bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neuronal mechanisms of adaptive value coding in the amygdala
Authors: Hinz Julian , Mahn Mathias , Müller Sigrid , Szőnyi András , Eichlisberger Tobias , Lüthi Andreas 
Published: October 2024

AbstractTo address their needs, animals must optimize behavior by integrating external cues with internal state signals, such as hunger or thirst, environmental conditions, and past experiences. Accordingly, the perceived value of a reward varies depending on an animal’s current needs. Updating the specific value of rewards predicted by external cues depends on the basolateral amygdala (BLA). However, neurophysiological investigations have centered around the assumption of stimulus-invariant value representations and have not been able to account for behavioral findings that support the BLA’s ability to represent stimulus-specific value of distinct appetitive or aversive outcomes. To address how the BLA encodes and updates stimulus-specific value representations, we exposed head-fixed mice to distinct sets of gustatory rewards while tracking perceived value using lick microstructural analysis. Two-photon calcium imaging of BLA principal neurons revealed that the magnitude of the BLA population response scaled with perceived reward value and that the values of different rewards were encoded by distinct neuronal subpopulations. Moreover, reward representations rapidly re-scaled when mice were exposed to a reward that was larger than all previous rewards. Finally, value representations depended on an animal’s internal state as thirst selectively increased the responses to water rewards whereas aversive experiences strongly attenuated responses to sucrose. Our findings demonstrate that value representations in the BLA are stimulus-specific and highly adaptive to account for changes in relative reward value and to reflect an animal’s current affective and homeostatic state. This mechanism enables sensory-specific value updates necessary for state-adapted decision making and learning.
Anin vitroplatform for the enzymatic characterization of the rhomboid protease RHBDL4
Authors: Bhaduri Satarupa , Braza Mac Kevin E. , Stanchev Stancho , Tauber Marina , Al-Bawab Raghad , Liu Lawrence J. , Trujillo Diego F. , Solorio-Kirpichyan Kristina , Srivastava Ambuj , Sanlley-Hernandez Javier , O’Donoghue Anthony J. , Lemberg Marius K. , Amario Rommie , Strisovsky Kvido , Neal Sonya E. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractRhomboid proteases are ubiquitous intramembrane serine proteases that can cleave transmembrane substrates within lipid bilayers. They exhibit many and diverse functions, such as but not limited to, growth factor signaling, immune and inflammatory response, protein quality control, and parasitic invasion. Human rhomboid protease RHBDL4 has been demonstrated to play a critical role in removing misfolded proteins from the Endoplasmic Reticulum and is implicated in severe diseases such as various cancers and Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, RHBDL4 is expected to constitute an important therapeutic target for such devastating diseases. Despite its critical role in many biological processes, the enzymatic properties of RHBDL4 remain largely unknown. To enable a comprehensive characterization of RHBDL4’s kinetics, catalytic parameters, substrate specificity, and binding modality we expressed and purified recombinant RHBDL4, and employed it in a Förster Resonance Energy Transfer-based cleavage assay. Until now, kinetic studies have been limited mostly to bacterial rhomboid proteases. Ourin vitroplatform offers a new method for studying RHBDL4’s enzymatic function and substrate preferences. Furthermore, we developed and tested potential inhibitors using our assay and successfully identified peptidyl α-ketoamide inhibitors of RHBDL4 that are highly effective against recombinant RHBDL4. We utilize ensemble docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to explore the binding modality of substrate-derived peptides bound to RHBDL4.Our analysis focused on key interactions and dynamic movements within RHBDL4’s active site that contributed to binding stability, offering valuable insights for optimizing the non-prime side of RHBDL4 ketoamide inhibitors. In summary, our study offers fundamental insights into RHBDL4’s catalytic activities and substrate preferences, laying the foundation for downstream applications such as drug inhibitor screenings and structure-function studies, which will enable the identification of lead drug compounds for RHBDL4.
Evidence for strong cell-scale signalling during planar polarisation in theDrosophilawing
Authors: Carayon Alexandre , Strutt David 
Published: October 2024

SummaryIn developing epithelia, cells become planar polarised with asymmetric localisation of the core planar polarity proteins to opposite cell membranes, where they form stable intercellular complexes. Current models differ regarding the signalling mechanisms required for core protein polarisation. Here, we investigate the existence of cell-intrinsic cell-scale signallingin vivoin theDrosophilapupal wing. We use conditional and restrictive expression tools to spatiotemporally manipulate core protein activity, combined with quantitative measurement of core protein distribution, polarity and stability. Our results provide evidence for a robust cell-scale signal, while arguing against mechanisms that depend on depletion of a limited pool of a core protein or polarised transport of core proteins on microtubules. Furthermore, we show that polarity propagation across a tissue is hard, highlighting the strong intrinsic capacity of individual cells to establish and maintain planar polarity.
Using CRISPR barcoding as a molecular clock to capture dynamic processes at single-cell resolution
Authors: Andres-Lopez Yolanda , Santambrogio Alice , Kafetzopoulos Ioannis , Todd Christopher , Alda-Catalinas Celia , Clark Stephen J. , Reik Wolf , Hernando-Herraez Irene 
Published: October 2024

AbstractBiological processes are fundamentally dynamic, yet existing methods for capturing these temporal changes are limited. We present scDynaBar, a novel approach that integrates CRISPR-Cas9 dynamic barcoding with single-cell sequencing to enable the recording of temporal cellular events. In this system, genetic barcodes accumulate mutations over a 4-week timeframe and then are sequenced together with the transcriptome of each single cell. We propose that this gradual accumulation of genetic diversity can be exploited to create a time-ordered record of cellular events. To demonstrate this, we apply the system to track the transition from a pluripotent state to a two-cell (2C)–like state in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). The results provide compelling evidence for the transient nature of the 2C-like state. Additionally, our system shows consistent mutation rates across diverse cell types in a mouse gastruloid model, underscoring its robustness and versatility across various biological contexts. This technique not only improves our ability to study cellular dynamics but also creates exciting new opportunities for future applications based on recording temporal signals at the single-cell level—in other words, using dynamic barcoding as a molecular clock.
Sharing channel choices for electric vehicle battery manufacturers when considering range anxiety among heterogeneous consumers
Authors: Chen Ninghao , Li Bin , Zhao Meng , Ren Jiali , Su Jiafu 
Published: October 2024

PurposeThis study aims to investigate the optimal pricing decisions and shared channel strategy selection of battery manufacturers considering heterogeneous consumers' range anxiety.Design/methodology/approachAmidst the rapid growth of the electric vehicle sector, countries are promoting upgrades in the automotive industry. However, insufficient driving range causes consumer range anxiety. The study utilizes the Stackelberg game model to assess how range anxiety influences battery manufacturers' pricing and channel strategy decisions across three strategies.FindingsWe find that electric vehicle battery manufacturers' decisions to cooperate with third-party sharing platforms (TPSPs) are primarily influenced by fixed costs and consumer range anxiety levels. As range anxiety increases, the cost threshold for joining shared channels rises, reducing cooperation likelihood. However, considering diverse consumer needs, especially a higher proportion of leisure-oriented consumers, increases the likelihood of cooperation. Furthermore, higher battery quality makes direct participation in shared channels more probable.Originality/valueIn the electric vehicle industry, range anxiety is a significant concern. While existing literature focuses on its impact on consumer behavior and charging infrastructure, this study delves into battery manufacturers' strategic responses, offering insights into channel options and pricing strategies amidst diverse consumer segments.
Schools addressing health, wellbeing and sustainability challenges: a literature review of perspectives on social justice, equity and agency
Authors: Carlsson Monica 
Published: October 2024

PurposeThis paper explores perspectives on social justice, equity and agency when schools address health, wellbeing and sustainability challenges.Design/methodology/approachThe paper draws on a literature review of educational research. The analysis is narrative, highlighting how binary conceptions of equity, social justice and agency are explicitly or implicitly evident in the studies included in the review, distinguishing between as well as noting the interplay between the different conceptions.FindingsPerspectives on social justice and equity are emphasizing the need to address (1) a more equal sharing of resources in education, (2) dominance in education, and (3) community/ies and education as a common good. Perspectives on agency are framed as situated (1) between people (2) between people and structures or social contexts, and (3) between people and nature or the more-than-human. The paper furthermore highlights tendencies and experiences regarding the possibility of addressing these perspectives in different forms of educational practices.Research limitations/implicationsA potential limitation in this review is that 17 out of the 23 included studies are by authors with an Anglo-Saxon background, while a further 3 have a European background. As such, the review mainly represents “Western” perspectives on social justice, equity and agency.Originality/valueThe findings in the paper indicate that despite the fact that social justice, equity and agency are concepts that have been discussed in educational research for a very long time, they cannot be seen as taken-for-granted concepts, and that the research contains a diverse range of perspectives on these concepts — also within research authored by researchers with an Anglo-Saxon or European background.
The international education association of Australia’s first 20 years: strengthening public diplomacy and social licence through professional development, advocacy and research
Authors: Ziguras Christopher , Murray Dennis , Honeywood Phil 
Published: October 2024

PurposeThe article examines the ways in which professional associations representing those working in international education are able to shape national systems and thereby change the ways in which the country engages internationally. This is particularly significant for Australia, which has one of the world’s most internationalised higher education systems.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a case study of the International Education Association of Australia, which since 2004 has played a central role in shaping international education policy and practice. It provides an insider account of three authors who have held senior roles in the Association, drawing on first-hand knowledge of institutional history.FindingsThe case study illustrates the ways in which the Association’s professional development, research and policy advocacy activities have helped to broaden Australia’s engagement in international education from a narrow commercial focus. The resulting deeper engagement with a broad range of issues associated with international engagement, including student welfare, outbound mobility, curriculum, migration and transnational education, has transformed policy and practice in Australia.Originality/valueAlthough international education is coming to play an increasingly significant role in many systems, little has been written about the role of professional bodies in influencing the character and quality of international engagement. This paper makes a valuable contribution by demonstrating the practical measures that can be employed by international education professional bodies to strengthen public diplomacy and the social licence for global engagement.
Mindfulness matters: unravelling its influence on job demands and emotional exhaustion in remote work
Authors: Deshpande Amruta , Raut Rajesh , Mittal Amit , Kaul Natashaa 
Published: October 2024

Purpose
The study aims to investigate the impact of job demands-client-front demands (JDCF) and job demands-office-front demands (JDOF) and family demands (FD) on the perceived competency of work from home (PCWFH) and emotional exhaustion (EE) of remote workers. The study also investigates the impact of mindfulness as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach
To study the variables, a quantitative survey of 675 remote workers and an interview of 30 remote workers was conducted. The data analysis showed that JDCF, JDOF and FD significantly and negatively affect PCWFH. PCWFH also had a negative impact on EE, supporting the detrimental effect of poor perceived competence on increasing EEs.

Findings
The finding emphasises the value of a supportive work environment and mindfulness training sessions in dealing with the difficulties of remote work. The study concluded that respondents with mindfulness training better manage their emotions to produce better work results.

Practical implications
Managers should include mindfulness practice in their daily routine to enhance their performance and manage EE in remote work.

Originality/value
In augmenting mindfulness literature, this study provides insight into how managers can leverage on mindfulness practice to improve performance.
Profiling consumers for their shopping motivations in modern retail formats in Oman
Authors: Belwal Rakesh , Belwal Shweta , Morgan Zoe , Al Badi Latifa Hamood 
Published: October 2024

PurposeConsumer shopping motivations are evolving in tandem with shifts in products, services and the retail landscape. This paper primarily aims to explore what drives shopping behavior among consumers in Oman. Additionally, the paper aims to profile consumers based on their shopping motivations.Design/methodology/approachBased upon the review of literature, we developed a list of 63 items of shopping motivations. Exploratory factor analysis later led to a 12-factor solution involving 50 items, which were refined further into an 11-factor solution involving 44 items using CFA. A combination of hierarchical and k-means cluster analysis was performed for profiling consumers.FindingsFive distinct segments of consumers that emerged in the Omani food and grocery retail market were derived as Practical Value Seekers, Discerning Shoppers, Selective Online Shoppers, Social Brand Seekers and Instant Gratifiers. Theoretical and managerial implications were discussed.Practical implicationsIn theory, this study examines market heterogeneity by considering customer shopping motivations and applies profiling (clustering) techniques to categorize them into distinct market clusters. In practical terms, it provides valuable insights to food and grocery store managers.Originality/valueThis study is novel and the first of its kind, suggesting a typology of food and grocery shoppers in Oman. Research on consumer shopping motivations has primarily focused on consumers in Western countries, particularly in the United States.
Firms financial strength during crisis periods: does “familiness” matter?
Authors: Villagrasa Jorge , Escribá-Esteve Alejandro , Donaldson Colin , Sánchez-Peinado Esther 
Published: October 2024

PurposeIn this paper we propose to study the differences among family and non-family-firms in relation to its financial strength, and therefore its potential position to resist in front of financial crisis and receive financial support or conditions by public or private institutions.Design/methodology/approachWe used multiple hierarchical regressions on a sample of 137 Spanish medium-sized firms (SMEs).FindingsWe observe that the perspectives and idiosyncratic characteristics of family-firms (strongly influenced by their socioemotional wealth) will affect the way these companies invest and operate in the market, which would be more related to efficiency because of their higher willingness to continue the legacy of the business and their weak risk-bearing attributes.Research limitations/implicationsOur study adopts a measure of familiness with a dummy variable, and not as a continuous variable as proposed by recent research. Therefore, our results although relevant and significant for the family firm literature, must be viewed carefully. Additional research could also retest some prior studies to depict differences caused by “real” family firm involvement.Practical implicationsUnder a non-munificent environment, the financial strength maintained by firms will be highly relevant since this context could likely stress and influence their immediate future and viability, overcoming and blurring any other characteristic present in the firm or its managers.Originality/valueThis paper contributes to the family firm literature by offering insights into the nuanced dynamics between family and non-family firms during economic downturns, specifically examining their financial strength when different strategic options are pursued and when firms are managed by different type of managers.
Liquidity and credit risks during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from a dual banking system
Authors: Rahmadany An Nisaa’ , Risfandy Tastaftiyan , Achsanta Aldy Fariz , Rifai Bahtiar 
Published: October 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between liquidity risk and credit risk of Islamic and conventional banks in a predominantly Muslim country (Indonesia) adopting a dual banking system.

Design/methodology/approach
To investigate liquidity-credit risk nexus, this study used a sample of 72 Islamic and conventional banks in Indonesia for a period between 2019 Q4 and 2022 Q1. This paper used a generalized method of moments (GMM) and generalized least square (GLS) estimators.

Findings
This study found that there is a nonlinear (inverted U-shaped) relationship between liquidity risk and credit risk in dual banking system. Liquidity risk was found to increase credit risk if it is below the optimal threshold, and above this optimal threshold, liquidity risk begins to decrease credit risk, both before and during the pandemic. In addition, the impact of liquidity risk on credit risk is higher in Islamic banks compared to conventional banks.

Originality/value
This paper reinvestigates the puzzle between credit risk and liquidity risk by taking a sample of a dual banking system country and by considering the period of the COVID-19 pandemic. To the authors’ knowledge, this approach has not been addressed in prior empirical studies.
To be or not to be? The question of equitable healthcare
Authors: Broadway-Horner Matt 
Published: October 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this commentary is to appraise and critically evaluate sexual minorities' mental health provision according to individual and systemic barriers to mental health care. It addresses the issue of health inequity by first exploring the background narrative that informs health inequalities and then moving forward in creating a health equity framework.

Design/methodology/approach
From the focus point of mad studies and queer theory.

Findings
In this critical commentary, the work alongside others will be viewed and discussed in terms of addressing individual and systemic barriers to mental health care. Furthermore, how this has been significantly influenced by the colonisation of mental health with its polarising language and increased marginalisation will be discussed.

Practical implications
Progress world view (PWV) will help sexual minorities receive the care needed.

Social implications
Through the decolonisation of mental health, there will be a new understanding that helps us achieve health equity by using a gay worldview lens called the PWV (Broadway-Horner, 2024).

Originality/value
In closing, recommendations for future research alongside policy implications for service restructuring implementation of a decolonising health service. This will include a national training package to increase self-efficacy levels. It brings together a cohesive understanding of the PWV within a larger body of work on sexual minorities and mental health.
The role of big data analytics in the footwear supply chains: a multiple case study perspective
Authors: Arshad Freeha Maryam , Ramish Asher 
Published: October 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to analyze the importance of big data analytics (BDA) and supply chain analytics for sustainable supply chain management in all types of enterprises in the footwear industry. The importance and implementation of BDA in supply chain management have been discussed in this research paper, and a conceptual framework is proposed for the implementation.

Design/methodology/approach
The previous research indicates that the application of BDA and supply chain analytics is the key point to establishing sustainable supply chain management. Even though there are several types of research on the implications of BDA, there is still a gap in practical implications in organizations. For a better understanding, comparison of frameworks has been done for literature support. Further, 11 in-depth, semi-structured interviews have been conducted with four organizations from the footwear industry, and a conceptual framework has been proposed.

Findings
This research demonstrates an important gap in the literature through a thorough investigation of how firms can improve operational efficiency and productivity through the framework application and whether it is feasible to apply this within the global footwear industry or not. In conclusion, the research has denoted that despite lack of understanding related to sustainability agendas and not having proper ERP or BDA systems, the organizations operating in Pakistan still met some standards of sustainability and are moving toward achieving more.

Research limitations/implications
The research has pointed out the importance of the integration of all stakeholders in the supply chain through a proposed framework that aligns and guides the stakeholders so that the policies and other constraints may be taken into consideration while revising sustainable supply chain strategies.

Practical implications
This study will help increase sustainability through the application of BDA technology, which will benefit various stakeholders, particularly those in the footwear industry.

Originality/value
This study has proposed a framework based on three stages of the implementation of BDA in the existing supply chain to maintain and achieve sustainability in the organization in the footwear industry. This three-stage framework covers many aspects that were not covered in the literature before.