bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Regulatory Logics of Mouse Gastrulation
Authors: Yang Xianfa , Xie Bingbing , Shen Penglei , Chen Yingying , Li Chunjie , Tan Fengxiang , Yang Yumeng , Yang Yun , Song Rui , Mi Panpan , Liu Zhiwen , Wen Mingzhu , Tam Patrick P. L. , Suo Shengbao , Jing Naihe 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSpatiotemporal coordination of cellular and molecular events is crucial for cell fate commitment during mouse gastrulation. However, the high-precision mechanisms governing the timing and spatial dynamics remain poorly understood. Here, we present a time-series single-cell multi-omic dataset from the mouse gastrulating embryos and construct a hierarchical gene regulatory landscape. Integrating this with real three-dimensional transcriptomic coordinate, we created ST-MAGIC and ST-MAGIC (+) atlas, dissecting the spatiotemporal logics of regulatory networks and signaling responsiveness underpinning the lineage commitment at gastrulation. Specifically, we delineated the multi-omic basis for left-right symmetry breaking events in the gastrula and also revealed the spatiotemporal molecular relay for axial mesendoderm lineage, where early and intermediate transcription factors first open the chromatin regions and setup the responsiveness to signaling, followed by terminal factors to consolidate the transcriptomic architecture. In summary, our study presents a spatiotemporal regulatory logic framework of mouse gastrulation, that advances our understanding of mammalian embryogenesis.
The plant pioneer factor LFY uses trans-kingdom chromatin remodeling mechanisms in vertebrates
Authors: Ribeiro Francisca , Teixeira Joana , Sottomayor Mariana , Bessa Jose 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMulticellular complexity is thought to have evolved independently in animals and plants, but the molecular constraints driving this complexity are poorly understood. Genetic networks activated during animal and plant development both involve the regulation of nucleosome occupancy by chromatin remodelers. Pioneer factors, often specific to plants or animals, bind to nucleosome-occupied DNA in a sequence-specific manner, recruiting chromatin remodelers to control lineage-specific genetic networks. In this study, a plant-specific pioneer factor, LFY, when expressed in zebrafish cells, recruits the vertebrate chromatin remodeler Smarca4a to make DNA accessible at LFY binding sites. This allows a plant LFY-controlled promoter, introduced into the zebrafish genome, to become transcriptionally active in a Smarca4a-dependent manner. Our findings suggest that the protein-protein interaction between pioneer factors and chromatin remodelers is a trans-kingdom mechanism likely reflecting ancient eukaryotic events that became a key evolutionary constraint in the path to biological complexity.
Fibrotic-like collagen matrices as innovative 3D in vitro models for investigating the impact of pathological ECM on muscle regeneration in muscular dystrophies
Authors: Camman Marie , Nieswic Naomi , Joanne Pierre , Brun Julie , Marcellan Alba , Agbulut Onnik , Helary Christophe 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMuscular dystrophies are characterized by impaired skeletal muscle contraction due to genetic mutations. Beyond the disruption of muscle function, the extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding muscle fibers becomes fibrotic, further impeding tissue repair and function. In this study, we designed both healthy and fibrotic matrices to examine the impact of persistent fibrosis on muscle cell behavior. Fibrotic matrices were synthesized by 3D printing of dense collagen solutions in air, followed by slow gelation to yield non-porous, isotropic hydrogels. These matrices were subsequently crosslinked using EDC/NHS chemistry, resulting in a Young’s modulus of approximately 50 kPa. The behavior of C2C12 myoblasts cultured within the fibrotic matrices was compared to cells grown in healthy matrices. Our results showed that the fibrotic matrix had a detrimental effect on cell behavior. Myoblasts were unable to differentiate into mature myotubes, exhibited poor alignment, and suffered from hypoxia. Furthermore, these cells failed to proliferate, secreted inflammatory cytokines, and were unable to remodel their ECM. Using matrices possessing a single characteristic of the fibrotic matrix (i.e stiff or non porous), the predominant factor for each feature of the cell phenotype was determined. These findings underscore the detrimental effects of a fibrotic persistent ECM on muscle homeostasis. The development of these two distinct 3D muscle models, one representing healthy muscle and the other fibrotic, offers a valuable tool for investigating the pathophysiology of muscular dystrophy.HighlightsStiff and non-porous dense collagen matrices synthesized by 3D printing recapitulate the key characteristics of fibrosis observed in muscular dystrophiesFibrotic matrices negatively impact myoblast proliferation and differentiation into mature myocytesFibrotic matrices impede the 3D organotypic organization of myocytesThis 3D pathological model of skeletal muscle offers a valuable tool for investigating how persistent fibrosis influences the progression of muscular dystrophyGraphical Abstract
The energy-saving metabolic switch underlies survival of extremophilic red microalgae in extremely high nickel levels
Authors: Santaeufemia Sergio , Marchetto Francesca , Romano Patrizia , Adamska Dorota , Goryca Krzysztof , Palatini Jeffrey , Kargul Joanna 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe red microalgaCyanidioschyzon merolaeinhabits extreme environments of high temperature (40-56°C), high acidity (pH 0.05–4), and the presence of high concentrations of heavy metals and sulphites that are lethal to most other forms of life. However, information is scarce on the precise adaptation mechanisms of this extremophile to such hostile conditions. Gaining such knowledge is important for understanding the evolution of microorganisms in the early stages of life on Earth characterized by such extreme environments. By analyzing the re-programming of the global transcriptome upon long-term (up to 15 days) exposure ofC. merolaeto extremely high concentrations of nickel (1 and 3 mM), the key adaptive metabolic pathways and associated molecular components were identified. Our work shows that long-term Ni exposure ofC. merolaeleads to the lagged metabolic switch demonstrated by the transcriptional upregulation of the metabolic pathways critical for cell survival. DNA replication, cell cycle, and protein quality control processes were upregulated while downregulation occurred of energetically costly processes including assembly of the photosynthetic apparatus and lipid biosynthesis. This study paves the way for the multi-omicstudies of the molecular mechanisms of abiotic stress adaptation in phototrophs, as well as future development of the rational approaches for bioremediation of contaminated aquatic environments.ImportanceThis study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the global transcriptome re-programming in the extremophilic red microalgaCyanidioschyzon merolaeduring its long-term adaptation to heavy metals. We show that the lagged metabolic switch, demonstrated by the transcriptional upregulation of the metabolic pathways critical for cell survival, underlies the long-term Ni adaptation of this model extremophile. The transcriptomic results shed light on how life may have adapted to some of the harshest abiotic stresses on Earth including high temperatures, extreme acidity, and high levels heavy metals that are prohibitive to most other organisms. Additionally, the differentially regulated genes identified in this work provide important clues on the rational development of effective bioremediation strategies of removing heavy metals from the heavily contaminated aquatic environments.
The role of monetary policy in moderating the effect of international trade price on economic performance in non-WAEMU countries
Authors: Sedegah Kordzo , Odhiambo Nicholas M. , Asongu Simplice 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe present study complements the extant studies by empirically assessing the relevance of monetary policy in moderating the effect of oil price and terms of trade (TOT) on economic performance in non-WAEMU countries for the period 2000–2021.Design/methodology/approachMonetary policy is proxied by real interest rate (RIR), real effective exchange rate (REER) and bank credit while economic performance is understood in terms of real output, unemployment and inflation. The adopted empirical strategy is interactive fixed effects regressions.FindingsThe following main findings are established. First, RIR can be used to effectively moderate oil price and TOT in order to positively influence real output and the maximum or avoidable RIR policy thresholds are above policy range. Second, REER can be used to effectively moderate TOT for an overall positive effect on real output and the maximum or avoidable REER threshold of 150.142 REER index is within policy range. Third, bank credit does not effectively moderate the channels (i.e. oil price and TOT) for a significant incidence on real output. Fourth, only bank credit effectively moderates oil price for an overall negative effect on unemployment. However, for this to be possible, bank credit must exceed the threshold of 11.000 of private domestic credit (% GDP). Fifth, only REER effectively moderates TOT for a negative effect on inflation. However, the corresponding policy threshold is above the REER index policy range and hence, cannot be used by policy makers because it does not make economic/statistical sense. Policy implications are discussed.Originality/valueThis study extends the extant literature on potential monetary unions by assessing how monetary policy can be employed in order to moderate the manner in which international trade prices influence economic performance.
Does digital transformation matter for international diversification? The role of product market competition
Authors: Brahmana Rayenda Khresna , Kontesa Maria , Setiawan Doddy 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the impact of product market competition on the relationship between firm digital transformation and international diversification. It aims to uncover how competition moderates this relationship and to reveal the nonlinear dynamics between digital transformation and international diversification in strategic decision-making processes.

Design/methodology/approach
Using a panel logistic regression analysis, this study examines data from 235 Malaysian nonfinancial listed companies from 2012 to 2019. The analysis focuses on the manufacturing and technology industries due to the availability of digital transformation data, leading to a data set of 1,180 year-firm observations.

Findings
The results reveal a nonlinear relationship between digital transformation and international diversification, intensified by product market competition. Initially, digital transformation positively affects international diversification, but this effect turns negative as competition increases. Robustness checks validate these findings, indicating that competition’s impact varies with the level of digital transformation.

Research limitations/implications
This study’s findings are based on text analysis as a proxy for digital transformation, which may not fully capture organizational changes. Future research could use reported transformation costs or mandatory disclosures. In addition, this study focuses solely on international diversification, excluding other forms of diversification and financial constraints.

Practical implications
Policymakers should recognize that high product market competition can negate the benefits of digital transformation on internationalization. They need to balance promoting digital transformation with addressing competitive challenges. Managers should analyze the competitive landscape before pursuing international expansion, as high competition can diminish the advantages of digital transformation.

Originality/value
This research enriches agency and resource-based view theories by revealing the complex dynamics between digital transformation, competition and international diversification. It introduces a parabolic relationship between competition and diversification, challenging traditional assumptions and providing a comprehensive framework for understanding strategic decisions in competitive environments.
Closing the deal faster: the role of institutions and government involvement in cross-border M&A completions in Brazil
Authors: Cai Yingdan (Catherine) , Kamasak Rifat , Gorener Rifat 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to reveal how institutional distance, institutional quality and government involvement may shorten M&A deal durations in Brazil. Therefore, t paper explains the determinants of M&A deal durations from the perspective of an emerging country acquirer.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors use a distinctive data set from the Thomson SDC Mergers and Acquisitions Database and Zephyr, covering both public and private M&As in Brazil. This sample includes all cross-border M&As in Brazil between 2000 and 2015. They used hierarchical ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to analyze the data set.

Findings
The findings show that informal institutional distance between Brazil and host countries does not impact deal durations when the target is from a developed host. Nonetheless, Brazilian deals involving developing country targets exhibit a positive association between institutional distance and deal durations. The results also reveal that stronger institutional quality reduces the duration of M&A deals executed by Brazilian firms in developed countries. However, no association was found in emerging countries. Finally, government involvement in Brazilian acquirers’ deals did not impact M&A completions in developed countries but prolonged the transactions in emerging countries. Therefore, the outcomes of government involvement occurred differently in developed and emerging host countries and did not manifest as a resource-based advantage.

Originality/value
The authors extend the literature by simultaneously explicating the country-, i.e. institutional distance and institutional quality, and firm-level, i.e. government involvement effects on M&A deal duration from an emerging country acquirer perspective. Second, the authors shed light on the unique impact of government involvement in cross-border M&As, including emerging-developed and emerging-emerging country pairs, on the speed of M&A completions.
An Afrocentric approach to climate change adaptation: indigenous seasonal predictors among Ndau people in Chimanimani in Zimbabwe
Authors: Tirivangasi Happy Mathew , Kontinen Tiina 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe effectiveness of scientific seasonal weather forecasts as a tool to help rural communities in Zimbabwe make decisions is under continuous debate. This persists due to rural communities' ongoing difficulty accessing scientific weather forecasts, early warning systems and remote sensing technologies. As a result, rural people continue to rely on the repository of their indigenous knowledge systems for decision-making, seasonal prediction tools and weather change measurement. This study employs Afrocentric lenses to explore the indigenous seasonal predictors used in rural Zimbabwe to forecast seasonal changes and weather patterns, as well as the climatic variations that these predictors can explain.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed Afrocentric data generation tools such as transect walks and talking cycles. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze data.FindingsThe study identifies indigenous practices of naming months, typologizing rainfalls and weather forecasting based on fauna and flora, and discusses how climate change has been perceived by drawing on these practices. Moreover, the seasonal predictors were closely intertwined with food production and overall resilience in the face of changing climate. The paper concludes that both research and practical support for climate resilience should start with indigenous ideas and practices related to responding to changing climate conditions, along with scientific meteorological knowledge.Originality/valueThis study underscores the importance of Indigenous knowledge in addressing climate risks. It emphasizes the value of indigenous weather predictions, which predate modern weather stations and have long benefited rural communities. Integrating this knowledge into adaptation policies and practices can lead to more effective and resilient responses to climate change.
Authentic leadership and employee engagement: the mediating role of employee work environment
Authors: Dartey-Baah Kwasi , Issahaku Latifa , Akwetey-Siaw Bridget 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the interrelations between authentic leadership style and employee engagement and the mediating influence of employee work environment in the local government service in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach
Using a quantitative research design, this study conducted a cross-sectional survey using a stratified and simple random sampling technique, gathering data from 245 respondents from local government service employees in Ghana.

Findings
This study’s findings supported the positive and significant role of authentic leadership style in fostering employee engagement and shaping the work environment. In addition, the research established that the employee work environment played a partial mediating role in the relationship between authentic leadership and employee engagement.

Practical implications
The implications of this study underscore the importance of authentic leadership within government units, offering a compelling argument against the prevalent bureaucratic form of leadership commonly observed in such settings. As a result, it is recommended that concerted efforts be directed toward cultivating a positive work environment conducive to fostering employee engagement. This entails a deliberate focus on the leadership styles exhibited within the various settings. Moreover, there is a crucial need for the training and encouragement of supervisors to embody authentic leadership practices.

Originality/value
By promoting authentic leadership practices, this research advocates for a shift toward leadership approaches that prioritize transparency, integrity and employee empowerment, ultimately fostering a more conducive work environment and enhancing employee engagement within the local government service in Ghana.
An SMAA-based approach for multi-attribute fixed resource allocation problem with random attribute values and uncertain weights
Authors: Song Shiling , Zhang Ye 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
In a typical problem of allocating a fixed resource across a set of decision-making units (DMUs), the decision maker will decide how much resource to allocate to each DMU. Real-world decision-making contexts frequently pose challenges in precisely assessing each DMU’s performance on distinct parameters and in ascertaining the relative importance of these parameters, since resource allocation often precedes the decision-making process. Conventional decision-making approaches fall short in effectively addressing such complexities. In this paper, the authors propose a stochastic multi-attribute acceptability analysis (SMAA)-based model that can deal with the resource allocation problem with uncertain attribute values and unknown attribute weights.

Design/methodology/approach
The SMAA-based model first regards the resource to be allocated as an evaluation attribute and then proposes a fair resource allocation solution that minimizes the gap between the holistic acceptability of each DMU. To address the optimization of the SMAA-based model, two heuristic strategies were devised: a modified particle swarm optimization (PSO) approach and an adaptive algorithm, both designed to yield acceptable outcomes within a constrained time frame.

Findings
The resource allocation model based on SMAA can provide an effective analytical framework for the resource allocation problem of different DMUs in uncertain environments. Meanwhile, the PSO algorithm and adjustment algorithm proposed in this paper can help decision-makers quickly find a fair resource allocation plan.

Originality/value
Primarily, this study introduces a novel approach rooted in SMAA for tackling resource allocation dilemmas where attribute values are uncertain and weight information is absent. Secondly, a fairness-centric strategy that minimizes the disparity in overall acceptability among various DMUs is presented. Thirdly, two heuristic algorithms, namely, PSO algorithm and adjustment algorithm, are developed to solve the problem.
Beyond borders: insights from Professor David Ahlstrom on entrepreneurship and innovation in emerging economies
Authors: Lee Younggeun 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to present an insightful interview with Professor David Ahlstrom, a distinguished scholar in the field of entrepreneurship and management in emerging economies.

Design/methodology/approach
The interview explores Professor Ahlstrom’s extensive research on the dynamics of emerging economies, institutional theory, corporate governance, China’s early economic takeoff and the dissemination of management knowledge.

Findings
Drawing upon his prolific body of work, the discussion delves into how businesses navigate the complexities of globalization, adapt to institutional pressures and innovate within the constraints and opportunities presented by emerging economies, particularly during their reform process. Professor Ahlstrom shares his perspectives on the evolution of corporate governance practices, international business in turbulent environments and the pivotal role of entrepreneurship in driving economic growth and innovation in China and other emerging economies. Furthermore, he reflects on the challenges and rewards of scholarly publishing and the vital importance of management education in shaping future leaders and researchers.

Originality/value
Through his insights, Professor Ahlstrom not only elucidates the nuanced interplay between theory and practice in management but also offers valuable advice to aspiring scholars in the field. This paper aims to contribute to the ongoing dialogue on management research and practice in emerging economies, offering readers a comprehensive overview of key issues and future directions as seen through the lens of one of the field’s most respected voices.