bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SARS-CoV-2 within-host population expansion, diversification and adaptation in zoo tigers, lions and hyenas
Authors: Bashor Laura , Gallichotte Emily N , Galvan Michelle , Erbeck Katelyn , Croft Lara , Stache Katelyn , Stenglein Mark D , Johnson James G , Pabilonia Kristy , VandeWoude Sue
Published: October 2024

SARS-CoV-2 rapidly adapts to new hosts following cross-species transmission; this is highly relevant as novel within-host variants have emerged following infection of susceptible wild and domestic animal species. Furthermore, SARS-CoV-2 transmission from animals (e.g., white-tailed deer, mink, domestic cats, and others) back to humans has also been observed, documenting the potential of novel animal-derived variants to infect humans. We investigated SARS-CoV-2 evolution and host-specific adaptation during an outbreak in Amur tigers (Panthera tigris altaica), African lions (Panthera leo), and spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) at Denver Zoo in late 2021. SARS-CoV-2 genomes from longitudinal samples collected from 16 individuals were evaluated for within-host variation and genomic signatures of selection. The outbreak was likely initiated by a single spillover of a rare Delta sublineage subsequently transmitted from tigers to lions to hyenas. Within-host virus populations rapidly expanded and diversified. We detected signatures of purifying and positive selection, including strong positive selection in hyenas and in the nucleocapsid (N) gene in all animals. Four candidate species-specific adaptive mutations were identified: N A254V in lions and hyenas, and ORF1a E1724D, spike T274I, and N P326L in hyenas. These results reveal accelerated SARS-CoV-2 adaptation following host shifts in three non-domestic species in daily contact with humans.
Substrate tunnel regulates substrate specificity switching in hyaluronan synthase
Authors: Zhu Kaiyi , Han Yilei , Jian Yupei , Jiang Guoqiang , Lu Diannan , Wu Jianzhong , Liu Zheng
Published: October 2024

Hyaluronic acid (HA), a ubiquitous linear polysaccharide in the extracellular matrix of vertebrates and the capsule of certain pathogenic bacteria, is characterized by its unique structure of alternating β-1,3-N-acetylglucosamine and β-1,4-glucuronic acid units. HA is synthesized by Class I hyaluronan synthase (HAS) in the majority of organisms, but the molecular mechanisms determining the alternating sequence of HA remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that HA synthesizedin vitrousingStreptococcus equisimilisHAS maintained its alternating sequence, regardless of substrate ratios and concentrations. While the active pocket lacks intrinsic selectivity, a distal allosteric regulation from the transmembrane tunnel is revealed. The lingering HA terminals in the active pocket ensure lower binding energies for alternating substrates through Coulombic repulsion and competitive binding. Moreover, the dynamic C-terminal loop at the substrate tunnel entrance reduces transport distance for alternating substrates. Our findings indicate that HA-substrate interactions and enzyme dynamics in the substrate tunnel collectively govern the alternating substrate specificity of HAS. This study provides the first molecular insight into precise substrate specificity control within a single active pocket during template-independent polymer synthesis.
Dynamics of gut colonization by commensal and pathogenic bacteria that adhere to the intestinal epithelium
Authors: Rivera Dalaena E , Poirier Kayla , Moore Samuel , Nicolle Ophélie , Morgan Emily , Longares Jonah-Faye , Singh Anupama , Michaux Grégoire , Félix Marie-Anne , Luallen Robert J
Published: October 2024

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome plays a critical role in avoiding gut-related pathologies. Bacterial adherence to the intestinal epithelium plays a vital role in niche establishment in the gut, as in vitro experiments and mathematical modeling suggest that adherence provides a strong competitive advantage over free-floating planktonic microbes. Currently, we lack the ability to study gut microbiome adherence in an in vivo model system. Through sampling natural populations ofCaenorhabditis, we discovered three bacterial species that adhere to the intestinal epithelium of several wildCaenorhabditisisolates. When transferred toC. elegans, all three bacterial species colonized the entire anterior to posterior length of the intestine lumen. We isolated these bacterial species via in vitro growth or selective enrichment in the nematode gut and identified them asLelliottia jeotgali, CandidatusLumenectis limosiae, andCandidatusEnterosymbion pterelaium, the latter two representing new species. AdherentCa. L. limosiae negatively affects host fitness, whileLelliottia jeotgaliandCa. E. pterelaium exhibited a neutral effect in our assays. We demonstrated that two of these species can actively proliferate in the intestine throughout the host lifespan, withLelliottia jeotgalicolonizing throughout the lumen simultaneously andCandidatusLumenectis limosiae showing anterior-to-posterior directionality. In competition assays, animals pre-colonized withL. jeotgalisignificantly reduced colonization by pathogenicCa. L. limosiae, but this effect was not seen when animals were colonized by both bacteria simultaneously. Strikingly, regardless of the colonization paradigm, populations exposed to both bacteria showed a near-identical mitigation of the pathogenic effects ofCa. L. limosiae. Altogether, these strains illustrate the capacity of microbiome bacteria to adhere, replicate, and establish a niche across the entire intestinal lumen inC. elegansand they present an opportunity to study bacterial adherence in the context of a whole, intact and transparent animal.
A high throughput single molecule platform to study DNA supercoiling effect on protein-DNA interactions
Authors: Lee Huijin , Hwang Jihee , Rashid Fahad , London James A. , Fishel Richard , Berger James M. , Myong Sua , Ha Taekjip
Published: October 2024

DNA supercoiling significantly influences DNA metabolic pathways. To examine its impact on DNA-protein interactions at the single-molecule level, we developed a highly efficient and reliable protocol to modify plasmid DNA at specific sites, allowing us to label plasmids with fluorophores and biotin. We then induced negative and positive supercoiling in these plasmids using gyrase and reverse gyrase, respectively. Comparing supercoiled DNA with relaxed circular DNA, we assessed the effects of supercoiling on CRISPR-Cas9 and mismatch repair protein MutS. We found that negative DNA supercoiling exacerbates off-target effects in DNA unwinding by Cas9. For MutS, we observed both negative and positive DNA supercoiling enhances the binding interaction between MutS and a mismatched base pair but does not affect the rate of ATP-induced sliding clamp formation. These findings not only underscore the versatility of our protocol but also opens new avenues for exploring the intricate dynamics of protein-DNA interactions under the influences of supercoiling.
Alanine Scanning to Define Membrane Protein-Lipid Interaction Sites Using Native Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Jayasekera Hiruni S. , Mohona Farhana Afrin , De Jesus Madison J. , Miller Katherine M. , Marty Michael T.
Published: October 2024

Lipids surrounding membrane proteins interact with different sites on the protein at varying specificities, ranging from highly specific to weak interactions. These interactions can modulate the structure, function, and stability of membrane proteins. Thus, to better understand membrane protein structure and function, it is important to identify the locations of lipid binding and the relative specificities of lipid binding at these sites. In our previous native mass spectrometry (MS) study, we developed a single and double mutant analysis approach to profile the contribution of specific residues toward lipid binding. Here, we extend this method by screening a broad range of mutants of AqpZ to identify specific lipid binding sites and by measuring binding of different lipid types to measure the selectivity of different lipids at selected binding sites. We complemented these native MS studies with molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to visualize lipid interactions at selected sites. We discovered that AqpZ is selective towards cardiolipins (CL) but only at specific sites. Specifically, CL orients with its headgroup facing the cytoplasmic side, and its acyl chains interact with a hydrophobic pocket located at the monomeric interface within the lipid bilayer. Overall, this integrative approach provides unique insights into lipid binding sites and the selectivity of various lipids towards AqpZ, enabling us to map the AqpZ protein structure based on the lipid affinity.
Elucidating the metabolic roles of isoflavone synthase-mediated protein-protein interactions in yeast
Authors: Liu Chang , Han Jianing , Li Sijin
Published: October 2024

Transient plant enzyme complexes formed via protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play crucial regulatory roles in secondary metabolism. Complexes assembled on cytochrome P450s (CYPs) are challenging to characterize metabolically due to difficulties in decoupling the PPIs’ metabolic impacts from the CYPs’ catalytic activities. Here, we developed a yeast-based synthetic biology approach to elucidate the metabolic roles of PPIs between a soybean-derived CYP, isoflavone synthase (GmIFS2), and other enzymes in isoflavonoid metabolism. By reconstructing multiple complex variants with an inactive GmIFS2 in yeast, we found that GmIFS2-mediated PPIs can regulate metabolic flux between two competing pathways producing deoxyisoflavonoids and isoflavonoids. Specifically, GmIFS2 can recruit chalcone synthase (GmCHS7) and chalcone reductase (GmCHR5) to enhance deoxyisoflavonoid production or GmCHS7 and chalcone isomerase (GmCHI1B1) to enhance isoflavonoid production. Additionally, we identified and characterized two novel isoflavoneO-methyltransferases interacting with GmIFS2. This study highlights the potential of yeast synthetic biology for characterizing CYP-mediated complexes.
scMoE: single-cell mixture of experts for learning hierarchical, cell-type-specific, and interpretable representations from heterogeneous scRNA-seq data
Authors: Huang Michael , Li Yue
Published: October 2024

Advancements in single-cell transcriptomics methods have resulted in a wealth of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. Methods to learn cell representation from atlas-level scRNA-seq data across diverse tissues can shed light into cell functions implicated in diseases such as cancer. However, integrating large-scale and heterogeneous scRNA-seq data is challenging due to the disparity of cell-types and batch effects. We present single-cell Mixture of Expert (scMoE), a hierarchical mixture of experts single-cell topic model. Our key contributions are the cell-type specific experts, which explicitly aligns topics with cell-types, and the integration of hierarchical cell-type lineages and domain knowledge. scMoE is both transferable and highly interpretable. We benchmarked our scMoE’s performance on 9 single-cell RNA-seq datasets for clustering and 3 simulated spatial datasets for spatial deconvolution. We additionally show that our model, using single-cell references, yields meaningful biological results by deconvolving 3 cancer bulk RNA-seq datasets and 2 spatial transcriptomics datasets. scMoE is able to identify cell-types of survival importance, find cancer subtype specific deconvolutional patterns, and capture meaningful spatially distinct cell-type distributions.
The molecular basis of immunosuppression by soluble CD52 is defined by interactions of N-linked and O-linked glycans with HMGB1 Box B
Authors: DeBono Nicholas J. , D’Andrea Silvia , Bandala-Sanchez Esther , Goddard-Borger Ethan , Zenaidee Muhammad A. , Moh Edward S.X. , Fadda Elisa , Harrison Leonard C. , Packer Nicolle H.
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Human soluble CD52 is a short glycopeptide comprising 12 amino acids (GQNDTSQTSSPS) which functions as an immune regulator by sequestering the pro-inflammatory high mobility group box protein 1 (HMGB1) and supressing immune responses. Recombinant CD52 has been shown to act as a broad anti-inflammatory agent, dampening both adaptive and innate immune responses. This short glycopeptide is heavily glycosylated, with a complex sialylated N-linked glycan at N3 and reported O- linked glycosylation possible on several serine and threonine residues. Previously we demonstrated that specific glycosylation features of CD52 are essential for its immunosuppressive function, with terminal α-2,3-linked sialic acids required for binding to the inhibitory SIGLEC-10 receptor leading to T-cell suppression. Using high resolution mass spectrometry, we have further characterised the N- and O-linked glycosylation of Expi293 recombinantly produced CD52 at a glycopeptide and released glycan level, accurately determining glycan heterogeneity of both N- and O-linked glycosylation, and localising the site of O-glycosylation to T8 with high confidence and direct spectral evidence. This detailed knowledge of CD52 glycosylation informed the construction of a model system, which we analysed by molecular dynamics simulations to understand the mechanism of recognition and define interactions between bioactive CD52, HMGB1 and the SIGLEC-10 receptor. Our results confirm the essential role of glycosylation, more specifically hyper-sialylation, in the function of CD52, and identify at the atomistic level specific interactions between CD52 glycans and the Box B domain of HMGB1 that determine recognition, and the stability of the CD52/HMGB1 complex. These insights will inform the development of synthetic CD52 as an immunotherapeutic agent.
Do the shuffle: Expanding the synthetic biology toolkit for shufflon-like recombination systems
Authors: Katalinić Jan , Richards Morgan , Auyang Alex , Millett James H. , Kogenaru Manjunatha , Windbichler Nikolai
Published: October 2024

Naturally occurring DNA inversion systems play an important role in the generation of genetic variation and adaptation in prokaryotes. Shufflon invertase (SI)Rcifrom plasmid R64, recognizing asymmetricsfxsites, has been adopted as a tool for synthetic biology. However, the availability of a single enzyme with moderate rates of recombination has hampered the more widespread use of SIs. We identified 14 previously untested SI genes and theirsfxsites in public databases. We established an assay based on single-molecule sequencing that allows the quantification of the inversion rates of these enzymes and determined cross-recognition to identify orthogonal SI/sfxpairs. We describe SI enzymes with substantially improved shuffling rates when expressed in an inducible manner inE. coli. Our findings will facilitate the use of SIs in engineering biology where synthetic shufflons enable the generation of millions of sequence variantsin vivofor applications such as barcoding or experimental selection.
Chemical bond based machine learning model for dipole moment: Application to dielectric properties of liquid methanol and ethanol
Authors: Amano Tomohito , Yamazaki Tamio , Tsuneyuki Shinji
Published: October 2024

We introduce a versatile machine-learning scheme for predicting dipole moments of molecular liquids to study dielectric properties, implemented in . We attribute the center of mass of Wannier functions, called Wannier centers, to each chemical bond and create neural network models that predict the Wannier centers for each chemical bond. Application to liquid methanol and ethanol shows that our neural network models successfully predict the dipole moment of various liquid configurations in close agreement with DFT calculations. We show that the dipole moment and dielectric constant in the liquids are greatly enhanced by the polarization of Wannier centers due to local intermolecular interactions. The calculated dielectric spectra quantitatively agree with experiments over terahertz (THz) to infrared regions. Furthermore, we investigate the physical origin of THz absorption spectra of methanol, confirming the importance of translational and librational motions. Our method is applicable to other molecular liquids and can be widely used to study their dielectric properties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Probing enhanced superconductivity in van der Waals polytypes of
VxTaS2
Authors: Pudelko Wojciech R. , Liu Huanlong , Petocchi Francesco , Li Hang , Guedes Eduardo Bonini , Küspert Julia , von Arx Karin , Wang Qisi , Wagner Ron Cohn , Polley Craig M. , Leandersson Mats , Osiecki Jacek , Thiagarajan Balasubramanian , Radović Milan , Werner Philipp , Schilling Andreas , Chang Johan , Plumb Nicholas C.
Published: October 2024

Layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) stabilize in multiple structural forms with profoundly distinct and exotic electronic phases. Interfacing different layer types is a promising route to manipulate TMDs' properties, not only as a means to engineer quantum devices but also as a route to explore fundamental physics in complex matter. Here we use angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES) to investigate a strong layering-dependent enhancement of superconductivity in TaS2, in which the superconducting transition temperature, Tc, of its 2H structural phase is nearly tripled when insulating 1T layers are inserted into the system. The study is facilitated by a vanadium-intercalation approach to synthesizing various TaS2 polytypes, which improves the quality of the ARPES data while leaving key aspects of the electronic structure and properties intact. The spectra show the clear opening of the charge density wave gap in the pure 2H phase and its suppression when 1T layers are introduced to the system. Moreover, in the mixed-layer 4Hb system, we observe a strongly momentum-anisotropic increase in electron-phonon coupling near the Fermi level relative to the 2H phase. Both phenomena help to account for the increased Tc in mixed 2H/1T layer structures.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effects of Inflow Turbulent Coherent Structures on a Small-Scale Wind Turbine in the Atmospheric Boundary Layer of Long Corridor Terrains: An Example Study in the Hexi Corridor
Authors: Wang Yan , Chai Yongfen , Gao Zhiteng , Zheng Xiaobo , Hu Ruifeng , Zheng Jian , Liu Hongyou , Huang Haojie , Guo Tao , Ma Gaosheng , Li Deshun , Li Ye
Published: October 2024

Considering its Venturi effect, long corridor terrain is considered as one of the outstanding wind-energy resources, but has not been developed due to unclear inflow turbulence effects on wind turbines. To advance the wind-power technology in long corridors and reveal the physics behind it, we conducted a series of data-fusion analyses combining field measurements in the Hexi Corridor, Gansu, China, and numerical simulations and summarize the effort here. In this study, the classical spectrum for the atmospheric boundary layer for wind-energy research, the IEC Kaimal spectrum (also known as IECKwind, International Elector technical Commission 61400-1) cannot describe the wind profile in corridors. Here, we proposed a new spectrum to describe the wind in the Hexi Corridor by modifying the IEC Kaimal spectrum, and we call it the IECK-HX spectrum. The results demonstrate that it preferentially resides at lower frequencies (larger spatial scales) compared with IECKwind. Large-scale motions (LSMs) and very large-scale motions (VLSMs) coexist in the Hexi Corridor atmospheric boundary layer, which can be well described by the IECK-HX spectrum, and these two dominate the large fluctuations in the power, thrust, and blade root flapwise moment of wind turbines, while the high-frequency small-scale coherent structures mainly cause high-frequency fluctuations in wind-turbine load. Furthermore, IEC Kaimal spectrum can not describe the VLSMs, and the generated flow presents significant fluctuations and thereby reduces the power output in high wind-speed regions. This study provides fundamental support for wind-energy scientists and engineers who are interested in wind energy in corridor terrains.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dynamics of Dominance in Interacting Zebrafish
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Liam , Izawa Tatsuo , Masai Ichiro , Shaevitz Joshua W. , Stephens Greg J.
Published: October 2024

While two-body fighting behavior occurs throughout the animal kingdom to settle dominance disputes, important questions such as how the dynamics ultimately lead to a winner and loser are unresolved. Here we examine fighting behavior at high resolution in male zebrafish. We combine multiple cameras, a large volume containing a transparent interior cage to avoid reflection artifacts, with computer vision to track multiple body points across multiple organisms while maintaining individual identity in three dimensions. In the body point trajectories we find a spectrum of timescales which we use to build informative joint coordinates consisting of relative orientation and distance. We use the distribution of these coordinates to automatically identify fight epochs, and we demonstrate the postfight emergence of an abrupt asymmetry in relative orientations—a clear and quantitative signal of hierarchy formation. We identify short-time, multi-animal behaviors as clustered transitions between joint configurations, and show that fight epochs are spanned by a subset of these clusters, which we denote as maneuvers. The resulting space of maneuvers is rich but interpretable, including motifs such as “attacks” and “circling.” In the longer-time dynamics of maneuver frequencies we find differential and changing strategies, including that the eventual loser attacks more often towards the end of the contest. Our results suggest a reevaluation of relevant assessment models in zebrafish, while our approach is generally applicable to other animal systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mitigation of DMM-induced stripe patterns in synchrotron X-ray radiography through dynamic tilting
Authors: Eddah Mustapha , Markötter Henning , Mieller Björn , Sintschuk Michael , Beckmann Jörg , Bruno Giovanni
Published: October 2024

In synchrotron X-ray radiography, achieving high image resolution and an optimal signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is crucial for the subsequent accurate image analysis. Traditional methods often struggle to balance these two parameters, especially in situ applications where rapid data acquisition is essential to capture specific dynamic processes. For quantitative image data analysis, using monochromatic X-rays is essential. A double multilayer monochromator (DMM) is successfully used for this aim at the BAMline, BESSY II (Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin, Germany). However, such DMMs are prone to producing an unstable horizontal stripe pattern. Such an unstable pattern renders proper signal normalization difficult and thereby causes a reduction of the SNR. We introduce a novel approach to enhance SNR while preserving resolution: dynamic tilting of the DMM. By adjusting the orientation of the DMM during the acquisition of radiographic projections, we optimize the X-ray imaging quality, thereby enhancing the SNR. The corresponding shift of the projection during this movement is corrected in post-processing. The latter correction allows a good resolution to be preserved. This dynamic tilting technique enables the homogenization of the beam profile and thereby effectively reduces noise while maintaining high resolution. We demonstrate that data captured using this proposed technique can be seamlessly integrated into the existing radiographic data workflow, as it does not need hardware modifications to classical X-ray imaging beamline setups. This facilitates further image analysis and processing using established methods.
Nexus between audit committee characteristics and audit report lag in an emerging economy: an analysis using frequentist and Bayesian regression models
Authors: Sobhan Raihan , Mim Fahmida Fayaja , Rahman Fariha
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the association between audit committee characteristics and audit report lag in the context of listed manufacturing companies in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 240 firm-year observations for 2018–2022 are collected and analyzed using both the pooled-ordinary least squares (OLS) model with panel corrected standard errors (PCSE) and the Bayesian regression model. The results are explained in line with the agency theory and resource dependence theory.

Findings

The study reveals that audit committee size, gender diversity and expertise are negatively and significantly associated with audit report lag. The results remain consistent using the lag model, which indicates that the current year’s audit committee can have an impact on the subsequent year’s audit report lag.

Research limitations/implications

The study has been conducted in the context of Bangladesh and thus cannot be generalized for other countries.

Practical implications

The study implies that companies should form large audit committees and ensure higher participation of female members and expert members in forming such committees. Policymakers and regulators can also play roles in this regard to ensure the timely issue of audit reports.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneer studies to investigate the link between audit committee characteristics and audit report lag in the context of an emerging economy like Bangladesh. This study advocates agency theory by linking audit committee characteristics to reduced information asymmetry and contributes to resource dependence theory by emphasizing their role in enhancing financial reporting timeliness.
Value co-creation in sustainable express delivery: intergenerational perspectives
Authors: Gao Fei , Qi Wene
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The express delivery industry faces challenges engaging consumers in sustainable practices. This study explores how sustainable service quality affects corporate loyalty, mediated by value co-creation (VCC) and green customer satisfaction. It also scrutinizes low-carbon knowledge as a moderator and investigates variances in VCC outcomes between Generation Y and Generation Z consumer groups.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study involves a scenario experiment and a questionnaire answered by 596 Chinese consumers in 2023. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) tests proposed relationships. Regression analysis examines the chain mediating effect of VCC and green satisfaction, while group analysis assesses intergenerational differences.

Findings

Sustainable service quality positively influences consumer VCC, which in turn impacts customers’ green satisfaction and corporate loyalty. VCC and green satisfaction act as intermediaries between sustainable service quality and corporate loyalty. Low-carbon knowledge positively moderates sustainable service quality's impact on VCC. Generation Y and Generation Z show differences in the relationship between VCC and loyalty.

Practical implications

Express delivery firms should enhance sustainable service quality and encourage consumer participation in VCC activities. This can improve consumer green satisfaction, loyalty and competitive advantages.

Originality/value

This study expands service marketing literature by clarifying VCC's role in sustainable services and offers insights into VCC's causes and effects. It proposes strategies for the express delivery industry to influence consumer behavior through sustainable service practices.
From an emotional experience of mobile food shopping to continued purchase intention: moderating role of e-user expertise
Authors: Ghali Zohra
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study examines the role of the emotional experience of mobile food shopping in stimulating perceived values and continued intentions under the moderating role of consumer expertise.

Design/methodology/approach

We gathered data from 632 Saudi mobile food shoppers through a web survey and analysed it using structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results showed that emotions (i.e. pleasure, arousal and dominance) significantly affect immersion in the experience of shopping via mobile food applications, which generates significant functional and emotional values and ultimately influences continued intentions. However, they do not have a significant effect on social value. Consumer expertise significantly moderates only the relationships between functional and emotional values with immersion and between immersion and continued intention.

Practical implications

Formulating a marketing strategy based on the emotional dimension is a potentially powerful way to enhance the attractiveness of mobile food applications. Nevertheless, segmenting the market based on consumer expertise is crucial for customising offers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by integrating pleasure-arousal-dominance theory with the theory of customer value to examine the role of the emotional dimension in the development of perceived values and continued intention to use mobile food ordering applications. Additionally, this study adds to the literature by examining the moderating role of user expertise in these relationships.
Role of social comparison orientation on financial management behavior in a developing nation: examining the mediating role of financial self-efficacy and the moderating effect of financial socialization
Authors: Ahamed AFM Jalal , Limbu Yam B.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of social comparison orientation (SCO) on financial management behavior (FMB) in a developing country with a collectivist culture. It examines how SCO is related to FMB directly and through financial self-efficacy (FSE) and how financial socialization (FS) moderates the SCO–FMB relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 301 adults in Dhaka, Bangladesh, using self-administered survey questionnaires. Mediation and moderation analyses were performed using Smart PLS software.

Findings

The results indicate that SCO was positively associated with FMB. FSE mediates this relationship, enhancing SCO’s positive impact on FMB. Additionally, FS moderates the effect of SCO on FMB, with higher levels of FS strengthening this positive relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The primary implication of this research is the revelation that SCO can positively impact FMB, contrary to traditional views, particularly when FSE mediates the relationship and FS moderates it. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing FSE and promoting FS can improve FMB. These insights are valuable for financial educators, policymakers and individuals in developing countries seeking to improve financial behavior.

Originality/value

This study makes four significant contributions: first, it demonstrates a positive direct relationship between SCO and FMB. Second, it reveals that FSE mediates the relationship between SCO and FMB. Third, it shows that FS moderates the SCO–FMB relationship. Fourth, it focuses on a sample from the emerging middle class in a developing country representing a collectivist culture, providing unique insights into this dynamic segment.
Hallucination or vision? Establishing reliability and validity of AI-based qualitative analysis of the unified model of activism in the Scottish independence Twitter debate
Authors: Diers-Lawson Audra , Lawson Stuart J.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The present study explores both the validation of the unified model of activism and the methodological reliability of the LlamaParsing approach to natural language processing. Theoretically, it applies the unified model of activism within the context of the Scottish independence movement, evaluating its effectiveness in social media environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, it addresses the reliability and validity challenges associated with AI analyses, particularly the issue of AI hallucinations—instances where AI generates seemingly accurate but incorrect information. By employing the LlamaParsing approach and then comparing and contrasting it with a quantitative content coding process, the study demonstrates how context-specific instructions can enhance the accuracy of AI analyses.

Findings

The findings indicate this approach not only tests and extends the unified model of activism but also offers a robust methodological framework for using NLP and RAG in qualitative research. This dual focus underscores the potential of AI to provide systematic and theoretically valuable insights while highlighting the importance of mitigating its limitations.

Originality/value

This study represents a cutting-edge approach to qualitative data analysis, theory development, and theory testing in communication using a tool that was developed in 2024.
The impact of company size on dual VET quality in Spanish companies
Authors: Rodríguez-Pérez Sara , Barrientos-Sánchez Daniel , Torres-Sánchez Mónica , Pineda-Herrero Pilar
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive description and analysis of quality levels with regard to dual Vocational Education and Training (VET) at companies participating in this programme in Spain, with a specific focus on company size.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a quantitative cross-sectional analysis, collecting quality indicator data from 829 participating companies through a structured questionnaire. Subsequently, both descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted to address the specific objectives.

Findings

The study reveals that, on the whole, companies implement dual VET with a high level of quality, achieving compliance rates of above 70% in dimensions related to process, resources, staff and training. However, in this study the dimensions of evaluation and synergies showed lower compliance rates, with figures of 47.4 and 25.7%, respectively. Notably, medium-sized and large companies outperformed micro-SMEs and SMEs in training, evaluation and synergies, while SMEs surpassed large companies in resource management. The study provides recommendations for enhancing dual VET in companies.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitations of this study pertain to an absence of data concerning the distribution of the population by company sizes and a lack of information regarding the specific sectors to which these companies belong.

Originality/value

This study offers significant value, as it provides data on the quality of dual VET in companies considering size as a key factor. These findings are particularly noteworthy given that research on the quality of dual VET in companies remains limited within the scientific literature.
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI): a paradigm shift in HRM practices for employee sustainable performance
Authors: Chin Ying Sin , Mohamad Abang Azlan , Lo May Chiun
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the interplay between artificial intelligence (AI) integration, organizational digital culture, human resource management (HRM) practices and employee sustainable performance in luxury hotels in Malaysia. It seeks to elucidate how AI adoption influences organizational dynamics, shapes HRM practices and impacts employee sustainable performance over time.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, survey questionnaires derived from prior research were utilized. Analysis using G*Power software determined an appropriate sample size, with psychometric evaluation validating scale development. Statistical analyses using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 28.0 and SmartPLS 4 confirmed data reliability and validity.

Findings

Out of the five hypotheses, three were supported. A positive relationship was found between AI adoption and employee sustainable performance, highlighting AI’s potential to enhance productivity and job satisfaction. However, the relationship between AI adoption and organizational digital culture was not supported. On the other hand, HRM practices positively influenced employee sustainable performance. In addition, organizational digital culture was positively associated with employee sustainable performance, underscoring the role of digital fluency in driving workforce productivity. Conversely, AI failed to moderate the relationship between HRM practices and employee sustainable performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s focus on luxury hotels in Malaysia and its reliance on cross-sectional data, suggesting the need for longitudinal designs and diverse organizational contexts in future research. Comparative studies across sectors and countries could offer insights into variations in AI adoption practices and their impact on organizational performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to theoretical frameworks by empirically examining complex relationships between AI integration, HRM practices, organizational digital culture and employee performance, emphasizing the importance of considering organizational context and cultural factors in understanding the implications of AI adoption for sustainable performance enhancement.
Mitigating not-invented-here syndrome in consultant knowledge transfer by developing appropriate implementation guidelines
Authors: Suzic Nikola , Vrgović Petar , Forza Cipriano , Chatzimichailidou Mikela
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose a framework for the development of implementation guidelines (IGs) that can help consultants mitigate not-invented-here (NIH) syndrome during a consultant intervention as a specific type of knowledge transfer.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a design science research approach for proposing an NIH-mitigating IG development framework. Inspired by findings and rich primary data from two consultant interventions, the authors, through theory building, ground five core principles in the general theory of NIH attitude functions. Finally, the authors revisit two consultant interventions to identify and describe mechanisms that led to the enactment of the principles.

Findings

The proposed framework provides five principles for developing NIH-mitigating IGs. The present research proposes that successful knowledge transfer and the mitigation of NIH syndrome as a prerequisite for this success are conditioned by adequately developed IGs.

Originality/value

The originality and value of the present research lie in the proposed NIH-mitigating IG development framework containing a set of principles for IG development as a proactive rather than reactive approach to NIH mitigation. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research to address the problematics of mitigating NIH syndrome in consultant knowledge transfer by focusing on developing appropriate IGs. By developing and implementing IGs based on the proposed framework, a more successful transfer of knowledge from consultants to clients should take place, thus, increasing the value that clients receive from consultancy.
Application of a hybrid fuzzy-based algorithm to investigate the environmental impact of sewer overflow
Authors: Mohandes Saeed Reza , Kaddoura Khalid , Singh Atul Kumar , Elsayed Moustafa Y. , Banihashemi Saeed , Antwi-Afari Maxwell Fordjour , Olawumi Timothy O. , Zayed Tarek
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study underscores the critical importance of well-functioning sewer systems in achieving smart and sustainable urban drainage within cities. It specifically targets the pressing issue of sewer overflows (SO), widely recognized for their detrimental impact on the environment and public health. The primary purpose of this research is to bridge significant research gaps by investigating the root causes of SO incidents and comprehending their broader ecological consequences.

Design/methodology/approach

To fill research gaps, the study introduces the Multi-Phase Causal Inference Fuzzy-Based Framework (MCIF). MCIF integrates the fuzzy Delphi technique, fuzzy DEMATEL method, fuzzy TOPSIS technique and expert interviews. Drawing on expertise from developed countries, MCIF systematically identifies and prioritizes SO causes, explores causal interrelationships, prioritizes environmental impacts and compiles mitigation strategies.

Findings

The study's findings are multifaceted and substantially contribute to addressing SO challenges. Utilizing the MCIF, the research effectively identifies and prioritizes causal factors behind SO incidents, highlighting their relative significance. Additionally, it unravels intricate causal relationships among key factors such as blockages, flow velocity, infiltration and inflow, under-designed pipe diameter and pipe deformation, holes or collapse, providing a profound insight into the intricate web of influences leading to SO.

Originality/value

This study introduces originality by presenting the innovative MCIF tailored for SO mitigation. The combination of fuzzy techniques, expert input and holistic analysis enriches the existing knowledge. These findings pave the way for informed decision-making and proactive measures to achieve sustainable urban drainage systems.
Filling empty vessels: accountability, responsibility, and corporate leadership
Authors: Nordberg Donald
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper seeks to identify a rounded understanding of two fuzzy terms in wide but muddled use in guiding corporate leadership: accountability and responsibility. Both have deep resonance discussions of strategy and corporate affairs, but their often-confused meanings both inform actions and impede understanding. Each has normative implications for the practice of corporate governance, and yet each, like an empty vessel,[1] leaves practitioners with an unhappy sense of knowing they have a use but not knowing what to do with them.

Design/methodology/approach

This essay examines the varied uses of these terms in academic literature and practitioner discussions, exploring their conflicting meanings through lenses of philosophy, literary writing, and management studies to show how each, in their flux, overlap and diverge.

Findings

The article analyses themes obscured by these muddy waters and clarifies them by speculating on how their ambiguity demands reflexive, thoughtful action and interaction between the parties in absence of clear hierarchy of command or greater authority. How meaningful that interaction is questionable, when the words are so full of meanings without an iterative process of understanding.

Originality/value

Given the prevalence of the ambiguities is usage, clarifying terms is not a realistic option. Instead, this essay proposes that insofar as these concepts reflect abilities, they represent our ability to embrace their ambiguity in a philosophically pragmatic way, and in so doing be able to act accountably and responsibly.
Leading with integrity: illuminating the pathway to positive job outcomes through ethical leadership and CSR
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Parray Zahoor Ahmad
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to how ethical leadership influences innovative behavior and employee motivation, focusing on the mediating role of corporate social responsibility within the framework of social exchange theory (SET).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 341 bank employees using convenience sampling, and hypotheses were rigorously tested with SPSS 22.

Findings

The results highlight the significant impact of ethical leadership on enhancing both employee innovation and motivation, with corporate social responsibility initiatives playing a crucial mediating role.

Originality/value

Drawing on SET, the research illustrates how ethical leadership fosters a reciprocal exchange environment, leading to deeper employee engagement and innovation driven by positive corporate social responsibility practices. By advancing theoretical understanding and providing practical insights, this study offers valuable guidance for organizations aiming to leverage ethical leadership and corporate social responsibility to cultivate a workforce that is both innovative and motivated.
Conclusion: addressing the labor shortage problem in the hospitality and tourism industries
Authors: Birdir Kemal , Sahilli Birdir Sevda
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The main objective of this theme issue is to investigate the potential of cutting-edge technologies like AI, robotics and other innovative solutions to mitigate the skilled labor shortage crisis in the Hospitality and tourism (H&T) industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This conclusion draws upon the collective insights from the articles in this thematic issue, providing a comprehensive overview of the key findings and their implications. A thorough analysis and discussion of the results are presented, offering a synthesis of the research and its significance for the hospitality and tourism industry.

Findings

This thematic issue examines the profound impact of automation and artificial intelligence on the tourism and hospitality industries, where advancements in technology are juxtaposed with the challenge of skill shortages. The special issue explores the application of AI and automation in operations, training and development as well as the need for a balanced approach to innovation and service delivery standards. As AI transforms the industry, this issue highlights the imperative for hotels and similar establishments to strike a delicate balance between technological innovation and preserving exceptional guest experiences.

Originality/value

This theme issue presents a comprehensive analysis of the key discussions on the strategic use of technology in the hospitality and tourism industries. The articles demonstrate the significance of these advancements in expanding our knowledge and driving innovation, ultimately benefiting various stakeholders in the sector. As these technologies continue to evolve at a rapid pace, it is crucial for industry professionals, decision-makers and researchers to understand their applications, benefits and challenges in order to effectively address the pressing issue of labor shortages in the hospitality and tourism industries.
DILUTED POST‐SOCIALISM: Urban Policymaking in East Germany, Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Drozda Łukasz
Published: October 2024

More than three decades after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the post‐socialist framework prevalent in the academic world is raising more and more questions. The three most serious doubts have to do with: (1) the time that has elapsed since the collapse of the state‐socialist system, which means that local urbanization has been influenced by factors other than just this period; (2) the unclear geographical boundaries of the post‐socialist world; (3) the questionable way of defining certain issues as rooted in post‐socialism. The aim of the article is to describe the impact of the state‐socialist experience on the current state of urban affairs and related policies, using the opinions of practitioners instead of those of academic researchers or document analysis, and five cities as examples: Leipzig, Germany; Krakow and Warsaw, Poland; Kyiv and Lviv, Ukraine. It seems that today we should rather speak of diluted post‐socialist experiences that parallel in a more indirect way processes rooted in the pre‐socialist past and non‐socialist events in the post‐1989–91 period modulated by various critical junctures and external factors specific to individual cases. The data sources used include a review of the literature and the author's own field research conducted in 2021 and 2022.