bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Complete mitochondrial genomes of Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) and North American Racer (Coluber constrictor)
Authors: Chen Ying , Chabot Amy A. , Swanson Bradley J. , Lougheed Stephen C. 
Published: July 2024

AbstractWe report the complete mitochondrial genomes of two snake species of conservation concern, Eastern Massasauga (Sistrurus catenatus) and North American Racer (Coluber constrictor). The mitogenome length is 17,245bp forS. catenatusand 17,142bp forC. constrictor. Both mitogenomes include 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and two control regions. Gene arrangements are similar between two species, except that tRNA-Pro is located between tRNA-Ile and Control Region 2 inS. catenatus, but between tRNA-Thr and Control Region 1 inC. constrictor. Such gene arrangements are typical of their respective families, Viperidae and Colubridae. A phylogenetic tree with 21 additional snake species using concatenated 12 protein-coding genes (without ND6) supported current taxonomy of two reported species. We also found that North American racers in Ohio, Michigan (USA) and Pelee Island (Canada) were more closely allied to Pennsylvania individuals from the Eastern United States.
SimMS: A GPU-Accelerated Cosine Similarity implementation for Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Onoprishvili Tornike , Yuan Jui-Hung , Petrov Kamen , Ingalalli Vijay , Khederlarian Lila , Leuchtenmuller Niklas , Chandra Sona , Duarte Aurelien , Bender Andreas , Gloaguen Yoann 
Published: July 2024

AbstractUntargeted metabolomics involves a large-scale comparison of the fragmentation pattern of a mass spectrum against a database containing known spectra. Given the number of comparisons involved, this step can be time-consuming. In this work, we present a GPU-accelerated cosine similarity implementation for Tandem Mass Spectrometry (MS) with approximately 1000-fold speedup compared to the MatchMS reference at a rate of 0.005% incorrect matches and a rate of 0.002% incorrect scores. We describe the underlying reasons for these errors and provide means to avoid them.
Intracellular lipopolysaccharide regulates ER remodeling upon bacterial infection
Authors: Cheng Yi-Lin , Mello-Vieira João , Covarrubias-Pinto Adriana , Gonzalez Alexis , Kuncha Santosh Kumar , Kew Chun , Zhang Kaiyi , Afzal Muhammad Awais , Diab Nour , Borchert Sophia , Chen Wenbo , Huang Timothy Chun , Hornef Mathias Walter , Hübner Christian A. , Hensel Michael , Dikic Ivan 
Published: July 2024

SUMMARYThe remodeling of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is finely regulated by selective autophagy, known as ER-phagy. However, whether Gram-negative bacteria, which are known to manipulate the host membranous system, regulate ER-phagy remains elusive. We find that bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) released upon infection withSalmonellaTyphimurium colocalizes with FAM134B, a reticulon-like protein that operates as an ER-phagy receptor. Pulldown assays reveal that LPS binds directly to FAM134B. The interaction occurs via lipid A of LPS and positively charged amino acid residues on the amphipathic helices and C-terminal region of FAM134B. Upon binding, O-Antigen of LPS promotes FAM134B oligomerization and ER fragmentation inin vitroliposome membrane remodeling assays. Delivery of LPS into the cytoplasm via transfection significantly increases the number of FAM134B–LC3B-decorated ER fragments, which are recruited toSalmonella-containing vacuoles. Both intracellular and extracellular bacteria use outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) to deliver LPS into the cytosol for FAM134B activation and ER fragmentation. Taken together, our results show that Gram-negative bacteria subvert the host ER remodeling system to create bacteria-containing vacuoles that provide a niche for bacterial survival.Graphical AbstractIn BriefCytosolic LPS binds to the ER-phagy receptor FAM134B, triggering ER fragmentation, and subsequently, the formation of FAM134B-positive vacuoles for bacterial survival.HighlightsIntracellular LPS induces FAM134B-mediated ER fragmentation.Lipid A of LPS binds to FAM134B.O-antigen of LPS triggers oligomerization of FAM134B and membrane fragmentation.FAM134B-positiveSalmonella-containing vacuoles are not acidified, providing a niche forSalmonellasurvival.Outer membrane vesicles are required for cytosolic LPS delivery to activate FAM134B-mediated ER fragmentation.
Biomechanics of venom delivery in South America’s first spitting scorpion
Authors: Laborieux Léo 
Published: July 2024

AbstractVenom is a metabolically expensive secretion used sparingly in a variety of ecological contexts, most notably predation and defense. Accordingly, few animals use their toxins in ranged attacks, and venom-squirting behaviour is only known from select taxa. In scorpions, species belonging to two genera are known to spray venom when threatened, and previous work inParabuthus transvaalicusshows that venom delivery depends on perceived levels of threat. Here, I describeTityus(Tityus)XXXsp. nov., a new species of Buthid scorpion from Cundinamarca, Colombia. Remarkably, this species is capable of venom spraying, a first for both the genus and the South American continent. Using frame-by-frame video analysis and ballistic equations, I show thatT. XXXsp. nov. employs not one, but two types of airborne attacks with dramatic differences in range and venom expenditure. Further, the new species uses an unusually large reserve of prevenom-like secretion for spraying, as opposed to the costly venom used by other spitting scorpions. In light of these key specializations, I propose that venom spraying convergently evolved in response to different selection pressures, laying the groundwork for future investigation.
Continuous operation of large-scale atom arrays in optical lattices
Authors: Gyger Flavien , Ammenwerth Maximilian , Tao Renhao , Timme Hendrik , Snigirev Stepan , Bloch Immanuel , Zeiher Johannes 
Published: July 2024

Scaling the size of assembled neutral-atom arrays trapped in optical lattices or optical tweezers is an enabling step for a number of applications ranging from quantum simulations to quantum metrology. However, preparation times increase with system size and constitute a severe bottleneck in the bottom-up assembly of large ordered arrays from stochastically loaded optical traps. Here we demonstrate a method to circumvent this bottleneck by recycling atoms from one experimental run to the next, while continuously reloading and adding atoms to the array. Using this approach, we achieve densely packed arrays with more than 1000 atoms stored in an optical lattice, continuously refilled with a 3.5 s cycle time and about 130 atoms reloaded during each cycle. Furthermore, we show that we can continuously maintain such large arrays by simply reloading atoms that are lost from one cycle to the next. Our approach paves the way towards quantum science with large ordered atomic arrays containing thousands of atoms in continuous operation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Competition and consumer prices in the fuel market: insights from a small EU country
Authors: Dolšak Janez 
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study aims to analyse the effect of competition on retail fuel prices in a small European Union (EU) country with high market concentration.

Design/methodology/approach
The researchers use a panel data set to estimate a fuel price equation that includes supply and demand factors as well as time-fixed effects.

Findings
The study finds that more competitors in the local market decrease prices, whereas the high market share of oligopoly brands does not condition this effect. Additionally, independent brands set lower prices than wholesalers, and gas stations located near the borders of almost all neighbouring countries are associated with higher prices.

Research limitations/implications
The study suggests that Slovenia’s retail fuel market maintains competitive pricing despite high oligopolistic shares because of historical regulatory influences that shaped firm behaviour and pricing strategies, along with geographical and economic factors such as Slovenia’s role as a transit country. External competitive pressures from neighbouring countries and high levels of traffic, combined with the remnants of regulatory structures, help prevent market abuses and keep fuel prices lower than in other EU countries.

Practical implications
It also indicates that policy should encourage fiercer competition in the local market by increasing the density of gas stations, especially from independent brands.

Originality/value
These findings may be associated with specific country characteristics. This paper introduces unique findings that shed light on the impact of a small market on competition, with a particular focus on highlighting the effect of oligopolistic brands.
Self-efficacy and organizational efficacy effect on employee attrition in IT sector
Authors: Bhardwaj Shreya , Sharma S.K. 
Published: July 2024

PurposeInformation technology (IT) plays a major part in the economy growth of any country. Attrition has been an important issue that influences the performance of the company. The increasing levels of attrition are the most immediate concern that IT companies are facing. The present study will help in knowing the influence of self-efficacy (SE) and organizational efficacy (OE) on the turnover of an organization.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed an online survey method for data collection using a sample size of 250. Reliability and validity of the measurement scales were ensured, and hypotheses developed were tested through PLS-SEM using SMART PLS.FindingsA large number of employees are the youth of age group 20–40 years. Work satisfaction within the organization is the main cause of attrition. Lack of contentment along with the biasness in the organizations hampers the dissatisfaction with the nature of work between employees. Thus, effective, timely communication of organizational policies and goals helps to pound satisfaction with work within the organization, which could result in lower employee attrition.Research limitations/implicationsThe research has been conducted as not much research works have been found that show the relationship between SE and OE on employee attrition in the IT sector. The present study will help in further theory development and finding new aspects.Originality/valueThe research is the first of its kind, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, that shows the relationship of SE and OE to employee attrition.
Interrogating the global application of e-certification of seafarers
Authors: Mataac Margie Mendoza , Manuel Michael Ekow , Pazaver Anne 
Published: July 2024

PurposeAmidst the ongoing digital transformation in the maritime industry, this study aims to interrogate the application of electronic certification (e-certification) to seafarers globally.Design/methodology/approachData and methodological triangulation were used in the study. This included a scoping review to analyze the components of effective e-certificates; document analysis to evaluate the nature and functions of the international legal framework of seafarers’ e-certification and thematic and statistical analyses of responses from survey questionnaires and interviews to examine the merits, demerits and challenges to global implementation of seafarers’ e-certification. A modified Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model was used to determine the stakeholders’ usage behavior regarding seafarers’ e-certification.FindingsThe results revealed several merits associated with the implementation of seafarers’ e-certificates, outweighing the presence of certain drawbacks. It also identified various challenges to global application along with potential solutions. Despite the strong industry support for the entire replacement of seafarers’ traditional printed certificates with e-certificates, the study concludes that the coexistence of both formats will persist until crucial challenges are effectively addressed. The International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended, along with the relevant International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines, functions as the international legal framework for the effective global application of electronic certification for seafarers.Originality/valueThe study addresses a significant aspect of the contemporary digital transformation of seafarers’ certification under the STCW Convention, 1978, as amended.
A critical evaluation of the validity of socioeconomic measures used in PISA
Authors: Banerjee Pallavi , Eryilmaz Nurullah 
Published: July 2024

PurposeGiven the scientific and practical difficulties inherent in measuring and comparing socioeconomic deprivation (SED), and the further complexity added in cross national measurements, the main aim of this paper was to check the validity of SED measures used in PISA 2018 dataset. The SED measure used in PISA 2018 was the PISA index of economic, social and cultural status abbreviated as the ESCS index. This assessment was important as PISA analysis is based on variables derived from this instrument and the ESCS index and these reports influence and reflect international and comparative education policies and practice.Design/methodology/approachThis study critically evaluates the socioeconomic status measures in the PISA 2018 dataset, focusing on their convergent validity and cross-national comparability. Using responses from over 600,000 students in 73 countries, it examines the validity of SES indicators and their comparability across countries. The study employs principal component analysis to construct local SES measures and compares them with the existing Economic, Social, and Cultural Status (ESCS) index. It explores the relationship between these SES measures and academic achievement in reading, science, and mathematics, aiming to understand their predictive validity in diverse educational settings. Statistical analyses were conducted using the IEA’s IDB Analyser and SPSS, ensuring robustness and generalisability across the diverse participant countries.FindingsOur research findings challenge the assumed superiority of local measures over broader constructs like the Economic, Social, and Cultural Status (ESCS). It suggests that standardised measures like ESCS may provide more reliable predictions of academic achievement across various educational contexts, underscoring the complex relationship between SES measures and academic performance.Originality/valueOur novel analysis shows that local and cross-national SED measures are poorly correlated. Our findings raise questions about the measures' validity while acknowledging the methodological challenges. We provide empirical evidence to support ongoing debates on the topic.
Intercultural mentoring: enhancing cultural competence through intergroup contact and experiential learning
Authors: Adebayo Bolanle Oyindamola , Sunderman Hannah M. 
Published: July 2024

PurposeTo maximize the benefits of intercultural mentoring relationships, which are increasing in today’s diverse higher education environment, the current article conceptualizes the connection between intercultural mentoring and cultural competence among mentors and mentees as a learning process.Design/methodology/approachThe conceptual paper discusses the nuanced aspects of intercultural mentoring. Ultimately, the current article presents a framework for a bidirectional relationship between intercultural mentoring and cultural competence through experiential learning theory and intergroup contact theory, resulting in implications for practitioners and actionable research directions.FindingsThe article highlights the interplay and interdependence of cultural competence and intercultural mentoring through experiential learning and intergroup contact theory. Cultural competence influences the quality of intercultural mentoring relationships. Conversely, intercultural mentoring relationships can develop cultural competence in mentors and mentees through experiential learning, producing positive intergroup contact behaviors. Findings suggest the need for active learning and unlearning among mentors and mentees in intercultural mentoring relationships to maximize developmental outcomes (e.g. cultural competence).Originality/valueThe proposed framework emphasizes that (1) the possession of cultural competence is a critical success factor for intercultural mentoring relationships, (2) the development of cultural competence is an outcome of successful intercultural mentoring relationships, and (3) intercultural mentoring relationships should be regarded as experiential learning platforms that can produce positive intercultural traits such as cultural competence.
The impact of technical change on income inequality in Vietnam
Authors: Hoang Thu Kim , Le Quoc Hoi 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThe primary purpose of this study is to explore the effect of technical changes on provincial-level income inequality in Vietnam. The authors also investigate whether the quality of institutions and human capital level moderate this relationship.Design/methodology/approachThis research applies the fixed-effect and random-effect models on a balanced panel data set of 63 Vietnamese provinces/cities from 2010 to 2020.FindingsThe study’s empirical results show that technical improvement has a nonlinear influence on income disparity in Vietnamese localities. When the local level of technology is limited, technological change can mitigate income disparity. However, as local technological levels increase, inequality tends to rise. Moreover, the study also reveals that the quality of a province’s institutions and the level of human resources are factors that moderate the correlation between technological change and income inequality. For provinces with better institutional quality and/or better human resources, inequality tends to decline under the impact of technological change.Practical implicationsThe results of this study suggest that while encouraging technology advancement, localities should also ensure sustainable development, reduce income inequality and focus on improving institutional quality and human resources development.Originality/valueThere are increasing concerns about the impact of technical change on inequality in income distribution; however, empirical evidence on this relationship in developing countries remains scarce. This study is among the few attempts to examine this issue at the provincial level of a developing country considering the moderation effect of institutional quality and human capital level.
Digital trust in supply chain finance: the role of innovative fintech service provision
Authors: Han Siqi , Ulhøi John P. , Song Hua 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine how existing supply chain finance challenges confronting SMEs are affected by the emergence of smart fintech providers. In so doing the paper aims at uncovering critical role of fintech service provision in SCF and associated mechanisms that affect the SCF partners.Design/methodology/approachAn in-depth case study approach has been applied in this study. The overall design is informed by a 5-stage-based case study approach developed in operation management, including the literature review and research question, followed by case selection and instrument development, the data gathering, the analysis and findings and dissemination.FindingsThe study shows that fintech service provider is capable of offering different digital technologies adapted to specific needs while concomitantly orchestrating the information flow across the partners. Key mechanisms that influence the establishment of trust-based relationships among the SCF partners, and related service processes and value creation based on the platform system architecture are explained.Practical implicationsSeveral practical implications for digital platform management and other key digital SCF partners are identified.Originality/valueThis paper contributes a novel perspective on the importance of digital trust in SCF and also contributes to the existing literature by filling up a gap with a new and fine-grained understanding of the role of fintech companies in SCF.
Video-based instruction for career development for a learner with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a case study
Authors: Thull Charles Scott 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this case study is to discuss the development of a Video-Based Instruction (VBI) intervention in supporting a learner with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to independently complete a coffee preparation task in a community work setting.Design/methodology/approachThe participant was a student with ASD enrolled in a public high school transition program with work experiences. The VBI was fully developed using an iPad’s built in camera and photos app to develop a sequence of video prompts (VP) demonstrating each step of the coffee preparation task. Baseline and intervention performance data were collected with the use of a 19-step task analysis.FindingsThe VBI intervention improved the student’s independent task completion, eliminating the need for external prompts. The student used the iPad to navigate the VP clips and completed all 19 task steps without errors, demonstrating increased independence and task proficiency.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings suggest that VBI with the iPad photos app can be an effective instructional strategy for career development individuals with ASD. Future research should explore using VBI with readily accessible technology applications for tasks essential to paid employment for learners with ASD. Additionally, it should examine the involvement of relevant stakeholders in the development and implementation of VBI.Originality/valueThis study uniquely utilized the existing iPad camera and photos app to develop and deliver VBI, highlighting its potential as an accessible tool for developing individualized VBI. The use of widely available technology simplifies the implementation process and may be easily adopted in various career development contexts for learners with ASD.
What drives customers’ participation behaviour? Unveiling the drivers of affective satisfaction and its impacts in the restaurant industry
Authors: Khalifa Gamal S.A. , Elshaer Abdallah M. , Hussain Kashif , Elnagar Ahmed K. 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the factors influencing customers' attitudes and behaviours, specifically in terms of affective satisfaction, participation behaviour, and word-of-mouth, within the restaurant industry, with a focus on both tangible and intangible elements. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the dual mediating role of customer affective satisfaction in this relationship.Design/methodology/approachIn this exploratory study, SEM-VB was utilized to examine data from 312 valid respondents who completed a face-to-face questionnaire using a quantitative methodology. The respondents were targeted at restaurants that serve comparable food and beverages for a similar socioeconomic class.FindingsThe findings reveal that perceived value, physical appearance, and standardization significantly contribute to customer affective satisfaction, which, in turn, positively influences their participation behaviour and word-of-mouth.Practical implicationsPractically, restaurant managers can enhance customer experiences and boost positive word-of-mouth by fostering affective satisfaction and encouraging interactive customer participation.Originality/valueThe novel concept of “affective satisfaction” contributes to restaurant management literature by identifying its tangible and intangible drivers and uncovering its outcomes in participation behaviour and word of mouth. By combining numerous factors and investigating the mediating function of affective satisfaction and based on the theory of Expectancy-Disconfirmation, this study adds to the theoretical understanding of what drives the affective satisfaction and word-of-mouth of casual dining restaurants’ customers.