025

The tubulinlike protein FtsZ (filamenting temperature-sensitive mutant Z) is crucial for cytokinesis in bacteria and many archaea, forming a ring-shaped structure called the Z-ring at the site of cell division. Despite extensive research, the self-assembly of Z-rings is not entirely understood. We propose a theoretical model based on FtsZ's known filament structures, treating them as semiflexible polymers with specific mechanical properties and lateral intersegment attraction that can stabilize ring formations. Our molecular dynamics simulations reveal various morphological phases, including open helices, chains, rings, and globules, capturing experimental observations in the fission yeast model using FtsZ from different bacterial species or mutants of . Using our theoretical model, we explore how treadmilling activity affects Z-ring stability and identify a spooling mechanism of ring formation. The active ring produces contractile, shear, and rotational stresses, which intensify as the Z-ring transitions to an open helix at high activity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Sustainable project performance in remote work settings: learnings from the COVID-19 pandemic–A case study in Malaysia
Authors: Ramasamy Velar Vijayakumar , Kee Daisy Mui Hung
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The unforeseen disruption in workplaces triggered by COVID-19 has led many organizations to a sudden transition into virtual or remote working. The change posed various challenges to the project management community in managing their project and team members. The study intends to identify those challenges address the gap in current knowledge and literature and apply them as lessons learned for preparation for current and future remote work settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative research case study armed with semi-structured interview questions among nine experienced project managers based in Malaysia.

Findings

The qualitative research case study exposed the challenges faced by the project management community during the pandemic lockdown period and how they strived to deliver results despite the surrounding uncertainty. They did face motivation drops, excess workload and other stressors. The study revealed positive variables that was not detected by past literature, for instance how remote work reduces team conflict.

Originality/value

In Malaysia, most of such project management and pandemic-related studies focus on the construction industry. This study opens up research across multiple industries. There are not many articles that take the lessons learned from COVID-19 into future sustainability.
Climate change mitigation information disclosure: the impact of external attention on the internet
Authors: Octavio Muhammad Fadhly Rizky , Setiawan Doddy
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of public attention and media through the internet on corporate disclosures related to climate change. As public awareness of environmental issues and the urgency of addressing climate change increases, pressure is mounting on companies to be transparent about their actions and contributions to climate change mitigation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses regression analysis to examine the relationship between public and media attention and corporate climate change disclosure. The panel data consists of information from 142 mining companies in the ASEAN region from 2017 to 2021.

Findings

The research findings show that public and media attention through the internet positively and significantly influences companies’ disclosure regarding their climate change actions. Companies that receive higher levels of public and media scrutiny through the internet tend to disclose more information regarding their climate change mitigation initiatives, strategies and performance. This highlights the importance of public and media attention in driving corporate transparency and accountability in addressing this global challenge.

Practical implications

This research emphasizes the need for companies to proactively engage the public and media on the internet in climate change disclosure strategies. By recognizing the influence of these external stakeholders, companies can design more effective communication and reporting approaches to build legitimacy, enhance their reputation and effectively demonstrate their commitment to contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research lies in its study of the role of public attention and media through the internet as a driver of climate change disclosure by companies. Public attention is measured using data from Google Trends as the novelty of this research.
Group coaching to enhance school leadership performance
Authors: Slettbakk Aase , Aas Marit
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of this study was to explore the specific actions that school leaders attempt following a coaching session, investigating how group coaching supports the leadership actions of school leaders. The study was carried out as an action research project with the aim of understanding and further developing the coaching practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The article reports on a group coaching study integrated into the National Principal Training Programme in Norway, which was designed to identify reflections on the type of personal agency that can lead to improvements in leadership performance. Our investigation focused on a group coaching protocol initiated with a coaching question that was reformulated during the session. It concluded with a leadership action that the school leader committed to undertake following the coaching session. The study identifies the types of actions that school leaders commit to undertaking after the coaching session and examines whether the coaching process impacts the implementation of these leadership actions.

Findings

We found that the leadership actions undertaken focused on what school leaders can do to foster better relationships with their employees, how they can develop a positive culture for learning and competence development in schools and how they can create structures and routines in both day-to-day leadership and broader school organizations. The study illustrates that school leaders perceive group coaching as being beneficial in the process of selecting a leadership action and that, through this process, there is increased motivation to implement this specific leadership action.

Originality/value

The study provides original contributions to the field of educational leadership and coaching, offering practical suggestions for those involved in the development of school leaders. The findings could inform future practices and research in similar contexts, and with further refinement, the results could have implications beyond the immediate setting of the Norwegian National Principal Training Programme.
Supporting the team, caring for the players: understanding fan perceptions of athlete wellbeing programmes
Authors: Williamson Michael , Doyle Jason , Harris-Reeves Brooke , Filo Kevin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Active supporters and the organisations they form are crucial stakeholders for football clubs. Previous literature has noted the increasing interest and positive outcomes associated with corporate social responsibility initiatives within sport organisations, which fans perceive and include employee wellbeing. Whilst scholars have explored various stakeholders’ perceptions of athlete wellbeing, an opportunity exists to understand how active supporters perceive athlete wellbeing programmes. Thus, the purpose of the current research was to explore the perceptions of A-League Men’s active supporters regarding an athlete wellbeing programme.

Design/methodology/approach

Informed by stakeholder theory, active supporters of the A-League provided their perceptions of the Player Development Programme (PDP) – the athlete wellbeing programme associated with professional football in Australia. Data were collected through open-ended questions within an online survey and analysed through inductive thematic analysis.

Findings

Three themes were generated that answer the research question: impactful and beneficial; worthy of more attention and promotion and limited understanding. These themes underscore the positive impact of the wellbeing programme on both the club and its athletes whilst highlighting the necessity for increased programme visibility within the club and the broader community.

Originality/value

The current study’s findings contribute to the sport management literature by exploring active supporters’ perceptions of an athlete wellbeing programme in football. Since athlete wellbeing is essential for active supporters, including wellbeing initiatives within the club’s corporate social responsibility initiatives could produce positive marketing and sponsorship outcomes for clubs.
Exploring the causal relationships between factors affecting taxpayer adoption of e-invoicing: application of interval neutrosophic DEMATEL
Authors: Aliakbari Nouri Fahimeh , Shafiei Nikabadi Mohsen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to identify the challenges faced by taxpayers in adopting electronic invoicing for value-added tax (VAT) collection and develop a framework for addressing these challenges based on their interrelationships within a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

To establish a practical framework, a comprehensive literature review was conducted. The extracted factors were then presented to a panel of experts for validation or modification. Subsequently, this study employed a multi-criteria model based on DEMATEL and interval neutrosophic value set (INVS) to assist decision-makers in evaluating taxpayer challenges and identifying their interdependencies. This research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining library research, expert interviews/consultations (qualitative) and a survey (quantitative).

Findings

The study suggests that taxpayer challenges can be categorized into six primary factors: distrust and security concerns, technical challenges, cost considerations, regulatory compliance challenges, cultural/demographic factors and lack of awareness. Key findings reveal that lack of awareness (X6) and cultural/demographic factors (X5) emerged as the most critical factors in terms of both importance and influence on other factors.

Practical implications

This study offers a more realistic understanding of cause-and-effect relationships, ultimately leading to more informed decision-making regarding e-invoicing adoption. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, guiding them towards effective practical implications.

Originality/value

This study differentiates itself from previous research by not only prioritizing factors influencing taxpayer e-invoicing adoption but also by examining the causal relationships between these factors. Unlike prior studies, this research has delved into the interdependencies among the prerequisite variables of e-invoicing adoption for VAT in a developing country. Moreover, to the best of our knowledge, no existing research has employed neutrosophic DEMATEL to address the uncertainty inherent in identifying the interrelationships among factors affecting e-invoicing adoption by taxpayers.
Evaluation of internal environmental pollution in non-blasting tunnel construction and case study
Authors: Sun Jianchun , Yang Shiyong , Huang Shengping , Shang Zhijiang , Ling Weihao
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper addresses the issue of internal spatial environmental pollution in non-blasting tunnel construction by proposing a comprehensive evaluation model. The model aims to provide a scientific basis for environmental pollution prevention in non-blasting tunnel construction, thereby facilitating green tunnel construction and sustainable development management.

Design/methodology/approach

The study firstly refines and constructs the evaluation index system from the perspective of pollution sources. A novel weight calculation method is introduced by integrating the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) with the ordered weighted averaging (OWA) operator, and a comprehensive evaluation model for internal environmental pollution in non-blasting tunnels is established by incorporating the grey clustering evaluation method. Finally, an empirical study is conducted using the Erbaoshan Tunnel as a case study to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the model.

Findings

The study develops an evaluation system for internal environmental pollution in non-blasting tunnels and applies it to the Erbaoshan Tunnel. The results classify the pollution level as “general pollution,” confirming the rationality and applicability of the evaluation system and model while also identifying the primary pollution factors.

Originality/value

This study first developed a comprehensive evaluation system for environmental pollution in non-blasting tunnel construction from the pollution source perspective, making the system more comprehensive. Additionally, it innovatively combined AHP–OWA and gray clustering methods to scientifically assess pollution levels, providing valuable scientific guidance for the evaluation and management of non-blasting tunnels and similar underground projects.
Extreme temperature thermal shock induced microstructure degradation and shear property deterioration of Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu/Cu solder joints
Authors: Peng Yuan , Hou Shengli , Zhai Weifeng , Yang Xiaofeng , He Hao , Guo Xiaotong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to provide guidance for the reliability of electronic packaging. The reliability of solder joints at extremely temperature thermal shock is critical for electronic equipment operating in the field of deep space exploration. In this study, the Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu (SAC305)/Cu solder joints were prepared and thermally shocked with temperatures ranging from −110°C to 110°C, to investigate the effects of extreme temperature thermal shock on the microstructural evolution and property deterioration of the solder joints.

Design/methodology/approach

The interfacial intermetallic compound (IMC) stress gradient was calculated through thermal stress theory, mechanism of voids/cracks initiation was clarified, and prediction of the service life was analyzed with the energy-based model.

Findings

It is found that the Ag3Sn, IMC and cracks/voids had evolved significantly with the increase in the cycle period. The microstructure of the IMC changed from short rod-like morphology to scallop shape, the voids in the Cu3Sn IMC layer continued to increase and integrate, forming larger diameter voids, etc. In addition, the shear strength of SAC305/Cu solder joints decreased gradually with the increase in thermal shock cycles, the fracture mode changes from ductile fracture mode to ductile-brittle mixed fracture mode after 500 cycles. The characteristic lifetime of the SAC305/Cu solder joints under the action of extreme thermal shock is about 1427.86 cycles.

Originality/value

This work provides guidance for the reliability of the solder joints at extremely temperature thermal shock.
The interactional effects of contextual and individual factors on work–home enrichment
Authors: Nguyen Diep T. N. , Nguyen Huu-Ngoc , Teo Stephen T. T. , Nguyen Nhung Thi Hong , Quan Tran Ha Minh
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Incorporating conservation of resources theory into the sustainable career framework, this study empirically examines how social support at work, harmonious passion and strengths use interact to bolster work–home enrichment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study tested hypotheses through a two-wave research design with a final sample of 357 academic respondents from public universities in Vietnam.

Findings

We found positive relationships between social support, harmonious passion and work–home enrichment. Strengths use significantly moderated these relationships.

Practical implications

Organizations should cultivate a supportive environment and opportunities to help individuals utilize social support and exert their strengths to be more passionate and enrich their work–home activities.

Originality/value

This study addresses the knowledge gap regarding the crucial interdependence and interactions between contextual and personal resources in promoting work–home enrichment, an underexplored aspect in sustainable career literature. It highlights how social support and harmonious passion enhance work–home enrichment. Using strengths is a fundamental boundary condition for these associations. The findings offer invaluable implications for leveraging work-related resources and personal qualities to enrich work and home domains for a sustainable career.
Enhanced competitive advantage of invasive plants by growth‐defence trade‐off: Evidence from phytohormone metabolism and transcriptomic analysis
Authors: Zhang Yanliang , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zhang Lihua , Yang Hongjun , Ma Tianxiao , Huang Chenyu , Hu Luyi , Zhang Mengxin , Sang Weiguo
Published: February 2025

Invasive plants often exhibit a competitive advantage over native species, posing a serious threat to them. Phytohormone signalling can regulate the entire process of invasive plant growth and defence in ways that have largely unexplored for invaders in competitive conditions.

Here, we planted an invasive species, Flaveria bidentis L., and three native species (Setaria viridis, Artemisia annua, and Xanthium sibiricum) as monocultures (two seedlings each) or mixtures (one F. bidentis with one native) in the greenhouse, then employed phytohormone metabolomics and transcriptomics to investigate the changes in hormone content and their gene expression patterns in F. bidentis during competitive processes with native plants.

Our results revealed that during competition processes with three native species, the levels of growth‐promoting hormones, auxin (indole‐3‐acetic acid) and gibberellins (GA3), significantly increased in F. bidentis. These hormone increases were accompanied by the key up‐regulation of genes in the auxin and gibberellin signalling pathways (e.g., ARF and GID1), which effectively spurred increases in plant height and biomass. Conversely, the levels of defence‐related hormones, jasmonic acid and salicylic acid were significantly reduced, along with the down‐regulation of genes in their signalling pathways, including COI1 and TGA. These decreases in defence‐related hormones and gene expression alleviated the antagonistic effects on growth‐promoting hormones, enabling F. bidentis to grow more rapidly and enhance its competitive advantage.

Synthesis and applications. Our findings reveal that trade‐offs between growth and defence hormone signalling pathways enhance the competitive advantage of invasive alien species over native ones. This insight into the invasive success of exotic species provides a foundation for developing targeted control strategies. By specifically regulating hormone signalling pathways, the competitiveness of invasive species could be dampened, thereby mitigating the threat to native ecosystems.
Plant species richness mediates the responses of microbial necromass carbon accumulation to climate aridity in alpine meadows
Authors: Mou Xiaoming , Li Yuqiang , Wang Xuyang , Chen Yun , Jia Bin , Mao Han , Li Fencan , Li Xiao Gang
Published: February 2025

Plant diversity loss caused by climate change decreases soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration, but the mechanism involved remains unclear. Investigating the changes in soil microbial necromass carbon (MNC) accumulation along a climate–plant species diversity gradient can help clarify this mechanism, as it is crucial for the stability of SOC.

We conducted large‐scale sampling across a 2500‐km transect through grasslands on the Tibetan Plateau to investigate the MNC content and its contribution to SOC at depths of 0–20 and 20–40 cm in response to environmental and plant species diversity gradients.

Plant species richness, plant biomass, and the proportion of above‐ground biomass accounted for by Cyperaceae (sedges) increased with decreasing aridity along the gradient of rising altitude. Meanwhile, the MNC content, its contribution to SOC, and the ratio of fungal to bacterial necromass carbon in both soil layers also increased with decreasing aridity. These results indicate that, in addition to changing climate factors along the altitudinal gradient, plant species richness plays a pivotal role in facilitating soil MNC accumulation and thus the accrual of SOC. Structural equation modelling revealed that plant diversity increases the MNC content by enhancing the abundance of Cyperaceae in the grassland. A higher abundance of Cyperaceae significantly increased the root biomass and level of rhizodeposition, thereby increasing the diversity and activity of soil microbes, and ultimately the accumulation of MNC.

Synthesis. We conclude that changes in plant species richness in response to aridity dominate the MNC content and its proportion in SOC on the Tibetan Plateau. These findings demonstrate the importance of incorporating plant species diversity into conservation efforts in grasslands to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change and human activities on SOC.
‘Companions in sufferings both in our owne & a strange land’: Norfolk Exiles in the Low Countries and the Formation of East Anglian Nonconformity
Authors: Halcomb Joel
Published: February 2025

This article explores the experiences of a group of Norfolk puritans who, seeking religious freedom, fled to the Low Countries in the late 1630s, were exposed to congregationalism in the English Reformed Church in Rotterdam, and then returned to their former homes at the start of the English civil wars to oversee the foundation of the congregational church movement in East Anglia. The experience of exile formed a strong bond among these Norfolk puritans, one attached to their newfound congregationalism. The cultures of dispute resolution and toleration of adult baptism found in the Rotterdam church would have a profound effect on the later churches of East Anglia.