bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and validation of a metal-organic framework for functional quenching of fluorescent DNA
Authors: Goodrich James , Beladi Ali , Joshua Konyin , Bhatti Humza
Published: January 2025

Access to practical research experience is typically limited for life science undergraduates at UK universities. This is confounded by a lack of time to pursue research given course commitments, and the competition for limited spaces on internships or other schemes. To overcome these issues, we hypothesised methods to increase students’ independent access to research, allowing them to design and undertake useful experiments from first principles. Here, we describe the methods allowing a group of undergraduates to successfully devise and completed a research project independent from their university and academic functions.
Centromeres evolve progressively through selection at the kinetochore interface
Authors: Helsen Jana , Ramachandran Kausthubh , Sherlock Gavin J , Dey Gautam
Published: January 2025

During mitosis, stable but dynamic interactions between the centromere DNA and kinetochore complex enable accurate and efficient chromosome segregation. Even though many proteins of the kinetochore are highly conserved, centromeres are among the fastest evolving regions within a genome, showing extensive variation even on short evolutionary timescales. Here, we sought to understand how new types of centromeres emerge and reach fixation by mapping centromere evolution across 138 budding yeast species and over 2,500 natural strain isolates. We show that new centromeres spread progressively via drift and subsequent selection, and that the kinetochore interface, which is evolving slowly in relative terms, determines which new centromere variants are tolerated. Together, our findings provide insight into the evolutionary constraints and trajectories shaping centromere evolution.
Current status of the light neutralino thermal dark matter in the phenomenological MSSM
Authors: Barman Rahool Kumar , Bélanger Genevieve , Bhattacherjee Biplob , Godbole Rohini , Sengupta Rhitaja
Published: January 2025

In a previous publication, we studied the parameter space of the phenomenological minimal Supersymmetric standard model with a light neutralino thermal dark matter (Mχ˜10≤Mh/2) and observed that the recent results from the dark matter and collider experiments put strong constraints on this scenario. In this work, we present in detail the arguments behind the robustness of this result against scanning over the large number of parameters in phenomenological minimal Supersymmetric standard model. The Run 3 of LHC will be crucial in probing the surviving regions of the parameter space. We further investigate the impact of light staus on our parameter space and also provide benchmarks that can be interesting for Run 3 of LHC. We analyze these benchmarks at the LHC using the machine learning framework of . Finally, we also discuss the effect of nonstandard cosmology on the parameter space.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Excitation of Alfvénic Modes via Electromagnetic Turbulence in Wendelstein 7-X
Authors: Riemann Jörg , Mendes Sara Vaz , Rahbarnia Kian , Kleiber Ralf , Slaby Christoph , Könies Axel , Borchardt Matthias , Mishchenko Alexey , Thomsen Henning , Büschel Charlotte , von Stechow Adrian , the Wendelstein 7-X Team  , Bähner Jan-Peter , Hansen Søren Kjer , Edlund Eric
Published: January 2025

In this Letter, we demonstrate by comparison of computer simulations and experimental results that excitation of turbulence-driven electromagnetic secondary instabilities can serve as a paradigm to explain the observed activity of otherwise stable modes in fusion devices. In particular, we discuss the excitation of Alfvén eigenmodes in electron cyclotron heated plasmas in the Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) stellarator. In more than 700 experimental programs of W7-X Operational Phase 1.2b (from which 25 were selected and discussed in this paper), poloidal magnetic fluctuation measurements with a clear Alfvénic nature are seen to correlate with turbulence density fluctuations. In response, we perform nonlinear, global, gyrokinetic, electromagnetic simulations using profiles consistent with the experimental conditions. The results agree remarkably well with the measurements and reveal excitation of zonal flow activity and long wavelength Alfvénic modes by ion temperature gradient turbulence. Integer ratios between the primary and secondary growth rates suggest an excitation mechanism similar to the forced-driven excitation of zonal flow by Alfvén eigenmodes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Symmetry Breaking in the Superionic Phase of Silver Iodide
Authors: Hajibabaei Amir , Baldwin William J. , Csányi Gábor , Cox Stephen J.
Published: January 2025

In the superionic phase of silver iodide, we observe a distorted tetragonal structure characterized by symmetry breaking in the cation distribution. This phase competes with the well known bcc phase with a symmetric cation distribution, at an energetic cost of only a few meV/atom. The small energy difference suggests that these competing structures may both be thermally accessible near the superionic transition temperature. We also find that the distribution of silver ions depends on the low-temperature parent polymorph, with memory persisting in the superionic phase on the nanosecond timescales accessible in our simulations. Furthermore, simulations on the order of 100 ns reveal that even at temperatures where the bcc phase is stable, significant fluctuations toward the tetragonal lattice structure remain. Our results are consistent with many “anomalous” experimental observations and offer a molecular mechanism for the “memory effect” in silver iodide.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Multi-scale Laplacian community detection in heterogeneous networks
Authors: Villegas Pablo , Gabrielli Andrea , Poggialini Anna , Gili Tommaso
Published: January 2025

Heterogeneous and complex networks represent intertwined interactions between real-world elements or agents. Determining the multiscale mesoscopic organization of clusters and intertwined structures is still a fundamental and open problem of complex network theory. By taking advantage of the recent Laplacian renormalization group (LRG), we scrutinize information diffusion pathways throughout networks to shed further light on this issue. Based on internode communicability, our definition provides a clear-cut framework for resolving the multiscale mesh of structures in complex networks, disentangling their intrinsic arboreal architecture. As it does not consider any topological null-model assumption, the LRG naturally permits the introduction of scale-dependent optimal partitions. Moreover, we demonstrate the existence of a particular class of nodes, called nodes, that switch regions to which they belong at different scales, likely playing a pivotal role in cross-regional communication and, therefore, in managing macroscopic effects of the whole network.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Switching current distributions in superconducting nanostrips
Authors: Vedin Robert , Lidmar Jack
Published: January 2025

We study switching current distributions in superconducting nanostrips using theoretical models and numerical simulations. Switching current distributions are commonly measured in experiments and may provide a window into the microscopic switching mechanisms. As the current through a superconducting strip is increased from zero it will at some point switch to the normal dissipative state. Due to thermal and/or quantum fluctuations the switching current will be random and follow a certain distribution depending on sweep rate, temperature, material properties, wire length, and width. By analyzing the resulting distribution it is possible to infer the transition rate for a switch, which can be related to the free-energy barrier separating the metastable superconducting state and the normal one. We study different switching scenarios and show using simulations how data taken for different sweep rates can be combined to obtain the switching rate over a wider interval of currents. In doing this, it is necessary to account for a time delay between the initiation of the switching event and its detection.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Emergent interaction-induced topology in Bose-Hubbard ladders
Authors: Wellnitz David , Domínguez-Castro Gustavo A. , Bilitewski Thomas , Aidelsburger Monika , Rey Ana Maria , Santos Luis
Published: January 2025

We investigate the quantum many-body dynamics of bosonic atoms hopping in a two-leg ladder with strong on-site contact interactions. We observe that when the atoms are prepared in a staggered pattern with pairs of atoms on every other rung, singlon defects, i.e., rungs with only one atom, can localize due to an emergent topological model, even though the underlying model in the absence of interactions admits only topologically trivial states. This emergent topological localization results from the formation of a zero-energy edge mode in an effective lattice formed by two adjacent chains with alternating strong and weak hoping links (Su-Schrieffer-Heeger chains) and opposite staggering which interface at the defect position. Our findings open the opportunity to dynamically generate nontrivial topological behaviors without the need for complex Hamiltonian engineering.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Share lockup expiration of major shareholder, tone management and share pledges: empirical evidence from China
Authors: Guan Jingyi , Wen Xueying , Liu Eping
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The major shareholders may try to manipulate the stock price for tunneling after share lockup expiration, but the earlier studies focus on earnings management and do not consider other potential manipulation methods. Therefore, we explore the tone management of earnings communication conferences.

Design/methodology/approach

We take the China A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges from 2007 to 2021 as our sample to examine how, why and when share lockup expiration of major shareholders affects tone management of earnings communication conference.

Findings

Firms tend to engage in tone management in earnings communication conferences when the lockup expires by increasing the optimism of the tone and decreasing the similarity between the responses and questions. The purpose of tone management is not for share reduction, but rather for improving market performance and better share pledge. The effect of share lockup expiration is weaker when the firm engages in real or accrual-based earnings management, and when the firm keeps higher accounting conservatism. In addition, in companies at growth and maturity stages, where executive compensation is high, institutional investor ownership is low and the controlling shareholder is a non-state-owned enterprise, the impact of share lockup expiration on the tone management becomes more pronounced.

Originality/value

Our study reveals the ways and purposes of tone management when share lockup expires, shows the timing preferences of tone management and helps identify the quality of information disclosure in earnings communication conferences, enriching the research on tone management and market value management.
Employee resource groups: member experiences and the role of allies
Authors: Beaver Gregory , Zellmer-Bruhn Mary
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The popularity of employee resource groups (ERGs) has grown, yet there has been limited critical examination of the outcomes of membership individuals. This paper aims to better understand ERG member experiences and the role and impact of allies, or members who do not share the identity around which the group is centered.

Design/methodology/approach

Two survey studies collected data from ERG members and non-members to uncover individual membership outcomes.

Findings

Our findings reveal that ERG members report greater career satisfaction yet also experience higher levels of emotional loneliness compared to non-members. Additionally, the presence of allies in ERGs has a complex impact, offering both positive and negative effects on the experiences of focal group members.

Practical implications

Our findings provide a more expansive view on employee experiences related to ERG membership and suggest decisions to allow or require openness of ERGs to everyone should be undertaken with caution. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the diversity management literature by exploring individual outcomes of ERGs, a popular type of organizational diversity practice.
On the carbon additionality of working forests
Authors: Mei Bin , Ezekiel Micah , Sun Changyou , Li Yanshu
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Using a 62,742-ha working forest in New Brunswick, Canada, we examine the benefit and cost of carbon additionality at the landscape level.

Design/methodology/approach

The baseline scenario is set to maximize timber profit over a 100-year planning period, whereas the carbon scenario is set to have a 5- or 10-year rotation extension.

Findings

At a carbon price of $8/tCO2e, the benefit of additional carbon sequestration from the working forest cannot offset its cost. For the benefit-cost ratio to be one, the respective break-even price needs to be $21/tCO2e for the 5-year rotation extension and $25/tCO2e for the 10-year rotation extension.

Originality/value

This study analyzes the carbon additionality and economics of working forests at the 50–100 thousand hectare scale. Specifically, we examine the change in benefit and cost between a baseline scenario of timber management only and a scenario of rotation extension for both timber and carbon sequestration.
Configurations for high outsourcing performance in construction projects: an integrated perspective of transaction costs and capabilities
Authors: Zhang Ruyan , Fu Yongcheng , Chen Yongqiang , Du Bo , Ma Danfeng
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to integrate perspectives of transaction costs and capabilities to investigate how the configurational fit between outsourcing strategies, asset specificity of projects and the capabilities of general contractors could achieve high outsourcing performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis, this study analyzes 31 outsourcing cases in construction projects to examine outsourcing performance under different combinations of transaction costs and capabilities.

Findings

The findings highlight six different but functionally equivalent configurations to high outsourcing performance, which vary according to attributes of projects and capabilities of contractors. Further, this study develops four context-dependent paths that link outsourcing strategies to high outsourcing performance: leading practitioner, collaborative manager, partnership dependent, and struggler.

Practical implications

How do contractors in construction projects navigate outsourcing practices to high performance? This study provides a configurational perspective to make outsourcing strategy decisions. Based on the firm’s capabilities and project asset specificity, contractors are encouraged to select from six different but functionally equivalent combinations and thereby four outsourcing strategies, namely leading practitioner, collaborative manager, partnership dependent, and struggler, to achieve high outsourcing performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge by offering a holistic perspective that integrates production and transaction costs to analyze contractors’ outsourcing strategies, contributing to the integration of the transaction cost perspective and capability perspective.
Bamboo in sustainable construction: effects on productivity and safety
Authors: Adebowale Oluseyi Julius , Agumba Justus Ngala
Published: January 2025

Purpose

A significant amount of ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons is emitted during the production of building materials. With the world population expected to increase by 21.3% from 2030 to 2050, the demand for construction materials is set to rise, necessitating a shift toward eco-friendly options to preserve the ecosystem. Bamboo emerges as a promising solution to meet sustainable construction goals. This study aims to investigate bamboo’s potential as a sustainable construction material, evaluating its impact on construction productivity and safety.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted, using relevant keywords to retrieve journal articles from the Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases. Articles were screened, and only those meeting the inclusion criteria were reviewed.

Findings

Bamboo offers numerous advantages as a construction material, including cost-effectiveness, abundance and strength, making it a viable alternative to traditional building materials with a reduced environmental impact. However, its widespread acceptance encounters significant challenges. The use of bamboo in construction can both positively and negatively affect productivity and safety in construction organizations.

Practical implications

This study proposes a framework for improvement that construction stakeholders can adopt to enhance bamboo’s utilization in construction while maintaining high productivity and safety standards.

Originality/value

While previous studies have advocated for increased bamboo utilization in construction, this study goes further to explore the implications for productivity and safety in construction.
Uncovering the mechanisms of common ground in human–agent interaction: review and future directions for conversational agent research
Authors: Tolzin Antonia , Janson Andreas
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Human–agent interaction (HAI) is increasingly influencing our personal and work lives through the proliferation of conversational agents (CAs) in various domains. As such, these agents combine intuitive natural language interactions by also delivering personalization through artificial intelligence capabilities. However, research on CAs as well as practical failures indicates that CA interaction oftentimes fails miserably. To reduce these failures, this paper introduces the concept of building common ground for more successful HAIs.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a systematic literature analysis, we identified 38 articles meeting the eligibility criteria. We critically reviewed this body of knowledge within a formal narrative synthesis structured around the use of common ground in the interaction with CAs.

Findings

Based on the systematic review, our analysis reveals five mechanisms for achieving common ground: embodiment, social features, joint action, knowledge base and mental model of conversational agent. We point out the relationships between these mechanisms as they are related to each other in directional and bidirectional ways.

Research limitations/implications

Our findings contribute to theory with several implications for CA research. First, we provide implications about the organization of common ground mechanisms for CAs. Second, we provide insights into the mechanisms and nomological network for achieving common ground when interacting with CAs. Third, we provide a broad research agenda for future CA research that centers around the important topic of common ground for HAI.

Originality/value

We offer novel insights into grounding mechanisms and highlight the potentials when considering common ground in different HAI processes. Consequently, we secure further understanding and deeper insights of possible mechanisms of common ground to shape future HAI processes.
The interplay of institutions and coopetition: a decade-long analysis of a geographical indication in the Brazilian wine industry
Authors: Vieira Luciana Marques , Monticelli Jefferson Marlon , Cislaghi Tatiane Pellin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to understand how institutions influence a Geographical Indication (GI) region to create value over time. The study examines a Brazilian wine industry that has lasted for about a century, using ten recent years of primary data collection (2012–2022).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper developed a qualitative study that looks at coopetition and institutions and considers the GI as an institution. It collected the data from 33 representatives of the Brazilian wine industry in three stages (2012–2013, 2017 and 2022).

Findings

The results show that coopetitive strategies between Brazilian wineries are encouraged by both formal and informal institutions, which results in a GI becoming a collective institution. Value creation, however, drives new entrants aiming to achieve gains, and this risks destroying the GI due to the perception of lack of balance on value capture over time.

Originality/value

This study describes the creation and evolution of a GI for developing wine production in a particular grape-growing region in Brazil, which has, consequently, encouraged coopetition between supply chain agents leading to value creation. Most wineries, however, lack a value capture perception, which has resulted in the risk of value being destroyed by allowing new entrants into the cluster. The three stages of data collection and analysis provide an understanding of coopetitive strategies over the long term.
Impact of state ownership on labour cost stickiness across strategic and non-strategic industries in developing economies
Authors: Tileal Mohammed Arkan Sahib , Nassirzadeh Farzaneh , Askarany Davood
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the relationship between state ownership and labour cost stickiness across strategic and non-strategic industries in developing economies. It aims to uncover how non-economic considerations and sociopolitical objectives influence cost behaviour in state-owned enterprises (SOEs), particularly within strategic sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs data from 151 firms listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange from 2011 to 2021. Using multiple linear regression analysis with year and industry-fixed effects, the study investigates the impact of state ownership on labour cost stickiness, considering the moderating role of industry type.

Findings

The analysis reveals a significant influence of industry type on the relationship between state ownership and labour cost stickiness. SOEs exhibit higher labour cost stickiness, especially in strategic industries subject to greater public scrutiny and government intervention. These findings align with agency theory, highlighting how sociopolitical pressures shape SOEs’ managerial decisions and cost management strategies.

Originality/value

This research fills a crucial gap in the literature on cost behaviour in developing countries, emphasising the importance of industry-specific strategies in mitigating labour cost stickiness in SOEs. It provides new insights into how state ownership and sociopolitical objectives affect cost management, offering valuable implications for policymakers and managers in similar economic contexts.
“Can’t direct the wind? Adjust the sails”: a mediation model of intellectual capital, adaptive capability and project performance
Authors: Rangaswamy Uma Shankar , Batra Safal
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The IT services industry faces ongoing disruptions due to rapid technological changes and corresponding shifts in customer expectations and competitor actions. Successfully addressing these disruptions entails IT firms to channelize their intellectual capital toward enhancing their ability to adapt. In this study, we propose a mediation model to examine the influence of a project team’s intellectual capital on project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 215 project leaders across different business units within an Indian IT services organization with large operational teams. Mediation analysis was conducted to test the model.

Findings

Our findings provide evidence for enhanced team performance through the indirect benefits of adaptive capability accruing from the teams’ intellectual capital. Superior performance is achieved when the intellectual capital steers the adaptive capability of the firm.

Practical implications

Project leaders within IT organizations should constantly enhance their knowledge base and intellectual capital, enabling them to exploit the available knowledge to gain a competitive advantage. This intellectual capital created within the project team can be tapped to foster an adaptive capability, eventually leading to better performance.

Originality/value

Our findings provide unique insights regarding the importance of investing in the intellectual capital of the teams, which results in the enhancement of adaptive capability and thereby the project performance. Data collected from a non-western setting also add to the existing body of knowledge on intellectual capital.
Performance motivation and knowledge hiding: exploring the role of moral disengagement in education sector
Authors: Kumar Chitresh , Garg Neha , Talukdar Asim , Ganguly Anirban
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to study the adverse effects of performance motivation and goal setting. The study investigates the unethical behavior of knowledge hiding that requires moral disengagement. The research further investigates the influence of performance motivation on knowledge hiding, along with investigating the mediating effect of moral disengagement.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling has been adopted to understand the relationships. Data was collected from 288 students from Indian higher education institutions to understand how social cognitive aspects of performance influenced knowledge hiding.

Findings

The findings revealed that students hide knowledge from peers and rationalize the hiding process through social cognition of moral disengagement to justify the hiding process. It was further observed that performance motivation has a stronger relationship with rationalized knowledge hiding as compared to evasive knowledge hiding or playing dumb.

Research limitations/implications

By exploring the potential unintended yet detrimental consequences of performance motivation, this study adds to the scant literature on the drawbacks of ambitious goal setting. It also advances the performance motivation and knowledge hiding literature by exploring these constructs through the behavioral ethics lens of moral disengagement.

Practical implications

Awareness about the ill-effects of performance motivation of students and understanding the role of moral disengagement in the same will help administrators and policymakers to cautiously promote performance-driven culture within academia as well as in designing effective interventions for curbing the same.

Originality/value

The current study advances the extant literature on the negative side of ambitious goal setting and provides new insights into how it can encourage moral disengagement and knowledge-hiding behavior. Further, academic research on moral disengagement among students has been scarce. This study thus investigates how moral disengagement among students can promote detrimental behavior(s) of knowledge hiding. The study is one of the early studies to uncover moral disengagement as an antecedent to knowledge hiding.
Exploring sustainability in start-ups: the impact of knowledge management on achieving sustainable goals
Authors: Alfiero Simona , Battisti Enrico , Nirino Niccolò , Papa Armando
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how knowledge management (KM) influences the achievement of sustainable objectives in new ventures, considering the mediating roles of board composition and financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considers primary and secondary data from 177 Italian start-ups. Data collection involved a standardized questionnaire to assess KM processes and sustainable practices, supplemented with secondary data on financial performance and the gender composition of the board of directors (BoD). The analysis was conducted using partial least squares structural equation modeling to evaluate the relationships between KM practices, gender diversity, financial performance, and sustainable outcomes.

Findings

The results reveal a significant positive impact of KM on firms’ sustainable practices. Specifically, gender diversity within the BoD and higher financial performance were identified as mediators in start-ups’ sustainability programs. Our study supports the hypothesis that KM practices influence sustainability, highlighting the critical role of specific practices such as knowledge transfer.

Originality/value

This study highlights the significance of KM in improving the sustainability performance of start-ups, addressing a research gap in the intersection between KM and environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations in new ventures. Furthermore, it highlights the pivotal roles of gender diversity and financial performance as critical factors mediating the relationship between KM and ESG practices.
Rose Pesotta and the boundaries of management history
Authors: Schachter Hindy Lauer
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a critical biography of labor union organizer Rose Pesotta (1896–1965) as a case study attempt to extend management history’s boundaries of who is considered a model in the field to a woman who worked as a labor union organizer and who developed innovative inclusion strategies to bring new people into her union. The biography has importance to the field because it shows how contemporary concepts such as intersectionality and inclusion can help explain historical organizational conflicts and difficulties motivating workers.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary methodology involved close reading and analysis of unpublished primary sources such as letters and memos dealing with Rose Pesotta’s 1933–1941 career as an organizer for the International Ladies Garment Workers Union (ILGWU) as well as contemporary analyses of garment unions and gender relations in the interwar period.

Findings

While positionality, intersectionality and inclusion are relatively new research terms, this analysis of ILGWU organizing in the 1930s and early 1940s shows the importance of these concepts in understanding the union’s politics at that time.

Originality/value

This paper, to the best of the author’s knowledge, is one of the first in the management history literature to present a biography of a labor leader who returned to the ranks at some point in her adult career and earned her living as a sewing machine operator. It thus expands the representativeness of the people whom the field sees as important for students of management to study and learn from.
Learners, environments and differences – insights from literacy research
Authors: Comber Barbara
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to introduce qualitative research in literacy that has been significant in educators understanding difference in young people’s literacy learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach has been to select influential investigations that have impacted over time and to summarise the insights provided.

Findings

This article foregrounds research that helps educators understand learner difference as positive resources and that contests approaches which perpetuate deficit discourses.

Originality/value

The article offers a distinctive and selective reading of literacy studies to highlight and remind readers of what is known about language and literacy learning that should not be ignored in designing further research nor in interpreting existing studies.
They misused me! Digital literacy’s dual role in AI marketing manipulation and unethical young consumer behavior
Authors: Qadri Usman Ahmad , Moustafa Alsadig Mohamed Ahmed , Abd Ghani Mazuri
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven marketing has transformed the landscape of consumer interactions, but it also raises ethical concerns regarding perceived manipulation and subsequent unethical young consumer behavior. This study aims to investigate the direct and indirect effects of AI-driven marketing on unethical young consumer behavior, with digital literacy as a moderating variable. The authors introduce and conceptualize a digital literacy construct that influences how young consumers perceive and react to manipulative AI-driven marketing tactics.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Elaboration Likelihood Model (ELM) and the Persuasion Knowledge Model (PKM), this research explores how digital literacy influences the reception of AI-driven marketing and moderates the effects of perceived manipulative tactics. This study adopts a three-wave, time-lagged survey method among young consumers in urban Pakistan, integrating measures of AI-driven marketing techniques, perceived manipulation, digital literacy and unethical consumer behavior.

Findings

The results reveal that perceived manipulation mediates the relationship between AI-driven marketing and unethical young consumer behavior. Digital literacy significantly moderates this effect, indicating that higher digital literacy levels can mitigate the negative impacts of perceived manipulation. Conversely, lower digital literacy amplifies the negative impacts of perceived manipulation.

Practical implications

The findings underscore the need for marketers to foster transparency and ethical practices in AI-driven strategies. Enhancing consumer digital literacy can serve as a protective factor against unethical marketing practices.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of digital literacy’s protective role against unethical AI-driven marketing practices. It extends existing models of persuasion and consumer response by demonstrating how digital literacy reshapes traditional consumer response frameworks in the context of AI-driven environments.
Caregivers perspective about the outcome of applied behaviour analysis intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders in Ghana
Authors: Ahorsu‐Walker John , Ntim Edward Kofi , Kpodoe Ivy Ama , Agyei Doris Adu , Domaley Vincent Laweh
Published: January 2025

This study investigated caregivers' perspectives on applied behaviour analysis (ABA) intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Ghana. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected from 13 teachers and six parents across two schools in the Central and Greater Accra Regions. Thematic analysis revealed seven major themes, including perspectives on communication, challenging behaviour, self‐help skills, social skills, motor skills and attention. Findings suggest that ABA intervention yielded positive outcomes, with improvements noted in various skill areas. Children demonstrated increased independence in self‐help tasks, reduced challenging behaviours and enhanced communication through alternative methods. Social and motor skills also improved, while attention showed gradual progress. Despite limitations such as a small sample size and lack of standardised measures, this study contributes valuable insights into ABA effectiveness in Ghana, potentially informing future research and policy decisions regarding ASD interventions in Sub‐Saharan Africa.
Tail Tales: How Ecological Context Mediates Signal Effectiveness in a Lizard
Authors: Bian Xue , Zhao Wei , Qi Yin , Peters Richard
Published: January 2025

Animal signals are complex, comprising multiple components influenced by ecological factors and viewing perspectives that together impact their overall effectiveness. Our study explores how these factors affect the efficacy of multi‐component signals in the Qinghai toad‐headed agama, Phrynocephalus vlangalii. Using 3D animations, we simulated natural environments to evaluate how tail coiling and tail lashing—two primary tail displays—vary in effectiveness from both conspecific and predator perspectives under different ecological conditions. Baseline comparisons showed no significant difference in effectiveness between tail coiling and tail lashing without environmental constraints, though side‐on tail coiling was consistently more effective than front‐on displays. When noise proximity was introduced, tail lashing was more effective when the noise source was nearby, but this advantage diminished with distance. Conversely, tail coiling maintained consistent effectiveness across varying noise proximities, especially from a side‐on view. In complex habitats with diverse plant species and varying wind conditions, tail lashing proved more effective, particularly from a front‐on perspective, while tail coiling excelled from a side‐on view. From a predator's perspective, tail lashing was slightly more effective under low wind conditions at close distances, though its visibility decreased with higher wind speeds. These findings highlight the adaptive significance of multi‐component signals and the critical role of signal orientation in enhancing communication. This research offers insights into the evolutionary pressures shaping animal communication strategies.
Aberrant acetylation caused by a CDYL splicing mutation contributes to thin mid‐piece related asthenoteratozoospermia and male infertility
Authors: Yang Fan , Gao Yang , Han Bing , Zhu Wen , Wang Guanxiong , Liu Liting , Shen Qunshan , Song Bing , Lv Mingrong , Wu Huan , Tang Dongdong , Zhou Ping , Wei Zhaolian , Xu Yuping , Cao Yunxia , He Xiaojin
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Acetylated tubulin is a hallmark of flagellar stability in spermatozoa, and studies have demonstrated the ability of CDYL to function as a tubulin acetyltransferase in spermatozoa. Of note, germline conditional knockout of Cdyl can lead to asthenoteratozoospermia and infertility in male mice. However, the role of CDYL gene in human fertility remains uncharacterized.

Materials and methods

Data were collected through in silico analysis for an infertile man with asthenoteratozoospermia of Han Chinese descent by performing whole‐exome sequencing. Light and electron microscopy were used to characterize the sperm cells of the proband, and the pathogenicity of the genetic factors was determined by functional experiments. To overcome fertility problems, intracytoplasmic sperm injections were performed in the couple.

Main results

Here, we recruited an infertile proband, born to first‐cousin parents, displaying idiopathic asthenoteratozoospermia. Whole‐exome sequencing identified a splicing mutation (c.103+1G>A) in CDYL, recessively cosegregating in the family. In vitro minigene assays demonstrated that the mutation resulted in aberrant alternative splicing. We found that CDYL co‐localizes with Ac‐tubulin along the flagella of human spermatozoa. In addition, the expression of Ac‐tubulin was severely reduced in spermatozoa from the patient with CDYL mutation. Disruption in CDYL results in thin mid‐piece related abnormal flagella morphology and decreased sperm motility. The primary manifestation of sperm ultrastructural abnormalities under the electron microscope is primarily characterized by disorder of axonemal protein complex and anulus.

Discussion and conclusion

We demonstrated that a homozygous CDYL splicing mutation specifically induces a decrease in microtubule acetylation, resulting in thin mid‐piece related asthenoteratozoospermia, providing a novel marker for genetic counseling and diagnosis of male infertility.
Reference Ranges for Cerebral Oxygenation in Neonates During Immediate Transition After Birth: Differences Between Devices
Authors: Baik‐Schneditz Nariae , Pfurtscheller Daniel , Wolfsberger Christina H. , Schwaberger Bernhard , Höller Nina , Urlesberger Berndt , Avian Alexander , Pichler Gerhard
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim was to define reference ranges for cerebral oxygen saturation (crSO2‐ROOT) during immediate transition after birth in stable neonates.

Methods

In a prospective observational study, the crSO2‐ROOT was continuously measured in neonates during the first 15 min after birth. The neonatal sensor was placed on the head and fixed with a bandage. Median values and 10th and 90th centiles were calculated for each minute. Additionally, cerebral fractional tissue oxygen extraction (cFTOE‐ROOT) was calculated using crSO2‐ROOT and arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) measured with pulse oximetry. These crSO‐ROOT values were compared with already published reference ranges of cerebral oxygen saturation measured using different devices: crSO2‐INVOS and cTOI‐NIRO.

Results

The data of 122 neonates (14 preterm/108 term neonates) were analysed. The crSO2‐ROOT values had a similar course when compared to cTOI‐NIRO values, whereas crSO2‐INVOS values were initially lower and exceeded during the first minutes after birth.

Conclusion

The present observational study added reference ranges of crSO2‐ROOT in stable neonates immediately after birth. As there are differences regarding reference ranges of various near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) devices, it is important to be aware of this information for future clinical use.
Survey of Secondhand Smoke for 3‐Year‐Old Children in the Current Era of New Tobacco Products
Authors: Muta Hiromi , Noda Takashi
Published: January 2025

Aim

To investigate children's exposure to secondhand smoke and aerosols in the current era of new tobacco products.

Methods

A total of 200 children were recruited from among children who had undergone health checkups for 3‐year‐olds at the clinic. We investigated the smoking status of their families using a questionnaire and measured urinary cotinine concentrations in their children. The children were divided into four groups based on their families' smoking status: no smokers (n = 114), exclusive combustion cigarette smokers (n = 35), both combustion cigarette and heated tobacco product smokers (n = 12) and exclusive heated tobacco product smokers (n = 39).

Results

Of the 200 children, 53 (26.5%) had detectable urinary cotinine levels. Of these, 12 (6.0%) were classified as having heavy exposure to secondhand smoke (urinary cotinine concentration ≥ 5 ng/mL). Urinary cotinine concentrations among children living with exclusive heated tobacco product smokers were significantly lower than those among children living with exclusive combustion cigarette smokers, but higher than those in children whose family members did not smoke at all. Relative to exclusive combustion cigarette smokers, exclusive heated tobacco product smokers were significantly more likely to smoke indoors.

Conclusions

Secondhand aerosol exposure from heated tobacco products may be reduced but cannot be completely eliminated.
Effects of Webcam Access to Preterm Infants in NICUs on Parental Psychological Strain
Authors: Mause Laura , Hoffmann Jan , Dresbach Till , Hagemeier Anna , Hellmich Martin , Kastor Katharine Louise , Kuehne Benjamin , Reimer Alinda , Willerscheidt Christopher , Scholten Nadine ,   the Neo‐CamCare study group
Published: January 2025

Aim

To investigate whether webcam access for parents of infants in neonatal intensive care units influences parental postpartum depression and stress experiences.

Methods

Parents whose infants had a birth weight below 1500 g and who were admitted to one of the four participating tertiary care hospitals were eligible to participate in the study. The study followed the structure of a multi‐centre cross‐over pragmatic randomised controlled trial. Depending on their assigned study group, participants gained access to a webcam either in Weeks 1–4 of the observation period and abstained from webcam use in Weeks 5–8 (First‐Half Access Group) or vice versa (Second‐Half Access Group). Outcomes were measured at four time points utilising the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and the Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Effects were estimated using linear mixed‐effects regression modelling.

Results

Data from 229 mothers and 211 fathers/partners were analysed; neither group's webcam access had a significant effect on the level of symptoms related to postpartum depression or stress experienced.

Conclusion

Based on the present results, webcam access has neither negative nor positive effects on parental psychological strain. Further research is needed to understand how individual preferences and physical presence influence the impact of webcams.
Does motivation lead to academic success, or conversely? Reciprocal relations between autonomous and controlled motivation, and mathematics achievement
Authors: Santana‐Monagas Elisa , Núñez‐Regueiro Fernando , Núñez Juan L.
Published: January 2025

Background

While it's clear that autonomous motivation significantly boosts academic success, there are conflicting findings regarding the opposite relation. Besides, the reciprocal relations among controlled motivation and achievement present mixed results. Adequately distinguishing between variations among individuals and within individuals results key to acknowledge such relations.

Aim

This longitudinal study examines the reciprocal relations between controlled and autonomous forms of motivation and academic achievement using the RI‐CLPM methodology.

Sample

Participants were 1042 high school students (M = 16 years, 52% male adolescents) from 16 different high schools in urban and rural areas.

Methods

A random intercept cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) was tested to estimate whether students' autonomous and controlled motivation predicted achievement and/or vice versa. Independent models were estimated for the two types of motivation.

Results

Overall, the RI‐CLPM results indicated a unidirectional relationship between autonomous motivation and achievement. As for controlled motivation, the results of RI‐CLPM models showed no reciprocal relationship between this type of motivation and achievement.

Conclusions

These results underline the importance of taking within‐ and between‐person processes into account when analysing reciprocal relations and provide crucial insights for enhancing student motivation and achievement in diverse educational contexts.
The impact of the structural framework of the North German Basin on Pleistocene tunnel‐valley formation
Authors: Lang Jörg , Bebiolka Anke , Noack Vera , Schützke Julia , Weihmann Sarah , Breuer Sonja
Published: January 2025

Tunnel valleys are impressive subglacial erosional landforms and may attain depths of almost 600 m. Climatic and glaciological factors exert the primary control on tunnel‐valley formation. Furthermore, regional geological features, e.g. faults and salt structures, have been suggested as controlling factors for tunnel‐valley formation. To improve the understanding of the impact of these geological factors on tunnel‐valley incision, we compare the distribution and orientations of buried Pleistocene tunnel valleys in the North German Basin with regional geological features, such as basin geometry and infill, faults and salt structures. Our analysis shows that deep tunnel valleys are restricted to areas with thick erodible Cenozoic deposits. The correlation between the trends of tunnel valleys, faults and salt structures varies between the analysed regions. The orientations of tunnel valleys commonly follow the trends of faults and salt structures in regions where the structural trend is NNW–SSE to east–west and ice‐flow directions were approximately parallel to this trend. However, correlations are rarely observed if the regional structural trend is NW–SE to WNW–ESE and ice advances occurred thus normal or oblique to the regional fault trend. Potential future tunnel‐valley incision is regarded as a major challenge for the long‐term safety of radioactive waste repositories because incision may reach depths under consideration for repositories. The presence and orientations of faults and salt structures, however, do not provide consistent indicators for future tunnel‐valley incision.