bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A non-catalytic role for MLL2 in controlling chromatin organisation and mobility during the priming of pluripotent cells for differentiation
Authors: Steindel Maike , Davis Oliver , Neumann Katrin , Pirvan Liviu , Agsu Gökçe , Kranz Andrea , Adhya Dwaipayan , Morf Jorg , Yang Shuyue , Zhang Ziwei , Fu Jun , Barile Melania , Wurmser Annabelle , Strawbridge Stanley E. , Mohorianu Irina , Madapura Pradeepa , Huntly Brian , Göttgens Berthold , Holcman David , Samarajiwa Shamith A. , Klenerman David , Anastassiadis Konstantinos , Francis Stewart A. , Basu Srinjan
Published: February 2025

The chromatin regulator MLL2 (KMT2B) is the primary histone 3 lysine 4 (H3K4) trimethyltransferase acting at bivalent promoters in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and is required for differentiation toward neuroectoderm. Here, we demonstrate that this requirement occurs during exit from naïve pluripotency, days before neuroectoderm differentiation is impaired. During exit, the effect of MLL2 on transcription is subtle, increasing the expression of a few important neuroectodermal transcription factors. In contrast, MLL2’s effect on chromatin architecture is substantial, stabilising loops associated with bivalent promoters in primed ESCs. MLL2 H3K4 catalytic activity is dispensable for stabilising these loops during ESC exit and for neuroectoderm differentiation. We therefore identify a non-catalytic function for MLL2 in stabilising 3D chromatin architecture, which has implications for lineage specification. Because MLL2 shares features with all four MLLs, we propose that chromatin tethering, rather than H3K4 methylation, represents a primary function for MLLs during lineage commitment decisions.
Random guide-independent DNA cleavage from the Argonaute ofExiguobacteriumsp. AB2
Authors: Cañiza Miguel Antonio M. , Dy Ron Leonard V.
Published: February 2025

Background

Bacteria and bacteriophages (phages) are locked in a coevolutionary “arms race” to outcompete one another with novel systems and strategies. Regularly outnumbered tenfold by phages, bacteria have responded to the constant threat of phage predation by evolving a vast array of sophisticated defense systems. Among these, prokaryotic Argonautes (pAgos) are nucleic acid-guided endonucleases that target complementary sequences of invading mobile genetic elements (MGEs). However, as the preference for targeting MGE sequences has been demonstrated in only a limited number of pAgos, their precise physiological functions remain elusive. Here, we discovered a pAgo inExiguobacteriumsp. AB2, EsAgo, encoded in close proximity to other putative defense systems on theE. AB2 genome. Such clustering into genomic “defense islands” is a common phenomenon among prokaryotic defense systems, further implicating pAgos with a role in host defense. Accordingly, we had sought to characterize EsAgo as a nucleic acid-guided nucleic acid-targeting nuclease against MGEs for bacterial defense in this study.

Results

Using sequence to structure homology tools, we show that the predicted model of EsAgo exhibits the structural characteristics typical of a full-length, catalytically active, DNA-guided pAgo. Akin to other pAgos, EsAgo uses a divalent cation cofactor to indiscriminately “chop” plasmidsin vitro. Furthermore, a site-directed double mutant of EsAgo bearing two missense mutations at the catalytic site exhibited significantly reduced levels of this random plasmid-degrading activity. Lastly, when EsAgo was supplied with synthetic 5’-P ssDNA guides, random nuclease activity was attenuated and may have resulted in the sequence-specific cleavage of dsDNA at 37°C.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that EsAgo functions as a DNA-interfering nuclease with or without DNA guides. Within the cell, it is possible that EsAgo utilizes this mechanism to screen and destroy foreign genetic elements. Moreover, the potential capacity for specific dsDNA cleavage at moderate temperatures gives rise to intriguing possibilities of repurposing EsAgo as a programmable nuclease for future biotechnological use.
Trypanosoma bruceicattle infections contain cryptic transmission-adapted bloodstream forms at low parasitaemia
Authors: Larcombe Stephen D , Paxton Edith , Vrettou Christina , Steketee Pieter C , Matthews Keith R , Morrison Liam J , Briggs Emma Marie
Published: February 2025

Tsetse-transmitted Trypanosoma parasites infect a wide host range and cause Human African Trypanosomiasis and Animal African Trypanosomosis in sub-Saharan Africa. The primary hosts of Trypanosoma brucei in tsetse fly endemic regions are non-human mammals, including agriculturally important cattle. In rodent infection models, T. brucei transitions from proliferative slender to tsetse-transmissible stumpy forms at high parasitaemia in a density-dependent quorum sensing-type process. However, chronic bovine infections are characterised by markedly lower blood parasitaemia levels; in most cases substantially below the density assumed to trigger slender-to-stumpy differentiation. This challenges the current (rodent-based) assumptions and quantitative parameter estimations around the generation of stumpy forms in the mammalian bloodstream by quorum sensing. By combining scRNA-seq and microscopy in the first molecular characterisation of T. brucei forms in cattle blood, we observed mixed populations of parasites with slender and stumpy-like transcriptomes. The appearance of stumpy-like forms coincided with fewer proliferating parasites and parasites exhibited a shortened flagellum indicative of differentiation, despite the absence of an extreme stumpy morphology or developmental marker protein expression. Comparisons with slender and stumpy form transcriptomes from murine infection and in vitro culture demonstrated conserved transcriptomic signatures for both slender and stumpy-like forms in bovines, as well as host specific differences. These similarities and differences are key to understanding parasite development and transmission in its natural host.
EpiMolBio: A Novel User-Friendly Bioinformatic Program for Genetic Variability Analysis
Authors: Reinosa Roberto , Troyano-Hernáez Paloma , Valadés-Alcaráz Ana , Holguín África
Published: February 2025

Motivation

Genetic sequence analysis has become essential in many medicine, biology, and epidemiology fields. However, the currently available tools can pose a challenge for users without advanced computational skills.

Results

We present EpiMolBio, a free-to-use software designed with an intuitive, user-friendly interface that enables a broad spectrum of users to explore genetic variability. Its diverse toolkit encompasses sequence processing, conservation and variability analysis, consensus sequence generation, and genome mutation or amino acid changes identification, including specialized tools for HIV and SARS-CoV-2 analysis.

Availability

Freely available on the web athttps://www.epimolbio.comandhttps://github.com/EpiMolBio/EpiMolBio.

Contact

africa.holguin@salud.madrid.org;roberto117343@gmail.com

Supplementary information

Supplementary Table 1, 2, and Supplementary Text 1.
Phosphatase specificity influences phosphorylation timing of CDK substrates during the cell cycle
Authors: Zeisner Theresa U. , Auchynnikava Tania , Nurse Paul
Published: February 2025

Cell cycle events are ordered by cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), which phosphorylate hundreds of substrates. Multiple phosphatases oppose CDK substrate phosphorylation, yet a systematic understanding of how these phosphatases collectively influence phosphorylation timing is lacking. Here, we show that phosphatases influence the timing of CDK substrate phosphorylation during G2 and mitosis in fission yeast. We identify substrates of four phosphatases (PP2A-B55, PP2A-B56, CDC14, and PP1), showing that each phosphatase targets a distinct subset of CDK substrate sites. On average, sites dephosphorylated by CDC14 and PP2A-B56 are phosphorylated earlier during G2, followed by sites dephosphorylated by PP1 and then PP2A-B55. This suggests that the identity of the phosphatase impacts the timing of CDK substrate phosphorylation, establishing different phosphorylation thresholds at the G2/M transition. Consistent with this, depletion of PP2A-B55 and CDC14 advances mitotic onset independently of CDK activity regulation, likely due to the earlier phosphorylation of their respective CDK substrates.
Dissecting PADI6 function defines oocyte cytoplasmic lattices as regulatory hubs for fundamental cellular processes
Authors: Williams Jack P. C. , Auchynnikava Tania , McCarthy Afshan , Ojarikre Obah A , Bertran M. Teresa , Weston Anne E. , Leonce Dan , Olsen Jessica , Niakan Kathy K. , Skehel Mark , Turner James M. A. , Walport Louise Jane
Published: February 2025

Oocyte cytoplasmic lattices are critical for early embryo development but their composition and function are not fully understood. Mutations in PADI6, an essential component of cytoplasmic lattices, lead to early embryonic developmental arrest and female infertility. To investigate PADI6 function in mRNA storage, global protein levels, and lattice composition during early mammalian development we used single cell transcriptomics and proteomics methods to study two mouse models. Padi6 null mutation resulted in inhibition of embryonic genome activation, defective maternal mRNA degradation, and disruption to protein storage on the cytoplasmic lattices. Distinct developmental phenotypes were observed with a hypomorphic Padi6 mutation. By developing a powerful single cell proteomic fractionation method, we define the cytoplasmic lattice enriched proteome in which we find essential components of other major oocyte-specific compartments (ELVA, MARDO), suggesting previously unknown interconnections between them. Our findings highlight a critical scaffolding function of PADI6 and implicate cytoplasmic lattices as regulatory hubs for key processes in the oocyte and early embryo, including translation, respiration and protein degradation.
S. pombetelomerase RNA: secondary structure and flexible-scaffold function
Authors: McMurdie Karen , Peeney Allison N. , Mefford Melissa A. , Baumann Peter , Zappulla David C.
Published: February 2025

The telomerase RNA-protein enzyme is critical for most eukaryotes to complete genome copying by extending chromosome ends, thus solving the end-replication problem and postponing senescence. Despite the importance of the fission yeastSchizosaccharomyces pombeto biomedical research, very little is known about the structure of its 1212 nt telomerase RNA. We have determined the secondary structure of this large RNA, TER1, based on phylogenetics and bioinformatic modeling, as well as genetic and biochemical analyses. We find that several conserved regions of the rapidly evolving TER1 RNA are important for the ability of telomerase to maintain telomeres, based on testing truncation mutantsin vivo, whereas, overall, many other large regions are dispensable. This is similar to budding yeast telomerase RNA, TLC1, and consistent with functioning as a flexible scaffold for the RNP. We tested if the essential three-way junction works from other locations in TER1, finding that indeed it can, supporting that it is flexibly scaffolded. Furthermore, we find that a half-sized Mini-TER1 allele, built from the catalytic core and the three-way junction, reconstitutes catalytic activity with TERTin vitro. Overall, we provide a secondary structure model for the large fission-yeast telomerase lncRNA based on phylogenetics and molecular-genetic testing in cells and insight into the RNP’s physical and functional organization.
Emergence of clustered synapses during the development of a nervous system
Authors: Balshayi Yuval , Bokman Eduard , Zaslaver Alon
Published: February 2025

Synaptic organization is central for proper transmission of neural information. Studies in invertebrates and mammalian cortices show that synapses are clustered along neurite extensions, an organization that promotes key functional roles. Here we studied how these synaptic clusters emerge during the development of a nervous system. Leveraging the availableC. elegansconnectomes that span all larval developmental stages, we show that clustered synapses are formed at the early stages of the neural network development and that their occurrence further increases throughout development. These synaptic clusters significantly constitute small neural circuits that endow the network with important functional roles, such as feedback between mutually synapsing neurons and information transfer in mutually regulated neurons. Moreover, clustered synapses emerge early on during development of the head motor system, where they facilitate the crucial 3D head swings. Finally, the synaptic clusters within these key neural circuits are maintained throughout all developmental stages and are robustly found across different individuals, further accentuating their central functional roles in neural networks.
Clonal interference, genetic variation and the speed of evolution in structured populations
Authors: Ping Kuo Yang , Hu Jiewen , Carja Oana
Published: February 2025

When it comes to understanding the role that population structure plays in shaping rates of evolution, it is commonly accepted that interference between evolutionary innovations is more prevalent in structured populations compared to well-mixed, and that population structure reduces the rate of evolution, while simultaneously promoting maintenance of genetic variation. Prior models usually represent population structure using two or more connected demes or lattices with periodic boundary conditions. Fundamentally, the observed spatial evolutionary slow-down is rooted in the fact that these types of structures increase the time it takes for a selective sweep and therefore, increase the probability that multiple beneficial mutations will coexist and interfere. Here we show that systematically introducing more heterogeneity in population structure can reshape these prior conclusions and lead to a much wider range of observed evolutionary outcome, including increased rates of evolution. At a big picture level, our results showcase that the evolutionary effects of population structure crucially depend on the properties of the topology considered. Understanding these spatial properties is therefore requisite for making meaningful evolutionary comparisons across different topologies, for forming sensible null expectations about experimental or observational data or for developing an intuition for when well-mixed approximations, or approximations done using spatial models with a high degree of symmetry, might not apply.
Suprachiasmatic Neuromedin-S Neurons Regulate Arousal
Authors: Wu Yu-Er , De Luca Roberto , Broadhurst Rebecca Y. , Venner Anne , Sohn Lauren T. , Bandaru Sathyajit S. , Schwalbe Dana C. , Campbell John , Arrigoni Elda , Fuller Patrick M
Published: February 2025

Mammalian circadian rhythms, which orchestrate the daily temporal structure of biological processes, including the sleep-wake cycle, are primarily regulated by the circadian clock in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN clock is also implicated in providing an arousal ‘signal,’ particularly during the wake-maintenance zone (WMZ) of our biological day, essential for sustaining normal levels of wakefulness in the presence of mounting sleep pressure. Here we identify a role for SCN Neuromedin-S (SCNNMS) neurons in regulating the level of arousal, especially during the WMZ. We used chemogenetic and optogenetic methods to activate SCNNMSneurons in vivo, which potently drove wakefulness. Fiber photometry confirmed the wake-active profile of SCNNMneurons. Genetically ablating SCNNMSneurons disrupted the sleep-wake cycle, reducing wakefulness during the dark period and abolished the circadian rhythm of body temperature. SCNNMSneurons target the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH), and photostimulation of their terminals within the DMH rapidly produces arousal from sleep. Pre-synaptic inputs to SCNNMSneurons were also identified, including regions known to influence SCN clock regulation. Unexpectedly, we discovered strong input from the preoptic area (POA), which itself receives substantial inhibitory input from the DMH, forming a possible arousal-promoting circuit (SCN->DMH->POA->SCN). Finally, we analyzed the transcriptional profile of SCNNMSneurons via single-nuclei RNA-Seq, revealing three distinct subtypes. Our findings link molecularly-defined SCN neurons to sleep-wake patterns, body temperature rhythms, and arousal control.

Significance Statement

Our study’s findings provide a cellular and neurobiological understanding of how Neuromedin-S (NMS)-containing SCN neurons contribute to regulating circadian rhythms, sleep-wake patterns, body temperature, and arousal control in mammals. This research illuminates the circuit, cellular, and synaptic mechanisms through which SCN neurons regulate daily cycles of wakefulness and sleep, with implications for understanding and potentially manipulating these processes in health and disease.
Constructing gender through reporting: unveiling the rhetorical strategies of an NGO from 1995 to 2021
Authors: Senn Juliette , Maire Sarah , Ghio Alessandro
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Addressing grand challenges requires an in-depth understanding of the social constructs, such as the gender discourse that shapes gender equality. Accounting, through annual reporting, contributes to constructing realities, thus impacting grand challenges. This paper explores how organizational reporting by a non-governmental organization (NGO) promotes particular ideologies about gender in a changing sociocultural context.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a case study of an NGO that has long used annual reports to disseminate its perspectives on gender. Drawing on 1,251 pages of annual reports (in French, a gendered language), including 1,618 visuals, from 1995 to 2021, we use feminist and ideological perspectives to analyse the rhetorical strategies used.

Findings

The results show that the NGO’s annual reports include evolving perspectives on gender. In an earlier period, it emphasizes complementarity between men and women while assigning primary roles to men. More recently, while the organization continues to support traditional visions on gender representation, the reporting narratives and visuals strive towards greater inclusivity. The findings also suggest instances of ambiguity in how an organization can use narratives and visuals, prompting a discussion on the idea of rhetorical ambiguity in organizational reporting.

Originality/value

This study shows how organizational reporting longitudinally evolves regarding grand challenges, beyond financial and business matters. The paper identifies sites of gender ideology in both visuals and narratives of the reports.
Exploring the experiences and perceptions of young people’s recreational nitrous oxide use
Authors: Walter Hannah , Cameron Jacqueline Jane , Simpson Helen , Kor Kenny , MacLean Sarah , Allan Julaine
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This exploratory pilot study investigated the experiences and perceptions of young people who use N2O recreationally. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first qualitative research conducted in Australia with young people investigating this topic in detail. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore young people’s perceptions, motives and experiences of N2O use by exploring the positive and negative effects of N2O, motives for use, practices and methods and suggested advice to help define targeted harm reduction messages.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were recruited via hard copy posters, social media advertisements and snowball sampling. Seven in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people aged between 18 and 25 years who had used N2O on at least ten occasions. The interview transcripts were analysed thematically. The study was completed in accordance with COREQ for qualitative research.

Findings

The findings identified four overarching themes about N2O use: the nature of N2O use; the appeal of N2O; influences on N2O use; and perception of risk and harms of N2O use.

Originality/value

Young people in the study described their experiences as being largely pleasurable. However, several identified negative impacts, although harms, were primarily disregarded. Exploration of N2O effects alongside other substance use highlighted how N2O is a unique substance and should be considered as such when developing harm reduction strategies.
Returns to higher education by field of study in Thailand: comparative analysis of pre and post-COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sirisrisakulchai Jirakom , Leurcharusmee Supanika
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study estimates returns to higher education across different fields in Thailand for 2019 and 2021, accounting for field selection endogeneity. The comparison offers insights into the impact of the pandemic and other economic shocks on the returns.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies an econometric causal framework, integrating economic theory with empirical analysis using data from Thailand’s socioeconomic surveys in 2019 and 2021. A multinomial treatment effects model with sample selection correction is used to estimate the impact of different fields of study on income, accounting for selection both into higher education in different fields and into employment, addressing potential biases from ability sorting and sample selection.

Findings

The study finds variations in returns to education across fields. In 2019, teaching offered the highest returns on average, followed by healthcare. Social sciences, business and computer-related fields showed moderate returns, while the combined group of science, agriculture, engineering and architecture had non-significant returns, indicating a low weighted average across these diverse fields. In 2021, healthcare exhibited the highest return due to pandemic-driven demand. Across both years, controlling for occupation reduced the estimated returns by approximately 50%, highlighting the role of occupational status in mediating educational returns.

Originality/value

This study uniquely applies an econometric causal framework to analyze returns to higher education by field of study in Thailand. It offers insights for policymakers to align educational programs with labor market demand and emphasizes the importance of data-driven decisions in responding to disruptions.
Relationship between the three dimensions of paternalistic leadership, cognitive and affective trust and organizational citizenship behavior: a multilevel mediational pathway
Authors: Lee Michelle Chin Chin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The current study aims to explore the three dimensions of paternalistic leadership (i.e. moral leadership, benevolent leadership and authoritarian leadership) and their dual pathways of positive and negative influences on employees’ organizational citizenship behavior through the two aspects of trust (i.e. cognitive and affective trust).

Design/methodology/approach

Given that trust is pertinent in any human relationship, especially in Asian countries where bonding plays an important role, the current study investigated the relationship of each leadership style within paternalistic leadership on employees’ cognitive and affective trust in their leaders, employees’ organizational citizenship behavior and the processes involved. The current study employed a cross-sectional multilevel approach with 435 employees from 85 workgroups participating in the study.

Findings

As hypothesized, benevolent and moral leadership styles (but not the authoritarian leadership style) had a positive effect on employees’ cognitive and affective trust in their leaders and on employees’ organizational citizenship behavior. Cognitive and affective trust also mediated the relationships of benevolent and moral leadership styles with organizational citizenship behavior.

Originality/value

The study’s findings urge practitioners and human resources personnel to be aware of the dual effects that a paternalistic leader has on employees. To be specific, benevolent and moral leadership styles are conducive to employees’ work outcomes, whereas the authoritarian leadership style has a non-significant role in employees’ work outcomes.
The role of libraries in promoting environmental justice: strategies for information access
Authors: Oladokun Bolaji David , Durodolu Oluwole O.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Libraries play a pivotal role in advancing environmental justice by facilitating access to information and resources essential for informed decision-making and advocacy. This paper aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between libraries and environmental justice, focusing on strategies for information access and community engagement. The study also examines the challenges and opportunities in promoting environmental justice through library initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a descriptive design and qualitative methods to delve into the roles of academic librarians in Nigeria. Qualitative methods were chosen to deeply explore participants’ perspectives, experiences and attitudes toward information access and environmental justice. The study involved six academic librarians from the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi. Data were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs) with the participating librarians, conducted in a conducive and private setting to encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the FGD transcripts.

Findings

Key findings highlight the importance of diverse program formats, collaboration with experts and activists, leveraging technology for information dissemination and partnerships with other institutions. The study indicates the significance of continuous learning for librarians to effectively address environmental justice concerns and proposes recommendations for enhancing library support in this context.

Originality/value

Ultimately, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the roles of libraries in promoting environmental justice and offers practical insights for future initiatives and policy decisions.
Grocery shopping in metaverse: understanding drivers and barriers
Authors: Malekpour Mehrgan , Maurer Oswin , Basile Vincenzo , Baima Gabriele
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to enhance our understanding of customer expectations and experiences in grocery shopping within the metaverse. It investigates factors influencing customer satisfaction and driving continued engagement with metaverse platforms, offering insights into the drivers of customer adoption and barriers to usage.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a qualitative netnographic approach, this study analysed customer reactions to Walmart’s virtual store demonstration. Data were collected from user comments on YouTube, TikTok, Twitter and Reddit. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key factors contributing to satisfaction and dissatisfaction with metaverse grocery shopping experiences.

Findings

The study reveals three major drivers shaping customer satisfaction and subsequent positive intentions toward grocery shopping in the metaverse: social, functional and hedonic stimuli. Eight critical barriers affecting the metaverse shopping experience are identified: functional, hedonic, social, financial, privacy, safety, ownership and store atmospherics concerns, including tactile, acoustic and visual elements.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are derived from a qualitative analysis of customer comments on social media platforms, which may limit generalisability. Future studies could adopt a mixed-methods approach to validate these findings across broader datasets.

Originality/value

This work is the first research to examine customer satisfaction with grocery shopping in the metaverse. It offers valuable insights into customer expectations, adoption drivers and critical barriers, laying the groundwork for further exploration of metaverse applications in retail.
Assessing Lean 4.0 critical success factors (CSFs) for implementing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Qureshi Karishma Mohamed Rafik , Mewada Bhavesh G.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The present research identifies and prioritizes the critical success factors (CSFs) for Lean 4.0 (L4.0) implementation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). L4.0 integrates Lean principles with Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, for instance wireless networks, Internet of things (IoT), big data, cloud computing (CC), etc., offering significant opportunities to enhance operational efficiency by reducing non-value-adding activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts the “Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (FDEMATEL)” methodology to examine and assess the connections between CSFs for L4.0 implementation. Data were gathered from SMEs using qualitative and quantitative approaches to ensure comprehensive insights into the critical enablers of L4.0 adoption.

Findings

The study identifies Top Management Support and Commitment, Employee Training and Financial Capabilities as the most important CSFs for L4.0 adoption in SMEs. These factors significantly impact the adoption process, providing actionable insights for SME leaders to overcome challenges and optimize implementation strategies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing knowledge of L4.0 by highlighting key CSFs relevant to SMEs, a sector often constrained by resources but crucial for economic development. The findings provide a practical roadmap for SME entrepreneurs to achieve operational excellence and competitiveness through effective L4.0 adoption.
Enhancing sustainability in higher education institutions through sustainability circles approach: a UAE case study
Authors: Araci Zehra Canan , Aydin Ridvan , Alsyouf Imad , Obaideen Khaled , Al Jaberi Bushra Hussein
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a plan-do-check-act-oriented framework for implementing the “Sustainability circles” (SCs) approach to achieve sustainability excellence within higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

The SCs approach, derived from the quality circles concept, involves groups of individuals working together to promote sustainability within HEIs. This paper demonstrates the application of this approach through a case study of the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, establishing clear links between sustainable development goals (SDGs), the Universitas Indonesia (UI) GreenMetric Ranking System and SCs.

Findings

The case study revealed that SCs significantly impacted the achievement of SDGs and improved the university’s rankings in the UI GreenMetric within a short period. The SC approach effectively engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including students, academic and administrative staff.

Research limitations/implications

By involving students, faculty and administrative staff in SCs, HEIs can embed sustainability into their institutional culture, developing new ideas and innovative solutions. The SCs approach effectively increases the number of points gained from respective sustainability ranking systems and their evaluation categories, showcasing its strength and novelty in driving engagement and sustainability excellence.

Practical implications

The SC approach provides HEIs with a structured method to overcome sustainability challenges by fostering collaboration, innovation and stakeholder engagement. This framework can accelerate the achievement of SDGs and enhance sustainability practices within HEIs.

Social implications

The SCs approach impacts the society by equipping students with sustainability awareness and critical problem-solving skills to address real-world sustainability challenges. Consequently, these students take an active part in developing a more aware, engaged and proactive society.

Originality/value

This paper introduces an innovative application of the quality circles concept to sustainability within HEIs, addressing the significant challenge of integrating and involving both top-level leadership and bottom-level stakeholders. The proposed SC approach effectively bridges this gap by combining top-down and bottom-up strategies, fostering collaboration and engagement across all levels. This novel framework demonstrates how HEIs can overcome barriers to sustainability implementation, ensuring comprehensive participation and accelerating the achievement of SDGs.
Transitioning from subjectivity to objectivity: empowering women in academic leadership
Authors: Sil Nairitee , Lenka Usha
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing literature on women’s leadership in academia by identifying the existing challenges for their underrepresentation, and proposing a new-age leadership interventions to address the inherent systemic biases and develop foster an equitable academic climate.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed bibliometric analysis to map the literature by investigating publication and geographical trends. Techniques like citation, co-citation, bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis identified seminal research and emerging themes, providing insights into research developments and facilitating identification of avenues for future research.

Findings

Our study highlights how social, organizational and individual barriers disadvantage women academic leaders. Existing enablers for women in leadership, like mentorship, leadership development and family friendly policies, focus on bringing change within the prevailing academic culture, reinforcing the notion “women need support”, overlooking the influence of systemic barriers. Such interventions are often ineffective in bringing sustainable change. We propose integrating AI/machine learning (ML) technologies in leadership selection to reduce bias arising from subjectivity.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the discourse on gender inequality in academic leadership by offering a robust understanding of the research topic and informing avenues for future research.

Practical implications

Policymakers and higher education institutions can use the findings of the study to aid the formulation of policies, initiatives and institutional procedures to mitigate the prevalent gender bias in academia and cultivate an inclusive culture for growth of women.

Originality/value

The paper analyses women’s under-representation as academic leaders and proposes a novel data-driven intervention using gamification, AI and ML, aiming to reshape gender dynamics in academic leadership.
Preprint servers and journals: rivals or allies?
Authors: Chtena Natascha , Alperin Juan Pablo , Pinfield Stephen , Fleerackers Alice , Pasquetto Irene V.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study explores the evolving role of preprint servers within the scholarly communication system, focusing on their relationship with peer-reviewed journals. As preprints become more common, questioning and understanding their future role is critical for maintaining a healthy scholarly communication ecosystem. By examining the values, concerns and goals of preprint server managers, this study highlights the significant influence these individuals have in shaping the future of preprints.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative, interview-based approach was used to gather insights from preprint server managers on their roles, challenges and visions for the future of preprints within the broader scholarly communication system.

Findings

The findings point to a lack of consensus on how preprint servers and journals should interact and to diverging views on how the certification and curation functions are best performed and by whom. Concerns about credibility and long-term financial sustainability are increasingly driving independent and community-run preprint servers to align more closely with journals, potentially undermining the disruptive and emancipatory potential of preprints.

Originality/value

This study is the first to examine the relationship between preprints and journals from the perspective of preprint server managers in the later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. It sheds light on how preprint servers are navigating external pressures and market dynamics, how they are seeking to establish credibility and trust, and how, in doing so, they are reshaping the core functions of scholarly communication.
Impact of shareholder yield on financial distress: using competition and firm size as moderators
Authors: Purohit Sonal , Agarwal Bhakti , Kanoujiya Jagjeevan , Rastogi Shailesh
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Financial distress (FD) is an unfavorable situation that can have severe negative consequences on a firm. Within the range of multiple micro and macro factors, firm’s dividend policy can impact FD. However, this relationship is yet to be explored. Since shareholder yield (SHY) is a major component of the dividend policy, this study aims to explore the effect of SHY on a firm’s FD. Taking insights from stakeholder theory and dividend signaling theory, we also examined if this relationship is moderated by competition and firm size.

Design/methodology/approach

The data from Fortune 500 companies over thirteen years (2010–2022) was subjected to panel data analysis (PDA). The analysis particularly takes the quantile panel data model to have a deeper understanding of variable’s association in different scenarios of FD.

Findings

The findings revealed that the SHY does not directly influence a firm’s FD. However, it is negatively moderated by competition at a lower quantile of financial stability and positively moderated by firm size at all quantiles of financial stability (reverse of FD). It means when competition increases, the shareholder’s yield reduces the financial stability. However, it improves financial stability when firm size increases.

Practical implications

The findings deliver significant implications for all the stakeholders to consider dividend policy in form of SHY as a crucial element for a firm’s financial soundness. It is very situational to improve or detriment the financial health of the firm when it combines with other factors particularly competition or firm size. Hence, it is important to understand its sensitivity for FD.

Originality/value

In this study, we evidenced competition and firm size as moderators to SHY and FD relationship thus presenting novel insights. The findings are integrated to stakeholder theory and dividend signaling theory, and thus offer theoretical advancements.
Navigating financial interconnectivity: analyzing oil, exchange rates and US market influences on Asia-Pacific equities using the time-varying parameter vector autoregressive connectedness approach
Authors: Sarathkumara S. M. N. N. , Samarakoon S. M. R. K. , Pradhan Rudra P.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study analyzes return spillovers among key financial markets, including equity indices (NIFTY50, NIKKEI225, KOSPI, ASX200, Shanghai-Composite and Hang-Seng), exchange rates (USD-INR, USD-YEN, USD-WON, USD-AUD and USD-RNMB) and Brent crude oil prices (Brent) in the Asia-Pacific region as well as the NASDAQ index from the US market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilizes the time-varying parameter vector autoregressive (TVP-VAR) connectedness approach to analyze the return spillovers in the Asia-Pacific region covering the period from March 2, 2005 to February 29, 2024.

Findings

The findings reveal that NASDAQ and NIFTY50R are significant transmitters of financial shocks, exerting a strong influence on other markets. In contrast, the Shanghai Composite Index and the South Korean Won act as net receivers, indicating their vulnerability to external influences. The interconnectedness between Brent crude oil prices and regional financial markets underscores the impact of global commodity price fluctuations on the financial stability of energy-dependent economies.

Practical implications

The study shows heightened interconnectedness during global financial crises, suggesting that market shocks can propagate more intensely across interconnected systems during such periods. These insights contribute to a better understanding of financial spillovers and highlight the need for effective risk management and policy coordination in the Asia-Pacific region.

Originality/value

The TVP-VAR connectedness approach is deployed to analyze return spillovers among key financial markets, including equity indices, exchange rates and Brent crude oil prices in the Asia-Pacific region as well as the NASDAQ index from the US market.

Research highlights

(1)

We analyze return spillovers among key financial markets indicators in the Asia-Pacific region.

(2)

The analysis covers the period from March 2, 2005, to February 29, 2024.

(3)

The findings reveal that NASDAQ and NIFTY50R are significant transmitters of financial shocks, exerting a strong influence on other markets.

(4)

The study shows heightened interconnectedness during global financial crises, suggesting that market shocks can propagate more intensely across interconnected systems during the study periods.

(5)

We find a better understanding of financial spillovers and highlight the need for effective risk management and policy coordination in the Asia-Pacific region.
Financial and non-financial performance measurement at the municipal group level – Evidence from municipal budgets in Sweden
Authors: Haraldsson Mattias
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to explore Swedish municipalities’ adoption of politically decided goals and targets, within the budget document, that are formulated for the accounting unit of the municipal group.

Design/methodology/approach

A regression analysis of the adoption of financial and non-financial performance measurement by 289 Swedish municipalities was performed, including eight independent variables and several control variables.

Findings

Of the municipalities, 26% adopted financial and 13% non-financial goals and targets in their 2021 budgets. The former choice appears to be driven by functional rationality, while the latter is driven by institutional and political incentives. The low adoption level of performance measurement implies that political group-level management has not yet adapted to new organisational conditions.

Practical implications

To enhance political governance and accountability, controllers should assist politicians in incorporating municipal group goals into the budget. Not least, more attention should be given to non-financial perspectives, as they better support strategy implementation and better promote comprehensive accountability to citizens and stakeholders. A further implication for policymakers is that when designing future legal financial and non-financial requirements for municipalities, it is important to define those at the municipal group level.

Originality/value

This study empirically and theoretically contributes to previous research on the adoption of performance measurement as it is the first study to explore the adoption pattern of financial and non-financial performance measurement at the municipal group level. This study further contributes theoretically by highlighting the importance of distinguishing between the adoption of financial and non-financial goals and targets, as the analysis reveals that financial and non-financial performance measures are adopted due to different rationales.
Determinants of discount rates, capitalisation rates and growth rates
Authors: Hoesli Martin , Shmygel Alona
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper analyses the determinants of key inputs for the explicit discounted cash flow (DCF) or the implicit capitalisation models, namely the discount rates and the capitalisation rates. We also study the factors affecting the implied growth rate of the net operating income (NOI).

Design/methodology/approach

We make use of a rich database for the commercial real estate market in the US that covers a long time period (2002–2024) and over 60 metropolitan markets. Given that the figures are appraisal-based, we use a common desmoothing approach and analyse the determinants of discount rates, capitalisation rates and growth rates using regression analysis.

Findings

On average, the discount rate in gateway markets is 89 basis points lower than in non-gateway markets. A similar difference is observed for capitalisation rates (93 basis points). Inflation has an immediate negative impact on capitalisation and discount rates due to the delayed adjustment of the rental income, but the effect turns positive over time. With a lag, real GDP growth reduces both rates, as expectations of economic growth reduce risk premia. Real interest rates consistently increase capitalisation, discount and growth rates through higher borrowing costs and portfolio reallocations.

Practical implications

The investment method to valuation is widely used in practice. By shedding additional light on the determinants of key inputs when using the explicit DCF of implicit capitalisation models, namely the discount and capitalisation rates, the results of this study should provide important information to appraisers and policymakers.

Originality/value

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the determinants of key inputs needed when appraising a commercial real estate property with an income approach. In particular, it not only explores the impacts of macroeconomic variables on discount and capitalisation rates but also those of various types of properties. As such, the results of this study should have important implications in practice.