bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Digital twin reveals combinatorial code of non-linear computations in the mouse primary visual cortex
Authors: Ustyuzhaninov Ivan , Burg Max F. , Cadena Santiago A. , Fu Jiakun , Muhammad Taliah , Ponder Kayla , Froudarakis Emmanouil , Ding Zhiwei , Bethge Matthias , Tolias Andreas S. , Ecker Alexander S.
Published: February 2022

More than a dozen excitatory cell types have been identified in the mouse primary visual cortex (V1) based on transcriptomic, morphological and in vitro electrophysiological features. However, the functional landscape of excitatory neurons with respect to their responses to visual stimuli is currently unknown. Here, we combined large-scale two-photon imaging and deep learning neural predictive models to study the functional organization of mouse V1 using digital twins. Digital twins enable exhaustive in silico functional characterization providing a bar code summarizing the input-output function of each neuron. Clustering the bar codes revealed a continuum of function with around 30 modes. Each mode represented a group of neurons that exhibited a specific combination of stimulus selectivity and nonlinear response properties such as cross-orientation inhibition, size-contrast tuning and surround suppression. These non-linear properties were expressed independently spanning all possible combinations across the population. This combinatorial code provides the first large-scale, data-driven characterization of the functional organization of V1. This powerful approach based on digital twins is applicable to other brain areas and to complex non-linear systems beyond the brain.
Transcriptional response of individual Hawaiian Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes to the avian malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum
Authors: Ferreira Francisco C. , Videvall Elin , Seidl Christa M. , Wagner Nicole E. , Kilpatrick A. Marm , Fleischer Robert C. , Fonseca Dina M.
Published: February 2022

Culex quinquefasciatus, the mosquito vector of avian malaria in Hawai□i, became established in the islands in the 1820s and the deadly effects of malaria on endemic bird species have been documented for many decades. To evaluate the gene expression response of the mosquito to the parasite, we let the offspring of wild-collected Hawaiian Cx. quinquefasciatus feed on a domestic canary infected with Plasmodium relictum GRW4 freshly isolated from a wild-caught Hawaiian honeycreeper. Control mosquitoes were fed on an uninfected canary. We sequenced the individual transcriptomes of five infected and three uninfected individual mosquitoes at three different stages of the parasite life cycle: 24 h post feeding (hpf) during ookinete invasion; 5 days post feeding (dpf) when oocysts are developing; 10 dpf when sporozoites are released and invade the salivary glands. Differential gene expression analyses showed that during ookinete invasion (24 hpf), genes related to oxidoreductase activity and galactose catabolism had lower expression levels in infected mosquitoes compared to controls. Oocyst development (5 dpf) was associated with reduced expression of a gene with a predicted innate immune function. At 10 dpf, infected mosquitoes had reduced expression levels of a serine protease inhibitor. Overall, the gene expression response of Hawaiian Culex exposed to a Plasmodium infection intensity that occur naturally in Hawaii was low, but more pronounced during ookinete invasion. The low fitness costs often documented in Culex infected with avian Plasmodium likely reflect the relatively small transcriptional changes observed in mosquito genes related to immune response and nutrient metabolism.
An isogenic collection of pluripotent stem cell lines with elevated α-synuclein expression
Authors: Natalwala Ammar , Behbehani Ranya , Yapom Ratsuda , Kunath Tilo
Published: February 2022

α-Synuclein (αSyn) is a small, disordered protein that becomes aggregated in Lewy body diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) potentially provide a tractable disease model to monitor early molecular changes associated with PD/DLB. We and others have previously derived hiPSC lines from patients with duplication and triplication of the SNCA gene, encoding for αSyn. It is now recognised that to perform meaningful disease modelling with these hiPSC lines, it is critical to generate isogenic control cell lines that lack the disease causing mutations. In order to complement the existing and emerging hiPSC models for PD/DLB, we have generated an allelic series of αSyn over-expressing hESC lines on the same isogenic background. An unresolved question is whether pluripotent stem cell lines, with elevated levels of αSyn, can undergo efficient differentiation into dopaminergic and cortical neurons to model PD and DLB, respectively. We took advantage of our isogenic collection of hESC lines to determine if increased expression of αSyn affects neural induction and neuronal differentiation. Clonal hESC lines with significantly different levels of αSyn expression proliferated normally and maintained expression of pluripotent markers, such as OCT4. All cell lines efficiently produced PAX6+ neuroectoderm and there was no correlation between αSyn expression and neural induction efficiency. Finally, global transcriptomic analysis of cortical differentiation of hESC lines with low or high levels of αSyn expression demonstrated robust and similar induction of cortical neuronal expression profiles. Gene expression differences observed were unrelated to neural induction and neuronal differentiation. We conclude that elevated expression of αSyn in human pluripotent stem cells does not adversely affect their neuronal differentiation potential and that collections of isogenic cell lines with differing levels of αSyn expression are valid and suitable models to investigate synucleinopathies.
dbDEMC 3.0: Functional Exploration of Differentially Expressed miRNAs in Cancers of Human and Model Organisms
Authors: Xu Feng , Wang Yifan , Ling Yunchao , Zhou Chenfen , Wang Haizhou , Teschendorff Andrew E. , Zhao Yi , Zhao Haitao , He Yungang , Zhang Guoqing , Yang Zhen
Published: February 2022

microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators in gene expression. The deregulation of miRNA expression is widely reported in the transformation from physiological to pathological state of cells. A large amount of differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) have been identified in various human cancers by using high-throughput technologies, such as microarray and miRNA-seq. Through mining of published researches with high-throughput experiment information, the database of differentially expressed miRNAs in human cancers (dbDEMC) was constructed with the aim of providing a systematic resource for the storage and query of the DEMs. Here we report an update of the dbDEMC to version 3.0, containing two-fold more data entries than the previous version, now including also data from mouse and rat. The dbDEMC 3.0 contains 3,268 unique DEMs in 40 different cancer types. The current datasets for differential expression analysis have expanded to 9 generalized categories. Moreover, the current release integrates functional annotations of DEMs obtained from experimentally validated targets. The annotations can greatly benefit integrative analysis of DEMs. In summary, dbDEMC 3.0 provides a valuable resource for characterizing molecular functions and regulatory mechanisms of DEMs in human cancers. The dbDEMC 3.0 is freely accessible at https://www.biosino.org/dbDEMC.
Preclinical establishment of a divalent vaccine against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hevesi Zsofia , Gerges Daniela , Kapps Sebastian , Freire Raimundo , Schmidt Sophie , Pollak Daniela D. , Schmetterer Klaus , Frey Tobias , Lang Rita , Winnicki Wolfgang , Schmidt Alice , Harkany Tibor , Wagner Ludwig
Published: February 2022

First-generation vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 have been administered to more than 60% of the population in developed countries. However, the monovalent vaccines currently available in Europe do not confer adequate and durable immune protection. To satisfy the need for a novel vaccine, we engineered a divalent gene construct consisting of the receptor binding domain (RBD, 300-685 aa) of the spike protein and the immunodominant region of the nucleocapsid (100-300 aa). This fusion protein was cloned into a pET-30a plasmid and expressed either inEscherichia colior in a recombinant baculovirus in insect cells. Following purificationviaits His-tag, the fusion protein was mixed with adjuvant, and administered to mice in a prime-booster-mode. Upon testing for IgG antibody response against nucleocapsid and RBD, a titer of 10−4- 10−5was demonstrated 14 days after the first booster injection in 72% of the animals, which could be increased to 100% by a second booster. Notably, comparable IgG responses were detected against the delta, gamma and omicron variants of the RBD region. Durability testing revealed the presence of IgG beyond 90 days. In addition, granzyme A and perforin mRNA expression (cytolytic effector cell molecules) was increased in cytotoxic lymphocytes isolated from peripheral blood.Ex vivostimulation of T-cells by nucleocapsid and RBD peptides showed antigen-specific upregulation of CD44 in vaccinated mice among their CD4+and CD8+T-cells. No side-effect was documented in the central nervous system, be it either endothelial inflammation or neuronal damage. Cumulatively, the combined induction of B-cell and T-cell response by a bivalent protein-based vaccine directed against two structural SARS-CoV-2 proteins represents a proof-of-principle approach alternative to existing mRNA vaccination strategies, which could confer long-lasting immunity against all known viral strains.
Reducing Cholesterol in Macrophage Activates NF-kB through Mitochondria, Resulting in Epigenomic Reprogramming to Dampen Inflammation
Authors: Salloum Zeina , Dauner Kristin , Nakka Kiran , Verma Neha , Valdivieso-González David , Almendro-Vedia Víctor , McDonald Jeffery , Bandukwala Hina , Sorisky Alexander , López-Montero Iván , Dilworth Jeffery , Zha Xiaohui
Published: February 2022

Cholesterol plays an important role in macrophage functions including their immune response1. Recently, NF-kB was shown to reprogram the epigenome in macrophages2. Here, we show that NF-kB pathway is activated in resting macrophages when cholesterol is reduced by statin or methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MCD). Activated NF-kB increases the expression of histone-modifying enzymes, such as demethylase JMJD3. We provide evidence that the epigenome in these macrophages is reprogrammed, likely driven by NF-kB and histone modifications2. We also show that cholesterol reduction in macrophages results in suppression of mitochondria respiration. Specifically, cholesterol levels in the inner membrane of the mitochondria is reduced, which impairs the efficiency of ATP synthase (complex V). Consequently, protons accumulate in the intermembrane space to active NF-kB and JMJD3, thereby modifying the epigenome. When subsequently challenged by the inflammatory stimulus lipopolysaccharide (LPS), cholesterol-reduced macrophages generate responses that are less pro-inflammatory and more homeostatic, which should favour inflammation resolution. Taken together, we describe a mechanism by which the level of mitochondrial cholesterol in resting macrophages regulates the epigenome through NF-kB, thereby preparing macrophage for future immune activation.
Integrated single-cell sequencing reveals principles of epigenetic regulation of human gastrulation and germ cell development in a 3D organoid model
Authors: Chialastri Alex , Karzbrun Eyal , Khankhel Aimal H. , Radeke Monte J. , Streichan Sebastian J. , Dey Siddharth S.
Published: February 2022

The emergence of different cell types and the role of the epigenome in regulating transcription is a key yet understudied event during human gastrulation. Investigating these questions remain infeasible due to the lack of availability of embryos at these stages of development. Further, human gastrulation is marked by dynamic changes in cell states that are difficult to isolate at high purity, thereby making it challenging to map how epigenetic reprogramming impacts gene expression and cellular phenotypes. To overcome these limitations, we describe scMAT-seq, a high-throughput one-pot single-cell multiomics technology to simultaneously quantify DNA methylation, DNA accessibility and the transcriptome from the same cell. Applying scMAT-seq to 3D human gastruloids, we characterized the epigenetic landscape of major cell types corresponding to the germ layers and primordial germ cell-like cells (hPGCLC). As the identity of the progenitors that give rise to human PGCLCs remain unclear, we used this system to discover that the progenitors emerge from epiblast cells and show transient characteristics of both amniotic- and mesoderm-like cells, before getting specified towards hPGCLCs. Finally, as cells differentiate along different lineages during gastrulation, we surprisingly find that while changes in DNA accessibility are tightly correlated to both upregulated and downregulated genes, reorganization of gene body DNA methylation is strongly related to only genes that get downregulated, with genes that turn on displaying a lineage trajectory-dependent correlation with DNA methylation. Collectively, these results demonstrate that scMAT-seq is a high-throughput and sensitive approach to elucidate epigenetic regulation of gene expression in complex systems such as human gastrulation that are marked by rapidly transitioning cell states.
Single cell analysis of lymphatic endothelial cell fate specification and differentiation during zebrafish development
Authors: Grimm Lin , Mason Elizabeth , Yu Oliver , Dudczig Stefanie , Panara Virginia , Chen Tyrone , Bower Neil I. , Paterson Scott , Okuda Kazuhide , Galeano Maria Rondon , Kobayashi Sakurako , Senabouth Anne , Lagendijk Anne K. , Powell Joseph , Smith Kelly A. , Koltowska Katarzyna , Hogan Benjamin M.
Published: February 2022

During development, the lymphatic vasculature forms as a second, new vascular network derived from blood vessels. The transdifferentiation of embryonic venous endothelial cells (VECs) into lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) is the first step in this process. Specification, differentiation and maintenance of LEC fate are all driven by the transcription factor Prox1, yet downstream mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We present a single cell transcriptomic atlas of lymphangiogenesis in zebrafish revealing new markers and hallmarks of LEC differentiation over four developmental stages. We further profile single cell transcriptomic and chromatin accessibility changes in zygotic prox1a mutants that are undergoing a VEC-LEC fate reversion during differentiation. Using maternal and zygotic prox1a/prox1b mutants, we determine the earliest transcriptomic changes directed by Prox1 during LEC specification. This work altogether reveals new transcriptional targets and regulatory regions of the genome downstream of Prox1 in LEC maintenance, as well as showing that Prox1 specifies LEC fate primarily by limiting blood vascular and hematopoietic fate. This extensive single cell resource provides new mechanistic insights into the enigmatic role of Prox1 and the control of LEC differentiation in development.
An efficient and cost-effective method for directed mutagenesis at multiple dispersed sites – a case study with Omicron Spike DNA
Authors: Rani Rita , Parsa Kishore V.L. , Chatti Kiranam , Sevilimedu Aarti
Published: February 2022

Site directed mutagenesis is an invaluable technique which enables the elucidation of the contribution of specific residues to protein structure and function. The simultaneous introduction of mutations at a large number of sites (>10), singly and in multiple combinations is often necessary to fully understand the functional contributions. We report a simple, efficient, time and cost effective method to achieve this using commonly available molecular biology reagents and protocols, as an alternative to gene synthesis. We demonstrate this method using the Omicron Spike DNA construct as an example, and create a construct bearing 37 mutations (as compared to wild-type Spike DNA), as well as four other constructs bearing subsets of the full spectrum of mutations. We believe that this method can be an excellent alternative to gene synthesis, especially when three or more variants are required.

Graphical Abstract
Integrated autonomous optical navigation using Q-Learning extended Kalman filter
Authors: Xiong Kai , Wei Chunling , Zhou Peng
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to improve the performance of the autonomous optical navigation using relativistic perturbation of starlight, which is a promising technique for future space missions. Through measuring the change in inter-star angle due to the stellar aberration and the gravitational deflection of light with space-based optical instruments, the position and velocity vectors of the spacecraft can be estimated iteratively.

Design/methodology/approach

To enhance the navigation performance, an integrated optical navigation (ION) method based on the fusion of both the inter-star angle and the inter-satellite line-of-sight measurements is presented. A Q-learning extended Kalman filter (QLEKF) is designed to optimize the state estimate.

Findings

Simulations illustrate that the integrated optical navigation outperforms the existing method using only inter-star angle measurement. Moreover, the QLEKF is superior to the traditional extended Kalman filter in navigation accuracy.

Originality/value

A novel ION method is presented, and an effective QLEKF algorithm is designed for information fusion.
Optimization and off-design calculations of a turbojet engine using the hybrid ant colony – particle swarm optimization method
Authors: Piskin Altug , Baklacioglu Tolga , Turan Onder
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present component matching and off-design calculations using generic components maps.

Design/methodology/approach

Multi objective hybrid optimization code is integrated with turbojet function code. Both codes are developed for the research study. Initially, methodology is applied on a numerical propulsion system simulation (NPSS) example engine cycle calculations. Effect of matching constants are shown. Later, component matching and application is done on JetCat engine. Calculations are compared with measured test data. And additional operating conditions are calculated using the matched component constants.

Findings

Obtained matching constants provided very good results with NPSS example and also JetCat test measurements. Optimization algorithm is practical for turbojet engine component matching and off-design calculations. Off-design matching provides information about the turbine and exhaust areas of an unknown turbine engine. Thus it is possible to perform off design calculations at various operating conditions. Finding detailed turbine maps is difficult than finding compressor maps. In that case characteristic turbine curve may be a good alternative.

Research limitations/implications

Selected component maps and the target engine components should be similar characteristics. For a one/two stage turbine, characteristic curves can be applied. Validation should be extended on different type of compressor and turbines.

Practical implications

Operators and researchers usually need more information about the available turbojet engines for increasing the effective usage. Generally, manufacturers do not provide such detailed information to public. This study introduces an alternative methodology for engine modeling by using generic component maps and thus obtaining information for off-design calculations. User is flexible for selecting/scaling the compressor and turbine maps.

Originality/value

A hybrid optimization code is used as a new approach. It can be used with other engine functions; for instance functions corresponding to turboshaft or turbofan engines, by modifying the engine function. Number of input parameters and objective functions can be modified accordingly.
The impact of green marketing mix elements on green customer based brand equity in an emerging market
Authors: Nguyen-Viet Bang
Published: February 2022

Purpose

“Green” issues have become increasingly important to corporate decision-makers as firms face mounting public sensitivity, stricter regulation and growing stakeholder pressures focused on preserving the natural environment. This study aims to evaluate the impact of green marketing mix elements on green customer-based brand equity in an emerging market like Vietnam and to analyze the causal order among green customer-based brand equity dimensions, which is important for understanding corporate branding efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows a quantitative approach through interviews with 870 consumers who had purchased plant-based milk products at milk stores, supermarkets/hypermarkets and convenience stores in Vietnam. Data were analyzed through structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results suggest that green marketing mix tools positively impact green customer-based brand equity creation. Furthermore, the results determine the causal order among green brand equity dimensions in the Vietnam context.

Practical implications

Marketers invest more in green marketing programs to increase green customer-based brand equity. To benefit from significant competitive and economic benefits, firms should develop a green brand image, satisfaction, trust and green loyalty.

Originality/value

The study's findings elucidate the impacts of green marketing on the various components of customer-based brand equity to establish and manage brand equity. They also explain how best to target various green marketing values toward discrete consumer segments based on the degree to which a given segment's membership is predisposed to be concerned about the environment or evaluate the environmental consequences of their behaviors.
Consumer awareness of food waste, best before dates and food appreciation – a model project in the food retailing sector
Authors: Dreyer Jana Olivia , Lichtenstein Silke , Heil Eleonore A.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate what consumers think about food waste, best before date (BBD) and appreciation of food in the context of a model project in the food-retailing sector. The focus was on the following key questions: How is the issue of food waste itself perceived by consumers? What understanding of the BBD was present in the sample and what do consumers imagine under the term appreciation in the context of food? The study also included an evaluation of the acceptance of the model project by customers. In this project, food no longer suitable for sale was distributed free of charge to visitors of a supermarket via a freely accessible refrigerator.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design was based on a mixed methods approach in an explorative sequential design. First a qualitative survey was conducted via interviews (n = 8) with customers, and the results were used for a subsequent quantitative survey (n = 88) in the supermarket.

Findings

The majority of those questioned were sensitized to the topics of food waste, BBD and appreciation of food. The results of the interviews and the questionnaires revealed a consistently positive opinion about the model project. These results indicate potential for reducing food losses among consumers and in food retailing and for improving appreciation.

Originality/value

This was the first study conducted as part of a model project in the retail sector in the context of food waste. The study also investigated within in the project what people think about the BBD, food losses and appreciation. At the same time, the acceptance of the project was assessed.
All we want is authentic beer: the role of geographic communities and authenticity on breweries' reactions to competition
Authors: Cruz Margarita , Beck Nikolaus
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how authenticity limits businesses' responses to competition in the food and beverage industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses on a unique dataset of over 300 breweries and more than 1.300 beer drinkers in Franconia (Germany) to test the impact of authenticity on firms' reactions to competition within geographic communities. The paper uses ordinary least squares (OLS) and fractional logit models.

Findings

The findings reveal that breweries tend to enlarge their product portfolio by introducing non-authentic products as a response to competition in geographic communities, while reducing their product diversity and engagement in non-authentic segments when preferences for authenticity prevail in the geographic community. The findings further suggest that in geographic communities where both competition and preferences for authenticity are present, firms tend to keep their product portfolios narrow and withdraw non-authentic products even when product proliferation strategies would be more efficient to deal with competition.

Originality/value

This paper offers novel insights on the impact of authenticity on product proliferation strategies for food and beverage businesses. By showing that expectations on authenticity can constrain firms' product portfolio even in the presence of competition, this paper contributes to contemporary discussions in the fields of strategic management and organization theory about the role of authenticity for food and beverage firms. Unlike previous studies focusing on the benefits of authenticity for firms, the present study is one of the first ones to highlight the negative spillovers of authenticity for firms operating in the food and beverage industry.
Performance of three-echelon supply chain under uncertainty: influence of contract sequence and individual rationality
Authors: Gupta Rohit , Biswas Indranil , Mohanty B.K. , Kumar Sushil
Published: February 2022

Purpose

In the paper, the authors study the simultaneous influence of incentive compatibility and individual rationality (IR) on a multi-echelon supply chain (SC) under uncertainty. The authors study the impact of contract sequence on coordination strategies of a serial three-echelon SC consisting of a supplier, a manufacturer and a retailer in an uncertain environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a game-theoretic framework of a serial decentralized three-echelon SC. Under a decentralized setting, the supplier and the manufacturer can choose from two contract types namely, wholesale price (WP) and linear two-part tariff (LTT) and it leads to four different cases of contract sequence.

Findings

The study show that SC coordination is possible when both the supplier and the manufacturer choose LTT contract. This study not only identifies the influence of contract sequence on profit distribution among SC agents, but also establishes cut-off policies for all SC agents for each contract sequence. This study also examine the influence of chosen contract sequence on optimal profit distribution among SC agents.

Research limitations/implications

Three-echelon SC coordination under uncertain environment depends upon the contract sequence chosen by SC agents.

Practical implications

This study results will be helpful to managers of various SCs to take operational decisions under uncertain situations.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this study is that it explores the possibility of coordination by supply contracts for three-echelon SC in a fuzzy environment.
Manager-as-coach and use of scenistic tools for instruction
Authors: Lyons Paul , Bandura Randall P.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this essay is the provision of a conceptual approach for a manager-as-coach to use for instructional purposes with an employee. Using scenistic materials (cases, incidents, stories), the aim of the essay is to assist the practitioner apply a practical and relatively adaptable instructional approach. While it is intended for application with a single employee, the approach, with modifications, may be used in a small group environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology was directed to the study of manager-as-coach, application of a class of instructional tools, theories of constructivism and situated cognition and the joint (manager–employee) implementation of an action guide aimed at learning and performance improvement. Review and coordination of these areas resulted in a detailed guide for action.

Findings

Use of scenistic materials for instructional purposes adds to the repertoire of tools for a manager desiring to act in a coaching capacity. A step-by-step program of activities is offered for practical application. Created for experimentation and use is a research result-driven practical guide/action plan.

Practical implications

The design of the approach expressed requires the manager-as-coach to prepare for instruction and participate in it to the extent that the manager likely contributes to her/his own knowledge and skills in the areas under study. The step-by-step design not only guides the instructional process, it demands that the participants are fully engaged in creating new knowledge, assumptions and examples of practical implementation of what has been learned.

Originality/value

Currently, there is little information or research available to guide a manager in a coaching capacity in the use of situation-based (scenistic) instructional materials. The approach offered in this essay not only considers employee knowledge apprehension but also aims at performance3 improvement in a particular context. Additionally, the approach presented requires dialog, negotiation and focused application, all of which may help the participants improve the quality of their relationship.
Maintaining the status quo: the nature and role of policy stakeholders' perceptions of event value
Authors: Wallstam Martin
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper explores event value from the perspective of policy stakeholders and discusses potential implications of this stakeholder group's perceptions of value on event policy, event evaluation and the public discourse on the value of events.

Design/methodology/approach

A thematic analysis is employed to analyze nine interviews from respondents who were deemed to fit the study criteria in the case of Östersund, Sweden.

Findings

Findings indicate that value is portrayed in largely economic terms or in proxy-economic terms even though the respondents expressed awareness and concern for social aspects of value. Moreover, the article highlights the glaring omission of the relationship between policy stakeholders and the nature of evaluation efforts in the industry and academia.

Originality/value

The article addresses a still somewhat unexplored dynamics between influential policy stakeholders and how events are regarded in terms of their potential contribution to community development. To what degree does the way the events sector and the general public value events emanate from the way events have been instrumentalized in policy throughout history?
Why do people shop online? A comprehensive framework of consumers’ online shopping intentions and behaviors
Authors: Venkatesh Viswanath , Speier-Pero Cheri , Schuetz Sebastian
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Consumer adoption of online shopping continues to increase each year. At the same time, online retailers face intense competition and few are profitable. This suggests that businesses and researchers still have much to learn regarding key antecedents of online shopping adoption and success. Based on extensive past research that has focused on the importance of various online shopping antecedents, this work seeks to provide an integrative, comprehensive nomological network.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employ a mixed-methods approach to develop a comprehensive model of consumers online shopping behavior. To that end, in addition to a literature review, qualitative data are collected to identify a broad array of possible antecedents. Then, using a longitudinal survey, the model of consumer shopping intentions and behaviors is validated among 9,992 consumers.

Findings

The authors identified antecedents to online shopping related to culture, demographics, economics, technology and personal psychology. Our quantitative analysis showed that the main drivers of online shopping were congruence, impulse buying behavior, value consciousness, risk, local shopping, shopping enjoyment, and browsing enjoyment.

Originality/value

The validated model provides a rich explanation of the phenomenon of online shopping that integrates and extends prior work by incorporating new antecedents.
Not all deities were transformed in Igboland: a cultural history of the Api-Opi deity
Authors: Isiani Mathias Chukwudi , Onyemechalu Stanley Jachike , Osinem Somtochukwu C. , Dimelu Sopuluchukwu Amarachukwu , Obi-Ani Ngozika Anthonia
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study examines the cultural history of the Api-Opi deity in Opi, Nsukka, Enugu State of Nigeria. The study sets out to examine the re-emergence of youthful worshippers of Api-Opi, despite the penetration of Christianity in the area.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed ethnographic observation and field visits to the shrine of Api-Opi in Opi community of Enugu State, Nigeria. In addition, this study uncovers new information drawn from semi-structured interview questions undertaken in the study area between March and October of 2019.

Findings

Against certain claims on the impact of Christianity on Africa's traditional religions, the study found that the Api-Opi deity has withstood these post-colonial changes, growing its followership, particularly amongst the youths. It demonstrated the resilience of Igbo Traditional Worship System even in the midst of culture clash and religious iconoclasm advanced by Christianity in Igboland, Nigeria.

Originality/value

Evidence from this study helps debunk the notions of Eurocentric scholars who say African traditional religions are fetish, barbaric or primitive. It also shows how indigenous communities have protected and preserved their religious heritage despite the wave of modernization and other eternal influences. The study contributes to the increasing conversations about the role of traditional religion in the cultural resilience/revitalization of indigenous communities.
Blockchain technology adoption in government organizations: a systematic literature review
Authors: Falwadiya Himanshu , Dhingra Sanjay
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Blockchain technology is spreading its roots and growing rapidly. With the advancement of blockchain technology, government organizations are focusing toward adopting blockchain technology. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors that affect the adoption of blockchain technology and provide a conceptual framework to adopt blockchain technology in government organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

To answer the research questions, this study has used systematic literature review (SLR). For achieving the quality and transparent process, this study has applied the PRISMA framework in the SLR.

Findings

With the help of SLR, this study has identified 72 factors that influence the adoption of blockchain technology. After critically examining the factors, this study has developed the conceptual framework for the adoption of blockchain technology in government organizations with four factors of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model and four additional factors, i.e. facilitating conditions, social influence, effort expectancy, performance expectancy, trust, transparency, cost and security.

Research limitations/implications

To perform SLR, this study has used two databases: Web of Science and Google Scholar; future studies can consider other databases. This study has provided the framework but not validated it; future studies can use structural equation modeling and artificial neural network to validate the framework.

Practical implications

This study helps to provide insights about blockchain technology and help government and policymakers to take decisions for the adoption of blockchain technology and in determining the future action plan.

Originality/value

Few studies are available in the literature that have used SLR to identify blockchain technology adoption in government organizations.
Working with emotions: emotional intelligence, performance and creativity in the knowledge-intensive workforce
Authors: Stawicki Cassandra , Krishnakumar Sukumarakurup , Robinson Michael D.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether work-related emotional intelligence (W-EI) benefits job performance among knowledge-intensive workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Postdoctoral researchers (Study 1) and industry researchers (Study 2) were recruited (total N = 304). These knowledge workers completed an ability-based emotional intelligence (EI) test and characterized their work-related performance. Potential moderators were also assessed.

Findings

There were positive relations between W-EI scores and both task performance and creative performance. In addition, these relationships were stronger in the context of higher levels of job negative affect and/or role overload.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, these findings are among the first to demonstrate the value of the EI construct within a knowledge-intensive workforce.
The susceptibility of management accountants to framing bias
Authors: Enslin Zack , Hall John , du Toit Elda
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The emerging business partner role of management accountants (MAs) results in an increased requirement of MAs to make business decisions. Frame dependence cognitive biases regularly influence decisions made in conditions of uncertainty, as is the case in business decision-making. Consequently, this study aims to examine susceptibility of MAs to frame dependence bias.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted among an international sample of practising MAs. The proportion of MAs influenced by framing bias was analysed and compared to findings in other populations. Logistic regression was then used to determine whether MAs who exhibit a higher preference for evidence-based (as opposed to intuitive) decision-making are more susceptible to framing bias.

Findings

Despite a comparatively high preference for evidence-based decision-making, the prevalence of framing bias among MAs is comparable to that of other populations. A higher preference for evidence-based decision-making was found to only be associated with higher susceptibility to endowment effect bias.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to comprehensively examine framing bias for MAs as a group of decision-makers. Additionally, this study’s sample consists of practising MAs, and not only students.
Spatial variability and temporal patterns of internal price of carbon: a transitional management perspective
Authors: Chen Huifa , Shan Yuan George , Tang Qingliang , Zhang Junru
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate why companies use the internal price of carbon (IPC) for carbon management.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopt sustainable transition management theory to design the research and explain the findings of empirical models. The sample includes companies that participated in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) questionnaire survey, derived from 37 countries and regions for the period 2015–2018.

Findings

The results first reveal that transition management facilitates an upward adoption trend annually during the study period. Second, the authors find that the proxies for transition management are all correlated with the adoption of the IPC in the predicted direction. Third, the authors identify spatial patterns and driving factors for adoption of the IPC.

Originality/value

This study provides additional insight beyond the limited prior literature in this area. In particular, the findings regarding the influence of physical environment on climate-related decisions have not been documented in extant literature. IPC is expected to interact with and complement external price of carbon for climate change governance. Thus, the exploring results of the paper fill an important gap and pave the way for future study to examine emerging issues in the burgeoning field of carbon accounting for climate change.
Crafting telework: a process model of need satisfaction to foster telework outcomes
Authors: Biron Michal , Casper Wendy J. , Raghuram Sumita
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to offer a model explicating telework as a dynamic process, theorizing that teleworkers continuously adjust – their identities, boundaries and relationships – to meet their own needs for competence, autonomy and relatedness in their work and nonwork roles.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the lens of job crafting to posit changes teleworkers make to enhance work-nonwork balance and job performance, including time-related individual differences to account for contingencies in dynamic adjustments. Finally, this study discusses how feedback from work and nonwork role partners and one’s self-evaluation results in an iterative process of learning to telework over time.

Findings

This model describes how teleworkers craft work and nonwork roles to satisfy needs, enhancing key outcomes and eliciting role partner feedback to further recraft telework.

Research limitations/implications

The propositions can be translated to hypotheses. As such the dynamic model for crafting telework can be used as a basis for empirical studies aimed at understanding how telework adjustment process unfolds.

Practical implications

Intervention studies could focus on teleworkers’ job crafting behavior. Organizations may also offer training to prepare employees to telework and to create conditions under which teleworkers’ job crafting behavior more easily translates into need satisfaction and positive outcomes.

Social implications

Many employees would prefer to work from home, at least partly, when the COVID-19 crisis is over. This model offers a way to facilitate a smooth transition into this work mode while ensuring work nonwork balance and performance.

Originality/value

Most telework research takes a static approach to focus on the work–family interface. This study proffers a dynamic approach suggesting need satisfaction as the mechanism enabling one to combine work and domestic roles and delineating how feedback enables continuous adjustment in professional and personal roles.
Perception of organizational politics, knowledge hiding and organizational citizenship behavior: the moderating effect of political skill
Authors: Kaur Navneet , Kang Lakhwinder Singh
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Based on the conservation of resource (COR) theory, this study investigates the association between the perception of organizational politics and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) while considering the mediating role of knowledge hiding and moderating role of political skill in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected in a time-lagged survey in two waves with a three-week interval from frontline employees and their peers working in private sector banks in India. The hypothesized relationships were ascertained using the PROCESS macro for SPSS.

Findings

The results revealed a negative association between the perception of organizational politics and OCBs targeted at co-workers (OCBI), organization (OCBO) and customers (OCBC), both directly and indirectly, via knowledge hiding. Additionally, the negative indirect effect of the perception of organizational politics on OCB facets, via knowledge hiding, is buffered for individuals with high levels of political skill.

Originality/value

The current study portrays a more comprehensive understanding of the dynamics between the perception of organizational politics and OCB, with a particular emphasis on identifying the unidentified factors that may impact this liaison.
Differences in Gender and Civic Education in Ukraine
Authors: Craddock Alden
Published: February 2022

Evaluating the effectiveness of an internationally-developed civic education curriculum, this study randomly sampled 1,015 students to assess student learning about democracy in Ukraine. Statistically significant differences were found between male and female Ukrainian students who participated in the course. While this analysis discerns that boys seem to benefit more from the curriculum than girls, it also finds these differences to be minor. More importantly, the study verifies that while both boys and girls improve their knowledge of democratic content, they show no statistically significant difference in their improvement. Thus, the curriculum seems to have a positive effect on democratic attitudes among all of the students and, in particular, those of the male student population.
Working with Museums and Parks for Teacher Education
Authors: Waite Susan F. , Leavell Judy A.
Published: February 2022

This article explores the use of local and regional museums and parks as possible sites for pre-service teacher education. The authors describe collaborative projects involving an African-American history museum and a national historical park.
Hierarchical Models and Interdisciplinary Studies: Construct, Compose, and Communicate
Authors: Cook Tammy Crawford , Walker Juan , Wilson Elizabeth K.
Published: February 2022

With more students and less time, teachers from different subject areas are encouraged to work collaboratively with each other. Implementing the hierarchical design model at the early stages of students’ learning will increase their chances of learning to think analytically in all of their classes. Specifically targeting social studies and language arts for K-12 students, the authors of this paper suggest that teachers’ time and efforts spent in designing interdisciplinary lessons on the front end of instruction will culminate in a stronger exhibition of synthesis from students. Individual modifications can tailor the following ideas to suit topics in social studies curriculum throughout the school year while strengthening reading, writing, and communication skills in language arts.
Continuous improvement behaviors and impacts on innovation
Authors: Lizarelli Fabiane Letícia , Toledo José Carlos de , Gambi Lillian Do Nascimento , Gonçalves Celso Luiz
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper investigates whether adopting continuous improvement (CI) behaviors is related to better radical and incremental product and process innovation performance and identifies whether CI behaviors positively affect respondent perceptions on CI contributions to innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 139 firms in Brazil, and cluster analysis was used to identify groups with different CI adoption levels. The nonparametric Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney test was used to verify differences in innovation performance at companies via manager perceptions on CI and innovation.

Findings

Data show that more CI behavior implementation was associated with better product and process innovation performance. Furthermore, companies with more mature CI behavior levels innovate more, which may reinforce CI investments.

Practical implications

Organizational managers focused on innovation should dedicate time to evaluating and developing CI behaviors, and maturing CI philosophies to improve performance. This study can contribute to the literature by offering insights for developing public policies, especially for emerging economies, or for companies seeking to become more competitive, since CI can foster and promote a culture of long-term innovation.

Originality/value

Despite the fact that a relationship between CI and operational performance has already been established, there is still a lack of research that identifies the impacts of CI behavior on innovation. Focusing on CI behavior is important because it can be fostered by various programs and improvement initiatives, highlighting paths for managerial practices and academia. This study was conducted for an emerging economy.