bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemispheric divergence of interoceptive processing across psychiatric disorders
Authors: Adamic Emily M. , Teed Adam R. , Avery Jason A. , de la Cruz Feliberto , Khalsa Sahib S.
Published: December 2023

Interactions between top-down attention and bottom-up visceral inputs are assumed to produce conscious perceptions of interoceptive states, and while each process has been independently associated with aberrant interoceptive symptomatology in psychiatric disorders, the neural substrates of this interface are unknown. We conducted a preregistered functional neuroimaging study of 46 individuals with anxiety, depression, and/or eating disorders (ADE) and 46 propensity-matched healthy comparisons (HC), comparing their neural activity across two interoceptive tasks differentially recruiting top-down or bottom-up processing within the same scan session. During an interoceptive attention task, top-down attention was voluntarily directed towards cardiorespiratory or visual signals, whereas during an interoceptive perturbation task, intravenous infusions of isoproterenol (a peripherally-acting beta-adrenergic receptor agonist) were administered in a double-blinded and placebo-controlled fashion to drive bottom-up cardiorespiratory sensations. Across both tasks, neural activation converged upon the insular cortex, localizing within the granular and ventral dysgranular subregions bilaterally. However, contrasting hemispheric differences emerged, with the ADE group exhibiting (relative to HCs) an asymmetric pattern of overlap in the left insula, with increased or decreased proportions of co-activated voxels within the left or right dysgranular insula, respectively. The ADE group also showed less agranular anterior insula activation during periods of bodily uncertainty (i.e., when anticipating possible isoproterenol-induced changes that never arrived). Finally, post-task changes in insula functional connectivity were associated with anxiety and depression severity. These findings confirm the dysgranular mid-insula as a key cortical interface where attention and prediction meet real-time bodily inputs, especially during heightened awareness of interoceptive states. Further, the dysgranular mid-insula may indeed be a “locus of disruption” for psychiatric disorders.
Acetone-Butanol-Ethanol (ABE) fermentation with Clostridial Co-cultures for Enhanced Biobutanol Production
Authors: Kumar Karan , Jadhav Shraddha M. , Moholkar Vijayanand S.
Published: December 2023

This study investigates acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation, a process using solventogenicClostridiumspecies to produce acetone, butanol, and ethanol. Recent biotechnological advancements, such as omics, systems biology, and metabolic engineering, have reignited interest in butanol production, responding to the increasing gasoline costs and the demand for sustainable energy systems. This study unravels the distinct physiological attributes ofC. acetobutylicum(Cac) andC. pasteurianum(Cpa), significantly impacting sustainable bioenergy technologies. Employing response surface methodology (RSM), we embarked on a comprehensive statistical optimization journey in the co-culture system,CacMTCC 11274 andCpaMTCC 116, enhancing biobutanol production from mixed substrates. A spectrum of process parameters was scrutinized, encompassing the ratio ofCacandCpainoculum, sodium concentration, and the ratio of xylose to glucose. Statistical analysis revealed salt concentration’s profound influence on biomass, total alcohol, and butanol production. The culmination of these endeavors yielded highly promising outcomes: a butanol concentration of 12.1 ± 0.45 g L-1(model prediction: 11.87 g L-1), biomass of 4.15 ± 0.03 (model prediction: 4.06 OD600), and ABE concentration of 23.1 ± 0.55 g L-1(model prediction: 22.45 g L-1). These results represent a significant leap forward in bioenergy technologies, offering both practical insights and sustainable solutions for enhanced biofuel production.
Sequence types of EnteroaggregativeEscherichia colistrains recovered from human, animal, and environmental sources, India
Authors: Modgil Vinay , Kaur Harpreet , Mahindroo Jaspreet , Mohan Balvinder , Taneja Neelam
Published: December 2023

Objectives

In the current study, we report whole genome sequencing (WGS) data on EAEC strains from India to identify lineages and different sequence types (STs) in our geographical regions across North India.

Material and methods

We performed WGS comparative genomics characterization to examine the diversity of 122 EAEC strains collected from a large geographic area from clinical (Human sources) and non-clinical sources (animal and environmental sources). M-PCR for 21 virulence genes was performed. A triplex PCR detected phylogenetic groups A, B1, B2, and Dwas done. All strains were genome-sequenced, and bioinformatics analysis was performed.

Results

EAEC isolates belonged to 29 sequence types, further clustered into 11 clonal complexes, among which CC38 was the largest, containing 38 isolates mainly belonging to two ST types (ST38 and ST315). CC10 was the most diverse group, comprising 8 STs (ST43, ST2706, ST1286, ST 10, ST167, ST34, ST227, and ST4305). The most frequently detected virulence gene among the 96 clinical EAEC isolates wasastA (87.5%), followed by ORF3 (62.5%), andaap(54.1%).

Conclusion

These findings indicate the high diversity of EAEC and different sources of unique ST types of EAEC. Such genetic relatedness may be a favorable factor in exchanging virulence factors and other genes. The results of this study provide genetic evidence that farmed animals may act as a reservoir of EAEC.
Structural Insights into The Role of MAGEA4 in RAD18 Regulation: Implications for Ubiquitin Ligase-Binding across the MAGE Protein Family
Authors: Griffith-Jones Simonne , Álvarez Lucía , Mukhopadhyay Urbi , Gharbi Sarah , Rettel Mandy , Adams Michael , Hennig Janosch , Bhogaraju Sagar
Published: December 2023

Melanoma associated antigen 4 (MAGEA4) is a cancer-testis antigen (CTA) that is primarily expressed in the testes of healthy adults but is aberrantly overexpressed and also a poor prognostic marker in several human cancers. In its cancer-specific role, MAGEA4 interacts with RAD18 and activates trans-lesion DNA synthesis (TLS), potentially favouring tumour evolution. However, the precise mode of interaction between RAD18 and MAGEA4 and its implications on the ubiquitination activity of RAD18 are unknown. Here, we employed NMR and AlphaFold2 (AF) to reveal that the ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme RAD6-binding domain (R6BD) of RAD18 interacts with a groove in the C-terminal winged-helix subdomain (WH) of MAGEA4. Using cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS), we found that MAGEA4 displaces RAD6 from the R6BD of RAD18 and inhibits degradative autoubiquitination of RAD18, which could be countered by a competing short peptide of the RAD18 R6B region. AF and XL-MS also revealed an evolutionary invariant intramolecular interaction within RAD18 between the catalytic RING and the DNA-binding SAP domains that is essential for the ubiquitination of PCNA. Using interaction proteomics, we revealed that another Type-I MAGE, MAGE-C2, interacts with the RING ubiquitin ligase TRIM28 in a similar fashion as the MAGEA4/RAD18 complex. We propose that the peptide-binding groove identified in the C-terminal WH of MAGEA4 exists in other type-I MAGE proteins and serves as a ligase-binding cleft. Our data reveal crucial insights into RAD18-mediated ubiquitination of PCNA and its regulation by MAGE-A4.
Age-dependent RGS5 loss in pericytes induces cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis in the heart
Authors: Tamiato Anita , Tombor Lukas S. , Fischer Ariane , Muhly-Reinholz Marion , Vanicek Leah Rebecca , Toğru Büşra Nur , Neitz Jessica , Glaser Simone Franziska , Merten Maximilian , Morales David Rodriguez , Kwon Jeonghyeon , Klatt Stephan , Schumacher Bianca , Günther Stefan , Abplanalp Wesley , John David , Fleming Ingrid , Wettschureck Nina , Dimmeler Stefanie , Luxán Guillermo
Published: December 2023

Background

Pericytes are capillary-associated mural cells involved in the maintenance and stability of the vascular network. Although ageing is one of the main risk factors for cardiovascular disease, the consequences of ageing on cardiac pericytes are unknown.

Methods

In this study, we have combined single-nucleus RNA sequencing and histological analysis to determine the effects of ageing on cardiac pericytes. Furthermore, we have conducted in vivo and in vitro analysis of Regulator of G protein signalling 5 (RGS5) loss of function and finally have performed pericytes-fibroblasts co-culture studies to understand the effect of RGS5 deletion in pericytes on the neighbouring fibroblasts.

Results

Ageing reduced the pericyte area and capillary coverage in the murine heart. Single nucleus RNA sequencing analysis further revealed that the expression ofRgs5was reduced in cardiac pericytes from aged mice. In vivo and in vitro studies showed that the deletion of RGS5 impaired cardiac function, fibrosis, and induced morphological changes and a pro-fibrotic gene expression signature in pericytes characterized by the expression of different extracellular matrix components and growth factors e.g.TGFB2andPDGFB.Indeed, culturing fibroblasts with the supernatant of RGS5 deficient pericytes induced their activation as evidenced by the increased expression of α smooth muscle actin in a TGFβ2-dependent mechanism.

Conclusions

Our results have identified RGS5 as a crucial regulator of pericyte function during cardiac ageing. The deletion of RGS5 causes cardiac dysfunction and induces myocardial fibrosis, one of the hallmarks of cardiac ageing.
Category-based attention facilitates memory search
Authors: Shang Linlin , Yeh Lu-Chun , Zhao Yuanfang , Wiegand Iris , Peelen Marius V.
Published: December 2023

We often need to decide whether the object we look at is also the object we look for. When we look for one specific object, this process can be facilitated by preparatory feature-based attention. However, when we look for multiple objects at the same time (e.g., the products on our shopping list) such a strategy may no longer be possible, as research has shown that we can actively prepare to detect only one object at a time. Therefore, looking for multiple objects may additionally involve search in long-term memory, slowing down decision making. Interestingly, however, previous research has shown that memory search can be very efficient when distractor objects are from a different category than the items in the memory set. Here, using EEG, we show that this efficiency is supported by top-down attention at the category level. In Experiment 1, human participants (both sexes) performed a memory search task on individually presented objects of the same or different category as the objects in the memory set. We observed category-level attentional modulation of distractor processing from ∼150 ms after stimulus onset, expressed both as an evoked response modulation and as an increase in decoding accuracy of same-category distractors. In Experiment 2, memory search was performed on two concurrently presented objects. When both objects were distractors, spatial attention (indexed by the N2pc component) was directed to the object that was of the same category as the objects in the memory set. Together, these results demonstrate how attention can facilitate memory search.

Significance statement

When we are in the supermarket, we repeatedly decide whether a product we look at (e.g., a banana) is on our memorized shopping list (e.g., apples, oranges, kiwis). This requires searching our memory, which takes time. However, when the product is of an entirely different category (e.g., dairy instead of fruit), the decision can be made quickly. Here, we used EEG to show that this between-category advantage in memory search tasks is supported by top-down attentional modulation of visual processing: The visual response evoked by distractor objects was modulated by category membership, and spatial attention was quickly directed to the location of within-category (vs. between-category) distractors. These results demonstrate a close link between attention and memory.
Generation of transplantable and biologically responsive colonic tissue from human induced pluripotent stem cells using a rapid co-differentiation platform
Authors: Dalleywater William , Predeus Alexander V. , Cakir Batuhan , Mazin Pavel , Vadakekolathu Jayakumar , Rutella Sergio , Meakin Marian L. , Ritchie Alison A. , Montazid Shamir , Cuevas Ocaña Sara , Holmes Nadine , Wright Victoria , Sang Fei , Bills Adam , Sculthorpe Declan , Elmentaite Rasa , Teichmann Sarah A. , Irshad Shazia , Tomlinson Ian , Silver Andrew , Wildman Ricky D. , Hannan Nicholas R.F , Rose Felicity R.A.J. , Ilyas Mohammad
Published: December 2023

Background

The colonic mucosa consists of cell populations derived from multiple lineages. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are capable of generating large numbers of differentiated cells from any lineage. Thus, iPSCs are highly versatile for derivation of intestinal cells for generation of colonic mucosal tissue for clinical and biological applications.

Objective

We set out to create a human iPSC (hiPSC) multi-lineage co-differentiation platform capable of generating colonic mucosal tissue in vitro.

Design

We used hiPSCs and designed a differentiation protocol consisting of small molecules and recombinant growth factors to generate multiple cell lineages. Cells were seeded onto collagen hydrogels (forming colonic patches - CoPs) and modulated with multiple growth factors important in intestinal biology. CoPs were transplanted into immunosuppressed mice. Generated cells and tissues were profiled with transcriptomic analysis.

Results

hiPSC co-differentiation led to multiple intestinal epithelial, mesenchymal and endothelial cell populations. Seeded onto collagen scaffolds these cells created CoPs, which were transplanted into mouse subcutis. Engrafted CoPs developed into normal-looking colonic mucosa containing epithelial crypts (with enterocytes, goblet cells and neuroendocrine cells), multiple lamina propria-resident stromal populations and muscularis mucosae smooth muscle. They anastomosed to murine vasculature and maintained in-vitro for several weeks. We demonstrated that CoPs respond to known signalling pathways important in colonic mucosal biology and fibrogenesis, showing potential to provide a complex model of colonic pathobiology.

Conclusion

This platform could offer an accurate model of intestinal pathobiology, supply cells for regenerative cell therapies to treat intestinal disease, and provide therapeutic autologous grafts to repair damaged colon.
Cooperative Gsx2-DNA Binding Requires DNA Bending and a Novel Gsx2 Homeodomain Interface
Authors: Webb Jordan A. , Farrow Edward , Cain Brittany , Yuan Zhenyu , Yarawsky Alexander E. , Schoch Emma , Gagliani Ellen K. , Herr Andrew B. , Gebelein Brian , Kovall Rhett A.
Published: December 2023

The conserved Gsx homeodomain (HD) transcription factors specify neural cell fates in animals from flies to mammals. Like many HD proteins, Gsx factors bind A/T-rich DNA sequences prompting the question — how do HD factors that bind similar DNA sequencesin vitroregulate specific target genesin vivo? Prior studies revealed that Gsx factors bind DNA both as a monomer on individual A/T-rich sites and as a cooperative homodimer to two sites spaced precisely seven base pairs apart. However, the mechanistic basis for Gsx DNA binding and cooperativity are poorly understood. Here, we used biochemical, biophysical, structural, and modeling approaches to (1) show that Gsx factors are monomers in solution and require DNA for cooperative complex formation; (2) define the affinity and thermodynamic binding parameters of Gsx2/DNA interactions; (3) solve a high-resolution monomer/DNA structure that reveals Gsx2 induces a 20° bend in DNA; (4) identify a Gsx2 protein-protein interface required for cooperative DNA binding; and (5) determine that flexible spacer DNA sequences enhance Gsx2 cooperativity on dimer sites. Altogether, our results provide a mechanistic basis for understanding the protein and DNA structural determinants that underlie cooperative DNA binding by Gsx factors, thereby providing a deeper understanding of HD specificity.
Two distinct modes of hemodynamic responses across the human cortex
Authors: Epp Samira M. , Castrillón Gabriel , Yuan Beijia , Andrews-Hanna Jessica , Preibisch Christine , Riedl Valentin
Published: December 2023

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) detects changes in brain activity by measuring fluctuations in blood oxygenation. This interpretation relies on the mechanism of neurovascular coupling, which closely links changes in neuronal activity to changes in cerebral blood flow (CBF). Whether uniform neurovascular coupling applies to the entire human cortex is yet to be proven. We used blood-oxygenation-level-dependent (BOLD) fMRI along with quantitative fMRI to assess the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) associated with both positive and negative BOLD signal changes (ΔBOLD). In contradiction to the canonical hemodynamic model of BOLD signal responses, we found discordant CMRO2 in 12-36% of voxels with significant positive and in 52-66% of voxels with significant negative ΔBOLD. This implies that a considerable number of voxels with negative ΔBOLD exhibit increased metabolic activity and vice versa. During the baseline state, we found a lower oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) and oxygen metabolism in discordant compared to concordant voxels. During task states, ΔOEF replaces ΔCBF as the primary mechanism of oxygen supply in discordant voxels. Thus, we propose OEF as a complementary hemodynamic response type to CBF in regulating oxygen demand in the human brain. In such conditions, the traditional interpretation of positive and negative BOLD signal changes in terms of increased or decreased neural activity will be misleading, and we recommend quantitative fMRI or additional CBF measurements for a more valid interpretation of regional BOLD signal changes in relation to neuronal activity.
TheCryptococcusextracellular vesicle transcriptome
Authors: Taheraly Adam , Maufrais Corinne , Moyrand Frédérique , Colin Jessie , Coppee Jean-Yves , Janbon Guilhem
Published: December 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are now recognized as key players in the biology of numerous organisms, including pathogenic fungi. However, studying EVs in these organisms remains challenging. The recent implementation of new protocols to purify EVs in the pathogenic yeastCryptococcus neoformanshas resulted in a more detailed description of their structure and protein composition. Although a few publications describing RNA molecules associated with EVs have already been published, we reasoned that these new protocols would be beneficial for gaining a deeper understanding of the EV transcriptome. We thus purified EVs and confirmed that some RNAs were associated with these EV extracts. Iodixanol gradient analyses also revealed that these RNAs co-sedimented with EVs. We then sequenced these RNAs in parallel with RNAs extracted from the very cells producing these EVs using different types of sequencing libraries. Our data confirm the presence of siRNAs and tRFs associated with EVs, some of which are enriched. We also identified some snoRNAs, which inCryptococcus are mostly borne by coding gene or lncRNA introns.
Replication-attenuated r3LCMV vectors potentiate tumor control via IFN-I
Authors: Chung Young Rock , Awakoaiye Bakare , Dangi Tanushree , Fourati Slim , Penaloza-MacMaster Pablo
Published: December 2023

Viral vectors are being used for the treatment of cancer. Yet their efficacy varies among tumors and their use poses challenges in immunosuppressed patients, underscoring the need for alternatives. We report striking antitumoral effects by a nonlytic viral vector based on attenuated lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (r3LCMV). We show in multiple tumor models that injection of tumor-bearing mice with this novel vector results in improved tumor control and survival. Importantly, r3LCMV also improved tumor control in immunodeficient Rag1-/- mice. Single cell RNA-Seq analyses, antibody blockade experiments, and KO models revealed a critical role for host IFN-I in the antitumoral efficacy of r3LCMV vectors. Collectively, these data demonstrate potent antitumoral effects by a replication-attenuated LCMV vector and unveil mechanisms underlying its antitumoral efficacy.
Targeting F-actin stress fibers to suppress the dedifferentiated phenotype in chondrocytes
Authors: Schofield Mandy M. , Rzepski Alissa , Hammerstedt Jonah , Shah Sohan , Mirack Chloe , Parreno Justin
Published: December 2023

Actin is a central mediator of the chondrocyte phenotype. Monolayer expansion of articular chondrocytes on tissue culture polystyrene, for cell-based repair therapies, leads to chondrocyte dedifferentiation. During dedifferentiation, chondrocytes spread and filamentous (F-)actin reorganizes from a cortical to a stress fiber arrangement causing a reduction in cartilage matrix expression and an increase in fibroblastic matrix and contractile molecule expression. While the downstream mechanisms regulating chondrocyte molecular expression by alterations in F-actin organization have become elucidated, the critical upstream regulators of F-actin networks in chondrocytes are not completely known. Tropomyosin (TPM) and the RhoGTPases are known regulators of F-actin networks. The purpose of this study is to elucidate the regulation of passaged chondrocyte F-actin stress fiber networks and cell phenotype by the specific TPM, TPM3.1, and the RhoGTPase, CDC42. Our results demonstrated that TPM3.1 associates with cortical F-actin and stress fiber F-actin in primary and passaged chondrocytes, respectively. In passaged cells, we found that TPM3.1 inhibition causes F-actin reorganization from stress fibers back to cortical F-actin and also causes an increase in G/F-actin. CDC42 inhibition also causes formation of cortical F-actin. However, CDC42 inhibition, but not TPM3.1 inhibition, leads to the re-association of TPM3.1 with cortical F-actin. Both TPM3.1 and CDC42 inhibition reduces nuclear localization of myocardin related transcription factor, which is known to suppress dedifferentiated molecule expression. We confirmed that TPM3.1 or CDC42 inhibition partially redifferentiates passaged cells by reducing fibroblast matrix and contractile expression, and increasing chondrogenic SOX9 expression. A further understanding on the regulation of F-actin in passaged cells may lead into new insights to stimulate cartilage matrix expression in cells for regenerative therapies.
Early stage of life is characterized by increased excitability of the auditory cortex in both humans and rats
Authors: Lehtomäki Krista , Keinänen Jari , Parkkonen Lauri , Mondal Riaz Uddin , Penttonen Markku , Parviainen Tiina
Published: December 2023

Auditory evoked response (ER) undergoes notable changes during childhood and likely reflects changes in synaptic signaling in the auditory cortex. Establishing the interspecies generalizability of electrophysiological indicators of cortical maturation would offer a means to better understand the neurodevelopment of the human brain. We measured cortical ERs to simple auditory probes in three age groups of human subjects and juvenile rats. These two species exhibited a remarkably similar long-latency (150–350 ms poststimulus) response in the auditory cortex, specifically pronounced in the younger individuals in both species. An age-dependent pattern of activity was evident at the level of single trials, and the late response showed stronger trial-by-trial stability in children than the early, adult-like 100-ms response, especially in humans. This robust development-related pattern of sensory cortex excitability is likely to represent a distinct synaptic event and may be a marker of the maturational stage, especially in GABAergic cortical circuits.
Two transcriptional cascades orchestrate cockroach leg regeneration
Authors: Ren Chonghua , Wen Yejie , Zheng Shaojuan , Zhao Zheng , Li Ethan Yihao , Zhao Chenjing , Liao Mingtao , Li Liang , Zhang Xiaoshuai , Liu Suning , Yuan Dongwei , Wang Wei , Fei Jifeng , Li Sheng
Published: December 2023

The mystery of appendage regeneration has fascinated humans for centuries, while the regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, a transcriptional landscape of regenerating leg was established in the American cockroach,Periplaneta americana, an ideal model for appendage regeneration with remarkable regeneration capacity. Through a large-scalein vivoscreening, we identified multiple signaling pathways and transcription factors (TFs) controlling leg regeneration. Specifically,zfh-2andbowl,which have not been previously implicated in appendage regeneration, contributes to blastema proliferation and morphogenesis in two novel transcriptional cascades BMP/JAK-STAT-zfh-2-bab1/B-H2/Lim1and Notch-drm/bowl-bab1. Notably,zfh-2was found working as a direct target of BMP signaling to promote cell proliferation in the blastema. These mechanisms might be conserved in the appendage regeneration of vertebrates from an evolutionary perspective. Overall, our findings reveal that two crucial transcriptional cascades orchestrate distinct cockroach leg regeneration processes, significantly advancing the comprehension of molecular mechanism in appendage regeneration.
Anthropometric evaluation of side, sex and age by radiological examination of the normal ankle joint among adult Egyptian population
Authors: Nasr El-Din Wael Amin , Mohammed Ali Mona Hassan , Madani Gisma Ahmed , Abdel Fattah Islam Omar
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Sex and age estimation is important, particularly when information about the deceased is unavailable. There are limited radiological studies investigating side, sex and age differences in normal ankle morphometric parameters. The authors’ goal was to evaluate different ankle joint morphometric measurements and document variations among Egyptians.

Design/methodology/approach

A prospective study was conducted throughout 23 months on 203 (100 males and 103 females) adult Egyptians, aged between 20-69 years old, who were referred for a plain x-ray of bilateral normal ankle joints.

Findings

Ankle parameters showed no statistical difference between both sides, except for tarsal width (TaW) which was significantly higher on right than left side (26.92 ± 2.66 vs 26.18 ± 2.65 mm). Males showed significantly higher morphometric values except for anteroposterior gap (APG) and talus height (TaH) which were significantly higher in females (2.29 ± 0.80 vs 1.80 ± 0.61 mm and 13.01 ± 1.68 vs 11.87 ± 1.91 mm, respectively). There was significant increase in tibial arc length, APG, distance of level of MTiTh from anterior limit of mortise, distance of level of MTiTh from vertex of mortise, sagittal distance between tibial and talar vertices and sagittal radius of trochlea tali arc in old age group compared to young one. A significant decrease in tibial width, malleolar width, TaW and TaH was noted in old age group compared to young one.

Originality/value

Ankle joints of both sides are mostly symmetrical; however, there are significant differences in most morphometric values due to sex and age factors. These findings may be essential during side, sex and age determination.
An integrated model of social media brand engagement: an empirical study of the Vietnamese luxury residential property market
Authors: Sinh My Nguyen , Nguyen Long T.V. , Pham Hiep Cong
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Property developers identify the vital role of social media brand engagement (SMBE) in sustaining their businesses in competitive marketplaces, but it remains underexplored. This paper examines how SMBE mediates the effects of firm-generated content (FGC) and user-generated content (UGC) on brand trust, considering the moderating effects of social media influencer endorsement (SMIE) and self-image congruence (SIC) for luxury residential properties (LRPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Around 516 high-income homebuyers in Vietnam who shared information about LRP on social media were targeted to test the research model empirically. The primary data collected from paper-based surveys were analysed using SPSS 26 and AMOS 24.

Findings

Results indicate that FGC and UGC positively impact SMBE and consequently significantly affect brand trust. Further, results confirm the moderating roles of SMIE and SIC in the effects of FGC and UGC on SMBE.

Research limitations/implications

Data and sample size were limited to meet the generalisation from different nations and cross cultures.

Practical implications

The authors' findings suggest that marketers should apply the authors' integrated SMBE model to strengthen brand–consumer interactions and increase their sales revenue.

Originality/value

This study is the first in its application of the uses and gratifications theory and self-congruence theory to investigate how SMBE mediates the relationship between FGC and brand trust as well as between UGC and brand trust. Noticeably, this study makes a novel contribution as the first to quantitatively explore the moderating effects of SMIE and SIC in the authors' research model.
Pricing strategy of first-enjoy-after-pay service offered by two-sided media platforms
Authors: Zhang Xiaojing , Zhang Yulin
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study highlights the impact of mental accounts on a user's decision-making regarding payment schemes and aims to determine the pricing strategy for the first-enjoy-after-pay service offered by the two-sided media platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study establishes a game-theoretic model and utilizes backward induction to derive the equilibrium price by maximizing the monopolist's profit.

Findings

The findings indicate that the conditions for a two-sided media platform to offer the first-enjoy-after-pay service depend on the trade-off between pleasure attenuation and pain buffering and the effect of time discounts. Moreover, the authors found that the time discount is a critical factor in determining pricing strategies under various payment schemes offered by the platform.

Research limitations/implications

This work adopts a uniform pricing strategy for users who opt for either immediate or post-payment schemes. Nevertheless, it is important to note that this approach has limitations in terms of offering discriminatory pricing for those who choose both payment schemes.

Practical implications

This analytical work provides valuable insights for two-sided media platforms to optimize their payment scheme strategies and pricing considering the influence of a user's mental account.

Originality/value

In a two-sided media platform, the authors provide applicable conditions for the platform to offer first-enjoy-after-pay service considering the effect of mental accounts. Further, the authors show the optimal pricing strategy under different payment schemes provided by the platform.
Process model for international building permit benchmarking and a validation example using the Israeli building permit process
Authors: Fauth Judith , Bloch Tanya , Soibelman Lucio
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Building permitting is mostly a manual, labor intensive and time-consuming process. Initiatives for streamlining the process are not always helpful since they often fail to address the core problems within the process. A framework for modeling the permitting process can be useful to identify bottlenecks, core challenges and best practices. Hence, the authors aim to demonstrate and validate a previously suggested workflow for permit process modeling using the permitting process in Israel as a test case.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors implement qualitative expert interviews for data acquisition. The collected data are then processed for a qualitative data analysis. The results of the analysis are then validated using a focus group workshop in the field of building permits. In the test case the focus group consisted of Israeli experts.

Findings

The authors present a detailed overview of the as-is building permit process in Israel and the existing challenges. Through this test case, the authors found that the framework is applicable in different countries and that it can provide valuable insights into the core problems within the process. In addition, application of the same framework in different countries can provide comparable results that would allow the authors to identify best practices.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this work is the development and validation of a framework for building permitting process modeling which can be used to identify existing challenges and bottlenecks in the process. Implementing a structured and unified approach provides an opportunity to easily compare processes in different countries to identify best practices.
Enhancing risk assessment: an improved Bayesian network approach for analyzing interactions among risks
Authors: Madihi Mohammad Hosein , Shirzadi Javid Ali Akbar , Nasirzadeh Farnad
Published: December 2023

Purpose

In traditional Bayesian belief networks (BBNs), a large amount of data are required to complete network parameters, which makes it impractical. In addition, no systematic method has been used to create the structure of the BBN. The aims of this study are to: (1) decrease the number of questions and time and effort required for completing the parameters of the BBN and (2) present a simple and apprehensible method for creating the BBN structure based on the expert knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, by combining the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and BBN, a model is introduced that can form the project risk network and analyze the impact of risk factors on project cost quantitatively based on the expert knowledge. The ranked node method (RNM) is then used to complete the parametric part of the BBN using the same data obtained from the experts to analyze DEMATEL.

Findings

Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

Compared to the traditional BBN, the proposed method will significantly reduce the time and effort required to elicit network parameters and makes it easy to create a BBN structure. The results obtained from the implementation of the model on a mass housing project showed that considering the identified risk factors, the cost overruns relating to material, equipment, workforce and overhead cost were 37.6, 39.5, 42 and 40.1%, respectively. The obtained results are based on a single case study project and may not be readily generalizable.

Originality/value

The presented framework makes the BBN more practical for quantitatively assessing the impact of risk on project costs. This helps to manage financial issues, which is one of the main reasons for project bankruptcy.
IoT-based digital twin best practices for reducing operational carbon in building retrofitting: a mixed-method approach
Authors: Ohueri Chukwuka Christian , Masrom Md. Asrul Nasid , Habil Hadina , Ambashe Mohamud Saeed
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The Internet of Things-based digital twin (IoT-DT) technologies offer a transformative approach to building retrofitting for reducing operational carbon (ROC) emissions. However, a notable gap exists between the potential and adoption of the two emerging technologies, further exacerbated by the nascent state of research in this domain. This research aims to establish the best practices that innovatively strengthen the identified enablers to decisively tackle challenges, ensuring the efficient implementation of IoT-DT for ROC emissions in buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a mixed-method approach. Questionnaire data from 220 multidiscipline professionals were analysed via structural equation modelling analysis, while interview data obtained from 18 stakeholders were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings were triangulated for cohesive interpretation.

Findings

After the analysis of questionnaire data, a structural model was established, depicting the critical challenges (inadequate data security, limited technical expertise and scalability issues) and key enablers (robust data security measures, skill development and government incentives) of implementing IoT-DT for ROC. Sequentially, analysis of in-depth interview data revealed the IoT-based DT best practices (safeguarding data, upskilling and incentivization). Upon triangulating the questionnaire and interview findings, this study explicitly highlights the potential of the established best practices to strategically strengthen enablers, thereby mitigating challenges and ensuring the successful implementation of IoT-based DT for ROC emissions in buildings.

Originality/value

This study provides practical guidance for stakeholders to effectively implement IoT-DT in ROC in buildings and contributes significantly to climate change mitigation.
Making sense of project governance and its role in strategy implementation: a governance-as-practice perspective
Authors: Musawir Ata Ul , Mohd-Danuri Mohd Suhaimi , Abd-Karim Saipol Bari
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper examines how expert practitioners define project governance and develop a project governance system that enables strategy implementation through projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with project governance experts and analyzed the data using thematic analysis. Subsequently, based on the stratified ontology of critical realism, retroductive theoretical triangulation was employed to explain the themes identified using five emergent theoretical perspectives.

Findings

By integrating the themes extracted from the data with the emergent theoretical perspectives, a framework was developed outlining the general process through which practitioners make sense of the concept of project governance, formulate an appropriate project governance system for their respective organizations and manage its evolution over time. Furthermore, a holistic approach to project governance was proposed that spans the entire investment life cycle of projects and enables the implementation of strategy through projects.

Practical implications

This study attempts to make sense of the diverse interpretations of the concept of project governance adopted by practitioners. It further summarizes valuable insights from expert practitioners for formulating and enacting effective project governance systems.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the governance-as-practice perspective and the growing stream of literature that views projects as investments. The project governance system is positioned as the steward of an organization's investments in projects.
The power of embeddedness: how nodal power affects the value appropriation potential of firms in economic networks?
Authors: Pani Saroj Kumar , Tripathy Madhusmita
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper explains why some firms manage to capture disproportionate value from their network of relationships, leading to superior performance. The paper examines how a firm's dependencies affect its value appropriation potential (VAP) in economic networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows the axiomatic method and the embeddedness perspective of firms to develop an index called nodal power, which captures the power that accrues to a firm in exchange-based economic networks. Thereafter, using the formal method and simulation, it shows nodal power reflects a firm's VAP in economic networks.

Findings

The study analysis and findings prove that a firm's dyadic level exchange relations and the embedded network structure determine its VAP by affecting the nodal power. A firm with lesser nodal power is likely to appropriate less value from its relations even if it equally contributes to the value creation. This finding explains how the structural and relational characteristics of a firm's network enable disproportionate value appropriation.

Practical implications

Nodal power furthers the scope of analyzing firms' economic relationships and changing power equations in dynamic networks. It can help firms build optimal strategic networks and manage the portfolio of relationships by predicting the impact of changing relations on firms' VAP.

Originality/value

The paper's original contribution is to explain, through formal analysis, why and how the structure and nature of relations of firms affect their VAP. The paper also formalizes the power-dependence principle through a dependency-based index called nodal power and uses it to show how interfirm dependencies are key to value appropriation.
Tribological glazing evolution of fixed abrasive pad under different polishing solution conditions
Authors: Tian Changliu , Wu Yabo , Pang Minghua , Wang Zhankui
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to clarify the influence mechanism of polishing solution type on the glazing evolution of fixed abrasive pad under different interfacial pressure conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The tribological experiments were carried out on the friction and wear machinery with W3-5 diamond fixed abrasive pad and quartz glass workpiece under three polishing solution types of five pressure conditions. The changes of surface morphology, porosity and hardness of fixed abrasive pad were detected by white light interferometer, optical microscope and shore hardness tester.

Findings

The results showed that the glazed phenomenon of fixed abrasive pad is occurred after a certain time, which is more obvious with the increasing of interfacial pressures. The polishing solution type has a significant effect on the glazing time, although the glazed phenomenon is inevitable. The mechanism of it is that the micro-convex peaks on the surface of the fixed abrasive pad are easily wear, and the pores are blocked by the accumulation of waste debris generated during the experiment process. Thus, a smooth and high-density hard layer is formed on the surface of the fixed abrasive pad which induces the decreasing of the friction coefficient and surface roughness value. For selected polishing solution types, the wear rate of micro-convex peaks is different due to the corrosion action difference with polishing pad surface.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this work is to provide a new investigating method for further understanding the glazing evolution mechanism of fixed abrasive pad.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2023-0257/
Illuminating the road ahead: unlocking the potential of ICTs for enhanced data visibility in road transportation
Authors: Callefi Mario Henrique , Ganga Gilberto Miller Devós , Godinho Filho Moacir , Ribeiro da Silva Elias , Osiro Lauro , Reis Vasco
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Road freight transportation companies need to take advantage of information and communication technologies to develop capabilities. This study proposes a framework to guide road freight transportation companies to achieve data visibility in their operations by developing such capabilities. By proposing this framework, this research contributes to literature and practice, highlighting the capabilities and the respective supporting technologies for improved data visibility in road freight transportation.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach is used to develop the framework, considering three methodological steps. In phase 1, the capabilities are identified in the literature and validated by experts. In phase 2, an empirical assessment of cause–effect relationships between capabilities is performed using a multiple case study and DEMATEL. Lastly, in phase 3, an analysis of the cause model and significant associations is conducted to enable the development of the framework. In addition, the proposed framework was validated by the experts interviewed.

Findings

The results provide a framework that explains the link between the technology-enabled data visibility capabilities in road freight transportation operations. In addition, a pathway was established that road freight transportation companies could follow to achieve data visibility in their operations by developing such capabilities.

Originality/value

This work develops the first framework that provides a path for data visibility in road freight transportation operations from adopting certain technologies. The insights are compelling for researchers and practitioners to optimize the decision-making process for adopting technologies and developing capabilities related to data visibility.
Challenges faced by family-owned education institutions in Nepal in implementing effective succession planning strategies
Authors: Upadhyaya Arpan , Kuknor Sunaina
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The paper examines the succession management strategies and the preparation level of heirs in the context of family-owned educational institutions in Nepal.

Design/methodology/approach

Sixteen in-depth, semi-structured interviews with the institution's leader were conducted. Each interview was transcribed using content analysis. Several themes and new items emerged that define the institutional strategies in succession management.

Findings

The paper provides insight into the challenges of implementing effective succession management strategies. The identified themes are traits, processes, challenging aspects and effective plans. The study's findings show the lack of awareness about the importance of succession planning among the institution owners due to the availability of limited resources. The paper also provides some insights into how family ownership and management are done and the lack of formal processes in succession management strategies.

Practical implications

This paper offers readers the chance to think about succession planning strategies. Also, it adds value in their critical analysis of the succession plan. The study advised the learners to consider additional elements that can impact succession planning, such as experience, educational requirements and their desire to work. It will aid researchers in considering the societal perspective of the successor, which is also a significant worry.

Originality/value

It focuses on a specific context, private schools in Nepal, and examines the challenges they face in implementing succession management strategies. The paper tries to identify the approach that may reveal potential solutions that have not been considered. The paper aims to clearly articulate the unique contributions of the study and explain how it advances the existing literature on succession management.