bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental emergence of first- and higher-order thalamic neuron molecular identities
Authors: Lo Giudice Quentin , Wagener Robin J. , Abe Philipp , Frangeul Laura , Jabaudon Denis
Published: January 2024

The thalamus is organized into nuclei that have distinct input and output connectivities with the cortex. While first-order (FO) nuclei – also called core nuclei – relay input from sensory organs on the body surface and project to primary cortical sensory areas, higher-order (HO) nuclei – matrix nuclei – instead receive their driver input from the cortex and project to secondary and associative areas within cortico-thalamo-cortical loops. Input-dependent processes have been shown to play a critical role in the emergence of FO thalamic neuron identity from a ground state HO neuron identity, yet how this identity emerges during development remains unknown. Here, using single-cell RNA sequencing of the developing embryonic thalamus, we show that FO thalamic identity emerges after HO identity and that peripheral input is critical for the maturation of excitatory, but not inhibitory FO-type neurons. Our findings reveal that subsets of HO neurons are developmentally co-opted into FO-type neurons, providing a mechanistic framework for the diversification of thalamic neuron types during development and evolution.

Summary Statement

Subsets of higher-order thalamic neurons are developmentally co-opted into first-order type neurons, providing a framework for the diversification of thalamic neuron types during development and evolution.
Contribution of cellular macromolecules to the diffusion of a 40 nm particle inEscherichia coli
Authors: Losa José , Heinemann Matthias
Published: January 2024

Due to the high concentration of proteins, nucleic acids and other macromolecules, the bacterial cytoplasm is typically described as a crowded environment. However, the extent to which each of these macromolecules individually affects the mobility of macromolecular complexes, and how this depends on growth conditions, is presently unclear. In this study, we sought to quantify the crowding experienced by an exogenous 40 nm fluorescent particle in the cytoplasm ofE. coliunder different growth conditions. By performing single particle tracking measurements in cells selectively depleted of DNA and/or mRNA, we determined the contribution to crowding of mRNA, DNA and remaining cellular components, i.e., mostly proteins and ribosomes. To estimate this contribution to crowding, we quantified the difference of the particle’s diffusion coefficient in conditions with and without those macromolecules. We found that the contributions of the three classes of components were of comparable magnitude, being largest in the case of proteins and ribosomes. We further found that the contributions of mRNA and DNA to crowding were significantly larger than expected based on their volumetric fractions alone. Finally, we found that the crowding contributions change only slightly with the growth conditions. These results reveal how various cellular components partake in crowding of the cytoplasm and the consequences this has for the mobility of large macromolecular complexes.

Statement of Significance

The mobility of a particle of interest in the cytoplasm depends on a variety of factors that include the concentration, shape and physicochemical properties of crowding obstacles. Different macromolecules in the cell are therefore expected to hinder the mobility of a given particle to different extents. However, an accurate and systematic investigation of these hindrances to mobilityin vivohas not been yet carried out. In this work, through a novel combination of experimental and computational approaches, we determine the diffusion coefficient of a 40 nm particle in the cytoplasm ofE. coliunder conditions of selective removal of some macromolecules. This allows us to quantify the hindering effect of each of the depleted macromolecules on the mobility of the said particle. For DNA, mRNA, and remaining macromolecules, we observe that this effect is of comparable magnitude, being largest in the latter case. This work sheds light on the interplay between intracellular composition and the physical properties of the cytoplasm at the 40 nm scale.
Comparison of whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity methods for fMRI task connectomics
Authors: Masharipov Ruslan , Knyazeva Irina , Korotkov Alexander , Cherednichenko Denis , Kireev Maxim
Published: January 2024

Higher brain functions require flexible integration of information across widely distributed brain regions depending on the task context. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has provided substantial insight into large-scale intrinsic brain network organisation, yet the principles of rapid context-dependent reconfiguration of that intrinsic network organisation are much less understood. A major challenge for task connectome mapping is the absence of a gold standard for deriving whole-brain task-modulated functional connectivity matrices. Here, we perform biophysically realistic simulations to control the ground-truth task-modulated functional connectivity over a wide range of experimental settings. We reveal the best-performing methods for different types of task designs and their fundamental limitations. Importantly, we demonstrate that rapid (100 ms) modulations of oscillatory neuronal synchronisation can be recovered from sluggish haemodynamic fluctuations even at typically low fMRI temporal resolution (2 s). Finally, we provide practical recommendations on task design and statistical analysis to foster task connectome mapping.
Activity-Dependent Ectopic Spiking in Parvalbumin-Expressing Interneurons of the Neocortex
Authors: Theyel Brian B. , Stevenson Rachel J. , Connors Barry W.
Published: January 2024

Canonically, action potentials of most mammalian neurons initiate at the axon initial segment and propagate bidirectionally: orthodromically along the distal axon, and retrogradely into the soma and dendrites. Under some circumstances action potentials may initiate ectopically, at sites distal to the axon initial segment, and propagate antidromically along the axon. These ‘ectopic action potentials’ (EAPs) have been observed in experimental models of seizures and chronic pain, and more rarely in nonpathological forebrain neurons. Here we report that a large majority of parvalbumin-expressing (PV+) interneurons in upper layers of mouse neocortex, from both orbitofrontal and primary somatosensory areas, fire EAPs after sufficient activation of their somata. Somatostatin-expressing interneurons also fire EAPs, though less robustly. Ectopic firing in PV+ cells occurs in varying temporal patterns and can persist for several seconds. PV+ cells evoke strong synaptic inhibition in pyramidal neurons and interneurons and play critical roles in cortical function. Our results suggest that ectopic spiking of PV+ interneurons is common, and may contribute to both normal and pathological network functions of the neocortex.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

A form of neuronal firing that emerges in distal axons and terminals – the ‘ectopic action potential’ (EAP) – has been detected in a few cell populations of the cerebral cortex. Previous investigations of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in neocortex had suggested only a small percentage of cells can fire EAPs. We found that a large fraction of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the superficial layers of neocortex, including first-order and higher-order areas, can fire EAPs. These results broaden our understanding of the intrinsic firing characteristics of these critically important inhibitory interneurons.
Multiplex generation and single cell analysis of structural variants in a mammalian genome
Authors: Pinglay Sudarshan , Lalanne Jean-Benoit , Daza Riza M. , Koeppel Jonas , Li Xiaoyi , Lee David S. , Shendure Jay
Published: January 2024

The functional consequences of structural variants (SVs) in mammalian genomes are challenging to study. This is due to several factors, including: 1) their numerical paucity relative to other forms of standing genetic variation such as single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and short insertions or deletions (indels); 2) the fact that a single SV can involve and potentially impact the function of more than one gene and/orcisregulatory element; and 3) the relative immaturity of methods to generate and map SVs, either randomly or in targeted fashion, inin vitroorin vivomodel systems. Towards addressing these challenges, we developedGenome-Shuffle-seq, a straightforward method that enables the multiplex generation and mapping of several major forms of SVs (deletions, inversions, translocations) throughout a mammalian genome.Genome-Shuffle-seqis based on the integration of “shuffle cassettes’’ to the genome, wherein each shuffle cassette contains components that facilitate its site-specific recombination (SSR) with other integrated shuffle cassettes (via Cre-loxP), its mapping to a specific genomic location (via T7-mediatedin vitrotranscription or IVT), and its identification in single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) data (via T7-mediatedin situtranscription or IST). In this proof-of-concept, we applyGenome-Shuffle-seqto induce and map thousands of genomic SVs in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) in a single experiment. Induced SVs are rapidly depleted from the cellular population over time, possibly due to Cre-mediated toxicity and/or negative selection on the rearrangements themselves. Leveraging T7 IST of barcodes whose positions are already mapped, we further demonstrate that we can efficiently genotype which SVs are present in association with each of many single cell transcriptomes in scRNA-seq data. Finally, preliminary evidence suggests our method may be a powerful means of generating extrachromosomal circular DNAs (ecDNAs). Looking forward, we anticipate thatGenome-Shuffle-seqmay be broadly useful for the systematic exploration of the functional consequences of SVs on gene expression, the chromatin landscape, and 3D nuclear architecture. We further anticipate potential uses forin vitromodeling of ecDNAs, as well as in paving the path to a minimal mammalian genome.
Chronic potentiation of metabotropic glutamate receptor 2 with a nanobody accelerates amyloidogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lafon Pierre-André , Tsitokana Mireille Elodie , Alenda Ugo , Philibert Clémentine Eva , Oosterlaken Mathieu , Cimadevila Marta , Monnic Jessica , Roux Salomé , Bessié Julie , Diem Séverine , Vandermoere Franck , Prézeau Laurent , Chames Patrick , Kniazeff Julie , Claeysen Sylvie , Pin Jean-Philippe , Perrier Véronique , Liu Jianfeng , Rondard Philippe
Published: January 2024

Immunotherapy of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a promising approach to reduce the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ), a critical event in the onset of the disease. Targeting the group II metabotropic glutamate receptors, mGlu2 and mGlu3, could be important in controlling Aβ production, although their respective contribution remains unclear due to the lack of selective tools. Here, we show that enhancing mGlu2 receptor activity increases Aβ1-42peptide production whereas activation of mGlu3 has no effect. We show that such a difference likely results from the direct interaction of APP with mGlu3, but not with mGlu2 receptors, that prevents APP amyloidogenic cleavage and Aβ1-42peptides production. We then show that chronic treatments of the AD model 5xFAD mice with a brain-penetrating mGlu2-potentiating nanobody accelerated amyloid aggregation and exacerbated memory deficits, but had no effect in control mice. Our results confirm that a selective mGluR2 activation exacerbates AD disease development, suggesting that therapeutic benefices could be obtained with blockers of this receptor. Our study also provides the proof-of-concept that chronic administration of nanobodies targeting neuroreceptors can be envisioned to treat brain diseases.
Gut environmental factors explain variations in the gut microbiome composition and metabolism within and between healthy adults
Authors: Procházková Nicola , Laursen Martin F. , La Barbera Giorgia , Tsekitsidi Eirini , Jørgensen Malte S. , Rasmussen Morten A. , Raes Jeroen , Licht Tine R. , Dragsted Lars O. , Roager Henrik M.
Published: January 2024

The human gut microbiome is highly personal. However, the contribution of the gut environment to variations in the gut microbiome remains elusive. Here, we profiled the gut microbiome composition and metabolism over 9 consecutive days in 61 healthy adults and assessed gut environmental factors including segmental transit time and pH using a wireless motility capsule. Day-to-day fluctuations in gut environmental factors as well as segmental transit time and pH varied substantially between individuals. The gut environment explained more variations in gut microbiome and urine metabolome than dietary macronutrients or personal characteristics. Finally, we identified coffee-derived metabolites to be negatively correlated with small intestinal transit time and several microbial metabolites to be associated with colonic transit time including urinary proteolytic markers, faecal short-chain fatty acids, and breath methane. Our work suggests that the gut environment is key for understanding the individuality of the human gut microbiome composition and metabolism.
Progressive engagement of SST+ interneurons via Elfn1 regulates the barrel-septa response identity in the somatosensory cortex of mice
Authors: Argunşah Ali Özgür , Stachniak Tevye Jason , Yang Jenq-Wei , Cai Linbi , Kanatouris George , Karayannis Theofanis
Published: January 2024

The vibrissae system of rodents, akin to human hands and fingers, provides somatosensory information coming from individual whiskers for object exploration and recognition. Just as separated digits enhance somatosensation in humans, the ability of mice to sense objects through multiple whiskers in segregated streams is crucial. The segregation begins at the level of the whiskers and is maintained through their precise somatotopic organization in the Brainstem→ Thalamus→ Cortex axis, culminating in the so-called barrels and the in-between “spaces” called septa. Here, by performingin-vivosilicon probe recordings simultaneously in the barrel and septa domains in mice upon repeated 10Hz single and multi-whisker stimulation, we identify and characterize a temporal divergence in the spiking activity between these domains. Further, through genetic fate-mapping, we reveal that cortical SST+ and VIP+ inhibitory neurons show a layer-dependent differential preference in septa versus barrel domains. Utilizing a genetic manipulation that affects the temporal facilitation dynamics onto only these two inhibitory cell classes, we largely abolish the temporal response divergence between the two cortical domains. Finally, usingin-vivoviral tracing, whole-brain clearing and imaging, we show a differential barrel and septa projection pattern to cortical regions S2 and M1. We hence reveal that local temporally engaging cortical inhibition provided by SST+ neurons contribute to the functional segregation of barrel and septa domains and potentially their downstream targets.
Embryonic origins of forebrain oligodendrocytes revisited by combinatorial genetic fate mapping
Authors: Cai Yuqi , Zhao Zhirong , Shi Mingyue , Zheng Mingfang , Gong Ling , He Miao
Published: January 2024

Multiple embryonic origins give rise to forebrain oligodendrocytes (OLs), yet controversies and uncertainty exist regarding their differential contributions. We established intersectional and subtractional strategies to genetically fate map OLs produced by medial ganglionic eminence/preoptic area (MGE/POA), lateral/caudal ganglionic eminences (LGE/CGE) and dorsal pallium. We found that, contrary to the canonical view, LGE/CGE-derived OLs make minimum contributions to the neocortex and corpus callosum, but dominate piriform cortex and anterior commissure. Additionally, MGE/POA-derived OLs, instead of being entirely eliminated, make small but sustained contribution to cortex with a distribution pattern distinctive from those derived from the dorsal origin. Our study provides a revised and more comprehensive view of cortical and white matter OL origins, and established valuable new tools and strategies for future OL studies.
Long-range spectral statistics of the Rosenzweig-Porter model
Authors: Buijsman Wouter
Published: January 2024

The Rosenzweig-Porter model is a single-parameter random matrix ensemble that supports an ergodic, fractal, and localized phase. The names of these phases refer to the properties of the (midspectrum) eigenstates. This work focuses on the long-range spectral statistics of the recently introduced unitary equivalent of this model. By numerically studying the Thouless time obtained from the spectral form factor, it is argued that long-range spectral statistics can be used to probe the transition between the ergodic and the fractal phases. The scaling of the Thouless time as a function of the model parameters is found to be similar to the scaling of the spreading width of the eigenstates. Provided that the transition between the fractal and the localized phases can be probed through short-range level statistics, such as the average ratio of consecutive level spacings, this work establishes that spectral statistics are sufficient to probe both transitions present in the phase diagram.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Power corrections to the photon polarization tensor in a hot and dense medium of massive fermions
Authors: Ferreira Osvaldo , Fraga Eduardo S.
Published: January 2024

We compute the O(k2) terms (power corrections) of the photon polarization tensor in a hot and dense medium of particles with a small but finite mass, i.e., 0<m≪T, μ. We perform our calculations within the hard thermal loop approximation in the real-time formalism, and evaluate the first nonzero mass corrections. For a renormalization scale Λ¯∼T, these mass contributions determine the temperature dependence of the power corrections. These results have direct implications in the computation of electric and magnetic susceptibilities of hot and dense media in equilibrium. We address such implications and make comparisons with previous results.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Synchronized states in a ring of dissipatively coupled harmonic oscillators
Authors: Moreno Juan N. , Wächtler Christopher W. , Eisfeld Alexander
Published: January 2024

The question under which conditions oscillators with slightly different frequencies synchronize appears in various settings. We consider the case of a finite number of harmonic oscillators arranged on a ring, with bilinear, dissipative nearest-neighbor coupling. We show that by tuning the gain and loss appropriately, stable synchronized dynamics may be achieved. These findings are interpreted using the complex eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the non-Hermitian matrix describing the dynamics of the system. We provide a complete discussion for the case of two oscillators. Ring sizes with a small number of oscillators are discussed taking the case of N=5 oscillators as an example. For N≳10 we focus on the case where the frequency fluctuations of each oscillator are chosen from a Gaussian distribution with zero mean and standard deviation σ. We derive a scaling law for the largest standard deviation σfull that still permits all oscillators to be fully synchronized: σfull∼N−3/2. Finally, we discuss how such random fluctuations influence the timescale on which the synchronized state is reached and on which timescale the synchronized state then decays.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Study on the impact of soil environment organic substances on the ageing of urban PE gas pipes in service
Authors: Li Manman , Bao Qing , Lei Sumin , Xing Linlin , Gai Shu
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The service environment of urban polyethylene (PE) pipes has a crucial influence on their long-term safety and performance. Based on the application and structural performance analysis of PE pipe failure cases, this study aims to investigate the impact of organic substances in the soil on the aging behavior of PE pipes by designing organic solutions with different concentrations, which are based on the composition of organic substances in the soil environment, and periodic immersion tests.

Design/methodology/approach

Soil samples in the vicinity of the failed pipes were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, sensitive organic substances were screened and soaking solutions of different concentrations were designed. After the soaking test, the PE pipe samples were analyzed using differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and other testing methods.

Findings

The performance difference between the outer surface and the middle of the cross section of PE pipes highlights the influence of the soil service environment on their aging. Different organic solutions can have varying impacts on the aging behavior of PE pipes when immersed. For instance, when exposed to amine organic solutions, PE pipes may have an increased weight and decreased material yield strength, although there is no reduction in their thermal or oxygen stability. On the contrary, when subjected to ether organic solutions, the surface of PE pipe specimens may be affected, leading to a reduction in material fracture elongation and a decrease in their thermal and oxygen stability. Furthermore, immersion in either amine or ether organic solutions may result in the production of hydroxyl and other aging groups on the surface of the material.

Originality/value

Understanding the potential impact of organic substances in the soil environment on the aging of PE pipe ensures the long-term performance and safety of urban PE pipe. This research approach will provide valuable insights into improving the durability and reliability of urban PE pipes in soil environments.
How can green suppliers boost customer loyalty? Model proposition for energy markets
Authors: Cabanelas Pablo , Mezger Andrea , López-Míguens María Jesús , Rüdiger Klaus
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Clean and sustainable energy becomes an alternative to differentiate electricity suppliers, but it is necessary to have a better understanding of their behaviour to achieve green customer loyalty. This paper aims to deploy a behavioural model that helps explain loyalty of customers towards green electricity providers by including a series of antecedents such as trust, satisfaction, perceived environmental impact, propensity to trust and perceived risk.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper deploys a behavioural model that it is tested through structural equation modelling to a sample of 231 German electricity consumers with green contracts. The data analysis included two steps: first, the development and validation of the scales used to measure the constructs proposed in the model, and second, the model test.

Findings

Results demonstrate that trust and satisfaction directly influence loyalty, while satisfaction and the other variables included in the model have an indirect relationship with loyalty mediated by trust and satisfaction. As green characteristics of electricity are difficult to evaluate, managers should demonstrate in their communication the environmental effects of their activities while emphasising their capacity to attend to supply requirements for building long-term customer relationships.

Originality/value

The paper is focused on the understanding of those consumers who have signed a green electricity contract and the antecedents associated to their loyalty. The behavioural model helps identify how managers should apply marketing strategies to foster green consumers loyalty.
Predictors of work-related cyberaggression in a random sample of the Swedish working population
Authors: Farley Samuel , Cowen Forssell Rebecka , Holm Kristoffer , Berthelsen Hanne
Published: January 2024

Purpose

With greater numbers of employees using computer-mediated communication, cyberaggression is becoming a more pressing problem for employees and their organizations. However, while a growing body of research illustrates its harmful effects, little is known about the factors that drive its occurrence. The authors therefore sought to identify factors that increase the risk of cyberaggression among employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A random sample of the Swedish working population (N = 11,556) was surveyed via Statistics Sweden (SCB), which produced a final sample of N = 2,847 (response rate = 24.6%).

Findings

Logistic regression analysis showed that emotionally demanding work, availability expectations, low perceived work quality, public sector work and being in a managerial position were related to higher levels of experienced cyberaggression. In addition, exploratory analyses indicated that some of these factors were more strongly related to cyberaggression enacted by organizational insiders compared to organizational outsiders.

Originality/value

Together, the authors' findings suggest that situational factors are stronger antecedents of cyberaggression victimization than personal factors. This has implications for organizations, as practical steps can be taken to reduce cyberaggression among employees.
Studying international complaints: a multicultural analysis across two time periods
Authors: Küster Ines , Vila Natalia , Kuster-Boluda Amparo
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper first aims to examine associations between factors involved in business-to-business complaints management and results (satisfaction and loyalty) and analyses three types of distributors based on their cultural profile (domestic, low context and high context). Second, the paper investigates whether the identified associations remain stable over time.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a sample of distributors for a manufacturing company were gathered during two periods of time. A factorial analysis of correspondences and a cluster analysis were carried out to visually represent the associations among clients, complaints and results in the associations among clients, complaints and results. The stability over time of these relationships was also analysed by calculating the correlations between the Euclidean distances on the two maps (one per year) and their mobility ratio.

Findings

The authors found significant evidence that clients from different cultures are associated with varying profiles of complaint and different result types and that certain associations remain stable over time.

Originality/value

While many studies have analysed complaint behaviour in business-to-consumer contexts, there is a lack of research from an international business-business relations point of view, leaving questions virtually unexplored. Second, the last phases of supply chain management, specifically complaints management, have been undeveloped, limiting the cultural factor to the general scope of negotiation. In this vein, this paper compares different complaint profiles and results, comparing culturally different customers/distributors. Third, research has mostly referred to a single period, while this paper investigates two different periods of time for the same company (and their distributors) to analyse the relevance of the stability (or not) over time of the associations identified.
How playfulness climate promotes the performance of millennial employees – the mediating role of change self-efficacy
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Yuan Ling , Cao Chengcheng , Yang Ye , Zhuo Fanchao
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The effect of playfulness climate on employees in firms has been the subject of an increasing number of studies in recent years. Given the growing number of businesses that have incorporated playfulness into their operations, it is possible to enhance the task performance and innovative performance of the younger generation of workers by rationally managing playfulness, particularly when it comes to that aspect of the workplace. Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study aims to investigate how the playfulness climate in organizations influences the change self-efficacy of the millennial workers and how to enhance their task performance and innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a quantitative approach to test the relationship between the hypotheses. The survey population for this study consisted of the millennial workers in the computer sector who are involved in research and development in China. Hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the built mediation model empirically over the course of the study's three rounds of data collection, each separated by one month. Through the collection of paired questions for leadership and their subordinates, 424 valid questionnaires were obtained.

Findings

The examination of the questionnaire results supports the study's theoretical hypothesis, which states that when millennial workers sense a more playfulness work environment, it will encourage them to develop a sense of change self-efficacy. Additionally, they will be better able to handle work-related responsibilities and come up with innovative ideas as a result of change self-efficacy, which would eventually enhance the task performance and innovation performance of millennial employees.

Originality/value

By introducing the mediation of change self-efficacy, this study expands on the application of the conservation of resources theory. The research on the performance of millennial employees is complemented and enhanced by investigating the relationship between the playfulness climate and employees' task performance and innovation performance from the perspective of their sense of change self-efficacy. This study also reveals that managers should foster a positive and playfulness environment in their workplaces in order to manage the performance of millennial employees.
A novel B&B recommendation method based on improved intuitionistic fuzzy sets
Authors: Wu Chong , Zhang Zijiao , Liu Chang , Zhang Yiwen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a bed and breakfast (B&B) recommendation method that takes into account review timeliness and user preferences to help consumers choose the most satisfactory B&B.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a B&B ranking method based on improved intuitionistic fuzzy sets. First, text mining and cluster analysis are combined to identify the concerns of consumers and construct an attribute set. Second, an attribute-level-based text sentiment analysis is established. The authors propose an improved intuitionistic fuzzy set, which is more in line with the actual situation of sentiment analysis of online reviews. Next, subjective-objective combinatorial assignments are applied, considering the consumers’ preferences. Finally, the vlsekriterijumska optimizacija i kompromisno resenje (VIKOR) algorithm, based on the improved score function, is advised to evaluate B&Bs.

Findings

A case study is presented to illustrate the use of the proposed method. Comparative analysis with other multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) methods proves the effectiveness and superiority of the VIKOR algorithm based on the improved intuitionistic fuzzy sets proposed in this paper.

Originality/value

Proposing a B&B recommendation method that takes into account review timeliness and user customization is the innovation of this paper. In this approach, the authors propose improved intuitionistic fuzzy sets. Compared with the traditional intuitionistic fuzzy set, the improved intuitionistic fuzzy set increases the abstention membership, which is more in line with the actual situation of attribute-level sentiment analysis of online reviews.
3D printing: a novel technology for livestock sector knowledge dissemination
Authors: Singh Nirmal , Banga Harmanjit Singh , Singh Jaswinder , Sharma Rajnish
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to prompt ideas amongst readers (especially librarians) about how they can become active partners in knowledge dissemination amongst concerned user groups by implementing 3D printing technology under the “Makerspace.”

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a brief account of various tools and techniques used by veterinary and animal sciences institutions for information dissemination amongst the stakeholders and associated challenges with a focus on the use of 3D printing technology to overcome the bottlenecks. An overview of the 3D printing technology has been provided following the instances of use of this novel technology in veterinary and animal sciences. An initiative of the University Library, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, to harness the potential of this technology in disseminating information amongst livestock stakeholders has been discussed.

Findings

3D printing has the potential to enhance learning in veterinary and animal sciences by providing hands-on exposure to various anatomical structures, such as bones, organs and blood vessels, without the need for a cadaver. This approach enhances students’ spatial understanding and helps them better understand anatomical concepts. Libraries can enhance their visibility and can contribute actively to knowledge dissemination beyond traditional library services.

Originality/value

The ideas about how to harness the potential of 3D printing in knowledge dissemination amongst livestock sector stakeholders have been elaborated. This promotes creativity amongst librarians enabling them to think how they can engage in knowledge dissemination thinking out of the box.
A brief review of Secondary School Food Policy (SSFP) approaches in the UK from 2010 to 2022
Authors: Lalli Gurpinder , Smith Kim , Woodside Jayne , Defeyter Greta , Skafida Valeria , Morgan Kelly , Martin Christopher
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a snapshot of secondary school food policy (SSFP) across the devolved nations (England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland) to offer insights into a growing area of policy concern. The selected context of research is school food policy (SFP), an area of research which has received little attention in terms of policy approaches. The review is focused on 2010 to 2022.

Design/methodology/approach

This work combines interdisciplinary perspectives spanning across food policy, public health, psychology, education and sociology. This combination has merit as it offers different perspectives in terms of understanding SFP. The study was conducted between August 2021 and March 2022, using a desk-based review, analysing policies on food in secondary schools. Data collection was conducted through the Web using key search terms. The READ (Read, Extract, Analyse, Distil) approach was used as a systematic procedure to analyse policy and evaluation documents.

Findings

To all levels of government, it is recommended that a coherent policymaking approach be used to tackle SSFP improvements, to progress a whole school approach to food, supported by long-term dedicated resources while engaging children in SSFP development. For education departments, it is recommended that a food curriculum review, connected to school meals alongside a refocus on school food standards monitoring and reporting is crucial in serving the future generations. The current economic crisis has had an impact on public spending. Universal Free School Meals has been said to make an enormous difference to well-being.

Originality/value

The current findings suggest that researching SFP across nations has merit. There is a relative lack of focus on secondary schools, in light of England’s focus on the National Food Strategy (focus on children), post-pandemic, economic crisis – together this makes school food and food policy a topic of real urgency and importance. Lessons can both be learned, particularly in promoting healthier and more educationally inclusive school food practices. Research in this area can inform curriculum design and school food environment and system changes from the perspective of learnings around taking a whole school food approach to education.
Impact of firm-created and user-generated social media marketing on customers’ purchase intention in the fashionwear industry: evidence from Sri Lanka
Authors: Sandunima Kaluarachchi Chamodi , Jayasuriya Nisha
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relative impact of firm-created (FC) and user-generated (UG) social media marketing communication on fashionwear customers' purchase intention (CPI) in Sri Lanka. The primary objective is to identify the influence of social media marketing on the purchasing intention (PI) of customers in the fashionwear industry in Sri Lanka.

Design/methodology/approach

A standardized online survey was conducted, generating 312 datasets for analysis.

Findings

The empirical findings reveal that both firm-produced and UG social media fashionwear marketing communication has a significant influence on CPI. However, firm-produced social media fashionwear brands demonstrate a higher impact on CPI.

Originality/value

This study highlights the importance of social media marketing communication in shaping customers’ PI in the fashionwear industry in Sri Lanka. Both FC and UG content on social media platforms play a crucial role in influencing customers' intention to purchase fashionwear products. However, firm-produced social media fashionwear brands exert a stronger impact on CPI. These findings emphasize the need for marketers to incorporate effective social media strategies, including both FC and UG content, to enhance customer engagement and drive purchase decisions in the fashion-wear industry.
Navigating the green maze: insights for businesses on consumer decision-making and the mediating role of their environmental concerns
Authors: Lopes João M.M. , Gomes Sofia , Trancoso Tiago
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Green consumption is fundamental to sustainable development, as it involves adopting practices and technologies that reduce the environmental impact of human activities. This study aims to analyze the influence of consumers’ green orientation on their environmental concerns and green purchase decisions. Furthermore, the study investigates the mediating role of consumers’ environmental concerns in the relationship between pro-sustainable orientation and green purchase decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative methodology, applying the partial least squares method to a sample of 927 Portuguese consumers of green products. The sample was collected through an online survey.

Findings

Perceived benefits and perceived quality of products play a positive and significant role in influencing green behavior, especially when consumers are endowed with greater environmental concerns. In addition, consumers’ awareness of the prices of green products and their expectations regarding the future benefits of sustainable consumption positively impact green consumption behavior, further intensifying their environmental concerns.

Practical implications

According to the present findings, companies should adopt a holistic and integrated approach to promote green consumption. This means creating premium eco-friendly products, communicating their benefits, addressing the cost factor, emphasizing the future impact of eco-friendly options and raising consumers’ environmental awareness.

Social implications

It is critical that environmental education is a priority in schools and that there are political incentives for green behaviors. In addition, media campaigns can be an important tool to raise awareness in society.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide important insights for companies on consumer engagement in the circular economy. Deepening knowledge of the antecedents of consumers’ environmental concerns contributes to a deeper understanding of green purchasing decision behavior, allowing companies to support new business strategies.
Cascade model for Australian housing
Authors: Khemka Gaurav , Tang Yifu , Warren Geoffrey J.
Published: January 2024

We design a ‘cascade model’ that integrates projections for Australian housing with inflation, incomes and asset markets over long horizons. The model allows simulating joint ‘paths’ for inflation, wages, cash rates, mortgage rates, rents, rental yields, house prices and fund returns. The cascade model structure ensures that equilibrium relationships are maintained between the variables when projecting over very long time periods. It achieves this through linking either growth rates or levels for variables in a manner that ensures consistent trends emerge within each simulated path over the very long‐term, thus avoiding excessively divergent behaviour between variables with common underlying fundamentals.
Participation of Veterans Affairs Medical Centers in veteran‐centric community‐based service navigation networks: A mixed methods study
Authors: Hausmann Leslie R. M. , Goodrich David E. , Rodriguez Keri L. , Beyer Nicole , Michaels Zachary , Cantor Gilly , Armstrong Nicholas , Eliacin Johanne , Gurewich Deborah A. , Cohen Alicia J. , Mor Maria K.
Published: January 2024

Objective

To understand the determinants and benefits of cross‐sector partnerships between Veterans Affairs Medical Centers (VAMCs) and geographically affiliated AmericaServes Network coordination centers that address Veteran health‐related social needs.

Data Sources and Setting

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with AmericaServes and VAMC staff across seven regional networks. We matched administrative data to calculate the percentage of AmericaServes referrals that were successfully resolved (i.e., requested support was provided) in each network overall and stratified by whether clients were also VAMC patients.

Study Design

Convergent parallel mixed‐methods study guided by Himmelman's Developmental Continuum of Change Strategies (DCCS) for interorganizational collaboration.

Data Collection

Fourteen AmericaServes staff and 17 VAMC staff across seven networks were recruited using snowball sampling and interviewed between October 2021 and April 2022. Rapid qualitative analysis methods were used to characterize the extent and determinants of VAMC participation in networks.

Principal Findings

On the DCCS continuum of participation, three networks were classified as networking, two as coordinating, one as cooperating, and one as collaborating. Barriers to moving from networking to collaborating included bureaucratic resistance to change, VAMC leadership buy‐in, and not having VAMCs staff use the shared technology platform. Facilitators included ongoing communication, a shared mission of serving Veterans, and having designated points‐of‐contact between organizations. The percentage of referrals that were successfully resolved was lowest in networks engaged in networking (65.3%) and highest in cooperating (85.6%) and collaborating (83.1%) networks. For coordinating, cooperating, and collaborating networks, successfully resolved referrals were more likely among Veterans who were also VAMC patients than among Veterans served only by AmericaServes.

Conclusions

VAMCs participate in AmericaServes Networks at varying levels. When partnerships are more advanced, successful resolution of referrals is more likely, especially among Veterans who are dually served by both organizations. Although challenges to establishing partnerships exist, this study highlights effective strategies to overcome them.
Moisture content in dehulled sesame seeds: A key factor affecting the aroma and safety quality of sesame paste (tahini)
Authors: Yang Ming , Hou Lixia , Dong Yifan , Wang Bingkai , Liu Huamin , Wang Xuede
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate the influence of the moisture content of dehulled sesame seeds on the aroma formation and harmful substances in sesame paste (SP). The SP samples were made of dehulled sesame seeds with moisture contents of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% and denoted as T5, T10, T15, T20, and T25, respectively. The results revealed that adjusting the moisture content had a significant impact on aroma compounds, color intensity, and sensory properties. SP pre‐adjusted to a moisture content of 10% exhibited the smallest L* value and the highest browning strength. Using gas chromatography–olfactometry–mass spectrometry analysis, the researchers identified 38 aroma‐active compounds in the SP, with pyrazines being the most abundant, contributing to roasted sesame and nutty aromas. Additionally, the presence of pyrrole and furan derivatives led to enhanced caramel and almond aromas, positively influencing the overall sensory properties. T10 demonstrated the highest levels of roasted sesame and nutty odors. Furthermore, the regulation of moisture content also affected the formation of harmful compounds, such as heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Notably, the sample made of the sesame seeds with 10% and 15% moisture content exhibited the lowest total PAHs content (18.21–28.91 ng/g) and PAH4 content (non‐detectable‐0.15 ng/g). The carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene was not detected in any of the samples, ensuring a safer product. The pre‐adjustment of moisture content in SP appears to be a promising approach to improve both its flavor and safety qualities.
FIB‐4 index is associated with mortality in critically ill patients with alcohol use disorder: Analysis from the MIMIC‐IV database
Authors: Pan Yu , Xia Yan‐huo , Zhang Xiao‐hua , Cai Xi‐xi , Pan Jing‐ye , Dong Yi‐hua
Published: January 2024

Background

The relationship between fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4) index and all‐cause mortality in critically ill patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) is unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the predictive ability of FIB‐4 for all‐cause mortality in critically ill AUD patients and the association between them.

Methods

A total of 2528 AUD patients were included using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC‐IV) database. FIB‐4 was calculated for each patient using the existing formula. The patients were equally divided into four groups based on the quartiles of FIB‐4. Multivariate logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard model were used to evaluate the association of FIB‐4 with in‐hospital mortality, 28‐day mortality and 1‐year mortality. Kaplan–Meier curves were used to analyse the incidence of 28‐day mortality among four groups.

Results

FIB‐4 was positively associated with 28‐day mortality of AUD patients with hazard ratio (HR) of 1.354 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.192–1.538]. There were similar trends in the in‐hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR): 1.440, 95% CI (1.239–1.674)] and 1‐year mortality [HR: 1.325, 95% CI (1.178–1.490)].

Conclusion

Increased FIB‐4 is associated with greater in‐hospital mortality, 28‐day mortality and 1‐year mortality in critically ill AUD patients.