bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Central Amygdala Astrocyte Plasticity Underlies GABAergic Dysregulation in Ethanol Dependence
Authors: Nentwig Todd B. , Obray J. Daniel , Kruyer Anna , Wilkes Erik T , Vaughan Dylan T. , Scofield Michael D. , Chandler L. Judson
Published: June 2024

Dependence is a hallmark of alcohol use disorder characterized by excessive alcohol intake and withdrawal symptoms. The central nucleus of the amygdala (CeA) is a key brain structure underlying the synaptic and behavioral consequences of ethanol dependence. While accumulating evidence suggests that astrocytes regulate synaptic transmission and behavior, there is a limited understanding of the role astrocytes play in ethanol dependence. The present study used a combination of viral labeling, super resolution confocal microscopy, 3D image analysis, and slice electrophysiology to determine the effects of chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure on astrocyte plasticity in the CeA. During withdrawal from CIE exposure, we observed increased GABA transmission, an upregulation in astrocytic GAT3 levels, and an increased proximity of astrocyte processes near CeA synapses. Furthermore, GAT3 levels and synaptic proximity were positively associated with voluntary ethanol drinking in dependent rats. Slice electrophysiology confirmed that the upregulation in astrocytic GAT3 levels was functional, as CIE exposure unmasked a GAT3-sensitive tonic GABA current in the CeA. A causal role for astrocytic GAT3 in ethanol dependence was assessed using viral-mediated GAT3 overexpression and knockdown approaches. However, GAT3 knockdown or overexpression had no effect on somatic withdrawal symptoms, dependence-escalated ethanol intake, aversion-resistant drinking, or post-dependent ethanol drinking in male or female rats. Moreover, intra-CeA pharmacological inhibition of GAT3 also did not alter dependent ethanol drinking. Together, these findings indicate that ethanol dependence induces GABAergic dysregulation and astrocyte plasticity in the CeA. However, astrocytic GAT3 does not appear necessary for the drinking related phenotypes associated with dependence.
BASOPHILS ACTIVATE PRURICEPTOR-LIKE VAGAL SENSORY NEURONS
Authors: Wang Jo-Chiao , Nikpoor Amin Reza , Crosson Théo , Kaufmann Eva , Rafei Moutih , Talbot Sébastien
Published: June 2024

Vagal sensory neurons convey sensations from internal organs along the vagus nerve to the brainstem. Pruriceptors are a subtype of neurons that transmit itch and induce pruritus. Despite extensive research on the molecular mechanisms of itch, studies focusing on pruriceptors in the vagal ganglia still need to be explored. In this study, we characterized vagal pruriceptor neurons by their responsiveness to pruritogens such as lysophosphatidic acid,β-alanine, chloroquine, and the cytokine oncostatin M. We discovered that lung-resident basophils produce oncostatin M and that its release can be induced by engagement of FcεRIα. Oncostatin M then sensitizes multiple populations of vagal sensory neurons, including Tac1+and MrgprA3+neurons in the jugular ganglia. Finally, we observed an increase in oncostatin M release in mice sensitized to the house dust miteDermatophagoides pteronyssinusor to the fungal allergenAlternaria alternata, highlighting a novel mechanism through which basophils and vagal sensory neurons may communicate during type I hypersensitivity diseases such as allergic asthma.
Diverse memory paradigms inDrosophilareveal diverse neural mechanisms
Authors: Dwijesha Amoolya Sai , Eswaran Akhila , Berry Jacob A. , Phan Anna
Published: June 2024

In this review, we aggregated the different types of learning and memory paradigms developed in adultDrosophilaand attempted to assess the similarities and differences in the neural mechanisms supporting diverse types of memory. The simplest association memory assays are conditioning paradigms (olfactory, visual, and gustatory). A great deal of work has been done on these memories, revealing hundreds of genes and neural circuits supporting this memory. Variations of conditioning assays (reversal learning, trace conditioning, latent inhibition, and extinction) also reveal interesting memory mechanisms, whereas mechanisms supporting spatial memory (thermal maze, orientation memory, and heat box) and the conditioned suppression of innate behaviors (phototaxis, negative geotaxis, anemotaxis, and locomotion) remain largely unexplored. In recent years, there has been an increased interest in multisensory and multicomponent memories (context-dependent and cross-modal memory) and higher-order memory (sensory preconditioning and second-order conditioning). Some of this work has revealed how the intricate mushroom body (MB) neural circuitry can support more complex memories. Finally, the most complex memories are arguably those involving social memory: courtship conditioning and social learning (mate-copying and egg-laying behaviors). Currently, very little is known about the mechanisms supporting social memories. Overall, the MBs are important for association memories of multiple sensory modalities and multisensory integration, whereas the central complex is important for place, orientation, and navigation memories. Interestingly, several different types of memory appear to use similar or variants of the olfactory conditioning neural circuitry, which are repurposed in different ways.
Beyond prediction error: 25 years of modeling the associations formed in the insect mushroom body
Authors: Webb Barbara
Published: June 2024

The insect mushroom body has gained increasing attention as a system in which the computational basis of neural learning circuits can be unraveled. We now understand in detail the key locations in this circuit where synaptic associations are formed between sensory patterns and values leading to actions. However, the actual learning rule (or rules) implemented by neural activity and leading to synaptic change is still an open question. Here, I survey the diversity of answers that have been offered in computational models of this system over the past decades, including the recurring assumption—in line with top-down theories of associative learning—that the core function is to reduce prediction error. However, I will argue, a more bottom-up approach may ultimately reveal a richer algorithmic capacity in this still enigmatic brain neuropil.
Octopamine in the mushroom body circuitry for learning and memory
Authors: Selcho Mareike
Published: June 2024

Octopamine, the functional analog of noradrenaline, modulates many different behaviors and physiological processes in invertebrates. In the central nervous system, a few octopaminergic neurons project throughout the brain and innervate almost all neuropils. The center of memory formation in insects, the mushroom bodies, receive octopaminergic innervations in all insects investigated so far. Different octopamine receptors, either increasing or decreasing cAMP or calcium levels in the cell, are localized in Kenyon cells, further supporting the release of octopamine in the mushroom bodies. In addition, different mushroom body (MB) output neurons, projection neurons, and dopaminergic PAM cells are targets of octopaminergic neurons, enabling the modulation of learning circuits at different neural sites. For some years, the theory persisted that octopamine mediates rewarding stimuli, whereas dopamine (DA) represents aversive stimuli. This simple picture has been challenged by the finding that DA is required for both appetitive and aversive learning. Furthermore, octopamine is also involved in aversive learning and a rather complex interaction between these biogenic amines seems to modulate learning and memory. This review summarizes the role of octopamine in MB function, focusing on the anatomical principles and the role of the biogenic amine in learning and memory.
The caloric value of food intake structurally adjusts a neuronal mushroom body circuit mediating olfactory learning inDrosophila
Authors: Çoban Büşra , Poppinga Haiko , Rachad El Yazid , Geurten Bart , Vasmer David , Rodriguez Jimenez Francisco Jesus , Gadgil Yogesh , Deimel Stephan Hubertus , Alyagor Idan , Schuldiner Oren , Grunwald Kadow Ilona C. , Riemensperger Thomas Dieter , Widmann Annekathrin , Fiala André
Published: June 2024

Associative learning enables the adaptive adjustment of behavioral decisions based on acquired, predicted outcomes. The valence of what is learned is influenced not only by the learned stimuli and their temporal relations, but also by prior experiences and internal states. In this study, we used the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterto demonstrate that neuronal circuits involved in associative olfactory learning undergo restructuring during extended periods of low-caloric food intake. Specifically, we observed a decrease in the connections between specific dopaminergic neurons (DANs) and Kenyon cells at distinct compartments of the mushroom body. This structural synaptic plasticity was contingent upon the presence of allatostatin A receptors in specific DANs and could be mimicked optogenetically by expressing a light-activated adenylate cyclase in exactly these DANs. Importantly, we found that this rearrangement in synaptic connections influenced aversive, punishment-induced olfactory learning but did not impact appetitive, reward-based learning. Whether induced by prolonged low-caloric conditions or optogenetic manipulation of cAMP levels, this synaptic rearrangement resulted in a reduction of aversive associative learning. Consequently, the balance between positive and negative reinforcing signals shifted, diminishing the ability to learn to avoid odor cues signaling negative outcomes. These results exemplify how a neuronal circuit required for learning and memory undergoes structural plasticity dependent on prior experiences of the nutritional value of food.
Presynaptic regulators in memory formation
Authors: Turrel Oriane , Gao Lili , Sigrist Stephan J.
Published: June 2024

The intricate molecular and structural sequences guiding the formation and consolidation of memories within neuronal circuits remain largely elusive. In this study, we investigate the roles of two pivotal presynaptic regulators, the small GTPase Rab3, enriched at synaptic vesicles, and the cell adhesion protein Neurexin-1, in the formation of distinct memory phases within theDrosophilamushroom body Kenyon cells. Our findings suggest that both proteins play crucial roles in memory-supporting processes within the presynaptic terminal, operating within distinct plasticity modules. These modules likely encompass remodeling and maturation of existing active zones (AZs), as well as the formation of new AZs.
Searching for high-frequency gravitational waves with phonons
Authors: Kahn Yonatan , Schütte-Engel Jan , Trickle Tanner
Published: June 2024

The gravitational wave (GW) spectrum at frequencies above a kHz is a largely unexplored frontier. We show that detectors with sensitivity to single-phonon excitations in crystal targets can search for GWs with frequencies, 1  THz≲f≲100  THz, corresponding to the range of optical phonon energies, 1  meV≲ω≲100  meV. Such detectors are already being built to search for light dark matter (DM), and therefore sensitivity to high-frequency GWs will be achieved as a byproduct. We begin by deriving the absorption rate of a general GW signal into single phonons. We then focus on carefully defining the detector sensitivity to monochromatic and chirp signals, and compute the detector sensitivity for many proposed light DM detection targets. The detector sensitivity is then compared to the signal strength of candidate high-frequency GW sources, e.g., superradiant annihilation and black hole inspiral, as well as other recent detector proposals in the 1  MHz≲f≲100  THz frequency range. With a judicious choice of target materials, a collection of detectors could optimistically achieve sensitivities to monochromatic signals with h0∼10−23−10−25 over 1  THz≲f≲100  THz.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comparison between
μ−μ+
and
e−e+
colliders for charged Higgs production in the 2HDM
Authors: Ait Ouazghour Brahim , Arhrib Abdesslam , Cheung Kingman , Ghourmin Es-said , Rahili Larbi
Published: June 2024

We study the phenomenology of the charged Higgs boson at future muon colliders. We investigate the pair production μ+μ−→H+H−, the single production μ+μ−→W±H∓, as well as the vector boson fusion (VBF) {e+e−,μ+μ−}→νν¯H+H−. We show that the neutral Higgs exchange diagrams in the muon collider case can lead to a significant boost in the cross sections through their Yukawa couplings. Our results for the muon collider are systematically compared to the corresponding ones at e+e− machines. It is demonstrated that the VBF

e

+

e

−

→

ν

ν

¯

H

+

H

−

can compete with the mentioned 2→2 processes. We select benchmark points and perform signal-background analyses, taking into account detector simulations. We demonstrate the discovery region at 5σ and the excluded region at 2σ levels at a 3 TeV muon collider.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Thermodynamic cost for precision of general counting observables
Authors: Pietzonka Patrick , Coghi Francesco
Published: June 2024

We analytically derive universal bounds that describe the tradeoff between thermodynamic cost and precision in a sequence of events related to some internal changes of an otherwise hidden physical system. The precision is quantified by the fluctuations in either the number of events counted over time or the waiting times between successive events. Our results are valid for the same broad class of nonequilibrium driven systems considered by the thermodynamic uncertainty relation, but they extend to both time-symmetric and asymmetric observables. We show how optimal precision saturating the bounds can be achieved. For waiting-time fluctuations of asymmetric observables, a phase transition in the optimal configuration arises, where higher precision can be achieved by combining several signals.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Robustness of Turing models and gene regulatory networks with a sweet spot
Authors: Pazuki Roozbeh H. , Endres Robert G.
Published: June 2024

Traditional linear stability analysis based on matrix diagonalization is a computationally intensive process for high-dimensional systems of differential equations, posing substantial limitations for the exploration of Turing systems of pattern formation where an additional wave-number parameter needs to be investigated. In this paper, we introduce an efficient and intuitive technique that leverages Gershgorin's theorem to determine upper limits on regions of parameter space and the wave number beyond which Turing instabilities cannot occur. This method offers a streamlined avenue for exploring the phase diagrams of other complex multi-parametric models, such as those found in gene regulatory networks in systems biology. Due to its suitability for the asymptotic limit of infinitely large systems, it predicts the existence of a sweet spot in network size for maximal Jacobian stability.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Tailoring the statistics of light emitted from two interacting quantum emitters
Authors: Juan-Delgado Adrián , Esteban Ruben , Nodar Álvaro , Trebbia Jean-Baptiste , Lounis Brahim , Aizpurua Javier
Published: June 2024

The interaction between quantum emitters leads to the formation of superradiant and subradiant states with possible applications in quantum technologies. To improve the characterization of light emission from these systems, we present here a systematic theoretical analysis of the intensity correlation from two strongly interacting quantum emitters at cryogenic temperatures as a function of the frequency and intensity of the excitation laser. This analysis effectively accounts for the effect of vibrational modes of the emitters and of phonons of the environment through the combined Debye-Waller/Franck-Condon factor. First, we analyze the color-blind intensity correlation and show that it can be tailored from strong antibunching to strong bunching by tuning the laser from the two-photon resonance to the transition frequency of the superradiant state. We also find a particularly complex behavior of the intensity correlation when the laser frequency is tuned to that of the transition of the subradiant state, giving raise to the possibility of emitting bunched and antibunched light depending on the laser intensity and the detuning between the two emitters. The numerical results are supported by analytical equations that can be used for the experimental characterization of the interacting emitters. Additionally, by selecting photons of particular frequencies, we analyze the rich landscape of frequency-resolved intensity correlations, which also depend on the laser detuning and intensity. The analysis of the frequency-resolved correlations provides further information about the different relaxation processes underlying the photon emission, unveiling one-photon and two-photon emission processes that cannot be resolved neither in the emission spectrum nor in the color-blind intensity correlation. These results show that two interacting emitters are a versatile and practical source of quantum light and highlight the usefulness of the intensity correlation to unveil complex dynamics in this system.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Floquet-Rydberg quantum simulator for confinement in
Z2
gauge theories
Authors: Domanti Enrico C. , Zappalà Dario , Bermudez Alejandro , Amico Luigi
Published: June 2024

Recent advances in the field of quantum technologies have opened up the road for the realization of small-scale quantum simulators of lattice gauge theories which, among other goals, aim at improving our understanding on the nonperturbative mechanisms underlying the confinement of quarks. In this work, considering periodically driven arrays of Rydberg atoms in a tweezer ladder geometry, we devise a scalable Floquet scheme for the quantum simulation of the real-time dynamics in a Z2 LGT, in which hardcore bosons/spinless fermions are coupled to dynamical gauge fields. Resorting to an external magnetic field to tune the angular dependence of the Rydberg dipolar interactions, and by a suitable tuning of the driving parameters, we manage to suppress the main gauge-violating terms and show that an observation of gauge-invariant confinement dynamics in the Floquet-Rydberg setup is at reach of current experimental techniques. Depending on the lattice size, we present a thorough numerical test of the validity of this scheme using either exact diagonalization or matrix-product-state algorithms for the periodically modulated real-time dynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Pulse magnetized superconducting bulk array undulator concept
Authors: Weerakonda Dian , Dennis Anthony , Calvi Marco , Durrell John
Published: June 2024

A number of benefits result from reducing the period length of an undulator without sacrificing magnetic field strength, such as an increased photon flux and higher energy synchrotron radiation. Replacing permanent magnets with bulk high-temperature superconductors (HTSs) has proved to be an effective path towards this goal. We present a concept for a bulk HTS undulator that is magnetized via pulsed field magnetization, which is a much more compact and economical form of magnetizing HTS bulks compared to the field-cooling or zero-field cooling methods that are typically employed. The results from an experiment tailored to demonstrate the feasibility of this concept are also presented. With these results, we estimate that an undulator field of 2.3 T could be generated using this design with a magnetic gap of 4 mm and a 16 mm period length, operating at 40 K.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Chromic soft crystals based on luminescent platinum(II) complexes
Authors: Kato Masako
Published: June 2024

Platinum(II) complexes of square-planar geometry are interesting from a crystal engineering viewpoint because they exhibit strong luminescence based on the self-assembly of molecular units. The luminescence color changes in response to gentle stimuli, such as vapor exposure or weak mechanical forces. Both the molecular and the crystal designs for soft crystals are critical to effectively generate the chromic luminescence phenomenon of Pt(II) complexes. In this topical review, strategies for fabricating chromic luminescent Pt(II) complexes are described from a crystal design perspective, focusing on the structural regulation of Pt(II) complexes that exhibit assembly-induced luminescence via metal–metal interactions and structural control of anionic Pt(II) complexes using cations. The research progress on the evolution of various chromic luminescence properties of Pt(II) complexes, including the studies conducted by our group, are presented here along with the latest research outcomes, and an overview of the frontiers and future potential of this research field is provided.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 6,6′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine-1,1′-diium tetrachloridocobaltate(II)
Authors: Jagadeesan Sivaraman , Robert Swinton Darious , Venkatesan Perumal , Sundararaj Rajamanikandan , Soundararajan Krishnan , Nithianantham Jeeva Jasmine
Published: June 2024

In the title molecular salt, (C12H14N2)[CoCl4], the dihedral angle between the pyridine rings of the cation is 52.46 (9)° and the N—C—C—N torsion angle is −128.78 (14)°, indicating that the ring nitrogen atoms are in anti-clinal conformation. The Cl—Co—Cl bond angles in the anion span the range 105.46 (3)–117.91 (2)°. In the extended structure, the cations and anions are linked by cation-to-anion N—H...Cl and C—H...Cl interactions, facilitating the formation of R
4
4(18) and R
4
4(20) ring motifs. Furthermore, the crystal structure features weak anion-to-cation Cl...π interactions [Cl...π = 3.4891 (12) and 3.5465 (12) Å]. Hirshfeld two-dimensional fingerprint plots revealed that the most significant interactions are Cl...H/H...Cl (45.5%), H...H (29.0%), Cl...C/C...Cl (7.8%), Cl...N/N...Cl (3.5%), Cl...Cl (1.4) and Co...H (1%) contacts.
Crystal-packing analysis of translation initiation factor 2 reveals new details of its function
Authors: Nikonov O. S. , Nikonova E. Y. , Lekontseva N. V. , Nevskaya N. A. , Nikonov S. V.
Published: June 2024

Eukaryotic and archaeal translation initiation factor 2 in complex with GTP delivers the initiator methionyl-tRNA to the small ribosomal subunit. Over the past 20 years, thanks to the efforts of various research groups, including ours, this factor from the archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus and its individual subunits have been crystallized in ten different space groups. Analysis of the molecular packing in these crystals makes it possible to better understand the roles of functionally significant switches and other elements of the nucleotide-binding pocket during the function of the factor as well as the influence of external effects on its transition between active and inactive states.
Audit committees in transition: evaluating the effectiveness of corporate governance in Libya’s banking sector
Authors: Masli Abdulhakim M. , Gerged Ali Meftah , Mangena Musa
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research paper is to investigate the perspectives of key stakeholders on strategies to improve the effectiveness of audit committees (ACs) in African economies, with a specific focus on the Libyan banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews. The data collection process involves gathering responses from participants through questionnaires and conducting in-depth interviews to gain deeper insights into the subject matter.

Findings

The research findings highlight several key points. Firstly, fortifying Libya’s accounting and auditing profession emerges as the most widely endorsed suggestion for enhancing AC effectiveness. Secondly, participants identified various actions that can strengthen ACs, including appointing members with financial expertise, refining the legal requirements governing AC responsibilities, securing board support, enhancing Libya’s legal and regulatory framework, adequately compensating AC members and reducing government intervention in AC practices.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the field of corporate governance by providing valuable insights into the perspectives of stakeholders on enhancing AC effectiveness in the Libyan banking sector, within the broader context of African economies. The findings offer actionable plans for regulators and policymakers seeking to improve AC effectiveness in Libya.
A reciprocal – reflective approach to learning: concept and model
Authors: Lyons Paul , Bandura Randall
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper aimed primarily at the practitioner is to offer foundational information regarding reciprocal-reflective approach to learning (RRAL). Presentation and explanation include conceptual and theory grounding of the processes to be initiated by a manager for collaboration with an employee. A detailed model reflective of the approach is presented. Conceptual and practice-aimed information may be adapted for training and development.

Design/methodology/approach

Explanations of employee learning often place the manager in role(s) of teacher, guide, coach and/or expert. Proposed here is an approach in which manager and individual employee, jointly, make use of a learning approach which is representative of an experiential, action or problem-based form of learning from which they both can learn. The manager can initiate the process in which both participants collaborate to identify some specific, shared learning goals aimed at the matters under consideration. Other goals, likely more personal in the case of each participant, may also be identified and efforts made to help one another attain progress regarding such goals. The RRAL process as explained mirrors a bifurcation of instrumental behaviors (focus on learning activities) and emotional behaviors (caring and sharing resulting in a strengthened relationship and trust).

Findings

Relying on research that clearly identifies various supportive behaviors on the part of the manager, a detailed example of a plan is provided. The plan is driven by shared aims, focus, feedback and adjustment. In addition to individual learning goals, the manager has the opportunity to make her/his own role adjustments that lead to positive, supportive actions stimulating the quality of the relationship with the employee including the building of trust.

Practical implications

Using the example provided as a guide can be very helpful to a manager with limited experience in instigating employee learning and change. Initial use may be regarded as an experiment subject to much analysis and discussion by both participants as they contemplate how to work together in future reciprocal learning endeavors.

Originality/value

Currently, there is little research available that expresses how manager and employee can work as partners on some matter (change, problem, improvement) in a collaborative, reciprocal fashion. This paper, as an example, should demonstrate that skills and knowledge of both participants can improve and progress made regarding the issue at hand. The RRAL can be fashioned by the participants to yield progress and a more positive relationship.
A self-assessment guide for readiness to govern
Authors: Berland Alex
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This viewpoint introduces a “Readiness Self-Assessment Guide” that can be used as a diagnostic tool to help health service governors and managers, particularly in Low-Middle Income Countries, or those in the early stages of developing their governance program.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach uses the conceptual framework for governance developed by Barbazza and Tello (2014).

Findings

The Guide is based on five foundational elements or components of governance that frame the actual governance activities. The self-assessment process uses a sequence of real-world examples to help users of the Guide assess their organization’s “readiness” or current capacity to strengthen quality. A simple scoring process allows users to rate their organization’s progress through potential evolutionary steps. The resulting analysis is intended to be the starting point of a structured discussion among team members about priorities, enabling factors and constraints.

Practical implications

Assessment of the institutional context is a fundamental step that will enable quality teams to select the appropriate tools for their priority concerns. This Readiness Self-Assessment Guide can be used as part of that diagnostic assessment.

Originality/value

This paper is empirically derived from the author’s experience as a consultant helping health service organizations and governing authorities to develop health governance programs in several countries.
COVID-sumers: consumers’ feelings due Covid-19 pandemic in Brazil and potential implications for services marketing
Authors: Terres Mellina da Silva , Rohden Simoni F. , Sebastião Letícia Vedolin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The changes in the service context due to COVID-19 have challenged service marketers to understand and react to consumers’ feelings that impact their shopping behavior in services. Moreover, consumers had to face a challenging situation with an impact on mental health. This study aims to assess the impact of spirituality and compassionate love as coping mechanisms that might increase hope, which, in turn, decreases anxiety. Hope also mitigates the impact of fear on anxiety. The authors also investigate the mediate effect of hope in its relationship to spirituality and well-being during the pandemic in Brazil and its potential impact on services marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

To investigate the relationship between fear, anxiety, hope, compassionate love, spirituality and well-being, the authors conducted an online survey with 469 Brazilians who had been in quarantine for more than 45 days. To conduct the investigation, the authors used a purposive sampling to reach respondents due to the exceptional situation of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

Using a structural equation model, the authors found that hope is a mediator with a buffer effect on the relationships between anxiety and fear and between spirituality and anxiety. Moreover, the authors found that hope mediates the relationship between spirituality and well-being, leading to greater levels of well-being. Service companies in general can benefit from using these findings to better manage their relationships with consumers during and after COVID-19 pandemic.

Research limitations/implications

The sample included only Brazilian respondents, and pre-pandemic well-being was not measured.

Originality/value

There is evidence that traumatic events (e.g. war) influence feelings and consumer behavior. The findings suggest that the adoption of practices related to spirituality during an extreme, stressful situation has an influence on people’s hope and potentially mitigates anxiety. Increasing spirituality and hope can also benefit perceptions of well-being. Besides, in this context, the authors recommend that service providers communicate unobservable elements in a transaction (e.g. care, safety) by providing observable signals of spirituality and hope to reduce negative emotions.
Authentic leadership and performance of public servants in Tanzania context: the mediation role of motivation
Authors: Kyambade Mahadih , Bartazary Daud , Namatovu Afulah , Tushabe Monica
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examined the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance among public servants in Kigoma/Ujiji municipality in Tanzania. Further, we investigated the mediating role of motivation on the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional research design was applied along with a quantitative research approach. The study sampled 260 public servants selected by random sampling from a total of 800 employees. Data were analyzed using Mplus software using the maximum likelihood estimator to test for hypotheses.

Findings

The findings show a positive significant relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance, a positive significant relationship between authentic leadership and motivation and a positive significant relationship between motivation and employee performance. Furthermore, motivation was found to be a significant mediator in the relationship between authentic leadership and employee performance among public servants in Tanzania.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the corpus of research on authentic leadership, motivation and employee performance, especially in the context of public service. Additionally, it provides advice on how to use authentic leadership and motivation to enhance public servants performance. Managers should strive to create a motivational work climate characterized by trust, empowerment and recognition. By fostering a sense of ownership and investment in their work, managers can enhance employee motivation and engagement, leading to improved performance outcomes.

Originality/value

Our study is one of a kind to emphasize the crucial roles that authentic leadership and motivation play in promoting commitment, dedication and positive social interactions at work. Our study also advances the understanding of public service motivation (PSM) theory.
Winning the election; determining the main reasons for decision to vote in religious country
Authors: Nofrizal  , Aznuriyandi Aznuriyandi , Zulkarnain Zulkarnain , Sucherly Sucherly
Published: June 2024

Purpose

All presidential and legislative candidates want to be the winner. However, they do not know the determinants of voters' reasons for making choices. This study aims to investigate the role of education level, political party brand reputation, religiosity brand personality and e-WOM on voters' decisions with implications for voters' loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey method was used to collect data from 1206 respondents who have the right to vote through offline and online using Google forms shared on social media platforms—data analysis using Structural Equation Modeling using the SmartPLS 4.0 program.

Findings

The results showed that Brand Reputation of Politics can encourage brand Religious Personality and e-WOM. Brand Religious Personality is a factor that causes the decision to vote. However, the level of education is not a determining factor for Brand Religious Personality and e-WOM. In addition, brand religious personality, e-WOM and Decision to vote can mediate Brand Reputation of Political loyalty.

Practical implications

The findings from this study can help political parties and candidates develop strategies tailored to voters' needs and increase their chances of winning elections.

Originality/value

The novelty in this study is the development of a model that has never been tested before that uses factor sources from marketing science literacy such as Brand, e-WOM and Loyalty. This study also used moderation variables namely choosing decisions, e-WOM, and religious brand personality. The object of this research was conducted in Indonesia, which is included in the list of developing countries but has never been done in any country. The analysis tool uses the new SEM-PLS version 4.0, so it has a level of novelty and implications that are important for political marketing.
Linking a growth mindset, job crafting and in-role performance via meaningfulness at work: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Oh Jihye , Han Soo Jeoung , Han Seung Hyun
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Informed by the job characteristics model (JCM) and job crafting theory (JCT), this study aims to investigate the mediating role of meaningfulness at work in the relationship between a growth mindset and in-role performance and moderating role of job crafting in this indirect effect.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, the authors examined the moderated mediation model with 271 corporate trainers enrolled in the largest online community for adult educators in South Korea.

Findings

Results showed that the relationship between a growth mindset and in-role performance is positively mediated by meaningfulness at work. Furthermore, job crafting acted as a moderator in this relationship, such that trainers with high levels of job crafting showed a greater in-role performance, while trainers with low levels of job crafting reported a negative indirect effect of a growth mindset.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the JCM and JCT by suggesting a growth mindset as individual characteristics to promote meaningfulness at work and in-role performance. The study also responds to the calls to expand the mediation mechanisms and boundary conditions of a growth mindset in the workplace. The authors provide important insights into how corporate trainers’ job crafting is crucial in enhancing or impeding their performance and meaningful work.
How to dissolve the “privacy paradox” in social networks? A game approach based on privacy calculus
Authors: Zhang Xing , Cai Yongtao , Liu Fangyu , Zhou Fuli
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a solution for dissolving the “privacy paradox” in social networks, and explore the feasibility of adopting a synergistic mechanism of “deep-learning algorithms” and “differential privacy algorithms” to dissolve this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

To validate our viewpoint, this study constructs a game model with two algorithms as the core strategies.

Findings

The “deep-learning algorithms” offer a “profit guarantee” to both network users and operators. On the other hand, the “differential privacy algorithms” provide a “security guarantee” to both network users and operators. By combining these two approaches, the synergistic mechanism achieves a balance between “privacy security” and “data value”.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper suggest that algorithm practitioners should accelerate the innovation of algorithmic mechanisms, network operators should take responsibility for users’ privacy protection, and users should develop a correct understanding of privacy. This will provide a feasible approach to achieve the balance between “privacy security” and “data value”.

Originality/value

These findings offer some insights into users’ privacy protection and personal data sharing.
Empowering rural women in digital spaces
Authors: Oyelude Adetoun A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to present a review of rural women and their activities in using digital spaces, especially libraries and resource centers from the internet and cyberspace in the past few months.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature is reviewed on women and rural libraries and the way they are opportune to use the facilities. The advantages they get from digital spaces and how it empowers them are highlighted.

Findings

Rural women use digital spaces for their further education and that of their children as well. The benefits derived from digital spaces make it imperative for provisions to be made for them in the rural areas.

Originality/value

The importance of women’s activities and their economic and socioeconomic empowerment is emphasized among others as well as the role of libraries and the success stories therewith.
Effects of the 2014 European reform on audit activity, the audit outcome and the audit market: the auditors’ view
Authors: Castillo-Merino David , Garcia-Blandon Josep , Rodríguez-Pérez Gonzalo
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effects of the 2014 European regulatory reform on auditors’ activity, the audit outcome and the audit market, with a focus on the Spanish market.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on in-depth, semistructured interviews with partners of the main audit firms operating in the Spanish market. This qualitative approach provides a precise identification of the cause-effect relationships of the new measures introduced by the European audit regulation.

Findings

The findings indicate that, based on auditors’ opinions, the costs of the main regulatory changes outweigh the benefits. The European Union (EU) Audit Regulation imposes more demanding provisions, such as an extended auditor’s report, mandatory audit firm rotation, more banned nonaudit services and stricter quality controls, resulting in substantial side effects on audit activity and the audit market. This could undermine the objective of enhancing the quality of audit services.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to analyze the effect of the 2014 EU regulatory reform on audit activity, audit market and audit outcome based on auditors’ perceptions. The findings may be of interest to academics, professionals and regulators alike, as they offer valuable insights for assessing the effectiveness of the new audit provisions. Additionally, the qualitative methodology used facilitates a causal analysis of the key elements introduced by the regulations, potentially paving the way for future research avenues.
Efficient aerodynamic optimization of turbine blade profiles: an integrated approach with novel HDSPSO algorithm
Authors: Yan Cheng , Kang Enzi , Liu Haonan , Li Han , Zeng Nianyin , You Yancheng
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper delves into the aerodynamic optimization of a single-stage axial turbine employed in aero-engines.

Design/methodology/approach

An efficient integrated design optimization approach tailored for turbine blade profiles is proposed. The approach combines a novel hierarchical dynamic switching PSO (HDSPSO) algorithm with a parametric modeling technique of turbine blades and high-fidelity Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation analysis. The proposed HDSPSO algorithm introduces significant enhancements to the original PSO in three pivotal aspects: adaptive acceleration coefficients, distance-based dynamic neighborhood, and a switchable learning mechanism. The core idea behind these improvements is to incorporate the evolutionary state, strengthen interactions within the swarm, enrich update strategies for particles, and effectively prevent premature convergence while enhancing global search capability.

Findings

Mathematical experiments are conducted to compare the performance of HDSPSO with three other representative PSO variants. The results demonstrate that HDSPSO is a competitive intelligent algorithm with significant global search capabilities and rapid convergence speed. Subsequently, the HDSPSO-based integrated design optimization approach is applied to optimize the turbine blade profiles. The optimized turbine blades have a more uniform thickness distribution, an enhanced loading distribution, and a better flow condition. Importantly, these optimizations lead to a remarkable improvement in aerodynamic performance under both design and non-design working conditions.

Originality/value

These findings highlight the effectiveness and advancement of the HDSPSO-based integrated design optimization approach for turbine blade profiles in enhancing the overall aerodynamic performance. Furthermore, it confirms the great prospects of the innovative HDSPSO algorithm in tackling challenging tasks in practical engineering applications.
Corporate hypocrisy in the context of corporate social responsibility: a literature review
Authors: Pacheco-Ortiz Diana , Escobar-Sierra Manuela , Suárez-Monsalve Ana-María
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is going through a critical period that challenges its capacity to respond to social and environmental crises, which could be associated with the growing Corporate Hypocrisy (CH) phenomenon. This study aims to identify the theoretical perspectives of the scientific literature on CH as a contemporary phenomenon concerning CSR.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopted a sequential mixed-method approach in this study. First, we conducted a bibliometric analysis of the publications on the Web of Science database. Subsequently, we performed a content analysis of CH with CSR.

Findings

The literature review revealed two main research paths: the first deals with the perceptions of hypocrisy; the second relates to the company’s responsibility for disclosure. In addition, we found that researchers use different expressions to refer to the gap between discourse and action in organisations. Some authors suggest subtle differences between these terms, while others use them interchangeably. The causes of this phenomenon vary according to the facets of hypocrisy and the negative implications for the reputation and credibility of companies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the dissociation between CSR statements and practices. To this end, it combines and collates the literature on a phenomenon studied from different sides using numerous designations.
Seismic migration of water‐bottom‐related multiples accelerated by random phase‐encoding strategy
Authors: Zhang Yanbao , Hu Feng , Hu Yanzhi
Published: June 2024

Marine seismic multiples contain more structure information than primaries and should be considered in migrations. However, multiple migrations suffer from severe crosstalks generated by interferences among undesirable multiples. It has been proven that the water‐bottom‐related multiple migration can suppress crosstalks greatly. However, if all associated consecutive‐order multiples are considered, the computation cost is extremely high. To settle this issue, a phase‐encoding‐based multiple migration is proposed. Supergathers are first created by randomly phase‐encoding consecutive‐order multiples and stacking‐encoded multiples. By migrating supergathers, the proposed method can fulfil migrations of all order multiples simultaneously, thereby reducing the computation cost significantly. We use a three‐layer model and the Pluto 1.5 model for numerical comparisons. The results reveal that the method can retrieve high‐quality images and increase computation efficiency considerably.
Stability, resilience and eco‐evolutionary feedbacks of mutualistic networks to rising temperature
Authors: Baruah Gaurav , Lakämper Tim
Published: June 2024

Ecological networks comprising of mutualistic interactions can suddenly transition to undesirable states, such as collapse, due to small changes in environmental conditions such as a rise in local environmental temperature. However, little is known about the capacity of such interaction networks to adapt to a rise in temperature and the occurrence of critical transitions.

Here, combining quantitative genetics and mutualistic dynamics in an eco‐evolutionary framework, we evaluated the stability and resilience of mutualistic networks to critical transitions as environmental temperature increases. Specifically, we modelled the dynamics of an optimum trait that determined the tolerance of species to local environmental temperature as well as to species interaction. We then evaluated the impact of individual trait variation and evolutionary dynamics on the stability of feasible equilibria, the occurrence of threshold temperatures at which community collapses, and the abruptness of such community collapses.

We found that mutualistic network architecture, that is the size of the community and the arrangement of species interactions, interacted with evolutionary dynamics to impact the onset of network collapses. Some networks had more capacity to track the rise in temperatures than others and thereby increased the threshold temperature at which the networks collapsed.

However, such a result was modulated by the amount of heritable trait variation species exhibited, with high trait variation in the mean optimum phenotypic trait increasing the environmental temperature at which networks collapsed. Furthermore, trait variation not only increased the onset of temperatures at which networks collapsed but also increased the local stability of feasible equilibria.

Our study argued that mutualistic network architecture interacts with species evolutionary dynamics and increases the capacity of networks to adapt to changes in temperature and thereby delayed the occurrence of community collapses.