bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yang-Mills theory from the worldline
Authors: Bonezzi Roberto
Published: September 2024

We construct off-shell vertex operators for the bosonic spinning particle. Using the language of homotopy algebras, we show that the full nonlinear structure of Yang-Mills theory, including its gauge transformations, is encoded in the commutator algebra of the worldline vertex operators. To do so, we deform the worldline Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin (BRST) operator by coupling it to a background gauge field and show that the coupling is consistent on a suitable truncation of the Hilbert space. On this subspace, the square of the BRST operator is proportional to the Yang-Mills field equations, which we interpret as an operator Maurer-Cartan equation for the background. This allows us to define further vertex operators in different ghost numbers, which correspond to the entire L∞ algebra of Yang-Mills theory. Besides providing a precise map of a fully nonlinear field theory into a worldline model, we expect these results will be valuable to investigate the kinematic algebra of Yang-Mills theory, which is central to the double copy program.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Off-shell invariants of linearized
4D,N=2
supergravity in the harmonic approach
Authors: Ivanov Evgeny , Zaigraev Nikita
Published: September 2024

Using the harmonic superspace approach, we construct, at the linearized level, N=2 supersymmetric curvatures generalizing scalar curvature, Ricci curvature and Weyl tensor. These supercurvatures are the building blocks of various linearized 4D,N=2 Einstein supergravity invariants. The supercurvatures involving the scalar and Ricci curvatures are analytic harmonic N=2 superfields, while the Weyl supertensor is a chiral N=2 superfield. As the basic distinguished feature of our construction, all these objects are expressed through the fundamental analytic gauge prepotentials h++M,M=(αα˙,α+,α˙+,5). The related characteristic features are the heavy use of harmonic derivatives and harmonic zero-curvature equations. On a number of instructive examples, we describe the component reduction of the superfield invariants constructed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Gain-controlled taming of recurrent modulation instability
Authors: Vanderhaegen Guillaume , Szriftgiser Pascal , Kudlinski Alexandre , Armaroli Andrea , Conforti Matteo , Mussot Arnaud , Trillo Stefano
Published: September 2024

We show how the recurrence phenomenon characteristic of the nonlinear stage of induced modulational instability in a passive fiber is affected by forcing. An additional linear amplification, even if extremely weak, induces separatrix crossing corresponding to critical values of the gain around which the recurrence process considerably slows down, switching between dynamical orbits of different kind. We present evidence for such phenomenon in a fiber optics experiment where the gain is finely tuned by means of Raman amplification. A theoretical explanation is also provided that matches almost perfectly with our experimental results.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Feedback-based quantum algorithms for ground state preparation
Authors: Larsen James B. , Grace Matthew D. , Baczewski Andrew D. , Magann Alicia B.
Published: September 2024

The ground state properties of quantum many-body systems are a subject of interest across chemistry, materials science, and physics. Thus, algorithms for finding ground states can have broad impacts. Variational quantum algorithms are one class of ground state algorithms that has received significant attention in recent years. These algorithms utilize a hybrid quantum-classical computing framework to prepare ground states on quantum computers. However, this requires solving a classical optimization problem that can become prohibitively expensive in high dimensions. Here, we develop formulations of feedback-based quantum algorithms for ground state preparation that can be used to address this challenge for two broad classes of Hamiltonians: Fermi-Hubbard Hamiltonians, and molecular Hamiltonians represented in second quantization. Feedback-based quantum algorithms are optimization-free; in place of classical optimization, quantum circuit parameters are set according to a deterministic feedback law derived from quantum Lyapunov control principles. This feedback law guarantees a monotonic improvement in solution quality with respect to the depth of the quantum circuit. A variety of numerical illustrations are provided that analyze the convergence and robustness of feedback-based quantum algorithms for these problem classes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
In situ counter-diffusion crystallization and long-term crystal preservation in microfluidic fixed targets for serial crystallography
Authors: Liu Zhongrui , Gu Kevin , Shelby Megan , Roy Debdyuti , Muniyappan Srinivasan , Schmidt Marius , Narayanasamy Sankar Raju , Coleman Matthew , Frank Matthias , Kuhl Tonya L.
Published: September 2024

Compared with batch and vapor diffusion methods, counter diffusion can generate larger and higher-quality protein crystals yielding improved diffraction data and higher-resolution structures. Typically, counter-diffusion experiments are conducted in elongated chambers, such as glass capillaries, and the crystals are either directly measured in the capillary or extracted and mounted at the X-ray beamline. Despite the advantages of counter-diffusion protein crystallization, there are few fixed-target devices that utilize counter diffusion for crystallization. In this article, different designs of user-friendly counter-diffusion chambers are presented which can be used to grow large protein crystals in a 2D polymer microfluidic fixed-target chip. Methods for rapid chip fabrication using commercially available thin-film materials such as Mylar, propylene and Kapton are also detailed. Rules of thumb are provided to tune the nucleation and crystal growth to meet users' needs while minimizing sample consumption. These designs provide a reliable approach to forming large crystals and maintaining their hydration for weeks and even months. This allows ample time to grow, select and preserve the best crystal batches before X-ray beam time. Importantly, the fixed-target microfluidic chip has a low background scatter and can be directly used at beamlines without any crystal handling, enabling crystal quality to be preserved. The approach is demonstrated with serial diffraction of photoactive yellow protein, yielding 1.32 Å resolution at room temperature. Fabrication of this standard microfluidic chip with commercially available thin films greatly simplifies fabrication and provides enhanced stability under vacuum. These advances will further broaden microfluidic fixed-target utilization by crystallographers.
Deconstructing 3D growth rates from transmission microscopy images of facetted crystals as captured in situ within supersaturated aqueous solutions
Authors: Ma Cai Y. , Jiang Chen , Ilett Thomas P. , Hazlehurst Thomas A. , Hogg David C. , Roberts Kevin J.
Published: September 2024

Here, a morphologically based approach is used for the in situ characterization of 3D growth rates of facetted crystals from the solution phase. Crystal images of single crystals of the β-form of L-glutamic acid are captured in situ during their growth at a relative supersaturation of 1.05 using transmission optical microscopy. The crystal growth rates estimated for both the {101} capping and {021} prismatic faces through image processing are consistent with those determined using reflection light mode [Jiang, Ma, Hazlehurst, Ilett, Jackson, Hogg & Roberts (2024). Cryst. Growth Des.
24, 3277–3288]. The growth rate in the {010} face is, for the first time, estimated from the shadow widths of the {021} prismatic faces and found to be typically about half that of the {021} prismatic faces. Analysis of the 3D shape during growth reveals that the initial needle-like crystal morphology develops during the growth process to become more tabular, associated with the Zingg factor evolving from 2.9 to 1.7 (>1). The change in relative solution supersaturation during the growth process is estimated from calculations of the crystal volume, offering an alternative approach to determine this dynamically from visual observations.
Pinhole small-angle neutron scattering based approach for desmearing slit ultra-small-angle neutron scattering data
Authors: Ryukhtin Vasyl , Len Adél , Almásy László , Juszyńska-Gałązka Ewa , Zając Wojciech , Tomchuk Oleksandr
Published: September 2024

Presented here is an effective approach to desmearing slit ultra-small-angle neutron scattering (USANS) data, based on complementary small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) measurements, leading to a seamless merging of these data sets. The study focuses on the methodological aspects of desmearing USANS data, which can then be presented in the conventional manner of SANS, enabling a broader pool of data analysis methods. The key innovation lies in the use of smeared SANS data for extrapolating slit USANS, offering a self-consistent integrand function for desmearing with Lake's iterative method. The proposed approach is validated through experimental data on porous anodized aluminium oxide membranes, showcasing its applicability and benefits. The findings emphasize the importance of accurate desmearing for merging USANS and SANS data in the crossover q region, which is particularly crucial for complex scattering patterns.
Crystal structure of new quaternary intermetallic compounds R
2MoSi2C (R = Y, Gd)
Authors: Vernière Anne , Diop Léopold V. B. , Sarr Ibrahima , Schweitzer Thierry , Malaman Bernard
Published: September 2024

The discovery of novel quaternary intermetallic compounds R
2MoSi2C (R = Y, Gd) in the R–Mo–Si–C system is reported. Their crystal structure was investigated using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. It is shown that the Y2MoSi2C and Gd2MoSi2C compounds crystallize in the tetragonal space group P4/mbm (Pearson symbol tP12) with unit-cell parameters a = 6.9525 (18) Å, c = 4.1962 (16) Å, and a = 6.9945 (16) Å, c = 4.2020 (14) Å, respectively.
Magnetic space groups versus representation analysis in the investigation of magnetic structures: the happy end of a strained relationship
Authors: Rodriguez-Carvajal J. , Perez-Mato J. M.
Published: September 2024

In recent decades, sustained theoretical and software developments have clearly established that representation analysis and magnetic symmetry groups are complementary concepts that should be used together in the investigation and description of magnetic structures. Historically, they were considered alternative approaches, but currently, magnetic space groups and magnetic superspace groups can be routinely used together with representation analysis, aided by state-of-the-art software tools. After exploring the historical antagonism between these two approaches, we emphasize the significant advancements made in understanding and formally describing magnetic structures by embracing their combined use.
On the magnetic and crystal structures of NiO and MnO
Authors: Pomjakushin V.
Published: September 2024

The magnetic and crystal structures of manganese and nickel monoxides have been studied using high-resolution neutron diffraction. The known 1k-structures based on the single propagation vector [½ ½ ½] for the parent paramagnetic space group Fm
3
m are forced to have monoclinic magnetic symmetry and are not possible in rhombohedral symmetry. However, the monoclinic distortions from the rhombohedral crystal metric allowed by symmetry are very small, and the explicit monoclinic splittings of the diffraction peaks have not been experimentally observed. We analyse the magnetic crystallographic models metrically compatible with our experimental data in full detail by using isotropy subgroup representation approach, including rhombohedral solutions based on the propagation vector star {[½ ½ ½], [−½ ½ ½], [½−½ ½], [½ ½ −½]}. Although the full star rhombohedral R

I

3
c structure can equally well fit our diffraction data for NiO, we conclude that the best solution for the crystal and magnetic structures for NiO and MnO is the 1k monoclinic model with the magnetic space group C

c
2/c (Belov–Neronova–Smirnova No. 15.90, UNI symbol C2/c.1′
c
[C2/m]).
A recapitulation of magnetic space groups and their UNI symbols
Authors: Campbell B. J. , Stokes H. T. , Perez-Mato J. M. , Rodriguez-Carvajal J.
Published: September 2024

The mathematical structure, description and classification of magnetic space groups is briefly reviewed, with special emphasis on the recently proposed notation, the so-called UNI symbols [Campbell et al. (2022). Acta Cryst. A78, 99–106]. As illustrative examples, very simple magnetic space groups from each of the four possible types are described in detail.
Analysis of magnetic structures in JANA2020
Authors: Henriques M. S. , Petříček V. , Goswami S. , Dušek M.
Published: September 2024

JANA2020 is a program developed for the solution and refinement of regular, twinned, modulated, and composite crystal structures. In addition, JANA2020 also includes a magnetic option for solving magnetic structures from powder and single-crystal neutron diffraction data. This tool uses magnetic space and superspace symmetry to describe commensurate and incommensurate magnetic structures. The basics of the underlying formulation of magnetic structure factors and the use of magnetic symmetry for handling modulated and non-modulated magnetic structures are presented here, together with the general features of the magnetic tool. Examples of structures solved in the magnetic option of JANA2020 are given to illustrate the operation and capabilities of the program.
Psycho-social drivers influencing the adoption of asynchronous EdTech tools: a gendered perspective
Authors: Lexman Rahul Rajan , Baral Rupashree , Aboobaker Nimitha
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore a gendered perspective on how learners' intrinsic psychological motivators: valence, technology-innovativeness, self-development and self-efficacy as well as extrinsic social and institutional motivators, such as social norms and management commitment, collectively influence learners' behavioral intention to adopt asynchronous EdTech tools such as MOOCs.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was developed by integrating insights from social cognitive theory (SCT) and the technology acceptance model (TAM). Data were collected from 622 Indian college students across different academic levels who had enrolled in at least one MOOC. Data analysis was performed using covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM). The bootstrapping method using IBM AMOS 23.0 software was adopted further for moderation analysis.

Findings

The study found that while intrinsic drivers were positively associated with behavioral intention, extrinsic drivers had a limited influence. The results of the moderation analysis showed that gender significantly influenced the relationship between self-development and perceived usefulness as well as the relationship between valence and perceived usefulness. Our study’s findings represent a significant contribution to theoretical advancements, indicating a notable shift in students' learning emphasis from social interactions to self-directed approaches. These results align closely with the principles of connectivism within the heutagogy theory framework, underscoring learners' responsibility in shaping their learning journey.

Practical implications

Our study findings hold significant practical implications for future applications. Based on our study’s findings on the positive impact of self-development and self-efficacy, it is crucial to offer structured and interactive learning options for guided experiences. Integrating digital skills training into MOOC curricula can enhance engagement across diverse learner levels, given the significant predictive power of technology innovativeness. Furthermore, emphasizing the benefits of MOOC certifications, such as career advancement or academic recognition, can increase their appeal and perceived value, considering the significance of “valence” as an influential factor.

Originality/value

Asynchronous EdTech tools, notably MOOCs, have emerged as potent catalysts for social change, providing unparalleled accessibility, flexibility and avenues for lifelong learning. Our study pioneers an investigation into the impact of valence and technology innovativeness on learners' perceptions, significantly influencing their willingness to adopt MOOCs positively. By exploring nuanced sociological dynamics across diverse societies, our research underscores the necessity of customizing EdTech solutions to encompass diverse gender perspectives.
Hypergraph contrastive learning for recommendation with side information
Authors: Ao Dun , Cao Qian , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper addresses the limitations of current graph neural network-based recommendation systems, which often neglect the integration of side information and the modeling of complex high-order interactions among nodes. The research motivation stems from the need to enhance recommendation performance by effectively utilizing all available data. We propose a novel method called MSHCN, which leverages hypergraph neural networks to integrate side information and model complex interactions, thereby improving user and item representations.

Design/methodology/approach

The MSHCN method employs a hypergraph structure to incorporate various types of side information, including social relationships among users and item attributes, which are essential for enriching user and item representations. The k-means clustering algorithm is utilized to create item-associated hypergraphs, while sentiment analysis on user reviews refines the modeling of user interests. Additionally, hypergraphs are constructed for user-user and item-item interactions based on interaction similarity. MSHCN also incorporates contrastive learning as an auxiliary task to enhance the representation learning process.

Findings

Extensive experiments demonstrate that MSHCN significantly outperforms existing recommendation models, particularly in its ability to capture and utilize side information and high-order interactions. This results in superior user and item representations and improved recommendation performance.

Originality/value

The novelty of MSHCN lies in its use of a hypergraph structure to integrate diverse side information and model intricate high-order interactions. The incorporation of contrastive learning as an auxiliary task sets it apart from other hypergraph-based models, providing a significant enhancement in recommendation accuracy.
Where next for manufacturing productivity research? Propositions based on exploratory empirical investigation
Authors: Clegg Ben , MacBryde Jill , Ball Peter , Masi Donato , Mullen Helen , Despoudi Stella
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to develop empirically grounded propositions for further research into UK manufacturing productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were conducted with managers from strategic, tactical and operational levels from four manufacturing sectors to produce case studies. A modified strategic alignment theory framework was used to code, compare and contrast narratives on perceived productivity antecedents, definitions, compatibility with the definition from the UK Office for National Statistics, and vertical alignment issues within and across cases.

Findings

It was found that different key antecedents can facilitate and/or prevent strategic vertical alignment. Discussion reveals complex nuances in perceptions of manufacturing productivity and using the modified strategic alignment theory/productivity antecedent framework.

Originality/value

In revealing the alignment or otherwise of productivity definitions at different levels within the firm, the paper reveals nine propositions for future research including definitions, skills, metrics, performance measurement systems, people and system-centric perspectives, the value-added perspective of productivity and the role of innovation.
Customer’s social cognition in service recovery satisfaction with human vs robot agent
Authors: Lajante Mathieu , Dohm Nina Carolin
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Service failures evoke negative customer emotions, which human agents respond to through emotional labor. In turn, customers empathize with the human agent, providing a satisfying service recovery experience. However, robot agents could replace human agents and replicate emotional labor strategies. This study addresses whether customers empathize with apologetic robot agents and how it would affect the service recovery experience.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on emotional labor, social cognition and justice theory, two online scenario-based experiments (N1 = 411; N2 = 253) were designed in which customers watched a video simulating an interaction with a human or a robot agent during a service recovery procedure.

Findings

Study 1 shows that robot agents handle emotionally driven service recovery interactions and prompt desirable postrecovery behaviors (e.g. brand loyalty). Study 2 identifies customers’ empathy and compassion as mediators, explaining the effect of normative empathic display on customers' perceptions of interactional justice and behavioral intentions.

Practical implications

Robot agents are reliable substitutes for human agents in handling service recovery procedures. Customers can empathize with robot agents, leading to satisfying service experiences.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates customers’ capacity to empathize with robot agents during a service recovery procedure. It is also the first application in service research of the EmpaToM experimental procedure from social neuroscience to explore the social cognition dynamic between customers and service agents at the service encounter.
Spokesperson effectiveness in B2B advertising: spokesperson characteristics and posture using eye-tracking
Authors: Dutta Tanusree , Roy Subhadip , Sarkar Soumya , Nag Sudipa
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the nuances of celebrity spokesperson effectiveness in business-to-business (B2B) advertising. Specifically, the study addresses the question of endorser effectiveness in the presence of product complexity (high vs low) and how this effect is moderated by endorser gender. In addition, the study also explores whether the way an endorser is placed in the advertisement (product-facing vs audience-facing) would have differential effects on the buyer.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study uses experimental design to fulfil the study objectives. Two experiments are conducted (total n = 201) on employees in a purchasing role in organisations, with the dependent variable being dwell time (captured using an eye-tracking device).

Findings

Major findings indicate that celebrity gender has a moderating effect depending on the product complexity. Results also indicate a significant effect of how the celebrity is placed in the advertisement on the buyer.

Research limitations/implications

The findings emphasise the role of the spokesperson in B2B advertising using neuro-behavioural data. It also contributes to the theoretical nuances of spokesperson gender in B2B advertising and the role of kinesics in advertising using spokespersons.

Practical implications

The study provides guidelines on the choice of the spokesperson and their physical posture in the advertisement for B2B advertisers that may lead to communication effectiveness.

Originality/value

The present study is in a domain that is scarcely researched in B2B and adds novelty as it uses physiological data instead of self-reported measures.
Why formalize? Examining the context of Peruvian women microentrepreneurs
Authors: Silupu Brenda , Usero Belen , Montoro María Angeles
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In Latin America, the growing participation of women microentrepreneurs who continue to operate in the informal sector stands out. The purpose of this study is to analyse if the context where the business is developed influences the gender perspective in the decision of the microentrepreneur to remain in the informal sector, mainly in Peru, which registers high rates of informality in businesses led by women.

Design/methodology/approach

The National Household Survey for the period 2014–2021 is used with a sample of 63,020 micro and small Peruvian companies that have been in operation for more than three years. The data is analysed with the logistic regression technique.

Findings

The results show that microenterprises run by women are less likely to be formal. However, this situation would change if these businesses were larger. In addition, women microentrepreneurs face limitations in accessing resources, and their businesses frequently run from their homes, allowing them to hide their activities from regulatory bodies.

Originality/value

The context of Peruvian women microentrepreneurs who have been in operation for over three years and who persist in informality is analysed. It is essential to know the characteristics of this sector to formulate policies that encourage the formalization of companies, particularly in Latin America, incorporating gender differences.
The impact of auditors creating flowcharts on auditors’ understanding of the flow of transactions and internal control evaluation
Authors: Perols Rebecca R. , Perols Johan L.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Motivated by the importance of gaining an understanding of the flow of transactions when assessing the effectiveness of internal controls for Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX) compliance, concerns raised by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) of audit firm deficiencies in these areas and auditors’ use of both narratives and flowcharts to document the flow of transactions, this article aims to examine the impact of auditors creating flowcharts versus narratives on auditors’ transaction flow understanding and internal control evaluation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a between-participants experiment examining auditor-created flowcharts versus narratives and different levels of documentation quality on auditors’ understanding of the flow of transactions and internal control evaluation performance.

Findings

This paper finds that auditors who create flowcharts gain a better understanding of the clients’ transaction flow and perform better on internal control evaluations than auditors who create narratives. Process results from a moderated-mediation model also show a moderating effect of quality and mediating effect of understanding.

Practical implications

These findings inform PCAOB policy decisions and inspection efforts and audit firms’ quality and process improvement efforts by providing initial support for having auditors create flowcharts to improve their understanding of the flow of transactions and internal control evaluation performance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effect of auditor-created flowcharts compared to narratives on auditors’ understanding of the flow of transactions and internal control evaluation performance.
Proactive personality and mental well-being among the working population: testing a moderated mediation model
Authors: Jawahar I.M. , Schreurs Bert , Abedini Mahsa
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Mental health issues negatively affect employees’ quality of life and employers’ bottom line. Consequently, ensuring well-being in the workplace is becoming a high priority from a strategic human resource management perspective. Drawing on basic psychological needs theory, we propose that proactive personality will be related to mental well-being through satisfaction of basic psychological needs. In addition, drawing on the trait-by-trait interactions perspective, we expect the mediated relationship to be moderated by conscientiousness.

Design/methodology/approach

We tested our research model using data collected from 185 employees using a three-wave time-lagged design.

Findings

Proactive personality related to mental well-being indirectly, via psychological need satisfaction, and this indirect relationship was stronger at higher levels of conscientiousness.

Practical implications

Ensuring mental well-being of employees is critical to achieving a competitive advantage. Support for the mediating role of need satisfaction suggests that organizations can tailor interventions aimed at influencing the more malleable mediating variable, psychological need satisfaction, compared to relatively stable personality traits.

Originality/value

We contribute to theory by testing a theoretical explanation for how and why personality affects mental well-being. Another theoretical contribution is demonstrating that mental well-being results from a combination of personality traits, with a trait-by-trait perspective fitting the data better than an unconditional trait model.
Navigating the maze of dementia: a qualitative analysis of a peer-assisted help and support programme for informal caregiver
Authors: Martínez Maribel , Rovira Elena , Riera Claret Carlota
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Following several prior editions and the acquisition of quantitative data indicating a 18% reduction in perceived caregiver burden and a 27% improvement in their quality of life regarding pain/mild discomfort, this present study aims to compile and examine the shared experiences of caregivers participating in the peer-to-peer Expert Caregiver Programme. The aim is to gain a deeper understanding of the programme’s inherent value.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study of the Expert Caregiver Programme, a peer-to-peer support and learning initiative designed for informal caregivers of individuals with dementia. Over a span of two and a half months, this study observed a group of ten informal caregivers who were participants in the sixth edition of the Expert Caregiver Programme at a Sociosanitary Hospital in Catalonia.

Findings

The results have revealed the emergence of two distinct spirals. Firstly, the ongoing challenge of adapting to a degenerative process, coupled with the caregiver's sense of responsibility, leads to an overwhelming situation for the caregiver as far as caregiving and emotional management are concerned. This, in turn, exacerbates their feelings of isolation, fatigue and discouragement. On the other hand, the understanding of the disease and the sense of compassion towards the person with dementia have been identified as pivotal elements in the construction of an upward spiral, creating greater comfort for the caregiver. Consequently, these factors can be effectively addressed within the framework of a programme such as the Expert Caregiver.

Originality/value

The qualitative approach has allowed for a comprehensive and extensive exploration of the caregivers' experiences with individuals suffering from dementia. This has revealed the existence of a positive spiral that can be nurtured through peer support programmes.
Hidden stakeholder views in Finnish archival act law drafting: a recordkeeping perspective
Authors: Kautto Tuija , Hotti Virpi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the legislative drafting processe for the Archives Act in Finland and stakeholder involvement concerning the Archives Act proposal. The study aims to identify key factors that hinder or improve the analysis and visibility of these different stakeholder perspectives through time. It considers this from a recordkeeping perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

First, selected law drafting guidelines and statement structures were examined to determine how they affect the analysis of stakeholder statements. Second, 90 stakeholder statements and two law drafter summaries were analyzed. Finally, six topics (public record and archives, archiving and preservation, the life cycle of records, transferring records to the National Archives, analog material and personal data) were used to examine the visibility of stakeholder statements and to compare differences in the views between law drafter summaries and stakeholder statements.

Findings

Differing views of stakeholders did not receive sufficient visibility in the law drafter summaries. The key factors hindering the analysis and visibility of stakeholder statements were law drafting guidelines that did not support the analysis of the statements, statement structures that were rarely followed and law drafter summaries highlighting the views of the legislators. The recommendations are the need to embed a recordkeeping perspective into the accounts, the requirement to follow the statement structures, guided analysis methods for stakeholder statements and clearer references to stakeholder statements.

Originality/value

The study compares the differing views of stakeholder statements and law drafter summaries in law drafting relating to records and information management.
Biodegradable microplastics can cause more serious loss of soil organic carbon by priming effect than conventional microplastics in farmland shelterbelts
Authors: Jia Kaitao , Nie Siming , Tian Mengfei , Sun Wenxue , Gao Yuan , Zhang Yaru , Xie Xiaofei , Xu Ziqi , Zhao Chunjian , Li Chunying
Published: September 2024

Globally, the widespread utilization of plastic products has resulted in the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in the soil. MPs have the potential to impact the loss of soil organic carbon (SOC). Nevertheless, the influence of different types of MPs on SOC loss remains uncertain.

In this study, a 38 day incubation experiment with two kinds of conventional MPs (polyethylene, polypropylene) as well as two kinds of biodegradable MPs (polyhydroxyalkanoate [PHA], polylactic acid [PLA]) were added into three types of soil (loam, sandy loam, and sandy soil) in farmland shelterbelts, and the sources of CO2 emissions was distinguished by the difference in 13C isotope abundance between the biodegradable MPs (PHA and PLA) (−10.02‰ to −9.92‰) and the soil (−24.39‰ to −22.86‰) (>10‰).

In conjunction with the structural characterization of MPs, as well as soil physicochemical properties and microbial characteristics, we observed that the conventional MPs did not degrade in short term incubation, but significantly enhance soil‐derived CO2 emissions by altering the dissolved N content (‐N and dissolved total N [DTN]) and reducing microbial biomass carbon content only in sandy loam soil (p < 0.05). Biodegradable MPs degraded significantly, and enhanced soil‐derived CO2 emissions by reducing soil DTN and ‐N contents in loam, sandy loam and sandy soil (p < 0.05).

Overall, the input of biodegradable MPs causes a more serious loss of SOC than conventional MPs as the soil sand content increased in short term incubation, which needs to be considered in predicting the global impact of increasing biodegradable MPs pollution.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
An Interview with Jan Wiener. Conducted by Linda Carter on January 7, 2024
Authors: Wiener Jan , Carter Linda
Published: September 2024

Jan Wiener is a Society of Analytical Psychology (SAP) trained Jungian analyst and Journal of Analytical Psychology Board member, highly esteemed in Jungian and psychoanalytic circles for her work as a practitioner, teacher, supervisor and writer as well as for her well‐honed leadership skills, notably as a member of the executive committee and as a vice‐president of the International Association for Analytical Psychology (IAAP), the international organizing body for Jungian analysts worldwide. Jan has made remarkable contributions to the personal and professional development of Jungians not only in the UK but also for those involved in the IAAP Developing Groups programme where she has been a pioneer, providing cross‐cultural outreach to those seeking training in Russia, Taiwan, Serbia, Ukraine and Denmark. Success in Jan's many‐faceted and full life has been facilitated by a natural authenticity, good sense of humour, hearty laugh and a welcoming attitude; these attributes have significantly aided in bridge‐building and opening space for creative interactions within and between individuals and groups.

Her development was influenced by a history of parents who fled from Vienna and Berlin to London, escaping persecution by the pre‐war Nazi regime. Jan's aunt lived in close proximity and was a child analyst who worked closely with Anna Freud. As a young woman, Jan swam the English Channel and she has always been a sports lover, especially tennis. Her many talents extend to music and she is a trained opera singer who has recently been involved in an affordable educational programme in Cratoule, France, that fosters the expanding growth of amateurs who have the opportunity to learn from more established, experienced attendees. Jan has performed as a singer in addition to presenting her analytic work globally. She has many publications that centre around clinical practice, her forte.

Well‐known by those who have been in relationship with Jan personally and professionally is her exceptional capacity for presence in the moment while holding the long‐view; this capacity as well as an inclusive attitude, perhaps born in part from family history, along with a keen intelligence, intuition and native talent, have led to a life‐long commitment to service and generative partnerships that continue to bear fruit amongst those touched by her kind and generous soul.
Fabrication and characterisation of whey–pea protein‐based emulsion gels induced by transglutaminase cross‐linking
Authors: Li Dan , Li Siyao , Zhao Ru , Shen Yi , Yin Fangpo , Wang Cuina
Published: September 2024

Food industry has partially replaced animal proteins with plant‐derived alternatives, and effects of combining these two types on properties of food systems need to be elucidated. This study fabricated and characterised emulsion gels of mixed whey and pea protein, varying protein mass ratios from 100:0 to 0:100 and oil volumes from 30% to 45%, induced by transglutaminase cross‐linking. An increase in pea protein led to larger particle size and reduced surface charge in the solutions. Emulsion droplet size ranged from 0.60 to 15.17 μm, increasing with higher levels of pea protein and oil. Mixed protein gels exhibited significantly greater hardness compared to gels with individual proteins. Water‐holding capacity of pure whey protein emulsion gels exceeded 90%, while the value remained above 80% when pea protein was less than 50%. Partially replacing whey protein with pea protein may have potential applications in food products such as salad dressings and cheese.
Tax Policy Expectations and Investment
Authors: Gallemore John , Hollander Stephan , Jacob Martin , Zheng Xiang
Published: September 2024

This paper examines how firms’ tax policy expectations (TPE) evolve around and relate to their investment responses to changes in tax policy. Using a text‐based approach to measuring TPE, we find that two recent tax policy–changing events—namely, the 2016 U.S. presidential election and the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)—spawned considerable between‐ and within‐firm variation in TPE, with aggregate time‐series patterns in TPE occasionally challenging prevailing assumptions in previous research. Further, we observe that event‐induced TPE relate to investment both before and in response to the TCJA's passage in 2017, with offsetting associations between its first and second moments, and that these TPE moderate the TCJA's intended investment‐stimulating effect. Furthermore, we document a difference between domestic and multinational firms in their TPE‐investment response, with the former (latter) more likely to adjust the level (shift the country location) of their investment. Overall, our findings support the idea that TPE can impact investment behavior in the face of a tax policy change and suggest that our methodology can be used by future research to incorporate TPE into analyses of tax policy effects.
FlavorDB2: An updated database of flavor molecules
Authors: Goel Mansi , Grover Nishant , Batra Devansh , Garg Neelansh , Tuwani Rudraksh , Sethupathy Apuroop , Bagler Ganesh
Published: September 2024

Flavor is expressed through the interaction of molecules via gustatory and olfactory mechanisms. Knowing the pivotal role of flavor molecules in food and fragrances, the existence of a comprehensive repository becomes valuable. Such a repository encompasses the information of flavor molecules characterizing their flavor profile, chemical properties, regulatory status, consumption statistics, taste/aroma threshold values, reported uses in food categories, and synthesis. FlavorDB2 (https://cosylab.iiitd.edu.in/flavordb2/) is an updated database of flavor molecules with a user‐friendly interface consisting of 25,595 flavor molecules. Among these, 2254 flavor molecules are associated with 936 natural ingredients from 34 categories. This repository simplifies the search for flavor molecules and their associated attributes. This platform offers multifaceted applications, including food pairing. FlavorDB2 serves as a standard repository of flavor compounds for researchers, chefs, and fragrance industry.
Fuelling injustice? Safeguarding equity in anti‐fossil fuel norms
Authors: Nazareth Anisha , Shawoo Zoha , Verkuijl Cleo , van Asselt Harro
Published: September 2024

This article explores anti‐fossil fuel norms (AFFNs), which set behavioral standards for phasing out practices and processes across the fossil fuel supply chain. In recent years, AFFNs have emerged and become increasingly institutionalized in global climate governance. However, they remain contested and have not yet achieved widespread acceptance. Much of the contestation concerns the perceived equity of these norms. Drawing on insights from the literature on AFFNs and expert interviews, this article investigates equity‐related issues that arise in the context of four key AFFNs: phasing out coal‐fired power, phasing out oil and gas, ending public financing for fossil fuels, and reforming fossil fuel subsidies. We find that each of these norms is well placed to contribute to a shift away from a fossil fuel‐based economy. However, these norms are often framed in ways that do not account for the distributional impacts of this shift, which may lead to unintended and inequitable consequences. We conclude that AFFNs need to be developed and deployed to actively consider the needs of marginalized communities. Policymakers and non‐governmental organizations can work together to develop norms that prioritize addressing equity and distributional justice concerns in the transition away from fossil fuels.
Facing Inconvenient Truths When Teaching Financial Accounting*
Authors: Tinkelman Daniel
Published: September 2024

Introductory financial accounting courses usually present accounting uncritically, as a useful aid to investment and lending decisions, while glossing over numerous long‐acknowledged theoretical and practical issues. This article describes these issues and suggests that students should be taught that accounting must fill both an accountability function and a decision‐support function. The tensions between these roles explain many otherwise anomalous features of accounting.
The association between adverse childhood experiences and alterations in brain volume and cortical thickness in adults with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Türkmen Cagdas , Tan Haoye , Gerhardt Sarah , Bougelet Emilie , Bernardo Maria , Machunze Noah , Grauduszus Yasmin , Sicorello Maurizio , Demirakca Traute , Kiefer Falk , Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine
Published: September 2024

Background

Previous studies have established a connection between adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), both of which are associated with alterations in grey matter volume (GMV) and cortical thickness (CT). The current study aimed to assess the neurobiological impact of ACE specifically in the context of AUD, as well as the role of maltreatment type (i.e., abuse or neglect) and timing.

Methods

Structural MRI data were collected from 35 adults with AUD (mean age: 40; 31% female) and 28 healthy controls (mean age: 36; 61% female). ACE were assessed retrospectively using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, and the Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology interview. Global and regional GMV and CT were estimated using voxel‐ and surface‐based morphometry.

Results

Relative to the healthy controls, the AUD group had significantly reduced CT in the left inferior frontal gyrus, left circular sulcus of the insula and subcentral gyrus and sulci (cluster C1), and in the central sulcus and precentral gyrus (cluster C2). Within the AUD group, a reduction of CT in cluster C1 was significantly associated with higher severity of ACE and AUD. Type and timing analyses revealed a significant association between higher levels of abuse at ages 13 to 15 and reduced CT in cluster C1 within the AUD group.

Conclusions

In adults with AUD, abuse experienced during early adolescence is associated with reduced CT in regions involved in inhibitory control, indicating the potential relevance of cognitive pathways in the association between ACE and AUD. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm and expand upon current findings.
Comprehensive Postnatal Anatomical, Histological and Geometric Morphometric Analysis of Thymus Development in Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Amine Fares Mohamed , Tarek Khenenou , Eddine Rahmoun Djallal
Published: September 2024

The thymus, a primary lymphoid organ, plays a critical role in T lymphocyte development and adaptive immunity. This study focuses on the anatomical, histological and geometric morphometric characteristics of the thymus in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) during postnatal development. Thymus samples were collected from camels aged approximately 4, 8, 12 and 16 months. Using photogrammetry and 3D modelling, the samples were analysed to generate landmarks and conduct geometric morphometry with the 3D Slicer and ALPACA algorithm. Principal component analysis (PCA) was then performed to evaluate shape variations. Histologically, the samples underwent Haematoxylin and Eosin and Masson's trichrome staining. Image analysis using QuPath software quantified trabeculae, adipose tissue and Hassall's corpuscles. The results revealed significant anatomical and histological changes in the thymus across the different age groups. Notable variations in tissue composition and structural integrity were observed, with the PCA highlighting distinct morphometric patterns associated with age‐related development. These findings provide a deeper understanding of thymus maturation in dromedaries and offer valuable data for comparative anatomy and veterinary medicine. This comprehensive analysis enhances our knowledge of species‐specific immune development, with important implications for the health and resilience of these animals in arid environments.