bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
One cannot have it all: trading-off ecosystem services and biodiversity bundles in landscape connectivity restoration
Authors: Margot Neyret , Daniel Richards , Marie-Caroline Prima , Etherington Thomas R. , Sandra Lavorel 
Published: November 2024

AbstractCountering the impacts of habitat loss and fragmentation on ecosystems requires complementing conservation areas with Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures within landscapes to promote biodiversity and multiple ecosystem services (ES). However, critical knowledge gaps persist in where and how natural elements should be restored to improve landscape connectivity to simultaneously support, and reduce trade-offs between biodiversity and ES. In virtual landscape experiments that allow exploring the effects of spatial pattern systematically, we generated alternative landscape restoration scenarios aimed at fostering ecological connectivity. Scenarios varied in the location and size of restored areas complementing existing natural areas. We analysed the impact of these scenarios on four bundles representing distinct priorities of target ES and biodiversity-related values. As expected, all bundles were favoured by increasing restored area in the landscape, but they were promoted by different spatial configurations. Restoration scenarios that fostered high aggregation of natural habitats promoted biodiversity and cultural value-related bundles, while smaller natural elements dispersed throughout the landscape were more beneficial for the sustainable production and climate adaptation bundles. These contrasts were most pronounced at low restoration efforts, where landscape configuration had greatest impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem processes. Effective spatial planning of restoration initiatives within landscapes should consider these trade-offs, along with context-specific constraints, when prioritizing areas for restoration or conservation. Our findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of how protected and restored areas can be integrated within landscapes to jointly support connectivity for both biodiversity and people.HighlightsVirtual landscape restoration options effects on four ecosystem services and biodiversity bundlesHigh aggregation of restored elements promotedbiodiversityandcultural valueLow aggregation promotedsustainable productionandclimate adaptationThese contrasts were most important at low restoration targetsThese results highlight the importance of configuration trade-offs in restoration planning
A programmable, selection-free CRISPR interference system inStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Miah Roni , Johannessen Mona , Kjos Morten , Lentz Christian S. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTCommon dCas9-based CRISPR interference (CRISPRi) system for gene regulation requires antibiotic selection and exogenous inducer molecules, posing significant challenges when applied inin vivobacterial infection models. UsingStaphylococcus aureusas a model organism, we have developed a programmable, plasmid-based, but selection-free (ppsf)-CRISPRi system that is based on the pCM29- plasmid which is stable without antibiotic selection. In this ppsf-CRISPRi system, dCas9 expression is regulated by an endogenous virulence gene promoter, and sgRNA expression is driven by a constitutive promoter eliminating the need for exogenous inducer molecules. The system was programmed to silence the expression of genes encoding the virulence factor coagulase or peptidoglycan hydrolase autolysin, whenever their respective endogenous promoter was activated. The selection-free functionality was confirmed over at least 27 generations and verified by qPCR and phenotypic assays depending on the protein target, including coagulation of rabbit plasma and THP-1 macrophage cell infectionin vitroas well asin vivoinfection ofGalleria mellonellalarvae, in each case phenocopying the observations made using transposon mutant strains. The system is suitable for long-term studies ofS. aureuspathogenesisin vitro orin vivoand represents a blueprint for the development of similar ppsf-CRISPRi systems in other bacterial species.
Loss of FIC-1-mediated AMPylation activates the UPRERand upregulates cytosolic HSP70 chaperones to suppress polyglutamine toxicity
Authors: Van Pelt Kate M. , Truttmann Matthias C. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractTargeted regulation of cellular proteostasis machinery represents a promising strategy for the attenuation of pathological protein aggregation. Recent work suggests that the unfolded protein response in the endoplasmic reticulum (UPRER) directly regulates the aggregation and toxicity of expanded polyglutamine (polyQ) proteins. However, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain poorly understood. In this study, we report that perturbing ER homeostasis inCaenorhabditis elegansthrough the depletion of either BiP ortholog,hsp-3orhsp-4,causes developmental arrest in worms expressing aggregation-prone polyQ proteins. This phenotype is rescued by the genetic deletion of the conserved UPRERregulator, FIC-1. We demonstrate that the beneficial effects offic-1knock-out (KO) extend into adulthood, where the loss of FIC-1-mediated protein AMPylation in polyQ-expressing animals is sufficient to prevent declines in fitness and lifespan. We further show that loss ofhsp-3andhsp-4leads to distinct, but complementary transcriptomic responses to ER stress involving all three UPRERstress sensors (IRE-1, PEK-1, and ATF-6). We identify the cytosolic HSP70 family chaperoneF44E5.4, whose expression is increased infic-1-deficient animals upon ER dysregulation, as a key effector suppressing polyQ toxicity. Over-expression ofF44E5.4, but not other HSP70 family chaperones, is sufficient to rescue developmental arrest in polyQ-expressing embryos uponhsp-3knock-down. Finally, we show that knock-down ofire-1,pek-1, oratf-6blocks the upregulation ofF44E5.4infic-1-deficient worms. Taken together, our findings support a model in which the loss of FIC-1-mediated AMPylation engages UPRERsignaling to upregulate cytosolic chaperone activity in response to polyQ toxicity.
Chemotagging: a chemogenetic approach for identifying cell types within vivocalcium imaging
Authors: Ko BumJin , Bacon Madeline E. , Zaki Yosif , Cai Denise J. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe ability to monitor the activity of specific cell typesin vivois critical for understanding the complex interplay between various neuronal populations driving freely moving behavior. Existing methods, such as optogenetic tagging (i.e., Optotagging1), have proven useful for identifying cell types inin vivoelectrophysiological recordings during freely moving behavior. However, electrophysiological recordings are limited in their capacity to track the same neuronal populations across long periods of time (days to weeks). Single-photon miniscope imaging offers the advantage of tracking the same cells across weeks to months; however, it is difficult to distinguish different cell types within the recorded population. Here, we present “chemotagging,” a technique that allows for the identification of specific cell types inin vivocalcium imaging recordings. This protocol offers a method for tagging cell types with chemogenetic tools like Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs)2, while simultaneously recording calcium activity from a pan-neuronal population with calcium indicators. We highlight the key advantages and limitations of chemotagging and its potential implications for neuroscience research.
Synergistic Behavioral and Neuroplastic Effects of Psilocybin-NMDAR Modulator Administration
Authors: Ben-Tal Tom , Pogodin Ilana , Botvinnik Alexander , Lifschytz Tzuri , Heresco-Levy Uriel , Lerer Bernard 
Published: November 2024

AbstractThe full therapeutic potential of serotonergic psychedelics (SP) in treating neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, is limited by possible adverse effects, including perceptual disturbances and psychosis, which require administration in controlled clinical environments. This study investigates the synergistic benefits of combining psilocybin (PSIL) with N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) modulators D-serine (DSER) and D-cycloserine (DCS) to enhance both efficacy and safety. Using ICR male mice, we examined head twitch response (HTR), MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion, and neuroplasticity related synaptic protein levels in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, amygdala, and striatum. Our results indicate that PSIL significantly increased HTR—a surrogate measure for hallucinogenic effects—which was reduced by the co-administration of DSER or DCS in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, combining PSIL with DSER or DCS significantly decreased MK-801-induced hyperactivity, modeling antipsychotic effects. Neuroplasticity-related synaptic protein assays demonstrated that the PSIL-DSER combination enhanced GAP43 expression over all 4 brain examined and overall expression of the 4 assayed synaptic proteins in the hippocampus, while PSIL-DCS elevated PSD95 levels across all 4 brain regions, suggesting a synaptogenic synergy. These findings support the hypothesis that combinations of SP with NMDAR modulators could optimize the therapeutic potential of SP by mitigating adverse effects and enhancing neuroplasticity. Future studies should focus on refining administration protocols and evaluating translational applicability for broader clinical use.
Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex drives strategic aborting by optimizing long-run policy extraction
Authors: Noel Jean-Paul , Zhang Ruiyi , Pitkow Xaq , Angelaki Dora E. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractReal world choices often involve balancing decisions that are optimized for the short-vs. long-term. Here, we reason that apparently sub-optimal single trial decisions in macaques may in fact reflect long-term, strategic planning. We demonstrate that macaques freely navigating in VR for sequentially presented targets will strategically abort offers, forgoing more immediate rewards on individual trials to maximize session-long returns. This behavior is highly specific to the individual, demonstrating that macaques reason about their own long-run performance. Reinforcement-learning (RL) models suggest this behavior is algorithmically supported by modular actor-critic networks with a policy module not only optimizing long-term value functions, but also informed of specific state-action values allowing for rapid policy optimization. The behavior of artificial networks suggests that changes in policy for a matched offer ought to be evident as soon as offers are made, even if the aborting behavior occurs much later. We confirm this prediction by demonstrating that single units and population dynamics in macaque dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC), but not parietal area 7a or dorsomedial superior temporal area (MSTd), reflect the upcoming reward-maximizing aborting behavior upon offer presentation. These results cast dlPFC as a specialized policy module, and stand in contrast to recent work demonstrating the distributed and recurrent nature of belief-networks.
The revival of the ancient technique of pounding spices for contemporary cooking by Zilli’s
Authors: Vyas Pallavi Ghanshyala 
Published: November 2024

Learning outcomes
After reading and discussing the case, the students will be able to: apply paid, owned and earned digital marketing tools to Zilli’s, analyze the omnichannel and e-commerce strategy of Zilli’s, evaluate digital marketing strategy of Zilli’s and elaborate resources available to Zilli’s in the context of emerging markets.

Case overview/synopsis
Anubhav Bhatnagar founded Zilli’s – The Spice Company to bring grandma’s recipes to modern kitchens. This case study chronicles the growth and challenges faced by the company. Zilli’s philosophy relied on hand-pounding spices, which retained their aromatic signature, flavor intensity, nutritional value and cultural importance better than their commercially processed counterparts. Bhatnagar started his business during the lockdown. The founder aimed to produce spices that were free of preservatives and had long-lasting aromas. His kitchen trials demonstrated that hand-pounded spice powders simplified cooking and improved flavor. Direct manufacturer ties and a Hyderabad production plant managed by local rural women enabled the firm to expand to India and a few neighboring markets. Zilli’s growth was slow due to heavy competition from well-known brands. E-commerce was Zilli’s only viable option. The prospect sounded great, but the company needed to strategize differently to build an effective digital marketing strategy. Marketing and sales of Zilli’s products presented various constraints as it was difficult to convince consumers of Zilli’s products’ authenticity, quality and pricing. Many retail outlets and e-commerce platforms already sold numerous competitor’s products. The company’s aspiration to establish a global footprint could be hampered by low consumer acceptance of Zilli’s goods due to its limited reach. Thus, Bhatnagar sought digital marketing tactics to promote Zilli’s products and create brand awareness and recall for his spice powders in the competitive spice powder category. This case requires the reader to debate, analyze and propose digital marketing strategies to boost Zilli’s product visibility, acceptability and sales. The readers could identify gaps in Zilli’s existing digital marketing strategy and offer suggestions to Zilli’s for increasing spice powder sales in the online marketplace.

Complexity academic level
This case study applies to a postgraduate-level management course.

Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code
CSS 8: Marketing.
Inquisitive case of Paytm buyback
Authors: Agarwal Manish , Kandi V.S. Prasad 
Published: November 2024

Learning outcomes
After completion of the case study, the students will be able to assess Paytm’s share buyback in the context of conventional practices, especially for loss-making firms, analyze the influence of initial public offering (IPO) performance on market sentiments and the role of subsequent events in shaping investor confidence, explore the regulatory framework for share buybacks in India and its impact on Paytm’s decision, scrutinize Paytm’s post-IPO financials and evaluate the board’s rationale for the share buyback and examine the factors influencing Paytm shareholders’ decisions amid the buyback, considering market conditions and the company’s outlook.

Case overview/synopsis
This case study discusses the unorthodox choice made by Paytm, a leading Indian digital payments and financial services provider, to begin a share repurchase program just one year after its substantial IPO. Paytm encountered difficulties as its stock price experienced a sharp decline of 74% following the IPO, which raised concerns among shareholders and elicited mistrust from analysts. This case study explores the reasoning for the buyback, the legislative framework of share buybacks in India and the diverse viewpoints of analysts regarding the company’s financial strategy. This case study provides not only ample opportunity to discuss ethical issues around managers’ corporate actions but also brings investors a dilemma.

Complexity academic level
This case study is suited to Master of Business Administration/Master of Science/Bachelor of Business Administration/Bachelor of Science.
Decolonizing management education: a bibliometric analysis of Ubuntu
Authors: Kadam Raavee , Frempong George 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThe increasing calls to integrate Indigenous perspectives and address the colonial foundations of business schools necessitate a profound shift in educational systems. Such a change mandates a transformation that acknowledges diverse knowledge systems and methodologies, moving beyond the dominant Western paradigms.Design/methodology/approachOur paper introduces the Africentric philosophy of Ubuntu and explores its potential to decolonize management education and support the development of inclusive classrooms. Ubuntu, encapsulated by the notion “I am because you are”, asserts the intrinsic interconnectedness of humanity. Our exploration of Ubuntu includes a bibliometric analysis to map the intellectual structure of Ubuntu within management and educational contexts.FindingsWe posit that Ubuntu has the potential to offer newer perspectives on personnel and organizational management that are human-centric and emphasize the common good. The results of the bibliometric analysis reveal key publications, influential scholars, institutions and leading journals actively engaged in Ubuntu-centric research along with key research trends.Originality/valueThis research offers a holistic view of Ubuntu research in the fields of management and education using a bibliometric method.
Development of lean and sustainability practices assessment method among shop floor workers in manufacturing operation: a case study
Authors: Muniapan Kasturi , Ahmad Rosmaini , Jusoh Muhammad Shahar , Mustafa Shaliza Azreen , Sin Tan Chan 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThis paper proposes an assessment method for lean and sustainability (LS) practices for shop-floor workers, designed to evaluate their current practice culture.Design/methodology/approachThe method is developed in five phases: setting predefined indicators, constructing the assessment mechanism, implementing the assessment procedure, analyzing data and delivering results with recommendations. Validation is performed using two worker groups – line supervisors and operators – within the light-emitting diode (LED) manufacturing industry.FindingsThe results showed that workers’ familiarity and understanding of LS practices do not always correspond to their awareness levels. Key recommendations include prioritizing training for critical cases and adapting training approaches to fit the specific knowledge profiles identified.Research limitations/implicationsFirstly, the company should integrate the proposed assessment into an online platform that can automatically generate individual statistical results and priority levels. This reduces the burden of manual work and makes large-scale assessments more practical. Secondly, the study should expand to other shop-floor workers, such as technicians and engineers, to assess their knowledge profiles for future LS development initiatives.Practical implicationsThe recommendations provide managers and training departments with guidelines to revise current training approaches. The methodology is validated, enabling the identification and mapping of each worker’s knowledge profile.Originality/valueThis study presents an original assessment method for evaluating the knowledge profiles of shop-floor workers regarding LS practices. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no prior literature has reported on an assessment method targeting this specific group. The proposed approach supports the decision-making process for better LS practices in the company.
The effect of study abroad on retention and graduation of college of business students
Authors: Gallo Andres , Upson John W. , Learch Kate Mattingly 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to understand the effects of study abroad experiences, specifically on undergraduate business students, who are an underrepresented body in study abroad research. This focus is purposeful and driven by accreditation pressures to improve retention and graduation rates while stressing the benefits of internationalization and experiential learning.

Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a cohort analysis for two-, three- and four-year retention and graduation rates from a college of business from 2003 to 2019. This study follows similar cohorts of students at the university, college and major levels and compares their performance over time.

Findings
The results show a positive impact of studying abroad on both retention and graduation rates. Accordingly, this study recommends that deans and administrators in colleges of business use study abroad as a tool for retention and graduation, in addition to the traditional benefits of studying abroad.

Originality/value
This study is unique in that business students are this study’s main focus. This study assesses study abroad benefits not only to their graduation rates but also to retention. Also, this study tracks these two performance metrics over a long period and makes comparisons between several groups of business students and different levels of the university. This study also makes comparisons to students not participating in study abroad.
Blockchain use in high-tech supply chain: a new perspective of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology
Authors: Khelil Amira , Snene Manzli Yasmine , Louzir Ben Hassine Anissa 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the impact of blockchain use on the performance of supply chain in the high-tech industry and to elucidate the main factors that drive managers to adopt blockchain in high-tech firms.

Design/methodology/approach
This study adopts the unified theory of acceptance and usage model and extends it with external constructs such as “Trust,” “Technology Readiness,” “Compatibility” and “Awareness.” The paper uses a quantitative and exploratory approach, collecting and analyzing data from 250 high-tech firms worldwide, using the partial least squares structural equation modeling approach.

Findings
The findings emphasize the strategic importance of blockchain for supply chain performance in these firms. Furthermore, the results indicate that facilitating conditions, ease of use, technology readiness, compatibility and subjective norms are key enablers for blockchain adoption in high-tech firms.

Originality/value
This research advances the literature on technology adoption in the supply chain field, with special focus on blockchain. The field is strengthened by investigating the determinants and barriers to adopting technology within high-tech firms, emphasizing the necessity of developing blockchain literacy for successful international transactions.