bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global characterization of gene expression in the brain of starved immature R. prolixus
Authors: Nevoa Jessica Coraiola , Latorre-Estivalis Jose Manuel , Pais Fabiano Sviatopolk-Mirsky , Marliére Newmar Pinto , Fernandes Gabriel da Rocha , Lorenzo Marcelo Gustavo , Guarneri Alessandra Aparecida
Published: September 2022

Background: Rhodnius prolixus is a vector of Chagas disease and has become a model organism to study physiology, behavior, and pathogen interaction. The publication of its genome allowed initiating a process of comparative characterization of the gene expression profiles of diverse organs exposed to varying conditions. Brain processes control the expression of behavior and, as such, mediate immediate adjustment to a changing environment, allowing organisms to maximize their chances to survive and reproduce. The expression of fundamental behavioral processes like feeding requires a fine control in triatomines because they obtain their blood meals from potential predators. Therefore, the characterization of gene expression profiles of key components modulating behavior in brain processes, like those of neuropeptide precursors and their receptors, seems fundamental. Here we study global gene expression profiles in the brain of starved R. prolixus fifth instar nymphs by means of RNASeq sequencing. Results: The expression of neuromodulatory genes such as those of precursors of neuropeptides, neurohormones, and their receptors; as well as the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis and processing of neuropeptides and biogenic amines were fully characterized. Other important gene targets such as neurotransmitter receptors, nuclear receptors, clock genes, sensory receptors, and takeouts were identified and their gene expression analyzed. Conclusion: We propose that the set of neuromodulation-related genes highly expressed in the brain of starved R. prolixus nymphs deserves functional characterization to allow the subsequent development of tools targeting them for bug control. As the brain is a complex structure that presents functionally-specialized areas, future studies should focus on characterizing gene expression profiles in target areas, e.g. mushroom bodies, to complement our current knowledge.
Photosystem II monomeric antenna CP26 has a key role in Non-Photochemical Quenching inChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Cazzaniga Stefano , Kim Minjae , Pivato Matteo , Perozeni Federico , Sardar Samim , D’Andrea Cosimo , Jin EonSeon , Ballottari Matteo
Published: September 2022

Thermal dissipation of the excitation energy harvested in excess, named non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), is one of the main photoprotective mechanisms evolved in oxygenic photosynthetic organisms. Here, the specific function in photoprotection and light harvesting of the monomeric Photosystem II antenna CP26, was investigated inChlamydomonas, model organism for green algae

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing and complementation strategies were applied to generate newcp26knock-out mutants (namedk6#) that differently from previous findings, did not negatively affected CP29 accumulation, allowing to compare mutants specifically deprived of CP26, CP29 or both

The absence of CP26 partially affected Photosystem II activity causing a reduced growth at low or medium light but not at high irradiances. However, the main phenotype observed in k6# mutants was a more than 70% reduction of NPQ compared to wild-type. This NPQ phenotype could be fully rescued by genetic complementation demonstrating that ∼50% of CP26 content compared to wild-type was sufficient to restore the NPQ capacity.

Our findings demonstrate a pivotal role for CP26 in NPQ induction while CP29 has a crucial function for Photosystem II activity. The genetic engineering of these two proteins could be a promising strategy to regulate photosynthetic efficiency of microalgae under different light regimes.
Natural recombination among Type I restriction-modification systems creates diverse genomic methylation patterns among Xylella fastidiosa strains
Authors: O’Leary Michael L. , Burbank Lindsey P.
Published: September 2022

Xylella fastidiosa is an important bacterial pathogen of plants causing high consequence diseases in agricultural crops around the world. Although as a species X. fastidiosa can infect an extremely broad range of host plants, significant variability exists between strains and subspecies groups in virulence on specific host plant species, and other traits such as growth habits. Natural competence and horizontal gene transfer are believed to occur frequently in X. fastidiosa, and likely influences the evolution of this pathogen. However, some X. fastidiosa strains are extremely difficult or impossible to manipulate genetically using standard transformation techniques. Several restriction-modification systems are encoded in the X. fastidiosa genome, including multiple Type I R-M systems that may influence horizontal gene transfer and recombination. In this study, several conserved Type I R-M systems were compared across 129 X. fastidiosa genome assemblies representing all known subspecies and 32 sequence types. Considerable allelic variation among strains was identified among the single specificity subunit (hsdS) of each Type I R-M system, with a unique hsdS allele profile generally conserved within a monophyletic cluster of strains. Inactivating mutations were identified in Type I R-M systems of specific strains, showing heterogeneity in the complement of functional Type I R-M systems across X. fastidiosa. Genomic DNA methylation patterns were characterized in 20 X. fastidiosa strains and associated with Type I R-M system allele profiles. Overall, this study describes epigenetic modifications in X. fastidiosa associated with functional Type I R-M systems and characterizes the diversity in these systems across X. fastidiosa lineages.

Importance

Economic impacts on agricultural production due to X. fastidiosa have been severe in the Americas, Europe, and parts of Asia. Despite a long history of research on this pathogen, certain fundamental questions regarding the biology, pathogenicity, and evolution of X. fastidiosa have still not been answered. Wide scale whole genome sequencing has begun to provide a more insight into X. fastidiosa genetic diversity and horizontal gene transfer but the mechanics of genomic recombination in natural settings and extent to which this directly influences bacterial phenotypes such as plant host range are not well understood. Genome methylation is an important factor in horizontal gene transfer and bacterial recombination that has not been comprehensively studied in X. fastidiosa. This study characterizes methylation associated with Type I restriction-modification systems across a wide range of X. fastidiosa strains and lays the groundwork for a better understanding of X. fastidiosa biology and evolution through epigenetics.
Malaria prevention knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among adolescents living in an area of persistent transmission in Senegal: Results from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tairou Fassiatou , Nawaz Saira , Tahita Marc Christian , Herrera Samantha , Faye Babacar , Tine Roger C K
Published: September 2022

Introduction

While malaria morbidity has sharply declined in several areas in Senegal, it remains an important problem in the southern part of the country, particularly among adolescents. Understanding adolescents’ knowledge, attitudes, prevention and care-seeking practices is important to inform more targeted interventions aimed at optimizing adolescents’ uptake of malaria prevention and control measures. This study assessed malaria-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among adolescents living in a highly persistent transmission area in Senegal.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 391 adolescents living in the Saraya health district. A multistage random sampling technique was used to select households. An electronic questionnaire developed on Open Data Kit (ODK), was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, household assets, adolescents’ knowledge of malaria, as well as their attitudes with regards to malaria prevention, and care-seeking behaviors. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess factors associated with adolescents’ KAP towards malaria.

Results

Nearly, one-third of the participants had good knowledge of malaria (34.4%) and good practice in regards to malaria preventive measures (32.8%) while approximately three-quarters had a positive attitude (75.1%) and good care-seeking behavior (73.8%) regarding malaria. Multivariate analysis revealed that a primary (aOR=5.43, p=0.002) or secondary level of education (aOR=10.41, p=0.000) was associated with good knowledge of malaria transmission, signs, and prevention measures. Male individuals had lower knowledge compared to female ones (aOR=0.40, p=0.001). Individuals belonging to households from the fourth (aOR=0.29, p=0.015), second (OR=0.13, p=0.000), and lowest (aOR=0.18, p=0.001) wealth quintiles were less likely to have a positive attitude towards malaria compared to those from households in the highest wealth quintile. A positive attitude was two times more likely to be (aOR=2.32, p=0.011) associated with good practice of prevention measures compared to adolescents who demonstrated negative attitudes. Individuals from households in the fourth (aOR=0.40, p=0.018), middle (aOR=0.32, P=0.03), and second (aOR=0.44, p=0.035) wealth quintiles were less likely to use malaria prevention measures compared to those from households in the highest wealth quintile.

Conclusion

The study revealed that adolescents, generally have poor levels of malaria knowledge and low uptake of malaria prevention and control interventions. Targeted interventions for high-risk adolescents are needed, that focus on improving their knowledge of the disease and effective preventive measures, and on increasing their access to health care services and LLINs.
Effects of CFTR Modulators on Serum Biomarkers of Liver Fibrosis in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Levitte Steven , Fuchs Yonathan , Wise Russell , Sellers Zachary M.
Published: September 2022

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) corrector/potentiator combinations lumacaftor/ivacaftor and elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor improve sweat chloride, pulmonary function, and nutrition. Yet it is unclear whether they may also impact the progression of liver fibrosis, which is a substantial source of morbidity and mortality for patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). We conducted a retrospective, single-center analysis of children and adolescents with CF treated with lumacaftor/ivacaftor and/or elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor therapy, focusing on alterations in liver function tests and fibrosis indices using previously-established thresholds that corresponded with increased liver elastography. In pairwise comparisons of before and during treatment timepoints, we found that those with CF-associated liver involvement experienced significant decreases in gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), AST-to-Platelet Index (APRI), and GGT-to-Platelet Ratio (GPR) while on lumacaftor/ivacaftor. These differences were not observed in patients treated with elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor, nor were they observed in patients without underlying CF-associated liver disease. These results provide the first evidence that lumacaftor/ivacaftor may improve liver fibrosis in children and adolescents with CF and suggest it may be beneficial in the treatment of CF-associated liver disease.
Novel monoclonal antibodies showing broad neutralizing activity for SARS-CoV-2 variants including Omicrons BA.5 and BA.2.75
Authors: Ishimaru Hanako , Nishimura Mitsuhiro , Tjan Lidya Handayani , Sutandhio Silvia , Marini Maria Istiqomah , Effendi Gema Barlian , Shigematsu Hideki , Kato Koji , Hasegawa Natsumi , Aoki Kaito , Kurahashi Yukiya , Furukawa Koichi , Shinohara Mai , Nakamura Tomoka , Arii Jun , Nagano Tatsuya , Nakamura Sachiko , Sano Shigeru , Iwata Sachiyo , Mori Yasuko
Published: September 2022

We identified novel neutralizing monoclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 variants (including Omicron) from individuals received two doses of mRNA vaccination after they had been infected with wildtype. We named them MO1, MO2 and MO3. MO1 shows high neutralizing activity against authentic variants: D614G, Delta, BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, and BA.2.75 and BA.5. Our findings confirm that the wildtype-derived vaccination can induce neutralizing antibodies that recognize the epitopes conserved among the SARS-CoV-2 variants (including BA.5 and BA.2.75). The monoclonal antibodies obtained herein could serve as novel prophylaxis and therapeutics against not only current SARS-CoV-2 viruses but also future variants that may arise.
MiGut: a scalable in vitro platform for simulating the human gut microbiome – development, validation, and simulation of antibiotic induced dysbiosis
Authors: Birch William Davis , Moura Ines , Ewin Duncan , Wilcox Mark , Buckley Anthony , Culmer Peter , Kapur Nikil
Published: September 2022

In vitro models of the human colon have been used extensively in developing understanding of the human gut microbiome and how internal and external factors affect the residing bacterial populations. Such models can be highly predictive of in vivo effects of antibiotics, and indeed more so than animal models. The complexity required by current in vitro models to closely mimic the physiology of the colon poses practical limits on their scalability. MiGut allows considerable expansion of model runs, increasing the capacity to test reproducibility or parameters under investigation. The MiGut platform has been assessed against a well-studied triple-stage chemostat model in a demanding nine-week study, with exposure to multiple antibiotics inducing a state of dysbiosis in the microbiome. A good correlation is found, both between individual MiGut models and against the triple-stage chemostat. Together with high-throughput molecular techniques for sample analysis, it is now conceivable that tens of in vitro models could be run simultaneously, allowing complex microbiome-xenobiotic interactions to be explored in far greater detail. MiGut is a unique platform whereby multiple colonic models can be run simultaneously with minimal added resource and complexity to support our understanding of the cause-effect relationships that govern the gut microbiome. This model system expands the capacity to generate clinically relevant data that can optimize interventions which target the gut microbiome directly or indirectly.
Stress and sex-dependent effects on conditioned inhibition of fear
Authors: Adkins Jordan M. , Halcomb Carly J. , Rogers Danielle , Jasnow Aaron M.
Published: September 2022

Anxiety and stress-related disorders are highly prevalent and are characterized by excessive fear to threatening and nonthreatening stimuli. Moreover, there is a large sex bias in vulnerability to anxiety and stress-related disorders—women make up a disproportionately larger number of affected individuals compared with men. Growing evidence suggests that an impaired ability to suppress fear in the presence of safety signals may in part contribute to the development and maintenance of many anxiety and stress-related disorders. However, the sex-dependent impact of stress on conditioned inhibition of fear remains unclear. The present study investigated sex differences in the acquisition and recall of conditioned inhibition in male and female mice with a focus on understanding how stress impacts fear suppression. In these experiments, the training context served as the “fear” cue and an explicit tone served as the “safety” cue. Here, we found a possible sex difference in the training requirements for safety learning, although this effect was not consistent across experiments. Reductions in freezing to the safety cue in female mice were also not due to alternative fear behavior expression such as darting. Next, using footshock as a stressor, we found that males were impaired in conditioned inhibition of freezing when the stress was experienced before, but not after, conditioned inhibition training. Females were unaffected by footshock stress when it was administered at either time. Extended conditioned inhibition training in males eliminated the deficit produced by footshock stress. Finally, exposing male and female mice to swim stress impaired safety learning in male mice only. Thus, we found sex × stress interactions in the learning of conditioned inhibition and sex-dependent effects of stress modality. The present study adds to the growing literature on sex differences in safety learning, which will be critical for developing sex-specific therapies for a variety of fear-related disorders that involve excessive fear and/or impaired fear inhibition.
Contributions of sex and genotype to exploratory behavior differences in an aged humanized APOE mouse model of late-onset Alzheimer's disease
Authors: McLean John W. , Bhattrai Avnish , Vitali Francesca , Raikes Adam C. , Wiegand Jean-Paul L. , Brinton Roberta Diaz
Published: September 2022

Age, genetics, and chromosomal sex have been identified as critical risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD). The predominant genetic risk factor for LOAD is the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (APOE4), and the prevalence of LOAD is higher in females. However, the translational validity of APOE4 mouse models for AD-related cognitive impairment remains to be fully determined. The present study investigated the role of both sex and genotype on learning and memory in aged, humanized APOE knock-in mice. Aged (23.27 mo ± 1.21 mo; 39 male/37 female) APOE3/3, APOE3/4, and APOE4/4 mice performed a novel object recognition (NOR) assay. Task-related metrics were analyzed using two-way sex by genotype ANOVAs. Sex differences were more prominent relative to APOE genotype. Prior to NOR, female mice exhibited thigmotaxic center zone avoidance during the open field task relative to males, regardless of genotype. Within object familiarization and NOR tasks, females had greater object interaction and locomotion. Interestingly, only APOE4/4 females on average recognized the novel object. These results suggest that APOE4, although strongly related to LOAD pathogenesis, does not drive cognitive decline in the absence of other risk factors even in very aged mice. Chromosomal sex is a key driver of behavioral phenotypes and thus is a critical variable for translatability of interventions designed to preserve learning and memory in animal models of LOAD. Last, there was a very high degree of variability in behavioral performance across APOE genotypes. A cluster analysis of the behavioral data revealed a low-activity and a high-activity cluster. APOE4 carriers were overrepresented in the low-activity cluster, while male:female distributions did not differ. Collectively, the behavioral data indicate that chromosomal sex has the greatest impact on behavioral phenotype, and APOE4 carrier status may confer greater risk for cognitive decline in some animals.
Sex is predicted by spatial memory multivariate activation patterns
Authors: Spets Dylan S. , Slotnick Scott D.
Published: September 2022

Whether sex differences exist in the brain at the macroscopic level, as measured with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), is a topic of debate. The present spatial long-term memory functional MRI (fMRI) study predicted sex based on event-related patterns of brain activity. Within spatial memory regions of interest, patterns of activity associated with females and males were used to predict the sex of each member of left-out female–male pairs at above-chance accuracy. The current results provide evidence for sex differences in the brain processes underlying spatial long-term memory. This is the first time that sex has been predicted using event-related fMRI activation patterns. The present findings contribute to a growing body of evidence that there are functional and anatomic sex differences in the brain and, more broadly, question the widespread practice of collapsing across sex in the field of cognitive neuroscience.
The HyDAPI framework: a versatile tool integrating Lean Six Sigma and digitalisation for improved quality management in Industry 4.0
Authors: Clancy Rose , Bruton Ken , O’Sullivan Dominic T.J. , Cloonan Aidan J.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Quality management practitioners have yet to cease the potential of digitalisation. Furthermore, there is a lack of tools such as frameworks guiding practitioners in the digital transformation of their organisations. The purpose of this study is to provide a framework to guide quality practitioners with the implementation of digitalisation in their existing practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of literature assessed how quality management and digitalisation have been integrated. Findings from the literature review highlighted the success of the integration of Lean manufacturing with digitalisation. A comprehensive list of Lean Six Sigma tools were then reviewed in terms of their effectiveness and relevance for the hybrid digitisation approach to process improvement (HyDAPI) framework.

Findings

The implementation of the proposed HyDAPI framework in an industrial case study led to increased efficiency, reduction of waste, standardised work, mistake proofing and the ability to root cause non-conformance products.

Research limitations/implications

The activities and tools in the HyDAPI framework are not inclusive of all techniques from Lean Six Sigma.

Practical implications

The HyDAPI framework is a flexible guide for quality practitioners to digitalise key information from manufacturing processes. The framework allows organisations to select the appropriate tools as needed. This is required because of the varying and complex nature of organisation processes and the challenge of adapting to the continually evolving Industry 4.0.

Originality/value

This research proposes the HyDAPI framework as a flexible and adaptable approach for quality management practitioners to implement digitalisation. This was developed because of the gap in research regarding the lack of procedures guiding organisations in their digital transition to Industry 4.0.
Green leadership and pro-environmental behaviour: a moderated mediation model with rewards, self-efficacy and training
Authors: Ahuja Jaya , Yadav Mohit , Sergio Rommel P.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the association between environmental leadership (EL) and pro-environmental behaviour among the middle-level employees in iron and steel manufacturing companies. The study further emphasizes on mediation of the relationship by green rewards and green self-efficacy in EL and pro-environmental behaviour relationship, moderated by green training.

Design/methodology/approach

To find the reliability and validity of the model, confirmatory factor analysis was used. Pearson correlation was used to explore the relationship between variables. PROCESS macro of Hayes (2013) Model 14 was used to test mediation and moderated mediation.

Findings

EL influenced pro-environmental behaviour in middle-level employees. Green rewards and green self-efficacy mediated the relationship. Green training moderated the mediated relationship of green rewards and green self-efficacy between EL and pro-environmental behaviour.

Originality/value

This is a fresh contribution around EL and pro-environmental behaviour in iron and steel companies; however, there are studies available on this relationship, but the unique contribution of the study is studying EL in iron and steel companies and mediated moderated relationship by green rewards, self-efficacy and training. It is necessary for the organizations to develop environmental leaders to promote pro-environmental behaviour in employees across sectors.
How augmented reality can enhance fashion retail: a UX design perspective
Authors: Xue Liangchao , Parker Christopher J. , Hart Cathryn A.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To develop compelling augmented reality (AR) experiences, this paper aims to examine AR value to physical fashion retail, defines the most effective form (e.g. app vs magic mirror) and assesses AR’s impact on consumer behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This study comprises two phases. Phase one conducted three co-design workshops with 15 participants (aged 18–34) to evaluate current shopping modes and discover design opportunities. Phase two designed two AR prototypes (AR Branded App and Magic Mirror) and evaluated the prototypes through experience prototype experiments with 42 participants.

Findings

Participants have a positive attitude towards AR shopping adoption, improving consumer satisfaction and boosting purchase intention. AR technology can be the value in enjoyment to make the shopping experience more fun. However, no participants thought entertainment would trigger their intention to use AR. Therefore, designing useful AR apps that provide substantial functional benefits with enjoyment-oriented elements will encourage consumers to engage in high-street physical retail. In this way, consumers can interact with products and receive more information. AR can help luxury brands tell a story from a hedonic perspective, enabling consumers to engage with the story while maintaining human interaction to ensure an elevated level of service quality.

Originality/value

This study devises six design requirements to guide innovators and retailers in creating AR retail environments that satisfy their customer’s desires.
The World Heritage Convention at 50: management, credibility and sustainable development
Authors: Labadi Sophia
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The World Heritage Convention has reached a milestone, and this year, in 2022, it is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The aim of this article is to review whether and how the goals of the strategic action plan (SAP) for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention (2012–2022) have been reached.

Design/methodology/approach

This article starts by considering the outcomes for three of the SAP goals, dealing with protection and management; the credibility of the World Heritage List and sustainable development, using additional information from the final implementation report of the SAP (UNESCO, 2021a), which provides key performance indicators and the implementation status for each goal and associated outcomes. This article then compares and contrasts available data, trends and examples to provide more in-depth analyses of the implementation of the three goals. Data have been gathered from my own research and from the work of other academics and practitioners.

Findings

The article finds several key positive changes, including the recent revisions of the Operational Guidelines to include provisions from the 2015 UNESCO Policy on World Heritage and Sustainable Development. However, a number of concerning or worsening trends relating to the protection and management of the World Heritage List, its increasing lack of credibility and sustainable development make it difficult to conclude that the implementation of the goals has been positive. The article concludes with suggestions for addressing these issues.

Originality/value

This paper fills a gap, as not much has yet been published on the state of implementation of the Convention at 50 years old.
The conflict of halal and hedonism, investigating halal-sensitive tourists’ hedonic tendency
Authors: Saraç Ömer , Kiper Vahit Oğuz , Batman Orhan
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Hedonic behavior is a well-known phenomenon for tourism activities by the nature of tourism itself. However, there is a possible conflict between the structure of halal tourism and hedonic behavior. This paper aims to investigate the hedonic perception levels of halal-sensitive tourists (HSTs) while questioning their travel motivations.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the aim of this study, quantitative approach has been adopted via data gathering within World Halal Summit. A total of 1,123 surveys were gathered face to face from participants. Factor analysis applied to confirm validity of the data set while also running Cronbach alpha test through all dimensions. Also, frequency and mean analyses were applied in addition tot-test for comparing tests.

Findings

Results briefly show that HSTs have an average level of perception of hedonism. They also travel once or twice a year for religious, social or environmental reasons which supports the finding about their hedonism perception.

Research limitations/implications

The research is also important in the applied field, especially in terms of decision-makers and supply determinants in destination management. Because if it is determined that the HSTs exhibit a utilitarian consumption, it has a guiding feature for the decision-makers to prefer halal tourism in terms of environmental management in the destination. In terms of the economic sustainability of the research destination or businesses, it also serves as a guide for the supply determinants in their investment activities.

Originality/value

This research is considerably important in terms of putting the HST typology on a conceptual basis in the theoretical field. In the research, it is tested whether the HSTs are hedonic consumers; in other words, whether they comply with the Islamic religious prohibitions. The tendency of HSTs to comply with the prohibitions reveals that they are utilitarian consumers, while halal tourism is a responsible tourism that cares about sustainability.
Linking good counter-knowledge with bad counter knowledge: the impact of evasive knowledge hiding and defensive reasoning
Authors: Cegarra-Navarro Juan-Gabriel , Bolisani Ettore , Cepeda-Carrión Gabriel
Published: September 2022

Purpose

Counter-knowledge is knowledge learned from unverified sources and can be classified as good (i.e. harmful, for instance, funny jokes) or bad (for example, lies to manipulate others’ decisions). The purpose of this study is to analyse the relationship between these two elements and on the possible reactions they can induce on people and institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The relationships between good and bad counter-knowledge and the induced reactions – namely, evasive knowledge hiding and defensive reasoning – are analysed through an empirical study among 151 Spanish citizens belonging to a knowledge-intensive organization during the COVID-19 pandemic. A two-step procedure has been established to assess a causal model with SmartPLS 3.2.9.

Findings

Results show that good counter-knowledge can lead to bad counter-knowledge. In addition, counter-knowledge can trigger evasive knowledge hiding, which, in turn, fosters defensive reasoning, in a vicious circle, which can negatively affect decision-making and also cause distrust in public institutions. This was evidenced during the covid-19 pandemic in relation to the measures taken by governments.

Originality/value

This study raises the awareness that counter-knowledge is a complex phenomenon, especially in a situation of serious crisis like a pandemic. In particular, it highlights that even good counter-knowledge can turn into bad and affect people’s decisional capability negatively. In addition, it signals that not all reactions to the proliferation of counter-knowledge by public institutions are positive. For instance, censorship and lack of transparency (i.e. evasive knowledge hiding) can trigger defensive reasoning, which can, in turn, affect people’s decisions and attitudes negatively.
Remittances and homicides in Jamaica
Authors: Campbell Kaycea , Das Anupam , Brown Leanora , McFarlane Adian
Published: September 2022

Purpose

It has been suggested that homicides in Jamaica are partly driven by conflicts among criminals over funds coming from international lottery scams; most of these funds are channeled into the country via remittances. This study aims to determine the empirical relationship between remittances and homicides in Jamaica over the period 1985–2019.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply an error correction modelling framework while accounting for indicators of changes in socioeconomic conditions.

Findings

There are two. First, the authors find from impulse response analysis of the long-run dynamics that an increase in remittances is associated with an increase in homicides, and vice versa. Second, the authors find that there is bidirectional Granger causality between remittances and homicides in the short run.

Social implications

Two important implications are that policies should be strengthened to channel remittances to productive and legal investment opportunities and that greater efforts may be needed to stem the flow of funds coming from international lottery scamming and other illegal activities.

Originality/value

This is the first study that examines the dynamic relationship between remittances and homicides in Jamaica from a robust statistical perspective.
Anti-money laundering regulation of cryptocurrency: UAE and global approaches
Authors: Al-Tawil Tareq Na’el
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a high-level analysis of the intersection emerging cryptocurrency sector with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations and risk-based AML diligence systems maintained by financial institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis begins with a description of cryptocurrencies, focusing specifically on how the supporting technologies and applications increase vulnerabilities. The information will lay the foundation for examining the vulnerabilities existing in the architecture of cryptocurrency technology, as well as potential targets for regulations. The second part of the analysis will then shift focus to defining the scope of the money laundering problem associated with cryptocurrencies. An in-depth understanding of the problem is necessary to inform tailored AML legislation and regulations. The third part of the analysis will explore emerging AML regulations that govern cryptocurrencies, focusing specifically on those being developed and implemented in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE regulations will then be compared to those of the USA and European Union (EU) for comparative analysis and best practices.

Findings

The UAE has a robust legal system aimed at bolstering AML efforts while supporting widespread integration of crypto assets into business and government operations. A review of the UAE’s legislative framework reveals critical issues. First, the current regulations do not cover decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The absence of clear regulations for DeFi and NFT protocols has created a leeway for money laundering and related criminal activities. Second, there is a high level of fragmentation in the UAE’s legislative landscape. The UAE does not have uniform, national laws that apply to all the Emirates. Fragmentation is not unique to the UAE but a major global problem that affects the USA and EU. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt a tailored approach where standard rules and regulations are responsive to the diverse aspects of cryptocurrencies. The strategy is vital, as it will be impractical to create a single legislation or law that will cover all the crypto assets, including their diverse applications. Furthermore, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should develop a global standard that will support a unified/harmonized application of AML/counter-terrorist financing (CTF) laws and regulations related to cryptocurrencies and the blockchain technology.

Originality/value

The borderless nature of digital currency and exchanges means that the existing laws and regulations are inadequate to address cross-border money laundering activities. Thus, there is an urgent need of harmonizing global regulations to ensure uniformity in applications. The quest for harmonization should be a priority as the FATF works towards developing a global standard. The global standard will support a uniform application of AML/CTF laws and regulations related to cryptocurrencies and the blockchain technology.
Personality traits and conflict management styles: building the relationship through leadership effectiveness
Authors: Soomro Bahadur Ali , Saraih Ummi Naiemah , Ahmad Tunku Salha Tunku
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The present study examines the relationship between personality traits (PTs) and conflict management styles (CMSs) directly and indirectly through leadership effectiveness (LE) in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative study employs a survey questionnaire to collect cross-sectional data from academic leaders of higher education institutes (HEIs) in Pakistan. The authors utilized 325 useable cases to conclude the results.

Findings

The findings through the structural equation model (SEM) resulted in a positive and significant effect of agreeableness (AGS) on integrating (ITG), avoiding (AVG), obliging (OBG), compromising (COG) and dominating (DOG) styles. Extraversion (EXN) positively and significantly affects ITG, OBG, DOG and COG. Emotional stability (EMSY) is a positive and significant predictor of ITG, AVG, OBG and COG. The conscientiousness (CNS) trait significantly and positively predicts ITG, OBG, DOG, COG and AVG. Likewise, openness (OPS) positively and significantly affects ITG, OBG, DOG and COG styles. On the other hand, EXN and OPS negatively and insignificantly affect AVG. Finally, EMSY is the negative and insignificant predictor of DOG among academic leaders.

Practical implications

This study offers additional insights into understanding direct and indirect connections between PTs and CMSs through EL. It would support the development of effective policies and organizational setup to resolve and manage conflict and employees' behaviour. Finally, the findings would further enrich the worth of literature through another empirical confirmation.

Originality/value

This study offers the original contribution of PTs and CMSs among academic leaders in HEIs of Pakistan.
Preliminary color characterization of HP Multi Jet Fusion additive manufacturing with different orientations and surface finish
Authors: Badar Faizan , Dean Lionel T. , Loy Jennifer , Redmond Michael , Vandi Luigi-Jules , Novak James I.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the color accuracy of HP Jet Fusion 580 3D printing, comparing 3D-printed outcomes against original digital input colors.

Design/methodology/approach

A custom cyan, magenta, yellow and black (CMYK) and red, green, blue (RGB) color chart was applied to the top, bottom and side surfaces of a 3D model. Four of each model were 3D-printed on a HP Jet Fusion 580, and half the samples were finished with a cyanoacrylate gloss surface finish, while half were left in raw form. A spectrophotometer was used to document CIELAB (L*a*b*) data, and comparisons made to the original input colors, including calculation of ΔE.

Findings

The CMYK samples were significantly more accurate than RGB samples, and grayscale samples in both color spaces were the most accurate of all. Typically, CMYK swatches were darker than the input values, and gloss samples were consistently darker than raw samples. The chromaticity (a*b*) range was found to be significantly smaller than what can be achieved digitally, with highly saturated colors unable to be produced by the printer.

Originality/value

This is the first study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to characterize the full color spectrum possible with the HP Jet Fusion 580, recommending that designers use the CMYK color space when applying colors and textures to 3D models. A quick-reference color chart has been provided; however, it is recommended that future research focus on developing a color management profile to better map digital colors to the capabilities of the printer.
Relationship between the state of the country's logistics and perishable goods' output: dairy industry
Authors: Bauer Maira , Mukhametov Almas , Trifonov Pavel
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This paper seeks to assess the capabilities and maturity of supply chain planning and product quality management systems implemented by the dairy industries in three different countries: Russia, Kazakhstan, and Lithuania.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a systematic analysis of statistical information, the descriptors of the logistics supply chain efficiency were identified. Directions for dairy supply chain management improvement were also highlighted. The study uses secondary statistics from open sources as a basis for the comparative analysis across a range of indicators, including the Logistics Performance Index (LPI), the dairy products quantity, the production volume of milk and dairy products, and other indicators characterizing the dairy industry.

Findings

The results of this study suggest the inconsistency and narrowness of single indexes and ranking, which are traditionally used to evaluate the logistics system. LPI values confirmed that the internal efficiency of the Lithuanian logistics system exceeds similar systems in Russia and Kazakhstan.

Social implications

In this paper, ways to improve supply chain management of dairy products in the context of globalization have been determined, the prerequisites for the formation of the perishable goods market according to the balance of supply and demand and the institutional mechanism of this process, which represents important information for all interested economic agents, have been analyzed.

Originality/value

The proposed approach points to the importance of having detailed information on the supply chain infrastructure and the need to introduce a single information space based on modern information and communication technologies.
Integrating Industry 4.0 and Total Productive Maintenance for global sustainability
Authors: Samadhiya Ashutosh , Agrawal Rajat , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The integration of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is an emerging model, and the global pressure of various stakeholders raises scepticism of any emerging model towards providing sustainability. Therefore, this research aims to identify and rank the potential significant drivers of an integrated model of I4.0 and TPM to guide manufacturing enterprises towards sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This research follows a four-phase methodology including literature review and expert opinion to select the sustainability indicators and I4.0-integrated TPM key drivers, followed by employing the analytic hierarchy process approach for weight determination of sustainability indicators. The research then deploys the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to prioritise the I4.0-integrated TPM key drivers based on their effect on various sustainability indicators. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to check the robustness of the TOPSIS.

Findings

The findings establish the top five most influential key drivers of an I4.0-integrated TPM system, which include top management support, formal I4.0 adoption program, mid-management involvement and support, solid TPM baseline knowledge and high engagement of the production team. These top drives can lead manufacturing firms towards sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The digitalisation of shop floor practices, such as TPM, could be adapted by shop floor managers and policymakers of manufacturing companies to deliver sustainability-oriented outcomes. In addition, this research may aid decision-makers in the manufacturing sector in identifying the most important drivers of I4.0 and TPM, which will assist them in more effectively implementing an integrated system of I4.0 and TPM to practice sustainability. The scope of TPM applicability is wide, and the current research is limited to manufacturing companies. Therefore, there is a huge scope for developing and testing the integrated system of I4.0 and TPM in other industrial settings, such as the textile, food and aerospace industries.

Originality/value

This research makes a first-of-its-kind effort to examine how an I4.0-integrated TPM model affects manufacturing companies' sustainability and how such effects might be maximised.
Functional and phylogenetic responses of motile cryptofauna to habitat degradation
Authors: Stella Jessica S. , Wolfe Kennedy , Roff George , Rogers Alice , Priest Mark , Golbuu Yimnang , Mumby Peter J.
Published: September 2022

Biodiversity of terrestrial and marine ecosystems, including coral reefs, is dominated by small, often cryptic, invertebrate taxa that play important roles in ecosystem structure and functioning. While cryptofauna community structure is determined by strong small‐scale microhabitat associations, the extent to which ecological and environmental factors shape these communities are largely unknown, as is the relative importance of particular microhabitats in supporting reef trophodynamics from the bottom up.

The goal of this study was to address these knowledge gaps, provided coral reefs are increasingly exposed to multiple disturbances and environmental gradients that influence habitat complexity, condition and ecosystem functioning.

We compared the density, biomass, size range, phylogenetic diversity and functional roles of motile cryptofauna in Palau, Western Micronesia, among four coral‐derived microhabitats representing various states of degradation (live coral [AcroporaandPocillopora], dead coral and coral rubble) from reefs along a gradient of effluent exposure.

In total, 122 families across ten phyla were identified, dominated by the Arthropoda (Crustacea) and Mollusca. Cryptofauna biomass was greatest in livePocillopora, while coral rubble contained the greatest density and diversity. Size ranges were broader in live corals than both dead coral and rubble. From a bottom‐up perspective, effluent exposure had mixed effects on cryptic communities including a decline in total biomass in rubble. From a top‐down perspective, cryptofauna were generally unaffected by predator biomass.

Our data show that, as coral reef ecosystems continue to decline in response to more frequent and severe disturbances, habitats other than live coral may become increasingly important in supporting coral reef biodiversity and food webs.