bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic cross-kingdom host cell damage betweenCandida albicansandEnterococcus faecalis
Authors: Kapitan Mario , Niemiec Maria Joanna , Millet Nicolas , Brandt Philipp , Chowdhury Md Estiak Khan , Czapka Anna , Abdissa Ketema , Hoffmann Franziska , Lange Anna , Veleba Mark , Nietzsche Sandor , Mosig Alexander S. , Löffler Bettina , Marquet Mike , Makarewicz Oliwia , Kline Kimberly A. , Vylkova Slavena , Swidergall Marc , Jacobsen Ilse D.
Published: September 2024

The fungusCandida albicansand the Gram-positive bacteriumEnterococcus faecalisshare mucosal niches in the human body. As opportunistic pathogens, both are found to expand population size during dysbiosis, and can cause severe systemic infections in susceptible individuals. Here, we show that the presence ofC. albicansresults in increased host cell damage byE. faecalis. Furthermore,E. faecalisaggravates oropharyngeal candidiasis in mice. Increased damage is mediated by enterococcal cytolysin, and involves both physical interaction and altered glucose availability. Physical interaction promotes accumulation of bacteria on host cells, facilitating contact of cytolysin with host cells. Glucose depletion by the metabolic activity of the fungus sensitized host cells to cytolysin. This work illustrates how a complex interplay between fungi and bacteria can result in detrimental consequences for the host.
Glyco-phenotyping of mutants ofLacticaseibacillus paracaseiby lectin microarray
Authors: Suzuki Emi , Serata Masaki , Sako Tomoyuki , Sato Sumie , Iino Tohru , Tateno Hiroaki , Hirabayashi Jun
Published: September 2024

We previously identified a gene cluster ofLacticaseibacillus paracaseistrain Shirota (YIT 9029) for cell surface long-chain polysaccharides (LCPS-1) biosynthesis, which modulates YIT 9029 activity to induce cytokine production in immune cells, and showed that a lectin microarray can be useful for distinguishing the profile of bacterial cell-surface polysaccharide (PS) structures. Therefore, we isolated disruptive mutant strains of 51 genes predicted to be involved in cell wall PS biosynthesis in YIT 9029. Their binding profiles to lectins in conjunction with their binding abilities to YIT 9029-specific monoclonal antibody (MAb) were compared. The mutants defective in binding to the MAb all had defects within thecps1gene cluster. Some mutants partially bound to MAb, indicating that these genes may influence the synthesis and maturation of LCPS-1. Advanced lectin microarray analyzed the cell surface glycosylation properties of YIT 9029 and its mutants. YIT 9029 bound to a rhamnose-specific lectin CSA, and three additional lectins including an O-glycan binder (rDiscoidin II) and two mannose binders (rOrysata and rBanana). Lectin binding specificity was confirmed by a gene complementation assay for thecps1Cgene and a carbohydrate inhibition assay. When the binding profiles of individualcps1Athroughcps1Jknockout mutants were compared, typical and specific binding profiles patterns were observed, in which some similarities in the functions of each gene could be predicted. In conclusion, the combined use of lectin microarray and a YIT 9029 mutant strain library is a powerful tool for identifying unknown bacterial gene functions related to cell surface glycome.

IMPORTANCE

Previously, only a limited number of methods have been available for studying mutations in bacterial cell surface polysaccharide structures in relation to gene function. In this study, we focused on the lectin-binding properties ofLacticaseibacillus paracaseiYIT 9029 (wild-type; WT) and investigated the lectin-binding capabilities of 51 cell wall biosynthesis gene disruption strains using lectin microarrays. The results indicated that lectin-binding properties in gene-disrupted strains varied significantly with the presence or absence of LCPS-1, ranging from similar to WT to distinctly different. The use of lectin microarrays in conjunction with the YIT 9029 mutant library has been shown to be a highly effective method for identifying the functions of unknown bacterial genes related to cell-surface glycomes. This innovative approach to glycophenotyping allows for the determination of cell wall glycomes associated with bacterial gene functions using lectin microarrays.
Parameter-free clear image deconvolution (CLID) technique for single-frame live-cell super-resolution imaging
Authors: Xue Fudong , He Wenting , Xiang Zuo ang , Ren Jun , Shan Chunyan , Yuan Lin , Xu Pingyong
Published: September 2024

Advancing single-frame imaging techniques beyond the diffraction limit and upgrading traditional wide-field or confocal microscopes to super-resolution (SR) capabilities are greatly sought after by biologists. While enhancing image resolution by deconvolving noise-free images is beneficial, achieving a noise-free image that maintains the distribution of signal intensity poses a challenge. We first developed a denoising method utilizing reversibly switchable fluorescent proteins through synchronized signal switching (3S). Additionally, we introduced a denoising neural network technique, 3Snet, which combines supervised and self-supervised learning using 3S denoised images as the ground truth. These approaches effectively eliminate noise while maintaining fluorescence signal distribution across camera pixels. We then implemented clear image deconvolution (CLID) on both 3S and 3Snet denoised images to develop SR techniques, named 3S-CLID and 3Snet-CLID. Notably, 3Snet-CLID boosts the resolution of single fluorescence images from wide-field and spinning-disk confocal microscopies by up to 3.9 times, achieving a spatial resolution of 65 nm, the highest in such imaging scenarios without an additional SR module and complex parameter setting. 3Snet-CLID enables dual-color single-frame live-cell imaging of various subcellular structures labeled with conventional fluorescent proteins and/or dyes, allowing observations of dynamic cellular processes. We expect that these advancements will drive innovation and uncover new insights in biology.
A Newborn F-box Gene Blocks Gene Flow by Selectively Degrading Phosphoglucomutase in Species Hybrids
Authors: Xie Dongying , Ma Yiming , Ye Pohao , Liu Yiqing , Ding Qiutao , Huang Gefei , Felix Marie-Anne , Cai Zongwei , Zhao Zhongying
Published: September 2024

The establishment of reproductive barriers such as postzygotic hybrid incompatibility (HI) remains the key to speciation. Gene duplication followed by differential functionalization has long been proposed as a major model underlying HI, but few supporting evidence exists. Here, we demonstrate that a new-born F-box gene, Cni-neib-1, of the nematode Caenorhabditis nigoni specifically inactivates an essential phosphoglucomutase encoded by Cbr-shls-1 in its sister species C. briggsae and their hybrids. Zygotic expression of Cni-neib-1 specifically depletes Cbr-SHLS-1, but not Cni-SHLS-1, in approximately 40 minutes starting from gastrulation, causing embryonic death. Cni-neib-1 is one of thirty-three paralogues emerging from a recent surge in F-box gene duplication events within C. nigoni, all of which are evolving under positive selection. Cni-neib-1 undergoes turnover even among C. nigoni populations. Differential expansion of F-box genes between the two species could reflect their distinctive innate immune responses. Collectively, we demonstrate how recent duplication of genes involved in protein degradation can cause unintended destruction of targets in hybrids that leads to HI, providing an invaluable insight into mechanisms of speciation.
Development of bright fluorescent auxin
Authors: Aoyama Tsuyoshi , Nambo Masakazu , Yap Jia Xin , Nakagawa Ayami , Hayashi Marina , Ukai Yuko , Ohtsuka Motoo , Hayashi Ken-ichiro , Sato Yoshikatsu , Tsuchiya Yuichiro
Published: September 2024

Polar transport of the phytohormone auxin plays a crucial role in plant growth and response to environmental stimuli. Small-molecule tools that visualize auxin distribution in intact plants enable us to understand how plants dynamically regulate auxin transport to modulate growth. In this study, we developed a new fluorescent auxin probe, BODIPY-IAA2, which effectively visualizes auxin distribution in various plant tissues. We designed this probe to be transported by auxin transporters while lacking the ability to elicit auxin signaling. Using BODIPY as the fluorophore provides bright and stable fluorescence signals, making it suitable for live-imaging under standard fluorescent microscopy. We tested the probe with auxin reporter lines inArabidopsisand performed yeast two-hybrid assays. The results showed that BODIPY-IAA2 did not activate auxin signaling through the auxin receptor TIR1. However, BODIPY-IAA2 did mildly compete with both exogenous and endogenous auxins for transport, indicating that the probe is transported by auxin transportersin vivo. The probe not only enables visualization of its tissue distribution but also allows sub-cellular staining, including the endoplasmic reticulum and tip regions in elongating cells in moss. We also observed unusual staining patterns in the main root of non-model parasitic plants where genetic transformation is not feasible. Our new fluorescent auxin probe demonstrates significant potential for detailed studies on auxin transport and distribution across diverse plant species.
Developing and validating modular surveys for vector-borne diseases: a study protocol
Authors: Finucane Skyler , Renault Alexandria , Hayden Mary H. , Ernst Kacey , Yeo Sarah
Published: September 2024

Vector-borne diseases are an increasing threat to human health and well-being in the United States. Understanding public perception and practices taken to reduce vector abundance and vector-human contact can guide effective interventions that can mitigate health risks. Nevertheless, vector-borne disease surveys, which are widely used in the field to understand public perception and practices, are often inconsistent in terms of structure and implementation. This protocol is designed to provide guidance for public health professionals and researchers in the development of future KAP studies by ensuring uniformity in design and structure. This manuscript describes a rigorous three-phase protocol for the development of standardized vector-borne disease survey modules that can be used throughout the United States to generate data that are comparable across diverse regions. During phase one, a workshop with subject matter experts and a comprehensive literature review will be conducted to identify survey domains and generate items of interest. Survey items will also be mapped based on two theoretical frameworks, the Health Belief Model and the Risks, Attitudes, Norms, Abilities and Self-Regulation framework, to help gauge individual perceptions of risk severity and self-efficacy. During phase two, a group of expert judges will evaluate survey items based on content relevance, representativeness, and technical quality. During the final phase, cognitive interviews and surveys with target audience groups will be conducted to ensure the face validity of the modules. Participants will be drawn from a diverse range of educational and geographic locations, and computer-assisted personal interviewing will be implemented. The surveys developed through this protocol will be available to researchers aiming to gain deeper insights into the public’s knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning vector-borne diseases, facilitating the collection of more comparable data across various regions in the United States.
Oral-motor complexity influences center of pressure patterns in adults with stroke-related communication disorders
Authors: Pressler Daria , Dugan Sarah , De Silva Amu , Riley Michael A. , Schwab-Farrell Sarah M.
Published: September 2024

People with stroke (PwS) often exhibit altered postural control, and concomitant stroke-related communication disorders (e.g., aphasia, dysarthria) may be an underrecognized risk factor for post-stroke falls. This heightened fall risk may be related to alterations in postural control that emerge during different speaking and listening conditions. This study evaluated how variations in the relative articulatory demands during speech production—termed “oral-motor complexity”—affect postural center of pressure (COP) patterns among PwS, both with communication disorders (PwS-CDis) and without (PwS). Three groups of adults (PwS, PwS-CDis, and a nondisabled Control group) stood on a force platform while completing four 30-second quiet stance trials, followed by twelve 30-second trials randomized across three experimental conditions of varying oral-motor complexities (“ba”, “puh tuh kuh”, “rah shah lah nah”). COP variability (SD) was significantly higher during experimental conditions compared to quiet stance, regardless of group and movement plane. Differences in nonlinear time-dependent metrics were found across oral-motor task conditions, particularly among PwS-CDis, suggesting oral-motor complexity may influence underlying postural-motor organization. Distinct temporal-dynamical patterns observed in PwS-CDis indicate a possible link between pathology, postural control, and speech motor tasks, which is relevant when evaluating postural control in individuals with stroke-related communication disorders.
ARF degradation defines a deeply conserved step in auxin response
Authors: de Roij Martijn , Hernández García Jorge , Das Shubhajit , Borst Jan Willem , Weijers Dolf
Published: September 2024

Auxin response critically depends on the concentrations and stoichiometry of competing A- and B-class AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR (ARF) proteins. InMarchantia polymorpha, both A- and B-ARFs are unstable, and here we identify a minimal necessary and sufficient region for ARF degradation that is critical for development, and auxin response. Through comparative analysis, we find that ARF instability likely preceded the emergence of the auxin response system.
Calreticulin is required for cuticle deposition and trabeculae formation inside butterfly wing scale cells
Authors: Hong Ru , Finet Cedric , Monteiro Antonia
Published: September 2024

Insect cuticle is normally deposited outside the plasma membrane of epidermal cells, making it unclear how cuticular pillars (trabeculae) are found inside butterfly wing scale cells. By co-labelling the cuticle and the plasma membrane, we found evidence that the plasma membrane invaginates towards the interior of the scale during development, and that chitin pillars form within these invaginations within the cell, but topologically outside it. Furthermore, we found that Calreticulin, a multifunctional protein, is essential for the formation of these trabeculae. This protein was found colocalized with chitin outside the cell membrane, as scales were developing, and its knockout led to loss of chitin pillars, disruption of other scale morphologies, and loss of pigmentation. Our results implicate this multifunctional protein in butterfly wing scale coloration and morphology.
A small signaling domain controls PPIP5K phosphatase activity in phosphate homeostasis
Authors: Raia Pierre , Lee Kitaik , Bartsch Simon M. , Rico-Resendiz Felix , Portugal-Calisto Daniela , Vadas Oscar , Panse Vikram Govind , Fiedler Dorothea , Hothorn Michael
Published: September 2024

Inositol pyrophosphates (PP-InsPs) are highly phosphorylated nutrient messengers. The final step of their biosynthesis is catalyzed by diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate kinase (PPIP5K) enzymes, which are conserved among fungi, plants, and animals. PPIP5Ks contain an N-terminal kinase domain that generates the active messenger 1,5-InsP8and a C-terminal phosphatase domain that participates in PP-InsP catabolism. The balance between kinase and phosphatase activities controls the cellular levels and signaling capacity of 1,5-InsP8. Here, we present crystal structures of the apo and substrate-bound Vip1 phosphatase domain from S.cerevisiae(ScVip1PD). ScVip1PDis a phytase-like inositol 1-pyrophosphate phosphatase with two conserved histidine phosphatase catalytic motifs. The enzyme has a strong preference for 1,5-InsP8and is inhibited by inorganic phosphate. ScVip1PDhas an α-helical insertion domain stabilized by a structural Zn2+binding site, and a unique GAF signaling domain that exists in an open and closed state, allowing channeling of the 1,5-InsP8substrate to the active site. Mutations that alter the active site, that restrict the movement of the GAF domain or that modify the charge of the substrate channel, significantly inhibit the activity of the yeast enzymein vitro, and the function of the Arabidopsis PPIP5K VIH2in planta. Structural analyses of full-length PPIP5Ks suggest that the kinase and phosphatase are independent enzymatic modules. Taken together, our work reveals the structure, enzymatic mechanism and regulation of eukaryotic PPIP5K phosphatases.
Multiple mechanisms of action of an extremely painful venom
Authors: Borjon Lydia J. , de Assis Ferreira Luana C. , Trinidad Jonathan C. , Šašić Sunčica , Hohmann Andrea G. , Tracey W. Daniel
Published: September 2024

Evolutionary arms races between predator and prey can lead to extremely specific and effective defense mechanisms. Such defenses include venoms that deter predators by targeting nociceptive (pain-sensing) pathways. Through co-evolution, venom toxins can become extremely efficient modulators of their molecular targets. The venom of velvet ants (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae) is notoriously painful. The intensity of a velvet ant sting has been described as “Explosive and long lasting, you sound insane as you scream. Hot oil from the deep fryer spilling over your entire hand.” [1] The effectiveness of the velvet ant sting as a deterrent against potential predators has been shown across vertebrate orders, including mammals, amphibians, reptiles, and birds [2–4]. The venom’s low toxicity suggests it has a targeted effect on nociceptive sensory mechanisms [5]. This leads to the hypothesis that velvet ant venom targets a conserved nociception mechanism, which we sought to uncover usingDrosophila melanogasteras a model system.Drosophilalarvae have peripheral sensory neurons that sense potentially damaging (noxious) stimuli such as high temperature, harsh mechanical touch, and noxious chemicals [6–9]. These polymodal nociceptors are called class IV multidendritic dendritic arborizing (cIV da) neurons, and they share many features with vertebrate nociceptors, including conserved sensory receptor channels [10,11]. We found that velvet ant venom strongly activatedDrosophilanociceptors through heteromeric Pickpocket/Balboa (Ppk/Bba) ion channels. Furthermore, we found a single venom peptide (Do6a) that activated larval nociceptors at nanomolar concentrations through Ppk/Bba.DrosophilaPpk/Bba is homologous to mammalian Acid Sensing Ion Channels (ASICs) [12]. However, the Do6a peptide did not produce behavioral signs of nociception in mice, which was instead triggered by other non-specific, less potent, peptides within the venom. This suggests that Do6a is an insect-specific venom component that potently activates insect nociceptors. Consistent with this, we showed that the velvet ant’s defensive sting produced aversive behavior in a predatory praying mantis. Together, our results indicate that velvet ant venom evolved to target nociceptive systems of both vertebrates and invertebrates, but through different molecular mechanisms.
The Golgi-associated microtubule cross-linking protein MTCL2 promotes the multipolar extension of dendrites in cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Minekawa Mari , Suzuki Atsushi
Published: September 2024

The dynamic regulation of neuronal polarity is essential for establishing neural networks during brain development. The primary culture of rodent neurons recapitulates several aspects of this polarity regulation and thus provides powerful tools for revealing the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying axon specification and neuronal migration. However, little is known about how preexisting bipolarity breaks to form multipolar dendrites. Here, we demonstrated that the Golgi-associated, microtubule (MT) cross-linking protein MTCL2 plays an essential role in this type of polarity change observed in the differentiation of cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs). MTCL2 is highly expressed in CGNs and exhibited gradual accumulation in dendrites in parallel to their polarity development. MTCL2 depletion resulted in the generation of longer and fewer dendrites by suppressing the bipolar-to-multipolar transition of dendrite extension observed in the normal polarization process. During this process, the Golgi apparatus changes its localization from the base of the preexisting bipolar neurites to the lateral or apical side of the nucleus, where it associates closely with the MT cage wrapping the nucleus. The resulting upward extension of the Golgi apparatus is tightly coupled with randomization of its position in x-y plane. Knockdown/rescue experiments demonstrated that MTCL2 promotes these changes in Golgi position in an MT- and Golgi-binding activity-dependent manner. These results suggest that MTCL2 promotes the development of multipolar short dendrites by sequestering the Golgi apparatus from the base of preexisting neurites, enabling its random movements around nuclei.
Age-dependent Changes in a Chaperone Complex in the Mouse Heart
Authors: Bhat Purnima Devaki , Nalli Aswan , Shoemaker Luke , Kwong Jennifer Q. , Krishnamurthy Prasanna , Benian Guy M.
Published: September 2024

The exquisitely organized sarcomere, the unit of contraction of striated muscle, is a very stable structure with a slow turnover rate of its components. The myosin chaperone UNC-45 and its co-chaperones, Hsp90 and Hsp70, are required for the initial folding of the myosin head domain and the assembly of myosin into thick filaments. There is increasing evidence that the UNC-45 chaperone system has an important role during aging to preserve sarcomere organization and myosin levels, and its decline may be a key factor in sarcopenia, the reduced skeletal muscle mass and function found in the elderly without an underlying condition. Cardiac muscle is another type of striated muscle but the role of the UNC-45 system has not yet been examined in the aging heart. Here we show that in the mouse heart, during aging, there is a decline in the levels of myosin, Unc-45b and Hsp70, but not Hsp90, and no obvious changes in sarcomere organization. In contrast, it is known that in skeletal muscle, there is a decline in both Unc-45b and Hsp90, and we show here that there is no decline in Hsp70. The decreased level of Hsp70 specifically in the heart could have broader implications than seem apparent as it could affect the folding and assembly of many other proteins in the aging heart and contribute to cardiomyopathies. Since Hsp70 mediates protein stabilization and prevents protein aggregation, its age-dependent reduction could potentially affect diseases such as amyloidosis.
Modified sine-Gordon theory with static multikinks
Authors: Halcrow Chris , John Renjan Rajan , N. Anusree
Published: September 2024

We construct a modified non-Bogomol’nyi-Prasad-Sommerfield sine-Gordon theory which supports stable static kinks of arbitrary topological degree N. We use this toy model to study problems that are interesting for higher-dimensional soliton theories supporting multisolitons. We construct a 2-kink collective coordinate model and use it to generate scattering trajectories, which are compared to full-field dynamics. We find that the approximation works well, but starts to fail as radiation becomes more important, due to our model becoming less Bogomol’nyi-Prasad-Sommerfield or when the initial kink velocities are large. We also construct the quantum 2-kink using various approximations and consider how these quantum corrections affect the binding energy of the 2-kink.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Supernova-Neutrino-Boosted Dark Matter from All Galaxies
Authors: Lin Yen-Hsun , Wu Meng-Ru
Published: September 2024

It has been recently proposed that the boosted dark matter (BDM) by supernova neutrinos (SNν) from SN1987a or from the next Galactic supernova (SN) can serve as a novel component to probe nonvanishing interaction between dark matter (DM) and the standard model leptons [Y.-H. Lin , and Y.-H. Lin , ]. In this Letter, we extend this concept and evaluate the present-day flux of SNν BDM originated from all galaxies at higher redshifts. We show that by considering this diffuse BDM (DBDM) component, the best sensitivity on the product of the energy-independent DM-ν and DM-electron cross sections, σχνσχe≃O(10−37)  cm2 for sub-MeV DM, can be obtained with large-size neutrino experiments such as Super-Kamiokande or Hyper-Kamiokande, surpassing the estimated SNν BDM bound from SN1987a. We also examine the impact due to the presence of DM spikes around the supermassive black holes in galaxies on SNν BDM and DBDM. Our results suggest that both the DBDM and the

SN

ν

BDM probes are robust to the uncertain properties of DM spikes, unless the next Galactic SN happens to occur at a location extremely close to or right behind the Galactic Center along the SN line of sight.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Scalable multiphoton generation from cavity-synchronized single-photon sources
Authors: Li Ming , García-Ripoll Juan José , Ramos Tomás
Published: September 2024

We propose an efficient, scalable, and deterministic scheme to generate multiple indistinguishable photons over independent channels, on demand. Our design relies on multiple single-photon sources, each coupled to a waveguide, all interacting with a common cavity mode. The cavity synchronizes and triggers the simultaneous emission of one photon by each source, which are collected by the waveguides. In a state-of-the-art circuit QED implementation, this scheme supports the creation of single photons with 99% purity, indistinguishability, and efficiency at rates of ∼MHz. We also discuss conditions to produce up to 100 photons simultaneously with generation rates of hundreds of kHz. This is orders of magnitude more efficient than previous demultiplexed sources for boson sampling and enables the realization of deterministic multiphoton sources and scalable quantum information processing with photons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Examining the relationship between inclusive growth and tax revenue mobilization: additional evidence from sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: Adeosun Opeoluwa Adeniyi , Olomola Philip Akani , Adedokun Adebayo , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The study investigates the influence of inclusive growth on tax revenue. It validates the fiscal exchange and resource bargaining theories, which suggest that tax compliance improves when citizens perceive that their tax contributions lead to enhanced welfare and that the government negotiates with people to provide public goods and services in exchange for taxes received.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs inclusive growth measures, including an integrated GDP and equity growth measure and alternative proxies based on GDP per person employed and Asian Development Bank (ADB) inclusive growth indicators. Using 39 sub-Saharan African countries as a sample, our analysis captures spatial interactions across these contiguous countries using the Fixed-Effect model with the Driscoll and Kraay non-parametric consistent covariance matrix and the spatial Durbin Arellano–Bond linear dynamic panel generalized method of moment (Spatial GMM) approach with an interaction weight matrix to capture interactions between countries in the region.

Findings

The paper shows that inclusive growth positively influences tax revenue in the region. This validates the fiscal exchange and resource bargaining hypotheses, demonstrating that tax compliance is positively influenced by public goods provision and the government’s ability to emphasize the necessity of taxes for service provision. It indicates that citizens are more willing to pay taxes when the government effectively promotes welfare. We find a significant positive spatial spillover effect, suggesting that inclusive growth not only boosts tax revenue within a specific country but also extends its benefits to neighboring countries, aligning with the spillover theory.

Practical implications

The study posits that the government implements policies that guarantee effectiveness and accountability in public welfare delivery as well as sufficient tax bases and tax revenue. An inclusive growth policy that engenders GDP growth, employment and equity growth should be implemented since the rate of tax compliance of the citizens improves for every welfare provided by the government.

Originality/value

This study tests the validity of the fiscal exchange and resource bargaining theories in Sub-Saharan Africa. Accommodating spatial dependence and cross-border effects, the study sheds light on how inclusive growth impacts tax revenue across contiguous countries in the region. As such, the region should prioritize regional integration, fostering economic ties and harmonizing policies through knowledge sharing and cross-border investment.
Role of social influence in adoption of energy-efficient household systems among Pakistani consumers: a quantitative study
Authors: Sibtain Muhammad Muzummil , Hashim Muhammad , García Márquez Fausto Pedro , Baig Sajjad Ahmad , Nazam Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The adoption of energy-efficient systems is crucial for Pakistan to meet its growing energy demand and address its energy challenges. However, adoption of these systems in Pakistan is hindered by several barriers, including economic constraints, lack of awareness and social attitudes toward sustainable development. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to explore adoption of energy-efficient household systems and the associated social influence.

Design/methodology/approach

The study incorporates social influence as a mediating factor to examine the relationships between awareness of consequences, perceived consumer effectiveness and attitudes toward the adoption of energy-efficient systems. A quantitative survey method was used to collect data from households from Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 203 valid questionnaires were received and data analyzed through SmartPLS 4 for structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results revealed that awareness of consequences positively impacts compliance, social identification and internalization, while perceived consumer effectiveness has a positive relationship with social identification and internalization. Moreover, the positive association of social identification and internalization with attitude were supported but relationship of compliance with attitude was unsupported.

Practical implications

The results may also be used to develop compelling marketing campaigns focusing environmental conservation and social influence for positive attitude development.

Originality/value

The study contributes to theoretical literature by examining the empirical relationships between specific individual characteristics and societal pressure that play a critical role in shaping attitudes toward the acceptance of energy-efficient systems. Additionally, the study's findings offer actionable implications for policymakers and marketers, contributing to the development of targeted interventions for promoting sustainable consumption.
Does spirituality at work promote work-to-family enrichment among Indian female employees?
Authors: Garg Naval , Sharma Nidhi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Based on Indian conceptualisation of workplace spirituality, this study aims to examine the linkage between four dimensions of workplace spirituality (swadharma, authenticity, lokasangraha and sense of community) and work-to-family (WTF) enrichment. It also explored the mediating effect of psychological and social capital and the moderating effect of gratitude.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 387 women employees of Indian hospitality industry was collected in three waves. The collected data were analysed in three stages. Firstly, reliability, validity and multicollinearity were assessed using appropriate statistical measures like Cronbach’s alpha, composite reliability and average variance explained. Secondly, the relationship between four dimensions of workplace spirituality and WTF enrichment were examined using correlation and hierarchical regression. Several demographic variables like marital status, age, experience and income level were controlled. Thirdly, the moderating effect of gratitude and mediating effects of psychological and social capital were analysed using PROCESS macro.

Findings

The results showed adequate reliability and validity estimates. Also, four dimensions of Indian workplace spirituality were significantly related to WTF enrichment with these dimensions of workplace spirituality collectively explaining 46.8% variations in WTF enrichment. The results also concluded significant meditating effect of psychological and social capital. It also asserted significant moderating effect of gratitude.

Originality/value

The study is based on longitudinal data collected to test seven hypotheses of the study.
Whistleblowing intentions of external auditors: an application of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory
Authors: Anokye Fred Kwasi , Simpson Samuel Nana Yaw , Owusu Godfred Mathew Yaw , Kwakye Teddy Ossei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the whistleblowing intentions of external auditors and the factors that influence their intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the survey methodology, data was collected from 339 external auditors from licensed private audit firms. The partial least squares structural equation modelling technique was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results indicate that external auditors have a greater propensity to blow the whistle on wrongdoings and they prefer to report wrongdoings using internal channels than external channels. The study further found uncertainty avoidance, masculinity and long-term orientation to be good predictors of whistleblowing intentions.

Practical implications

The findings have practical implications for human resource practitioners who seek to foster job synergy and encourage the reporting of wrongdoings. Also, it has useful implications for policymakers who seek to enhance whistleblowing activities.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study is among the first to provide empirical support for the applicability of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions theory at the individual level within the whistleblowing discourse from an African perspective.
The effect of firm-specific determinants on export performance: the mediating role of supply chain performance
Authors: Tripathi Saswati , Roy Siddhartha Shankar , Talukder Bijoy
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper analyses and assesses the effect of firm-specific determinants (FSDs) on supply-chain performance (SCP) and export performance (EP). It examines SCP’s influence on EP and its mediating effect on the relationship between FSD and EP.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a theoretical framework based on the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic-capability theory to understand SCP’s role in the FSD-EP link while empirically validating using the Indian automobile industry segments (IAIS) data. The sample frame comprises all listed firms in IAIS between the financial year 2010-11 and 2021–22, with continuous data availability throughout the considered timeline. The paper employs factor analysis for dimension reduction, a panel-data-fixed-effect model to analyze the relationships, bootstrap to test the mediation effect and focus-group discussion for validating the results obtained through statistical analyses.

Findings

FSD directly influences SCP’s efficiency aspect and EP. Distribution efficiency and inventory efficiency characteristics of SCP directly impact EP and completely mediate the relationship between FSD and EP.

Practical implications

This study provides significant insights into how firms can increase EP by focusing on firm-specific and SCP-related factors. To improve EP, firms should concentrate on enhancing distribution and inventory efficiencies. Firms must focus on critical firm-level factors like age, size and raw-material import capability to increase their ability to solve SC-specific barriers and improve SCP, resulting in enhanced exports.

Originality/value

This study investigates the impacts of FSD on SCP and EP and examines the mediating effect of SCP on the relationship between FSD and EP. Such a mediating role of SCP has rarely been probed in the literature.
Integrating the SDGs into the agenda of an Argentine university
Authors: Maccagno Patricia , Goñi Verónica Andrea , Panuccio Candela Abril , Alvarez Marcela Alejandra , Diaz Yesica Daniela , Galvaliz Camila
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the incorporation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) at the National University of Moreno (Universidad Nacional de Moreno, UNM, in Spanish), focusing on teaching and research activities, encountering difficulties from primary and secondary information sources, to integrate the SDGs, and contribute with actions for their incorporation into teaching and learning processes and research, in a newly established university.

Design/methodology/approach

To describe the implementation of the SDGs, an empirical study was conducted using a mixed methodology for data collection. Data collected from the survey were combined with information from the UNM project database for the period 2017–2022. Non-parametric methods were used to analyse both sets of data.

Findings

This study provides an initial overview of SDG implementation at UNM, allowing the identification of constraints and challenges to scale up contributions to the SDGs at UNM, as well as the generation of relevant action lines in the interaction with university's authorities.

Research limitations/implications

Conducting studies through questionnaires has limitations, similar to other cases analysed. To increase the validity of the data, prior consultations were carried out. In addition, the database of research projects was used to identify the application of the SDGs in research. However, an approximation of the current situation could be obtained.

Practical implications

Particular importance was given to the challenges encountered during the data analysis phase in relation to capacity building needs. This enabled a set of actions to be defined to bring the SDGs closer to the UNM.

Originality/value

Although the paper used methodologies already proposed by other authors, such as survey collection, its value lies in demonstrating the possibility of using them to analyse whether the SDGs are integrated into teaching and research activities in a recently founded university, where the SDGs are integrated into its principles. The analysis also complements the survey results with information from project databases, which has not yet been analysed in the literature. Based on the results, activities are designed so that the SDGs could begin to guide teaching and research activities.
Building business network relationships in the changing Chinese context: findings from Italian luxury companies
Authors: Rovai Serena
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Through the subject of business network dynamics, this study aims to examine how business network relationships impact company entry market and development within fast growing economies as China. The paper looks at business network relationships in a fast-growing economy and provides an understanding of the relational perspectives in internationalisation of three luxury fashion companies and their entry models affected by the China context-related variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is following a qualitative approach, based on multiple case-studies research, proposing three cases of companies entering the Chinese market in the luxury and fashion industry.

Findings

The research analyses the local business network paths and how they affect the entry strategy through the socio-cultural and political players. The paper adds knowledge to studies in market entry and business networks, in the fast-growing economies area, with its new norms and values.

Originality/value

This study tries to analyse how business networks and related relationships “with Chinese characteristics” affect the market entry strategy in the internationalisation path from the perspective of the luxury fashion industry sector. In so doing it tries to provide an original further development of business network models within the new Chinese context.
When you hop, what do you hope? Evolution of success parameters for expatriates across assignments
Authors: Ray Prantika , Maheshwari Sunil Kumar
Published: September 2024

Purpose

International assignments are not just opportunities for career advancement but also for personal growth and exploration. This paper, by capturing the changing expectations and success parameters across the assignments, is a timely and relevant resource for individuals navigating the complexities of international careers. In addition, the paper aims to help organizations build policies for enabling successful assignments for international assignees and managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Our research took a unique two-pronged approach to understanding the success parameters of international assignments. We first interviewed 16 managers to understand the success parameters they set for expatriates. Then, we interviewed 19 international assignees to explore their choices and how they defined success in their international experiences.

Findings

Our comprehensive research, based on 35 interviews with international assignees and their supervisors, reveals that an assignment's success evolves with different stages of the assignment, over the assignments that the assignees choose, and varies according to the intent of the mobility.

Originality/value

This paper makes a significant contribution to the field of cross-cultural management and international assignments. By discussing the evolving definition of success across various international assignments, it not only provides valuable insights for expatriates in their international careers but also to managers to build aligned policies and practices.
Multiobjective unrelated parallel machines scheduling problem with periodic maintenance activities and dependent processing times
Authors: Yaghtin Mohammad , Javid Youness
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to address the complex multiobjective unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem with real-world constraints, including sequence-dependent setup times and periodic machine maintenance. The primary goal is to minimize total tardiness, earliness and total completion times simultaneously. This study aims to provide effective solution methods, including a Mixed-Integer Programming (MIP) model, an Epsilon-constraint method and the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA-II), to offer valuable insights into solving large-sized instances of this challenging problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This study addresses a multiobjective unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem with sequence-dependent setup times and periodic machine maintenance activities. An MIP model is introduced to formulate the problem, and an Epsilon-constraint method is applied for a solution. To handle the NP-hard nature of the problem for larger instances, an NSGA-II is developed. The research involves the creation of 45 problem instances for computational experiments, which evaluate the performance of the algorithms in terms of proposed measures.

Findings

The research findings demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed solution approaches for the multiobjective unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem. Computational experiments on 45 generated problem instances reveal that the NSGA-II algorithm outperforms the Epsilon-constraint method, particularly for larger instances. The algorithms successfully minimize total tardiness, earliness and total completion times, showcasing their practical applicability and efficiency in handling real-world scheduling scenarios.

Originality/value

This study contributes original value by addressing a complex multiobjective unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem with real-world constraints, including sequence-dependent setup times and periodic machine maintenance activities. The introduction of an MIP model, the application of the Epsilon-constraint method and the development of the NSGA-II algorithm offer innovative approaches to solving this NP-hard problem. The research provides valuable insights into efficient scheduling methods applicable in various industries, enhancing decision-making processes and operational efficiency.
Urban gardens as inclusive green living rooms? Gardening activities in Gothenburg, across and within social divides
Authors: Wallinder Ylva
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study explores the social conditions for sustainability practices, addressing the processes whereby associational gardening practices in a highly segregated context may or may not create connections and capacities across urban social divides.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on organizational ethnographic fieldwork, the article explores urban gardens as potential meeting places in a segregated city, Gothenburg, focusing on collectively organized gardening projects in different socioeconomic and socio-spatial settings.

Findings

The study identifies the unintentional encounters embedded in the immaterial act of gardening, that is, digging, planting and actual gardening practices regardless of the harvest. Such practices were found to be important for social sustainability practices beyond the continuous reproduction of silos, at least in multicultural settings. Nevertheless, many urban gardeners create a green living room for themselves and their neighbours, and engagement with those outside their silos often becomes more of a symbolic act of global solidarity, especially in more culturally homogeneous areas.

Originality/value

The article fills a gap in the research by focusing on the social conditions for sustainability practices in urban segregated areas. By showing how gardening practices often reproduce cultural similarity, the study highlights the importance of revealing practices and places that facilitate unintentional social “bonus” interactions that nonetheless occur in two of the gardening environments studied. Unintentional encounters are identified as important dimensions of social sustainability practices.
Understanding how customer interaction drives e-loyalty during returns handling in online retailing
Authors: Li Mingfang , Choudhury Askar , Zhang Na
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the structural determinants of e-returns service interactions, examine their impact on online shoppers' loyalty and propose returns service interventions from an interactive marketing perspective to facilitate consumer interaction and repeat purchase intentions with e-retailers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically tests the research hypotheses based on cross-sectional survey data collected from Chinese online consumers who experienced interactions during the product returns process.

Findings

E-return service interaction includes three determinants: access support, friendly interaction and communication support. These interactions positively impact ease of return, returns satisfaction and customer loyalty. Returns satisfaction is a key mediator in the relationship between return service interaction and loyalty. Access support and friendly interaction have both direct and indirect effects on loyalty, while communication support has only an indirect effect.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding e-returns service interaction by analyzing its structural determinants, providing a robust scale foundation and analytical framework for future empirical research. Additionally, this study explores the driving role of e-returns service interaction in forming e-customer loyalty, offering a theoretical basis for the service recovery function of e-returns service interaction. It enriches the application of service recovery theory and relationship marketing theory in the field of interactive marketing.