bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
De-novo genome assembly of the invasive mosquito speciesAedes japonicusandAedes koreicus
Authors: Catapano Paolo L. , Falcinelli Monica , Damiani Claudia , Cappelli Alessia , Koukouli Despoina , Rossi Paolo , Ricci Irene , Napolioni Valerio , Favia Guido
Published: April 2023

Recently, two invasiveAedesmosquito species,Ae. japonicusandAe. koreicus, are circulating in several European countries posing potential health risks to humans and animals. Vector control is the main option to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, and an accurate genome sequence of these mosquitoes is essential to better understand their biology and to develop effective control strategies. Here, we present a de novo genome assembly of theAe. japonicus(Ajap1) andAe. koreicus(Akor1) based on a hybrid approach that combines Oxford Nanopore long reads and Illumina short reads data. Their quality was ascertained using various metrics. Masking of repetitive elements, gene prediction and functional annotation was performed. Sequence analysis revealed a very high presence of repetitive DNA and, among others, thermal adaptation genes and insecticide-resistance genes. The RNA sequencing analysis of larvae and adults ofAe. koreicusandAe. japonicusexposed to different temperatures revealed genes showing a thermal-dependent activation. The assembly of Akor1 and Ajap1 genomes constitutes the first updated collective knowledge of the genomes of both mosquito species, providing the possibility to understand key mechanisms of their biology such as the ability to adapt to harsh climates and to develop insecticide-resistance mechanisms.
Evolutionarily conserved role of serotonin signaling in regulating actomyosin contractility during morphogenesis
Authors: Karki Sanjay , Saadaoui Mehdi , Dunsing Valentin , Da Silva Elise , Philippe Jean-Marc , Maurange Cédric , Lecuit Thomas
Published: April 2023

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that signals through 5-HT receptors to control key functions in the nervous system. Serotonin receptors are also ubiquitously expressed in various organs and have been detected in embryos of different organisms. Potential morphogenetic functions of serotonin signaling have been proposed based on pharmacological studies but a mechanistic understanding is still lacking. Here, we uncover a role of serotonin signaling in axis extension ofDrosophilaembryos by regulating MyosinII (MyoII) activation, cell contractility and cell intercalation. We find that serotonin and serotonin receptors 5HT2A and 5HT2B form a signaling module that quantitatively regulates the amplitude of planar polarized MyoII contractility specified by Toll receptors and the GPCR Cirl. Remarkably, serotonin signaling also regulates actomyosin contractility at cell junctions, cellular flows and epiblast morphogenesis during chicken gastrulation. This phylogenetically conserved mechanical function of serotonin signaling in regulating actomyosin contractility and tissue flow reveals an ancestral role in morphogenesis of multicellular organisms.
Interspecies generation of functional muscle stem cells
Authors: Domenig Seraina A. , Lenardič Ajda , Zvick Joel , Tarnowska-Sengül Monika , Bundschuh Nicola , Bacchin Giada , Ghosh Adhideb , Bar-Nur Ori
Published: April 2023

Satellite cells, the stem cells of skeletal muscle tissue, hold a prodigious regeneration capacity. However, low satellite cell yield from autologous or donor-derived muscles precludes adoption of satellite cell transplantation for the treatment of muscle diseases including Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). To address this limitation, here we investigated whether sufficient quantity of satellite cells can be produced in allogeneic or xenogeneic animal hosts. First, we report on exclusive satellite cell production in intraspecies mouse chimeras by injection of CRISPR/Cas9-corrected DMD-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into blastocysts carrying an ablation system of host Pax7+ satellite cells. Additionally, injection of genetically-corrected DMD-iPSCs into rat blastocysts produced interspecies rat-mouse chimeras harboring mouse muscle stem cells that efficiently restored dystrophin expression in DMD mice. This study thus provides a proof-of-principle for the generation of therapeutically-competent stem cells between divergent species, raising the possibility of procuring human stem cells in large animals for regenerative medicine purposes.
RAD52 prevents accumulation of Polalpha-dependent replication gaps at perturbed replication forks in human cells
Authors: Di Biagi Ludovica , Marozzi Giorgia , Malacaria Eva , Honda Masayoshi , Aiello FRANCESCA ANTONELLA , Valenzisi Pasquale , Spies Maria , Franchitto Annapaola , Pichierri Pietro
Published: April 2023

Replication gaps can arise as a consequence of perturbed DNA replication and their accumulation might undermine the stability of the genome. Loss of RAD52, a protein involved in the regulation of fork reversal, promotes accumulation of parental ssDNA gaps during replication perturbation. Here, we demonstrate that this is due to the engagement of Polalpha downstream of the extensive degradation of perturbed replication forks after their reversal, and is not dependent on PrimPol. Polalpha is hyper-recruited at parental ssDNA in the absence of RAD52, and this recruitment is dependent on fork reversal enzymes and RAD51. Of note, we report that the interaction between Polalpha and RAD51 is stimulated by RAD52 inhibition, and Polalpha-dependent gap accumulation requires nucleation of RAD51 suggesting that it occurs downstream strand invasion. Altogether, our data indicate that RAD51-Polalpha-dependent repriming is essential to promote fork restart and limit DNA damage accumulation when RAD52 function is disabled.
Chromosome organization by fine-tuning an ATPase
Authors: Massari Lucia F. , Marston Adele L.
Published: April 2023

Cohesin is an ATPase that drives chromosome organization through the generation of intramolecular loops and sister chromatid cohesion. Cohesin's ATPase is stimulated by Scc2 binding but attenuated by acetylation of its Smc3 subunit. In this issue ofGenes & Development, Boardman and colleagues (pp. 277–290) take a genetic approach to generate a mechanistic model for the opposing regulation of cohesin's ATPase by Scc2 and Smc3 acetylation. Their findings provide in vivo insight into how this important genome organizer functions in vivo.
Study of GaN coalescence by dark-field X-ray microscopy at the nanoscale
Authors: Wehbe Maya , Charles Matthew , Baril Kilian , Alloing Blandine , Pino Munoz Daniel , Labchir Nabil , Zuniga-Perez Jesús , Detlefs Carsten , Yildirim Can , Gergaud Patrice
Published: April 2023

This work illustrates the potential of dark-field X-ray microscopy (DFXM), a 3D imaging technique of nanostructures, in characterizing novel epitaxial structures of gallium nitride (GaN) on top of GaN/AlN/Si/SiO2 nano-pillars for optoelectronic applications. The nano-pillars are intended to allow independent GaN nanostructures to coalesce into a highly oriented film due to the SiO2 layer becoming soft at the GaN growth temperature. DFXM is demonstrated on different types of samples at the nanoscale and the results show that extremely well oriented lines of GaN (standard deviation of 0.04°) as well as highly oriented material for zones up to 10 × 10 µm2 in area are achieved with this growth approach. At a macroscale, high-intensity X-ray diffraction is used to show that the coalescence of GaN pyramids causes misorientation of the silicon in the nano-pillars, implying that the growth occurs as intended (i.e. that pillars rotate during coalescence). These two diffraction methods demonstrate the great promise of this growth approach for micro-displays and micro-LEDs, which require small islands of high-quality GaN material, and offer a new way to enrich the fundamental understanding of optoelectronically relevant materials at the highest spatial resolution.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of bis(μ-4-tert-butoxy-4-oxobut-2-en-2-olato)bis[(4-tert-butoxy-4-oxobut-2-en-2-olato)ethanolzinc(II)]
Authors: Shtokvysh Olherd O. , Dyakonenko Viktoriya V. , Koval Lyudmila I. , Pekhnyo Vasyl I.
Published: April 2023

The molecular and crystal structure of the title binuclear Zn2+ complex, [Zn2(C8H13O3)4(C2H5OH)2], with enolated anionic tert-butylacetoacetate and ethanol was analysed. The coordination polyhedra of the Zn atoms are distorted octahedra formed by six oxygen atoms that belong to three ligand molecules and a coordinated ethanol molecule. In the crystal phase, alternating layers can be distinguished parallel to the ac plane. A Hirshfeld surface analysis showed that there are no strong intermolecular interactions in the structure. The most significant contributions to the overall crystal packing are from H...H intermolecular contacts.
Porosity-dependent impact study of a plate with Winkler-Pasternak elastic foundations reinforced with agglomerated CNTs
Authors: Ranjbar-Roeintan Mehdi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate the porosity-dependent impact study of a plate with Winkler–Pasternak elastic foundations reinforced with agglomerated carbon nanotubes (CNTs).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the first-order shear deformation plate theory, the strain energy related to elastic foundations is added to system strain energy. Using separation of variables and Lagrangian generalized equations, the nonlinear and time-dependent motion equations are extracted.

Findings

Verification examples are fulfilled to prove the precision and effectiveness of the presented model. The impact outputs illustrate the effects of various distribution of CNTs porosity functions along the plate thickness direction, Winkler–Pasternak elastic foundations and different boundary conditions on the Hertz contact law, the plate center displacement, impactor displacement and impactor velocity.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the effect of Winkler–Pasternak elastic foundations on the functionally graded porous plate reinforced with agglomerated CNTs under impact loading.
Reward interdependence and project professionals' knowledge hiding: the moderating role of knowledge attributes
Authors: Min Min , Zhang Zhen
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Based on interdependence theory, the authors investigated the effect of reward interdependence (RI) on project professionals' knowledge hiding and examined the moderating role of knowledge tacitness (KT) and complexity, in the context of new product development (NPD) teams.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a time-lagged study in the context of NPD teams and collected data from a sample of 231 NPD professionals in China.

Findings

The study's findings indicate that RI was negatively associated with knowledge hiding. Knowledge tacitness negatively moderated the relation between RI and knowledge hiding. In contrast, the moderating effect of knowledge complexity (KC) was not significant.

Practical implications

To reduce NPD professionals' knowledge hiding, organizations should not only design incentive plans that cultivate interpersonal relatedness but also address the drawbacks (decreased effectiveness of group rewards) resulting from KT.

Originality/value

The authors' paper provides novel insights into the inconsistent understanding of organizational rewards' effectiveness in managing knowledge withholding by demonstrating the differentiated effects of individual and group rewards on knowledge hiding as well as the differential contingent roles of knowledge attributes.
Influence of an integrated value-based asset condition assessment in built asset management
Authors: Ye Zihao , Kapogiannis Georgios , Tang Shu , Zhang Zhiang , Jimenez-Bescos Carlos , Yang Tianlun
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Built asset management processes require a long transition period to collect, edit and update asset conditions information from existing data sets. This paper aims to explore and explain whether and how digital technologies, including asset information model (AIM), Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain, can enhance asset conditions assessment and lead to better asset management.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed methods are applied to achieve the research objective with a focus in universities. The questionnaire aims to test whether the integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain can enhance asset condition assessment (ACA). Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to the quantitative data. The mean, median, mode, standard deviation, variance, skewness and range of the data group were calculated. Semi-structured interviews were designed to answer how the integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain can enhance the ACA. Quantitative data was analysed to define and explain the essential factors for each sub-hypothesis. Meanwhile, to strengthen the evaluation of the research hypothesis, the researcher also obtained secondary data from the literature review.

Findings

The research shows that the integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain strongly influences asset conditions assessment. The integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain can improve the asset monitoring and diagnostics through its life cycle and in different aspects, including financial, physical, functional and sustainability. Moreover, the integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain can enhance cross-functional collaboration to avoid misunderstandings, various barriers and enhance trust, communication and collaboration between the team members. Finally, costs and risk could be reduced, and performance could be increased during the ACA.

Practical implications

The contribution of this study indicated that the integration of AIM, IoT and blockchain application in asset assessment could increase the efficiency, accuracy, stability and flexibility of asset assessment to ensure the reliability of assets and lead to a high-efficiency working environment. More importantly, a key performance indicator for ACA based on the asset information, technology and people experience could be developed gradually.

Originality/value

This study can break the gap between transdisciplinary knowledge to improve the integration of people, technology (AIM, IoT and blockchain) and process value-based ACA in built asset management within universities.
Digital humanities practice in university libraries of Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Habibur , Ahmad Azree , Zakaria Sohaimi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Digital humanities (DH) is a scholarly lens through which computing methods and technological tools are used for the research of humanistic disciplines. The purpose of this study is to identify the current practicing situation of DH in the university libraries of Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey methods were used for gathering data using a well-structured questionnaire. The websites of different universities national and international organizations, and DH-related websites from different corners of the globe were also used for the gathering of data and information.

Findings

The findings revealed that there are some hindrances to practicing DH, such as lack of IT skills, funds and problems with intellectual property rights act practicing and provided some suitable suggestions for the advancement of DH in the university libraries of Bangladesh.

Originality/value

The outcome of this paper might be a valuable reference tool for researchers and professionals of the DH discipline. The insights and views of the respondents regarding computational tools and technologies obtained from this study are original and unique in nature.
Designing successful internships: exploring the role of duration, formalization and motivational practices
Authors: Jerez Gomez Maria Pilar , Bojica Ana , Martínez-del-Río Javier , Karaja Reem
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to shed light on how internships' features drive employability outcomes and answers the question of how internships that maximize the employability of interns can be designed. The study assumes that the duration of an internship, degree of formalization and the use of internship-specific motivational practices by companies are likely to influence interns' perceptions of employability.

Design/methodology/approach

A study among interns investigated the relationship between different internship features and interns' employability. Data on the duration of the internship, motivational practices specific to internships and the formalization of the internship process were collected from a large sample of 13,565 interns in 27 European countries from 15 to 35 years old.

Findings

The findings suggest that internship duration has a curvilinear effect on employability with increasing effects on employability at the beginning of the internship, followed by a decrease over time. In addition, the use of practices specifically designed to motivate interns also favors the interns' employability. Finally, formalization of the internship placement moderates the effect of motivational practices on employability.

Originality/value

By identifying key features of the internship experience – duration, formalization and motivational practices – the authors contribute to the theory related to the development of career resources and employability in young adults and show that these features significantly shape young adults' employability perceptions.
(Non) rationality and choice architecture: a behavioural approach to public administrative discretion in New Zealand
Authors: Scott Rodney James , Merton Eleanor R.K.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

A central question of public administration is how political principals secure the cooperation of administrators within organisational frames and contexts; increasingly, rational influences are being considered alongside bounded rationality and non-rational influences. This paper aims to explore the intent of New Zealand’s Public Service Act 2020 in managing administrative behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is primarily ethnographic, combining emic and etic perspectives. A mixed-methods approach comprises participant observer field notes and meeting documentation, substantiated by official documents; documents were analysed thematically and triangulated with other data sources.

Findings

The Public Service Act introduces new bounds on administrative behaviour. The stated rationale for these changes reveals an attempt to set limits on the principal–agent relationship between politicians and administrators and causes predictable deviations from rational behaviour by cultivating public service motivation and a unified public service identity.

Research limitations/implications

As the legislation in question was only passed in 2020, it is too early to definitively assess the ultimate impact of legislation on administrative behaviour. This case study demonstrates that behavioural approaches to public administration are being applied intentionally by governments. The choice architecture created in the case study blends rational, bounded, and non-rational influences. Together, this produces a bricolage of semi-relevant theories from other disciplines, especially psychology, to explain administrative behaviour. Further refinement is needed to develop a cohesive and comprehensive theory of administrative behaviour that can account for contemporary practice.

Practical implications

Administrators act as agents of political principals, within ethical and rules-based limitations and influenced by public service motivation and social identity. Shifting from implicit to explicit choice architecture does not negate possible tensions between bounds and can signal them more explicitly. Shared symbols are sometimes intended to influence identity and therefore adherence to behavioural norms.

Originality/value

This paper explores the manipulation of choice architecture as a viable strategy for altering behaviour for the better and, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, is the first known instance of choice architecture being “legislated in” rather than merely “showing through”. This study illustrates the blending of rational, boundedly rational and non-rational factors into a choice architecture for public administrators that help mediate the biases and challenges of principal–agent relationships (which form a cascade in New Zealand’s public administration system).
ACCOUNTQUAL: a scale for measuring accounting service quality
Authors: Azzari Vitor , Mainardes Emerson Wagner , Beiruth Aziz Xavier
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate a scale for measuring accounting service quality (ASQ), which is named ACCOUNTQUAL.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors initially investigated the service quality literature in the context of accounting. To develop the scale, the authors carried out three studies. First, the authors conducted 20 in-depth interviews to generate the ASQ items. Then, they undertook a survey with 174 accounting services clients to group these items into factors through exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Finally, the authors carried out another survey with 330 clients to purify and validate the scale through a confirmatory composite analysis (CCA) and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The authors were able to validate the ACCOUNTQUAL scale, which is composed of the following dimensions: efficiency, trust, technological innovation and accountant knowledge, the latter being composed of three aspects: consultative view, technical capacitation and knowledge about clients.

Originality/value

The authors concluded that ASQ is a multidimensional construct that covers the assessment of technical, tooling, relationship and qualification aspects of the accounting service. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that developed and validated a scale for measuring ASQ. If accounting service providers meets the elements presented in the scale, they will potentially deliver a high-quality service.
The need and development of a forensic service in adults at risk of harm
Authors: Alton Elisabeth , Tolchard Barry , Stark Margaret
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to provide proof of concept and evaluate the project for the development of a forensic service in safeguarding adults at risk of harm who may have suffered a non-accidental injury as a result of physical abuse or neglect.

Design/methodology/approach

This pilot project arising from a Safeguarding Adults Review was designed using an iterative process. Opinion from all partners of the Safeguarding Adults’ Boards in two adjacent areas as well as using expert forensic advice from the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine was sought.

Findings

All professionals recognised the need for a forensic service because at present decision-making around potential non-accidental injuries (NAI) may not be evidence based. The main barriers were seen as lack of knowledge and education combined with the area of work not being recognised as being needed and hence not commissioned. No similar service existed in England to aid the project being developed either academically or practically, other than reflecting what happens in children’s safeguarding.

Practical implications

The knowledge and skills as well as the resources developed for this project will aid safeguarding professionals to make more informed decisions when working with adults at risk of harm who have sustained a potential NAI.

Originality/value

This project has high originality with no other area in England offering a similar service or in the process of developing a service at present.
An analysis of the academic effectiveness of hybrid learning: the experiences of faculty and students in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Enzi Abrar , Almutawaa Doha Saleh , Al-Enezi Dalal , Allougman Fatima
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of hybrid learning on the satisfaction, effectiveness and academic performance of faculty and students in private universities in Kuwait. The study specifically addresses the challenges and experiences confronted by students and faculty members in utilising hybrid learning, assesses whether hybrid learning leads to improvements in academic performance and proposes measures for providing quality hybrid learning models in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) situations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative method by collecting data via a questionnaire targeting private university students and faculty members in Kuwait. A total of 311 participants completed the survey.

Findings

The results show that students were in favour of the hybrid learning method and viewed this as being efficient when coming to satisfaction, academic performance and overall effectiveness; whilst faculty members have voiced the members' disfavour of the hybrid model of teaching as the members believe that the system is unjust, especially when coming to student's academic performance.

Originality/value

Although research related to hybrid learning in different parts of the world has existed for many years, the research only recently gained prominence in Kuwait due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper will likely be of interest to academics, policymakers, the government and universities as the pandemic continues to make hybrid learning more popular and, therefore, would increase awareness with regards to students' and faculty members' opinions about the system and proposed ways to resolve any issues.
Overconfident executives: do they wreak havoc or inspire the troops?
Authors: Schneck Sebastian , Hautz Julia
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explain the cognitive bias of overconfidence and portray the different ways in which overconfident top managers may affect firm outcomes. This paper outlines their opportunities and risks and how these managers are surrounded by contextual factors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on a systematic overview of the current literature on senior executives' overconfidence and empirical studies investigating its impact on strategic outcomes.

Findings

This study identifies the opportunities and risks of overconfident top managers in firms and considers the contextual factors that influence firm outcomes. The results provide three important managerial implications for interactions with overly confident top managers.

Practical implications

These findings help us understand top managers' overconfidence. Organizations receive guidance on how to constrain inappropriately confident top managers who are detrimental to their businesses.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of overconfidence among top managers, illustrates associated opportunities and risks and provides recommendations for controlling and dealing with top managers characterized by this cognitive bias.
Mobile instant messaging as an interaction tool in the business context
Authors: Ferraz Rodolfo Magalhães , Furquim Thales Stevan Guedes , Kaczam Fabíola , Veiga Claudimar Pereira da , Moura Gilnei Luiz de , Silva Wesley Vieira da , Su Zhaohui
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The interaction of consumers and technology has become a challenge for companies and marketing professionals. Technological acceleration has transformed how business is conducted and the consumer-company relationship. The need to establish communication with (potential) consumers to promote engagement with the brand highlights the importance of using mobile instant messaging (MIM). In this context, this paper aims to investigate the use of MIM as a tool for interaction between companies and consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

This article investigates, through a systematic literature review (SLR), the state of the art of scientific research regarding the use of MIM as a tool for interaction between companies and consumers. To analyze the selected articles, the authors used a research protocol composed of three stages: (1) planning, (2) conducting and (3) disseminating knowledge.

Findings

This study made four main contributions to the MIM field: (1) extends the literature on MIM, focusing on the perspective of companies and consumers; (2) expands the ongoing discussions, suggesting the limited availability of research on MIM as a tool for interaction between companies and consumers; (3) development of a typology composed of three classes, namely “Consumer relationship,” “Social interaction and technology, and “Social media as channels strategy”; (4) the fourth contribution concerns identifying future research areas and answering questions.

Originality/value

This article is the first to investigate, through a SLR, the state of the art of scientific research regarding the use of MIM as a tool for interaction between companies and consumers.
Indonesia’s nickel export restriction policy: alternative on environmental approach for Article XI:1 GATT justification
Authors: Bari Rainer Marampa , Trihastuti Nanik , Hananto Pulung Widhi Hari
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the aspects of the demonstration process of Indonesia's regulation on nickel export restriction for its eligibility to be excluded from Article XI:1 GATT. It also analyses the possibility of the use of an environmental approach in the demonstration process and for an alternative measure in its implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a normative research method in conducting its analysis. It analyses Indonesia's nickel export restriction policy based on the European Union's claim regarding quantitative restriction, with the international trade governance in the WTO framework, and certain international trade principles. The study also involves certain WTO jurisprudence to give a comprehensive analysis to the case.

Findings

This paper finds that Indonesia still needs to provide a complete and comprehensive demonstration to prove its eligibility for exclusion from Article XI:1. Demonstrating merely based on an economic approach is inadequate to convince the panel in Indonesia – measure relating to raw material for justification under Article XI:2. This study further finds that both parties generally focus on the economic aspect, which leaves room for conflict of interest. Other aspects with a lower probability of conflict of interest, such as the environmental approach, could be an alternative for the implementation.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need to provide a scientific analysis of the application of Indonesia's nickel export restriction policy, including its proceedings in WTO's dispute settlement body, which is essential for international trade governance enforcement.
Sensemaking of company identity in multi-company identification: a longitudinal case study of Huanyi International Travel Agency
Authors: Li Chunqing , Wang Xiaoli , Zhang Jieli , Li Chenxi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the key elements and dynamic formation mechanisms involved in the company identity construction during multicompany identification.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a longitudinal single case study method, selected a representative company as the study case and analyzed the interactive practice of identity construction between the company and its external stakeholders based on the theory of organizational identity and sensemaking.

Findings

This study finds that the process of company identity construction for external stakeholders involves six elements. Companies mainly use a highly controlled, equality and interaction model to develop identity for a single stakeholder. Company identity is based on the company’s core identity claims and is formed by gradually integrating and cooperating with the identity claims of different stakeholders. Meeting the self-defining needs of stakeholders is a key driving force behind the evolution of company identity.

Practical implications

This study offers practical implications for companies to pursue and construct multicompany identity. For different types of external stakeholders, companies can adopt different identity sensemaking models. To build a new company identity, a company needs to do more on the basis of identity insights to break cognitive constraints and build new identity claim. Companies need to integrate new identity claims with the original identity claims. If different identity claims conflict or are difficult to reconcile, it may damage their original identity claims and companies need to evaluate the trade-offs.

Originality/value

This study expands the concept of company identity construction from the individual perspective to organizational identity and contributes to research in relationship marketing. This study identifies the key elements of company identity construction with multistakeholder participation and contributes to theory building in company identity research. The results of this study reveal the company identity construction mechanism for different external stakeholders and the dynamic formation process of multicompany identity.
Glucose-lignin-based phenolic resin: an environmentally friendly low-formaldehyde wood adhesive
Authors: Yang Kaiyan , Gong Xiaowu , Bai Lanli , Zhang Yun , Zhou Na
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to prepare a low-formaldehyde and environmentally friendly glucose-lignin-based phenolic resin.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors directly used lignin to substitute formaldehyde to prepare lignin-based phenolic resin (LPF) with urea as formaldehyde absorbent. To improve the performance of the adhesive, the biobased glucose was introduced and the modified glucose-LPF (GLPF) was obtained.

Findings

The results showed that when the replacing amount of lignin to formaldehyde reached 15 Wt.%, the physical properties of the prepared LPF met the Chinese national standard, and the bonding strength increased by 21.9%, from 0.75 to 0.96 MPa, compared with PF. The addition of glucose boost the performance of wood adhesive, for example, the free phenol content of the obtained GLPF was significantly reduced by 79.11%, from 5.60% to 1.17%, the bonding strength (1.19 MPa) of GLPF increased by 19.3% in comparison to LPF and the curing temperature of GLPF decreased by 13.08%.

Practical implications

The low-formaldehyde and environmentally friendly GLPF has higher bonding strength and lower curing temperature, which is profitable to industrial application.

Social implications

The prepared GLPF has lower free formaldehyde and formaldehyde emission, which is cost-effective and beneficial to human health.

Originality/value

The joint work of lignin and glucose provides the wood adhesive with increased bonding strength, decreased free phenol content and reduced curing temperature.
Appraisal of hand value of denim fabrics
Authors: Ahirwar Meenakshi , Behera Bijoya Kumar
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Denim fabric has become a wardrobe staple due to its versatility to be worn in a variety of fashions. This paper aims to study denim fabrics to understand their unique hand by developing a hand evaluation system using computational method. Also, the effect of various washes was studied on the hand and surface morphology of denim fabrics.

Design/methodology/approach

Five different denim samples were manufactured with various washing treatments. The Kawabata Evaluation System was used to measure the low stress mechanical properties. Computation method was used to develop hand equations using multiple regression technique in the MS Excel software. The correlation coefficient analysis was done to determine the authenticity of the developed equations. Five primary hand attributes such as softness, smoothness, fullness, flexibility and stretchability were shortlisted by a panel of judges that influence the fabric handle.

Findings

The correlation coefficient between subjective and computational total hand values with thermal properties and without thermal properties was 0.88 and 0.85, respectively. The enzymatic wash fabric has the highest total hand value followed by the acid, bleach and stone-washed fabrics.

Originality/value

Although the hand evaluation system is available for conventional textiles like suiting and shirting fabrics, the method to predict fabric hand of non-conventional textiles such as denim fabrics remains an unexplored topic. The stresses acting on denim fabrics are completely different. Therefore, to the best of the author’s knowledge, a novel attempt has been made in this research work to develop a computational model to predict the total hand value of denim fabrics.
Additive manufacturing of flame retardant polyamide 12 with high mechanical properties from regenerated powder
Authors: Yu Suzhu , Tan Aloysius , Tan Wei Ming , Deng Xinying , Tan Cher Lin , Wei Jun
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to develop flame-retardant (FR) polyamide 12 (PA12) nanocomposite from regenerated powder via selective laser sintering (SLS), an additive manufacturing technique.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the morphology, processibility, thermal and mechanical properties of PA12 regenerated powder, consisting of 50 wt% new and 50 wt% recycled powder, as well as corresponding printed specimens, were evaluated to characterize the effects of previous SLS processing. Second, flame-retardant PA12 was developed by incorporating both single and binary halogen-free flame retardants into the regenerated powder.

Findings

It was found that the printed specimens from regenerated powder had much higher tensile and impact properties compared to specimens made from new powder, which is attributed to better particulate fusion and coalescence realized in higher temperature SLS printing. The effect of FRs on thermal, mechanical and flame retardant properties of the PA12 composites/nanocomposites was investigated systematically. It was found that the nanoclay, as a synergist, improved both flame-retardant and mechanical properties of PA12. UL94 standard rating of V-0 was achieved for the printed nanocomposite by incorporating 1 wt% nanoclay into 15 wt% phosphinates FR. Moreover, on average, the tensile and impact strength of the nanocomposite were increased by 26.13% and 17.09%, respectively, in XY, YZ and Z printing orientations as compared to the equivalent flame retardant composite with 20 wt% of the phosphinates FR.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need to develop flame retardant parts via SLS technology with waste feedstock. It also addresses the challenge of developing flame retardant materials without obviously compromising the mechanical properties by making use of the synergistic effect of nanoclay and organic phosphinates.
Luxury yachting in the Fiji Islands: a stakeholders' perspective
Authors: Gupta Vikas , Roy Hiran
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study explored the experiences and perceptions of stakeholders concerning luxury yachting in the Fiji Islands. It also revealed the facilities provided on luxury yachts, significant challenges faced by stakeholders in the yachting business, major luxury yacht operators and the safety measures in place for the patrons/consumers of luxury yachting.

Design/methodology/approach

It employed an exploratory qualitative methodology that incorporated 16 in-depth semi-structured face-to-face interviews with stakeholders in the luxury yachting businesses via contact with superyacht agents. The interview participants for this research were selected based on a non-random sampling technique in the major marinas of the Fiji Islands (i.e. Port Denarau Marina, Copra Shed Marina, Savusavu, Royal Suva Yacht club, and Vuda marina).

Findings

Results revealed that the services/facilities provided on luxury yachts are state-of-the-art; however, there is a need to integrate luxury yachting with more personalized, creative, unique and innovative experiences. Findings also suggest the need for government funding for the redevelopment/renovation of some ports and provide skill-based training for yacht employees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to filling some of the gaps in the luxury yachting literature in Fiji and sheds light on stakeholders' perceptions of the amenities offered at marinas and ports, significant challenges in the yachting industry and safety measures in place for patrons.
Australia's gambling epidemic: The role of Covid‐19 support payment
Authors: Adabor Opoku
Published: April 2023

Covid‐19 exposed the whole world to numerous challenges ranging from health to economic recession. Nevertheless, it also impeded gambling activities. Here, we consider the relationship between Covid‐19 support payment and gambling. Gambling is considered leisure for many game players but leads to multiple social and economic harms. This has led to a growing body of literature examining the factors that influence gambling. This paper contributes to this strand of the literature by utilizing the ordinary least square and instrumental variable approach to investigate if Covid‐19 support payment is a driver of gambling. We utilize a wide range of gambling measures and different forms of Covid‐19 support payment. Our findings show that Covid‐19 support payment is positively associated with gambling. Our results also suggest a stronger effect for male gamblers and online gamblers compared to female gamblers and gamblers who gambled at the venue.
Acidophilic methanotrophs: Occurrence, diversity, and possible bioremediation applications
Authors: Hwangbo Myung , Shao Yiru , Hatzinger Paul B. , Chu Kung‐Hui
Published: April 2023

Methanotrophs have been identified and isolated from acidic environments such as wetlands, acidic soils, peat bogs, and groundwater aquifers. Due to their methane (CH4) utilization as a carbon and energy source, acidophilic methanotrophs are important in controlling the release of atmospheric CH4, an important greenhouse gas, from acidic wetlands and other environments. Methanotrophs have also played an important role in the biodegradation and bioremediation of a variety of pollutants including chlorinated volatile organic compounds (CVOCs) using CH4 monooxygenases via a process known as cometabolism. Under neutral pH conditions, anaerobic bioremediation via carbon source addition is a commonly used and highly effective approach to treat CVOCs in groundwater. However, complete dechlorination of CVOCs is typically inhibited at low pH. Acidophilic methanotrophs have recently been observed to degrade a range of CVOCs at pH < 5.5, suggesting that cometabolic treatment may be an option for CVOCs and other contaminants in acidic aquifers. This paper provides an overview of the occurrence, diversity, and physiological activities of methanotrophs in acidic environments and highlights the potential application of these organisms for enhancing contaminant biodegradation and bioremediation.
Canonical and extra‐telomeric functions of telomerase: Implications for healthy ageing conferred by endurance training
Authors: Denham Joshua
Published: April 2023

Telomerase preserves genomic integrity by maintaining and protecting the telomeres. Seminal findings from 1985 revealed the canonical role of telomerase and motivated investigations into potential therapeutic strategies to combat one of the hallmarks of ageing—telomere attrition. Since then, the field of telomere biology has rapidly expanded, with telomerase serving essential roles in cancer and cell development through its canonical function. However, telomerase also exerts critical extra‐telomeric functions through its protein (telomerase reverse transcriptase, TERT) and RNA components (telomerase RNA component, TERC). Telomerase re‐activation or ectopic expression promotes survival and permits unlimited proliferation in tumours and healthy non‐malignant cells. TERT gene therapies improve health and lifespan in ageing mice and mouse models of age‐related diseases. The extra‐telomeric functions of telomerase are critical to ageing. These include protection against oxidative stress, orchestration of chromatin modifications and transcription, and regulation of angiogenesis and metabolism (e.g. mitochondrial function and glucose control). Given these biological functions are key adaptations to endurance training and the recent meta‐analytical findings that indicate exercise up‐regulates TERT and telomerase, a comprehensive discussion on the implications of the canonical and extra‐telomeric roles of telomerase is warranted. This review highlights the therapeutic benefits of telomerase‐based treatments for idiopathic and chronic diseases that are linked to ageing. Discussion on the canonical and extra‐telomeric roles of telomerase are presented, followed by a detailed summary of the evidence on how exercise influences telomerase. Finally, the potential cell signalling underpinning the exercise‐induced modulation of telomerase are discussed with directions for future research.
Gonadotropin axis and semen quality in young Swiss men after cannabis consumption: Effect of chronicity and modulation by cannabidiol
Authors: Zufferey Fanny , Buitrago Elina , Rahban Rita , Senn Alfred , Stettler Eric , Rudaz Serge , Nef Serge , Donzé Nicolas , Thomas Aurélien , Rossier Michel F.
Published: April 2023

Background

While cannabis is the most widely used recreational drug in the world, the effects of phytocannabinoids on semen parameters and reproductive hormones remain controversial. Cannabinoid receptors are activated by these compounds at each level of the hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadotropic axis.

Objectives

To assess the impact of the consumption of Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol on semen parameters, as well as on male reproductive hormone and endocannabinoid levels, in a cohort of young Swiss men.

Materials and methods

The individuals in a Swiss cohort were divided according to their cannabis consumption. In the cannabis user group, we determined the delay between the last intake of cannabis and sample collection, the chronicity of use and the presence of cannabidiol in the consumed product. Urinary Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol metabolites were quantified via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Blood phytocannabinoids, endocannabinoids and male steroids were determined via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry, and other hypothalamus–pituitary–gonadotropic axis hormones were determined via immunoassays. Semen parameters such as sperm concentration and motility were recorded using computer‐assisted sperm analysis.

Results

Anandamide, N‐palmitoyl ethanolamide, androgens, estradiol and sex hormone binding globulin levels were all higher in cannabis users, particularly in chronic, recent and cannabidiol‐positive consumers. Gonadotropin levels were not significantly different in these user subpopulations, whereas prolactin and albumin concentrations were lower. In addition, cannabis users had a more basic semen pH and a higher percentage of spermatozoa with progressive motility. However, the two latter observations seem to be related to a shorter period of sexual abstinence in this group rather than to the use of cannabis.

Conclusions

Because both cannabidiol and Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol are frequently used by men of reproductive age, it is highly relevant to elucidate the potential effects they may have on human reproductive health. This study demonstrates that the mode of cannabis consumption must be considered when evaluating the effect of cannabis on semen quality.