bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mass spectrometry reveals novel features of tubulin polyglutamylation in the flagellum ofTrypanosoma brucei
Authors: Nisavic Marija , Chaze Thibault , Bonnefoy Serge , Janke Carsten , Bastin Philippe , Matondo Mariette , Chamot-Rooke Julia
Published: February 2025

Tubulin polyglutamylation is a prominent feature of eukaryotic cilia and flagella. In the protist parasiteTrypanosoma brucei, nine different tubulin tyrosine ligase-like (TTLL) enzymes are potentially involved in tubulin glutamylation. Given this enzymatic diversity, it is important to qualitatively and quantitatively characterize tubulin polyglutamylation, in order to understand the trypanosome tubulin code and pave the way for functional assignments of different TTLLs. Robust mass spectrometry (MS) based proteomics approaches for analysis of posttranslational modifications have been developed in recent years, but none to study polyglutamylation. We therefore optimized a nanoLC-MS/MS pipeline, from sample preparation to data analysis, using synthetic polyglutamylated peptides for quantification. Applied to the flagellum ofT. brucei,our approach enabled the detection and quantification of C-terminal tubulin peptides with up to eleven supplementary glutamates on α-, and five on β-tubulin. In addition to the known E445 on α- and E435 on β-, a novel glutamylation site of β-tubulin was discovered at residue E438. Furthermore, our data revealed an increase in enzymatic detyrosination with increasing length of the glutamate chains, especially for α-tubulin. This indicates crosstalk between the modifications and different rates of detyrosination of the two tubulin types. Our results complement the existing knowledge of the tubulin code inT. bruceiand introduce an efficient analytical pipeline for the characterization of polyglutamylated proteins.
A scotophobic response characterised by body contraction and ciliary arrest inAcroporacoral larvae
Authors: Brodrick Emelie A , Jokura Kei , Craggs Jamie , Poon Rebecca , Laeverenz-Schlogelhofer Hannah , Wan Kirsty Y , Jekely Gaspar
Published: February 2025

The motile planula larva of the reef-building coralAcropora milleporaexhibits a distinct scotophobic response characterized by full-body contraction and ciliary arrest when exposed to abrupt light dimming. Through behavioural assays, we confirmed reductions in larval swimming speed and alterations in vertical and horizontal movement patterns under alternating light and dark conditions. High-speed microscopic imaging revealed that ciliary activity ceases upon light dimming, while the body contracts into a rounded shape, influencing swimming behaviour. These responses suggest an adaptive mechanism for maintaining optimal positioning within the highly structured and complex light environment of reef habitats, critical for coral recruitment and survival.
Artificial sweeteners differentially activate sweet and bitter gustatory neurons inDrosophila
Authors: Arntsen Christian , Grenon Jake , Chauvel Isabelle , Fraichard Stéphane , Dupas Stéphane , Cortot Jérôme , Audette Kayla , Musso Pierre-Yves , Stanley Molly
Published: February 2025

Artificial sweeteners are highly sweet, non-nutritive compounds that have become increasingly popular over recent decades despite research suggesting that their consumption has unintended consequences. Specifically, there is evidence suggesting that some of these chemicals interact with bitter taste receptors, implying that sweeteners likely generate complex chemosensory signals. Here, we report the basic sensory characteristics of sweeteners inDrosophila, a common model system used to study the impacts of diet, and find that all noncaloric sweeteners inhibited appetitive feeding responses at higher concentrations. At a cellular level, we found that sucralose and rebaudioside A co-activated sweet and bitter gustatory receptor neurons (GRNs), two populations that reciprocally impact feeding behavior, while aspartame only activated bitter cells. We assessed the behavioral impacts of sweet and bitter co-activation and found that low concentrations of sucralose signal appetitive feeding while high concentrations signal feeding aversion. Finally, silencing bitter GRNs reduced the aversive signal elicited by high concentrations of sucralose and significantly increased sucralose feeding behaviors. Together, we conclude that artificial sweeteners generate a gustatory signal that is more complex than “sweetness” alone, and this bitter co-activation has behaviorally relevant effects on feeding that may help flies flexibly respond to these unique compounds.
Hao-Fountain syndrome protein USP7 controls neuronal differentiation via BCOR–ncPRC1.1
Authors: Wolf van der Meer Joyce , Larue Axelle , van der Knaap Jan A. , Chalkley Gillian E. , Sijm Ayestha , Beikmohammadi Leila , Kozhevnikova Elena N. , van der Vaart Aniek , Tilly Ben C. , Bezstarosti Karel , Dekkers Dick H.W. , Doff Wouter A.S. , van de Wetering-Tieleman P. Jantine , Lanko Kristina , Barakat Tahsin Stefan , Allertz Tim , van Haren Jeffrey , Demmers Jeroen A.A. , Atlasi Yaser , Verrijzer C. Peter
Published: February 2025

Pathogenic variants in the ubiquitin-specific protease 7 (USP7) gene cause a neurodevelopmental disorder called Hao-Fountain syndrome. However, it remains unclear which of USP7's pleiotropic functions are relevant for neurodevelopment. Here, we present a combination of quantitative proteomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics to define the USP7 regulatory circuitry during neuronal differentiation. USP7 activity is required for the transcriptional programs that direct both the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into neural stem cells and the neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells. USP7 controls the dosage of the Polycomb monubiquitylated histone H2A lysine 119 (H2AK119ub1) ubiquitin ligase complexes ncPRC1.1 and ncPRC1.6. Loss-of-function experiments revealed that BCOR–ncPRC1.1, but not ncPRC1.6, is a key effector of USP7 during neuronal differentiation. Indeed, BCOR–ncPRC1.1 mediates a major portion of USP7-dependent gene regulation during this process. Besides providing a detailed map of the USP7 regulome during neurodifferentiation, our results suggest that USP7- and ncPRC1.1-associated neurodevelopmental disorders involve dysregulation of a shared epigenetic network.
Doubling fusion power with volumetric optimization in magnetic confinement fusion devices
Authors: Parisi J. F. , Berkery J. W. , Sladkomedova A. , Guizzo S. , Hardman M. R. , Ball J. R. , Nelson A. O. , Kaye S. M. , Anastopoulos-Tzanis M. , McNamara S. A. M. , Dominski J. , Janhunen S. , Romanelli M. , Dickinson D. , Diallo A. , Dnestrovskii A. , Guttenfelder W. , Hansen C. , Myatra O. , Wilson H. R.
Published: February 2025

A technique, volumetric power optimization, is presented for enhancing the power output of magnetic confinement fusion devices. Applied to a tokamak, this approach involves shifting the burning plasma region to a larger plasma volume while introducing minimal perturbations to the plasma boundary shape. This edge perturbation—squareness—is analogous to pinching and stretching the edge boundary. Stability calculations confirm that this edge alteration is compatible with maintaining plasma stability. This optimization method for optimizing fusion power output could improve the performance of magnetic confinement fusion power plants.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Two-dimensional stationary soliton gas
Authors: Bonnemain Thibault , Biondini Gino , Doyon Benjamin , Roberti Giacomo , El Gennady A.
Published: February 2025

We study two-dimensional stationary soliton gas in the framework of the time-independent reduction of the Kadomtsev-Petviashvili (KPII) equation, which coincides with the integrable two-way “good” Boussinesq equation in the xy plane. This (2+0)D reduction enables the construction of the spatial analog of the kinetic equation for the stationary gas of KP solitons by invoking recent results on (1+1)D bidirectional soliton gases and generalized hydrodynamics of the Boussinesq equation. We then use the spectral kinetic theory to analytically describe two basic types of 2D soliton gas interactions: (i) refraction of a line soliton by a stationary soliton gas, and (ii) oblique interference of two soliton gases. We verify the analytical predictions by numerically implementing the corresponding KPII soliton gases via exact N-soliton solutions with N-large and appropriately chosen random distributions for the soliton parameters. We also explicitly evaluate the long-distance correlations for the two-component interference configurations. The results can be applied to a variety of physical systems, from shallow water waves to Bose-Einstein condensates.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Generalized approach for rapid entropy calculation of liquids and solids
Authors: Hong Qi-Jun , Liu Zi-Kui
Published: February 2025

We build a comprehensive methodology for the fast computation of entropy across both solid and liquid phases. The proposed method utilizes a single trajectory of molecular dynamics (MD) to facilitate the calculation of entropy, which is composed of three components. The electronic entropy is determined through the temporal average acquired from density functional theory MD simulations. The vibrational entropy, typically the predominant contributor to the total entropy, even within the liquid state, is evaluated by computing the phonon density of states via the velocity autocorrelation function. The most arduous component to quantify, the configurational entropy, is assessed by probability analysis of the local structural arrangement and atomic distribution. We illustrate, through a variety of examples, that this method is both a versatile and valid technique for characterizing the thermodynamic states of both solids and liquids. Furthermore, this method is employed to expedite the calculation of melting temperatures, demonstrating its practical utility in computational thermodynamics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
4-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl)-1-neopentyl-1,2,4-triazolium bromide
Authors: Albert Daniel R. , Gau Michael , Rajaseelan Edward
Published: February 2025

The title 1,2,4-triazolium salt, C18H28N3
+·Br−, crystallizes in the monoclinic space group Pc. The extended structure exhibits a short intermolecular interaction between a heterocyclic C—H group and a bromide ion (H...Br = 2.57 Å). Additional weaker interactions exist between the other heterocyclic C—H group, an alkyl C—H group and bromide ions.
Mental health outcomes and psychosocial hazards experienced by construction professionals with different demographic characteristics during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Zhang Shang , Duan Jie , Sunindijo Riza Yosia
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic and the corresponding control measures have harmed the mental health of professionals working in the construction industry. Existing research has also indicated that demographic characteristics are leading variables causing differences in individual’s perceptions on mental health and psychosocial hazardous factors. Combining these, this research aims to compare the differences and similarities of the perceived mental health outcomes and psychosocial hazards among construction professionals with different demographic characteristics during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a questionnaire survey, data were collected from 531 construction professionals working in Chinese construction companies, which were analyzed quantitatively using mean score comparative analysis, Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis H test, as well as Spearman’s correlation analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that construction professionals with different ages, years of working experience and positions are exposed to different psychosocial hazards, resulting in different mental health conditions during the pandemic. Age and years of working experience are also strong predictors of the level of depression and anxiety experienced by construction professionals; that is, mental ill health tends to decrease with the increase of age and experience. Male department/unit heads, working in a company office environment for a private company and aged 31–40 years old with 11–20 years of working experience, tend to have the best mental health condition. In contrast, psychosocial hazards are more likely to produce the most serious impact on male site-based construction professionals working for a state-owned company, either with less than one year of working experience or in a senior management position.

Originality/value

Despite the significant contribution of the construction industry to the global economy, the differences and similarities of the mental health outcomes and psychosocial hazards among construction professionals with different demographic characteristics during the pandemic remain unknown. This research, therefore, reveals the mental health outcomes and psychosocial hazard impacts among different types of construction professionals during the pandemic. Specifically, this research unveils the important personal characteristics which are closely associated with poor mental health and the stronger impacts of psychosocial hazards on the mental health of construction professionals during the pandemic. The results are valuable for governments and construction companies to formulate targeted mental health intervention strategies during future public health emergencies.
From theory to practice: a collaborative approach to social impact measurement and communication
Authors: Alkire Linda , Hesse Laura , Raki Amir , Boenigk Silke , Kabadayi Sertan , Fisk Raymond Paul , Mora Andres
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper reports the collaborative achievements of transformative service researchers and nonprofit practitioners and their learning processes for refugee integration and social impact measurement. The purpose of the paper is to present the process of a cocreating a toolkit designed to help non-profit organizations (NPOs) measure and communicate the social impact of their initiatives. Collaboration with a UK-based NPO resulted in the development of a practical toolkit designed to identify and report social impacts that are typically challenging or difficult to measure.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a three-phase co-creative process model over two years, the project team began by co-defining impact metrics in partnership with an NPO specializing in personalized employment support, language and digital skills training and job search assistance for refugees. This led to the codesign of a social impact measurement strategy. The final phase involved coproducing a social impact reporting toolkit that offers comprehensive guidance to bridge existing gaps in measurement practices and empowers NPO employees to effectively measure and communicate social impact.

Findings

The study found that, although the NPO collected extensive data, its focus was primarily on individual-level economic outcomes, often overlooking broader social impact measurements. The cocreated toolkit addresses this oversight by providing resources for a holistic assessment.

Practical implications

The toolkit equips NPOs with a user-friendly resource for effectively measuring and communicating the social impact of their initiatives, supporting their operational and funding requirements.

Social implications

By improving how social impact is measured and communicated, the toolkit can positively influence funding decisions and enhance the support available to refugees, thereby facilitating their integration into host societies.

Originality/value

This paper highlights two key contributions: (1) the development of a co-produced social impact reporting toolkit consisting of five modules and (2) the co-creation process itself. Through collaboration between the academic team and the NPO, the toolkit was designed to meet both theoretical standards and practical needs, tailored specifically for small to medium-sized NPOs, particularly those working in refugee integration.
Soft skills development in work-based learning: a systematic literature review
Authors: Urkia-Basterra Iraia , Imaz Agirre Ainara , Álvarez-Huerta Paula
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic literature review is to identify which soft skills are developed during work-based learning (WBL) programmes in higher education contexts. Additionally, the study sought to identify strategies used to promote soft skills development within work-based learning programmes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the PRISMA-P protocol to guide the methodology and ensure the transparency and reproducibility of the paper. In total, 36 papers were considered eligible from the search conducted in two databases between 2013 and 2024.

Findings

Findings indicate that while there is some overlap in the soft skills mentioned, great variety exists due to the complexity of soft skills frameworks. The soft skills most frequently referenced were communication and teamwork skills. Regarding strategies, a few articles mention reflection and personal connections for enhancing soft skills development; however, further research is needed in this area.

Practical implications

A clearer understanding of skill development could significantly benefit higher education institutions, students and related organisations. This understanding may enhance programme quality and better prepare students for their future.

Originality/value

Although research on the development of soft skills in the context of WBL programmes is still limited, there is increasing evidence suggesting they may be an effective means of fostering these skills. This paper presents an overview of the research conducted to date and outlines potential avenues for further investigation.
Leveraging social media for trade construction contractors’ success: issues and measures from a qualitative perspective
Authors: Ebekozien Andrew , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku , Ahmed Mohamed Ahmed Hafez
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Trade construction contractors (TCC) (domestic or nominated subcontractors) are key stakeholders engaged by the main contractors in construction activities. Social media platforms may be germane in promoting small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) such as TCC. Studies regarding the role of social media platforms in TCC success are scarce in Nigeria. Therefore, the research investigates trade construction contractors’ success in leveraging social media platforms and the usage’s encumbrances.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative research design using a virtual interview method to solicit data from 26 experts. A purposive sampling technique was utilised to engage selected participants in Lagos and Abuja, Nigeria. This study achieved saturation from the collected data, and a thematic analysis was adopted to analyse the data.

Findings

Findings show that embracing social media platforms by TCC practitioners will improve productivity and profitability. Also, findings reveal that financial constraints, high operation and implementation costs, lack of awareness, hesitation to adopt, unclear benefits, reluctance to deploy a new system and network issues are hindrances faced by trade construction contractors using social media platforms in Nigeria. The study suggested measures to mitigate these hindrances.

Originality/value

The findings stir new insights for TCC practitioners to embrace social media platforms better to reap their full benefits. The outcome would lead to TCC firms’ productivity and profitability.
Revenue–expenditure nexus of Indian states: panel ARDL approach
Authors: Baxi Himani , Mehta Dhyani
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In India’s federal system, rising expenditure responsibilities and limited tax-raising powers challenge states’ fiscal stability. Analyzing the short- and long-term revenue–expenditure nexus and identifying fiscal consolidation strategies is crucial to managing fiscal deficits effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study delves into the short- and long-term causal relationships between state expenditures and taxes, utilizing panel data from 29 Indian states. The use of panel autoregressive distributed lag.

Findings

The estimates confirm that the growth of state government spending and state government income (state gross domestic product) positively impacts state government taxes. Therefore, these findings lend support to the spend-tax hypothesis, both in the short run and long run. The estimates of spend-tax causality also suggest that states may not necessarily need to be concerned about controlling their expenditure and increasing fiscal deficits.

Practical implications

States in India can garner the necessary financial resources through either their own taxes or their share in central taxes to fulfill their expenditure needs. This, indeed, is an advantage of the federal system.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this investigation also prompt the necessity for a fresh assessment of the spend-tax hypothesis utilizing the variables of state expenditure and states’ owned tax income, excluding any form of central transfers. This study can be further added to the literature on causal link between expenditure and states’ own revenue in India and also reevaluate the progression of fiscal decentralization in the country.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-03-2024-0232
Bank accounting conservatism and capital management
Authors: Casciello Raffaela , Maffei Marco , Meucci Fiorenza
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate if and how conditional conservatism influences capital management practices in the context of European listed banks.

Design/methodology/approach

We use multiple fixed effects regression models with robust standard errors to test the research hypotheses on a sample of 2,883 bank-year observations for EU-listed banks from 2010 to 2020.

Findings

The study provides evidence that the adoption of conditional conservatism policies constrains upward capital management. In addition, this study shows that such influence is mediated by two channels: earnings management and loan portfolio quality. Regarding the first channel, this study shows that the adoption of conditional conservatism hinders upward earning management which, in turn, negatively impacts upward capital management, all else being equal. For the second channel, this study shows that the adoption of conditional conservatism improves the quality of the loan portfolio, which hinders upward capital management because of less risky assets in the portfolio.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to banking literature by shedding light on the factors that may favor or obstruct capital management.

Practical implications

This study can be useful for bank regulators and standard setters to define new regulatory policies and standards that can hinder the use of manipulative accounting practices.

Originality/value

This is the first study exploring the association between bank accounting conservatism and capital management, thus asking whether some factors like earnings management and loan portfolio quality may act as mediating channels in this relationship.
Resurfacing a historic canal of Old Dhaka: research through design for promoting natural and cultural heritage tourism
Authors: Fatemi Md. Nawrose , Rahman Tahmina , Shawpnil S. M. Ehsan Ul Haque , Ferdousi Nabila
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To encourage natural and cultural heritage tourism, this study intends to offer a sustainable approach to resurfacing a historic canal in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh. Dholaikhal, the canal that was once a vital artery of Old Dhaka, has been encroached upon and buried beneath box culverts to accommodate the city’s road network development, resulting in environmental deterioration and the loss of cultural significance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a mixed-method research approach that incorporates multidisciplinary techniques after exploring the canal’s historical trace and present condition thoroughly through historical and contextual study, map regression, land use pattern analysis, transect walks, photographic documentation and a design workshop.

Findings

Findings unfold the scope of reviving the forgotten existence of Dholaikhal, indicating actionable steps for intervention. The proposed regeneration of Dholaikhal and its adjacent surroundings confirms a symbiotic relationship between heritage preservation and tourism development by focusing on ecological restoration and cultural preservation through community engagement.

Practical implications

The study offers practical recommendations for implementing the suggested design solutions, focusing on fostering collaboration and offering invaluable perspectives for policymakers, urban designers and local residents. It also establishes a model for revitalizing urban waterways of historical significance, therefore promoting a balanced coexistence between the city’s natural and cultural heritage.

Originality/value

This research engages a mixed-method approach to preserving natural heritage, proposing a holistic model that simultaneously considers ecological awareness, historical relevance and community engagement.
Representation of Swedish LGBTQ+ fiction in commercial information services
Authors: Golub Koraljka , Ocic Ihrmark Daniel
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Many end users turn to Google Books and social tagging services to identify books of interest. How successful they are will depend on subject indexing applied in these services (among other factors). The study aimed to determine: (1) to what degree are Queerlit books identified as LGBTQ+ books in widely used information services, in particular Google Books, LibraryThing and Goodreads; and, (2) whether metadata in these information services could be considered of value for the Queerlit database and complement its highly extensive and highly specific indexing.

Design/methodology/approach

The study compared keywords (subject index terms, tags) assigned to works of Swedish LGBTQ+ fiction across three commercial services: Google Books, Goodreads and LibraryThing, against the curated database, Queerlit.

Findings

Of the 1320 LGBTQ+ works in Queerlit, only a small portion was found in the three web services: 8.26% on Google Books (n = 109), 13.26% on Goodreads (n = 175), while about half on LibraryThing (55.3%, n = 730). This underrepresentation of Swedish LGBTQ+ works in the three international commercial information services makes them hardly of value to the readers. This is exacerbated by the fact that only a minority of Queerlit books found in the three services are categorised as LGBTQ+. The Queerlit database might benefit from consulting social tagging services when indexing both LGBTQ+ specific and general themes.

Originality/value

No earlier study compared in a systematic manner four different information retrieval systems and identified challenges as well as potential benefits in relation to finding LGBTQ+ fiction.
Cost of selected smart building elements and its level of implementation in Abuja
Authors: Ayodele Temitope Rasheed
Published: February 2025

Purpose

There are many obstacles that prevent the growth and investment in smart buildings, particularly in Nigeria and other developing nations. The lack of awareness and expertise regarding smart building in Nigeria and other developing nations is arguably the big threat to their development. This study aims to look at the cost analysis, which is a challenge to smart building implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative research approach, with a questionnaire survey administered to professionals in the Federal Capital Development Authority, using the random sampling method. Collected data were analysed using descriptive analysis, recording the mean item score to rank the variables.

Findings

The findings highlight the need for cost-effective solutions. It was revealed that all hardware part of the smart building elements is the most expensive cost incurred in the construction of a smart building, while the high cost is also the most encountered challenge to implementation of smart buildings in Abuja.

Research limitations/implications

The research highlights challenges in implementing smart technologies in Nigeria, recommending policymakers to develop incentives like tax rebates and subsidies for energy-efficient buildings. Integrating smart building concepts into national building codes can encourage widespread adoption. Future research should explore socio-economic impacts and provide recommendations for enhancing integration. Cost analysis should be used to eliminate cost implications, and construction should be based on market surveys to avoid overruns. Construction professionals should educate clients about smart building construction instead of traditional ones. Limitations include time constraints and a lack of documentation culture in Nigeria.

Practical implications

This research produces a cost analysis that can help to influence the decision of builders with a pre-known cost estimates of smart building elements. As part of the broader global sustainability goals, smart building contribute to reducing resource consumption and enhancing energy management. It’s essential for all parties involved in construction to have the adequate knowledge required for the improved practice in the Nigerian construction industry, smart building is at the foremost of construction, which necessitate research of this nature.

Originality/value

This study will help inform researchers that intend to build on this body of knowledge about the state of smart building implementation in Abuja, Nigeria. Furthermore, students will have better access to more information about the field of study.
AI feel millennials: prioritizing the intentions towards adoption of AI-enabled chatbots using fuzzy-AHP approach
Authors: Gupta Sanjay , Arora Anchal , Singh Simarjeet , Jain Jinesh
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In the present era, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming and redefining the lifestyles of society through its applications, such as chatbots. Chatbot has shown tremendous growth and has been used in almost every field. The purpose of this study is to identify and prioritize the factors that influence millennial’s technology acceptance of chatbots.

Design/methodology/approach

For the present research, data were collected from 432 respondents (millennials) from Punjab. A fuzzy analytical hierarchy process was used to prioritize the factors influencing millennials’ technology acceptance of chatbots. The key factors considered for the study were information, entertainment, media appeal, social presence and perceived privacy risk

Findings

The findings of the study revealed media appeal as the top-ranked prioritized factor influencing millennial technology acceptance of chatbots. In contrast, perceived privacy risk appeared as the least important factor. Ranking of the global weights reveals that I3 and I2 are the two most important sub-criteria.

Research limitations/implications

Data were gathered from the millennial population of Punjab, and only a few factors that influence the technology acceptance of chatbots were considered for analysis which has been considered as a limitation of this study.

Practical implications

The findings of this study will provide valuable insights about consumer behaviour to the business firm, and it will help them to make competitive strategies accordingly.

Originality/value

Existing literature has investigated the factors influencing millennials’ technology acceptance of chatbots. At the same time, this study has used the multi-criteria decision-making technique to deliver valuable insights for marketers, practitioners and academicians about the drivers of millennials’ technology acceptance regarding chatbots which will add value to the prevailing knowledge base.
Review on sustainable, eco-friendly novel reinforcing fillers for rubber composites
Authors: Shafik Emad S.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This review aims to present the problems facing the rubber industry, including a shortage of raw materials such as fillers and ways to overcome them by finding renewable, environmentally friendly natural alternatives that can be used as fillers in the rubber industry, with the aim of preserving the environment from pollution and reducing the cost of products. This research also presents new varieties of eco-friendly and renewable fillers for rubber composites including agricultural waste, biochar and biofiller and also presents methods of treating them to improve the mechanical properties of the composites.

Design/methodology/approach

Agricultural waste is a sustainable energy resource that possesses various potential applications, such as its utilization in the production of construction materials and multifunctional components for automobiles. Researchers have focused on how to channel agricultural waste fibers into valuable materials while preserving environmental and human health by considering their potential for industrial use. These fillers have an excellent chance to replace or supplement the current carbon black derived from petroleum or the undesirable bulky mineral fillers. To improve the efficiency of waste natural fibers in rubber composites, several types of surface treatment techniques have been investigated including alkaline treatment, silane treatment and permanganate treatment.

Findings

Adding 10 phr of cereal straw to natural rubber increases the tensile strength and hardness compared to blank natural rubber, as the tensile strength increased from 13.53 MPa for natural rubber to 15.3 for rubber containing 10 phr of untreated cereal straw filler and became 19.6 MPa in the case of using filler treated with peroxide. Also, tensile strength, tensile modulus and elongation at break of the kenaf fiber-filled natural rubber composites are higher for composites with silane coupling agent. The utilization of sustainable biofillers as reinforcement in rubber composites has shown promising results in enhancing the performance of tires and other rubber products.

Originality/value

This review presents a new approach to evaluating the effect of using eco-friendly and sustainable reinforcing fillers for the rubber industry to preserve the environment and reduce production costs.
Consistency and discrepancy in fine art investment: upward bias in investors’ expectation
Authors: Ryu Jiye , Ahn Keunbae , Robertson Iain , Hong Kihoon
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Art investment is generally believed to be risky with a high expected return. In this paper, we empirically find that art investors’ behavior is consistent with this general belief, showing consistency between their perception and behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Fama–French asset pricing factor models, we conduct an empirical investigation into fine arts investment in relation to financial risk factors. The risk and return profiles of art investments are then compared with those of traditional investments to determine alignment with investor perceptions.

Findings

We find that art investment is riskier than other traditional assets but does not provide enough financial gain to compensate the art investor, which indicates that it is not as attractive as it is believed. While there is consistency between art investors’ perception and behavior, there is also a discrepancy between their perception and reality.

Originality/value

The research identifies potential reasons for this misperception and highlights the non-monetary benefits and hidden sources of utility, suggesting that art investors may still be rational despite the less attractive financial performance compared to traditional assets.
Enhancing Quality 4.0 adoption: integrative analysis using Fuzzy-TOPSIS and Fuzzy-DEMATEL for strategic dimension prioritization
Authors: Sahu Mahendra , Singh Vinay , Kumar Sachin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study aims to explore the dimensions of Quality 4.0 adoption, prioritization of these dimensions and the influential dimensions and their causal relationships that can guide the smooth adoption of Quality 4.0 to boost organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The Quality 4.0 dimensions are explored from the extant literature. The qualitative data were captured from 12 highly experienced experts from diverse industries and academia through structured interview questions and group discussions in multiple phases. The inputs obtained from the experts were analyzed using Fuzzy-Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution for dimension priority, and Fuzzy-Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory was employed to reveal the influential relationship between them.

Findings

The analysis reveals that quality scalability, quality culture and quality conformance are investigated as primary drivers of Quality 4.0 adoption. Data-driven analytical thinking and customer centricity emerge as dynamic dimensions that act as quality deliverable ends. Integrating these methodologies provides a robust framework for understanding and managing Quality 4.0 complexities, offering actionable insights for prioritizing initiatives and addressing interdependencies to ensure successful adoption and implementation.

Practical implications

The practical implications guide industries in creating strategic action plans tailored to their needs and fostering a quality-focused culture. The study also offers valuable insights into government policies, promoting sustainability, efficiency and a circular economy.

Originality/value

The study’s novelty lies in its prioritization and examination of the most influential causes and effects within the Quality 4.0 dimensions. This approach highlights core drivers and critical factors, providing a comprehensive framework for successful implementation.
Perinatal and Neonatal Outcomes Following In Vitro Fertilisation in Poor Ovarian Responders: A Prospective Single‐Centre Observational Study
Authors: Hu Cuiping , Ni Tianxiang , Jia Zhangwei , Deng Jianye , Li Jing , Zhang Qian , Xia Mingdi , Lu Juanjuan , Yan Junhao
Published: February 2025

Objective

To compare the risk of adverse perinatal and neonatal outcomes between individuals with poor ovarian response (POR) and those with normal ovarian response (NOR) following in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Design

A prospective single‐centre observational study.

Setting

University hospital.

Population

Overall, 1663 patients who underwent embryo transfer cycles between June 2017 and August 2019 were evaluated.

Methods

The patients were divided into the POR and NOR groups based on the Bologna diagnostic criteria. The risk of perinatal and neonatal complications was then compared between groups with adjustment made for confounding factors.

Main Outcome Measures

The risk of perinatal and neonatal complications between the POR and NOR groups.

Results

Compared with the NOR group, the POR group had poor pregnancy outcomes but comparable overall risks of poor perinatal and neonatal outcomes. The overall incidence rate of complications was 25.42% and 25.30% in the POR and NOR groups respectively [risk ratio (RR): 1.01; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.63–1.59]. In subgroup analysis of singleton live births, the overall risk of total complications was higher in the POR group than in the NOR group (24.07% vs. 15.21%; RR: 1.77; 95% CI: 1.04–3.00); however, the risks became comparable between them after logistic regression adjustment.

Conclusions

The overall risk of perinatal and neonatal complications among singleton live births was higher in patients with POR than in those with NOR; however, the risks became similar after logistic regression adjustment. Our findings provide overall comforting evidence for POR patients with IVF treatment.
Reproductive Implications and Management of Congenital Uterine Anomalies (2024 Second Edition)
Authors: Akhtar M. A. , Saravelos S. H. , Li T. C. , Jayaprakasan K. ,   the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
Published: February 2025

Plain Language Summary

Congenital uterine anomalies (CUAs) are malformations of the uterus (womb) that develop during fetal life. When a female baby is in her mother's uterus, her uterus develops as two separate halves from two tubular structures called Müllerian ducts, which fuse together before she is born. Anomalies that occur during the baby's development can be variable, from complete absence of the uterus through to more subtle anomalies, which are classified into specific categories. While conventional ultrasound is good at detecting CUAs, 3D ultrasound is used to confirm a diagnosis. If a complex uterine anomaly is suspected, additional investigations may be used, including MRI scanning, laparoscopy (where a camera is inserted into the cavity of the abdomen) and/or hysteroscopy (where a camera is placed in the uterine cavity). As there can be a link between CUAs and anomalies of the kidney and bladder, scans of these organs are also usually requested.

Although CUAs are present at birth, adult women typically do not have any symptoms, although some may experience painful periods. Most cases of CUA do not cause difficulties in becoming pregnant, and the outcome of pregnancy, in most cases, is good. However, these uterine anomalies are often discovered during investigations for infertility or miscarriage. Moreover, depending upon the type and severity of CUA, there may be increased risk of first and second trimester miscarriages, preterm birth, fetal growth restriction (smaller and lighter babies for the stage of pregnancy), pre‐eclampsia (development of high blood pressure and protein in urine after the 20th week of pregnancy) and fetal malpresentation (baby not facing head‐first down the birth canal) at birth. Surgical treatment may be considered for those who have had recurrent miscarriages and have a septate uterus, i.e. the uterine cavity is divided by a partition. In this case, surgery may reduce the chances of miscarriage. However, women should be informed that there is inconclusive and conflicting evidence regarding the improved likelihood of live births in this context. Further evidence from large randomised controlled trials are required to provide conclusive evidence‐based recommendations for surgical treatment for septate uterus. Surgical treatment for other types of CUAs is not usually recommended as the risks outweigh potential benefits, and evidence for any benefits is lacking. Women with CUAs may be at an increased risk of preterm birth even after surgical treatment for a septate uterus. These people, if suspected to be at an increased risk of preterm birth based on the severity of CUA, should be followed up using an appropriate protocol for preterm birth as outlined in UK Preterm Birth Clinical Network Guidance.
Redefining the documentation of outdoor surface scatter scenes using geographic information systems
Authors: Pottage Katie , Masters Peter , Márquez‐Grant Nicholas
Published: February 2025

The field of forensic archaeology has been primarily associated with the search, location, and excavation of clandestine graves, and thus, other deposition types have been commonly neglected in research. Current literature typically addresses the use of traditional methods implemented for the excavation and recovery of human remains from clandestine graves but fails to provide the same for surface scatter scenes. This study aimed to explore the documentation of such scenes through the integration of traditional archaeological techniques, geophysical surveying techniques, and GIS. A mixed method study was created and utilized in three different simulated scatter scenes, allowing the qualitative and quantitative scope of GIS to be examined and assessed. The techniques were utilized successively and iterated until all simulated scenes had been documented. Within this study, terrain was the independent variable—this was nonrandomized and chosen to best suit sites where scatter scenes are most prevalent. Results demonstrated GIS to be an effective method in the documentation of contextual data at a forensic surface scatter scene, providing both qualitative and quantitative data. Such findings aid in understanding the admissibility of each technique in court and its impact on a case when presented as evidence. This research revealed that further exploration of surveying techniques in sites other than clandestine graves is necessary for forensic archaeology practice.
Sensory‐emotion relationships in white chocolate of modified color and sweetener among Polish and Brazilian consumers
Authors: Żukowska Patrycja Urszula , Raj Dhanus Raj Kanaga , Luccas Valdecir , Ross Carolyn F. , Kardas Marek , Bolini Helena Maria Andre
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study was to examine the influence of chocolate formulation (sweetener and color) on consumer sensory acceptance and emotional response across two consumer populations, Brazilian and Polish. White chocolate samples (n = 10) were formulated with differences in sweetener (sucrose, rebaudioside A) and color (red, blue, yellow, green). Along with a trained panel, consumers in Brazil (n = 120) and Poland (n = 120) evaluated chocolate samples for liking and associated emotions. Color was not found to influence sweetness or flavor perception, indicating the absence of cross‐modal influence. However, the yellow‐colored chocolate was liked less than the blue, green, or red chocolate. Emotions were a stronger driver of product liking in the Brazilian population compared to the Polish consumers. This research shows the influence of color on consumers perception, with implications of using natural colors in chocolate production and “yellowing” in white chocolate.

Practical Applications

The recipe may be used in chocolate manufacturing to produce free‐sugar chocolate targeted to consumers with health conditions, such as diabetes. Our research also gives the solution for practical application of natural dyes to white chocolate to cover the problematic “yellowing,” which is considered defect of this product and results in the low consumer acceptance. The dyes that are suggested to add are of red, green, or blue color due to high acceptability of consumers from different countries.
Uncovering the sensory properties of commercial and experimental clean label almond milks
Authors: Ong Jane Jun‐Xin , Hallstrom Jessica , de Moura Bell Juliana M. L. N , Delarue Julien
Published: February 2025

Almond milk is the largest category of plant‐based milk alternatives in the United States, and it is manufactured by suspending ground almond paste in water. Nevertheless, this method limits the amount of almonds that can be added to almond milk, and most almond milks on the market have low protein despite almonds themselves being nutritionally dense. The use of sustainable aqueous and enzyme‐assisted aqueous extraction processes offers an alternative method for producing almond milks with enhanced nutritional content. However, it is currently unclear how the sensory properties of such milks compare to those of commercial almond milks. In this study, we conducted a sensory descriptive analysis with 14 trained panelists on 12 commercial almond milk samples and 14 formulated ones (seven aqueous and seven enzyme‐assisted aqueous extracted milks). The purpose of this study was to understand how sensorially diverse commercial almond milks are, as well as to determine how aqueous and enzyme‐assisted aqueous extracted almond milks compare to commercial methods. We found that formulated samples were significantly different from commercial products, and that all commercial products could be distinguished from each other. Furthermore, commercial milks were more differentiated than were formulated samples. Given the sensory diversity of almond milks on the market, this study suggests that there is potential for introducing new products in the almond milk category. Finally, this study also showed that descriptive analysis can be successfully conducted with two distinct groups of products in the same panel.

Practical Application

The almond milk category is highly diverse in terms of sensory characteristics, presenting opportunities to develop new products that offer unique sensory experiences distinct from those of existing products.