bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Emergence of clustered synapses during the development of a nervous system
Authors: Balshayi Yuval , Bokman Eduard , Zaslaver Alon 
Published: February 2025

SummarySynaptic organization is central for proper transmission of neural information. Studies in invertebrates and mammalian cortices show that synapses are clustered along neurite extensions, an organization that promotes key functional roles. Here we studied how these synaptic clusters emerge during the development of a nervous system. Leveraging the availableC. elegansconnectomes that span all larval developmental stages, we show that clustered synapses are formed at the early stages of the neural network development and that their occurrence further increases throughout development. These synaptic clusters significantly constitute small neural circuits that endow the network with important functional roles, such as feedback between mutually synapsing neurons and information transfer in mutually regulated neurons. Moreover, clustered synapses emerge early on during development of the head motor system, where they facilitate the crucial 3D head swings. Finally, the synaptic clusters within these key neural circuits are maintained throughout all developmental stages and are robustly found across different individuals, further accentuating their central functional roles in neural networks.
Suprachiasmatic Neuromedin-S Neurons Regulate Arousal
Authors: Wu Yu-Er , De Luca Roberto , Broadhurst Rebecca Y. , Venner Anne , Sohn Lauren T. , Bandaru Sathyajit S. , Schwalbe Dana C. , Campbell John , Arrigoni Elda , Fuller Patrick M 
Published: February 2025

AbstractMammalian circadian rhythms, which orchestrate the daily temporal structure of biological processes, including the sleep-wake cycle, are primarily regulated by the circadian clock in the hypothalamic suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN clock is also implicated in providing an arousal ‘signal,’ particularly during the wake-maintenance zone (WMZ) of our biological day, essential for sustaining normal levels of wakefulness in the presence of mounting sleep pressure. Here we identify a role for SCN Neuromedin-S (SCNNMS) neurons in regulating the level of arousal, especially during the WMZ. We used chemogenetic and optogenetic methods to activate SCNNMSneurons in vivo, which potently drove wakefulness. Fiber photometry confirmed the wake-active profile of SCNNMneurons. Genetically ablating SCNNMSneurons disrupted the sleep-wake cycle, reducing wakefulness during the dark period and abolished the circadian rhythm of body temperature. SCNNMSneurons target the dorsomedial hypothalamic nucleus (DMH), and photostimulation of their terminals within the DMH rapidly produces arousal from sleep. Pre-synaptic inputs to SCNNMSneurons were also identified, including regions known to influence SCN clock regulation. Unexpectedly, we discovered strong input from the preoptic area (POA), which itself receives substantial inhibitory input from the DMH, forming a possible arousal-promoting circuit (SCN->DMH->POA->SCN). Finally, we analyzed the transcriptional profile of SCNNMSneurons via single-nuclei RNA-Seq, revealing three distinct subtypes. Our findings link molecularly-defined SCN neurons to sleep-wake patterns, body temperature rhythms, and arousal control.Significance StatementOur study’s findings provide a cellular and neurobiological understanding of how Neuromedin-S (NMS)-containing SCN neurons contribute to regulating circadian rhythms, sleep-wake patterns, body temperature, and arousal control in mammals. This research illuminates the circuit, cellular, and synaptic mechanisms through which SCN neurons regulate daily cycles of wakefulness and sleep, with implications for understanding and potentially manipulating these processes in health and disease.
Constructing gender through reporting: unveiling the rhetorical strategies of an NGO from 1995 to 2021
Authors: Senn Juliette , Maire Sarah , Ghio Alessandro 
Published: February 2025

PurposeAddressing grand challenges requires an in-depth understanding of the social constructs, such as the gender discourse that shapes gender equality. Accounting, through annual reporting, contributes to constructing realities, thus impacting grand challenges. This paper explores how organizational reporting by a non-governmental organization (NGO) promotes particular ideologies about gender in a changing sociocultural context.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses a case study of an NGO that has long used annual reports to disseminate its perspectives on gender. Drawing on 1,251 pages of annual reports (in French, a gendered language), including 1,618 visuals, from 1995 to 2021, we use feminist and ideological perspectives to analyse the rhetorical strategies used.FindingsThe results show that the NGO’s annual reports include evolving perspectives on gender. In an earlier period, it emphasizes complementarity between men and women while assigning primary roles to men. More recently, while the organization continues to support traditional visions on gender representation, the reporting narratives and visuals strive towards greater inclusivity. The findings also suggest instances of ambiguity in how an organization can use narratives and visuals, prompting a discussion on the idea of rhetorical ambiguity in organizational reporting.Originality/valueThis study shows how organizational reporting longitudinally evolves regarding grand challenges, beyond financial and business matters. The paper identifies sites of gender ideology in both visuals and narratives of the reports.
Exploring the experiences and perceptions of young people’s recreational nitrous oxide use
Authors: Walter Hannah , Cameron Jacqueline Jane , Simpson Helen , Kor Kenny , MacLean Sarah , Allan Julaine 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This exploratory pilot study investigated the experiences and perceptions of young people who use N2O recreationally. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first qualitative research conducted in Australia with young people investigating this topic in detail. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore young people’s perceptions, motives and experiences of N2O use by exploring the positive and negative effects of N2O, motives for use, practices and methods and suggested advice to help define targeted harm reduction messages.

Design/methodology/approach
Participants were recruited via hard copy posters, social media advertisements and snowball sampling. Seven in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people aged between 18 and 25 years who had used N2O on at least ten occasions. The interview transcripts were analysed thematically. The study was completed in accordance with COREQ for qualitative research.

Findings
The findings identified four overarching themes about N2O use: the nature of N2O use; the appeal of N2O; influences on N2O use; and perception of risk and harms of N2O use.

Originality/value
Young people in the study described their experiences as being largely pleasurable. However, several identified negative impacts, although harms, were primarily disregarded. Exploration of N2O effects alongside other substance use highlighted how N2O is a unique substance and should be considered as such when developing harm reduction strategies.
Returns to higher education by field of study in Thailand: comparative analysis of pre and post-COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sirisrisakulchai Jirakom , Leurcharusmee Supanika 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study estimates returns to higher education across different fields in Thailand for 2019 and 2021, accounting for field selection endogeneity. The comparison offers insights into the impact of the pandemic and other economic shocks on the returns.Design/methodology/approachThe study applies an econometric causal framework, integrating economic theory with empirical analysis using data from Thailand’s socioeconomic surveys in 2019 and 2021. A multinomial treatment effects model with sample selection correction is used to estimate the impact of different fields of study on income, accounting for selection both into higher education in different fields and into employment, addressing potential biases from ability sorting and sample selection.FindingsThe study finds variations in returns to education across fields. In 2019, teaching offered the highest returns on average, followed by healthcare. Social sciences, business and computer-related fields showed moderate returns, while the combined group of science, agriculture, engineering and architecture had non-significant returns, indicating a low weighted average across these diverse fields. In 2021, healthcare exhibited the highest return due to pandemic-driven demand. Across both years, controlling for occupation reduced the estimated returns by approximately 50%, highlighting the role of occupational status in mediating educational returns.Originality/valueThis study uniquely applies an econometric causal framework to analyze returns to higher education by field of study in Thailand. It offers insights for policymakers to align educational programs with labor market demand and emphasizes the importance of data-driven decisions in responding to disruptions.
Relationship between the three dimensions of paternalistic leadership, cognitive and affective trust and organizational citizenship behavior: a multilevel mediational pathway
Authors: Lee Michelle Chin Chin 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThe current study aims to explore the three dimensions of paternalistic leadership (i.e. moral leadership, benevolent leadership and authoritarian leadership) and their dual pathways of positive and negative influences on employees’ organizational citizenship behavior through the two aspects of trust (i.e. cognitive and affective trust).Design/methodology/approachGiven that trust is pertinent in any human relationship, especially in Asian countries where bonding plays an important role, the current study investigated the relationship of each leadership style within paternalistic leadership on employees’ cognitive and affective trust in their leaders, employees’ organizational citizenship behavior and the processes involved. The current study employed a cross-sectional multilevel approach with 435 employees from 85 workgroups participating in the study.FindingsAs hypothesized, benevolent and moral leadership styles (but not the authoritarian leadership style) had a positive effect on employees’ cognitive and affective trust in their leaders and on employees’ organizational citizenship behavior. Cognitive and affective trust also mediated the relationships of benevolent and moral leadership styles with organizational citizenship behavior.Originality/valueThe study’s findings urge practitioners and human resources personnel to be aware of the dual effects that a paternalistic leader has on employees. To be specific, benevolent and moral leadership styles are conducive to employees’ work outcomes, whereas the authoritarian leadership style has a non-significant role in employees’ work outcomes.
The role of libraries in promoting environmental justice: strategies for information access
Authors: Oladokun Bolaji David , Durodolu Oluwole O. 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
Libraries play a pivotal role in advancing environmental justice by facilitating access to information and resources essential for informed decision-making and advocacy. This paper aims to explore the multifaceted relationship between libraries and environmental justice, focusing on strategies for information access and community engagement. The study also examines the challenges and opportunities in promoting environmental justice through library initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach
This study used a descriptive design and qualitative methods to delve into the roles of academic librarians in Nigeria. Qualitative methods were chosen to deeply explore participants’ perspectives, experiences and attitudes toward information access and environmental justice. The study involved six academic librarians from the Federal University of Technology Ikot Abasi. Data were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs) with the participating librarians, conducted in a conducive and private setting to encourage open dialogue and diverse perspectives. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the FGD transcripts.

Findings
Key findings highlight the importance of diverse program formats, collaboration with experts and activists, leveraging technology for information dissemination and partnerships with other institutions. The study indicates the significance of continuous learning for librarians to effectively address environmental justice concerns and proposes recommendations for enhancing library support in this context.

Originality/value
Ultimately, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the roles of libraries in promoting environmental justice and offers practical insights for future initiatives and policy decisions.
Grocery shopping in metaverse: understanding drivers and barriers
Authors: Malekpour Mehrgan , Maurer Oswin , Basile Vincenzo , Baima Gabriele 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aims to enhance our understanding of customer expectations and experiences in grocery shopping within the metaverse. It investigates factors influencing customer satisfaction and driving continued engagement with metaverse platforms, offering insights into the drivers of customer adoption and barriers to usage.Design/methodology/approachAdopting a qualitative netnographic approach, this study analysed customer reactions to Walmart’s virtual store demonstration. Data were collected from user comments on YouTube, TikTok, Twitter and Reddit. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key factors contributing to satisfaction and dissatisfaction with metaverse grocery shopping experiences.FindingsThe study reveals three major drivers shaping customer satisfaction and subsequent positive intentions toward grocery shopping in the metaverse: social, functional and hedonic stimuli. Eight critical barriers affecting the metaverse shopping experience are identified: functional, hedonic, social, financial, privacy, safety, ownership and store atmospherics concerns, including tactile, acoustic and visual elements.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings are derived from a qualitative analysis of customer comments on social media platforms, which may limit generalisability. Future studies could adopt a mixed-methods approach to validate these findings across broader datasets.Originality/valueThis work is the first research to examine customer satisfaction with grocery shopping in the metaverse. It offers valuable insights into customer expectations, adoption drivers and critical barriers, laying the groundwork for further exploration of metaverse applications in retail.
Assessing Lean 4.0 critical success factors (CSFs) for implementing in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Qureshi Karishma Mohamed Rafik , Mewada Bhavesh G. 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThe present research identifies and prioritizes the critical success factors (CSFs) for Lean 4.0 (L4.0) implementation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). L4.0 integrates Lean principles with Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, for instance wireless networks, Internet of things (IoT), big data, cloud computing (CC), etc., offering significant opportunities to enhance operational efficiency by reducing non-value-adding activities.Design/methodology/approachThis research adopts the “Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (FDEMATEL)” methodology to examine and assess the connections between CSFs for L4.0 implementation. Data were gathered from SMEs using qualitative and quantitative approaches to ensure comprehensive insights into the critical enablers of L4.0 adoption.FindingsThe study identifies Top Management Support and Commitment, Employee Training and Financial Capabilities as the most important CSFs for L4.0 adoption in SMEs. These factors significantly impact the adoption process, providing actionable insights for SME leaders to overcome challenges and optimize implementation strategies.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the growing knowledge of L4.0 by highlighting key CSFs relevant to SMEs, a sector often constrained by resources but crucial for economic development. The findings provide a practical roadmap for SME entrepreneurs to achieve operational excellence and competitiveness through effective L4.0 adoption.
Enhancing sustainability in higher education institutions through sustainability circles approach: a UAE case study
Authors: Araci Zehra Canan , Aydin Ridvan , Alsyouf Imad , Obaideen Khaled , Al Jaberi Bushra Hussein 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
This paper aims to propose a plan-do-check-act-oriented framework for implementing the “Sustainability circles” (SCs) approach to achieve sustainability excellence within higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach
The SCs approach, derived from the quality circles concept, involves groups of individuals working together to promote sustainability within HEIs. This paper demonstrates the application of this approach through a case study of the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, establishing clear links between sustainable development goals (SDGs), the Universitas Indonesia (UI) GreenMetric Ranking System and SCs.

Findings
The case study revealed that SCs significantly impacted the achievement of SDGs and improved the university’s rankings in the UI GreenMetric within a short period. The SC approach effectively engaged a wide range of stakeholders, including students, academic and administrative staff.

Research limitations/implications
By involving students, faculty and administrative staff in SCs, HEIs can embed sustainability into their institutional culture, developing new ideas and innovative solutions. The SCs approach effectively increases the number of points gained from respective sustainability ranking systems and their evaluation categories, showcasing its strength and novelty in driving engagement and sustainability excellence.

Practical implications
The SC approach provides HEIs with a structured method to overcome sustainability challenges by fostering collaboration, innovation and stakeholder engagement. This framework can accelerate the achievement of SDGs and enhance sustainability practices within HEIs.

Social implications
The SCs approach impacts the society by equipping students with sustainability awareness and critical problem-solving skills to address real-world sustainability challenges. Consequently, these students take an active part in developing a more aware, engaged and proactive society.

Originality/value
This paper introduces an innovative application of the quality circles concept to sustainability within HEIs, addressing the significant challenge of integrating and involving both top-level leadership and bottom-level stakeholders. The proposed SC approach effectively bridges this gap by combining top-down and bottom-up strategies, fostering collaboration and engagement across all levels. This novel framework demonstrates how HEIs can overcome barriers to sustainability implementation, ensuring comprehensive participation and accelerating the achievement of SDGs.
Transitioning from subjectivity to objectivity: empowering women in academic leadership
Authors: Sil Nairitee , Lenka Usha 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThe study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing literature on women’s leadership in academia by identifying the existing challenges for their underrepresentation, and proposing a new-age leadership interventions to address the inherent systemic biases and develop foster an equitable academic climate.Design/methodology/approachThe study employed bibliometric analysis to map the literature by investigating publication and geographical trends. Techniques like citation, co-citation, bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis identified seminal research and emerging themes, providing insights into research developments and facilitating identification of avenues for future research.FindingsOur study highlights how social, organizational and individual barriers disadvantage women academic leaders. Existing enablers for women in leadership, like mentorship, leadership development and family friendly policies, focus on bringing change within the prevailing academic culture, reinforcing the notion “women need support”, overlooking the influence of systemic barriers. Such interventions are often ineffective in bringing sustainable change. We propose integrating AI/machine learning (ML) technologies in leadership selection to reduce bias arising from subjectivity.Research limitations/implicationsThis study contributes to the discourse on gender inequality in academic leadership by offering a robust understanding of the research topic and informing avenues for future research.Practical implicationsPolicymakers and higher education institutions can use the findings of the study to aid the formulation of policies, initiatives and institutional procedures to mitigate the prevalent gender bias in academia and cultivate an inclusive culture for growth of women.Originality/valueThe paper analyses women’s under-representation as academic leaders and proposes a novel data-driven intervention using gamification, AI and ML, aiming to reshape gender dynamics in academic leadership.
Preprint servers and journals: rivals or allies?
Authors: Chtena Natascha , Alperin Juan Pablo , Pinfield Stephen , Fleerackers Alice , Pasquetto Irene V. 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study explores the evolving role of preprint servers within the scholarly communication system, focusing on their relationship with peer-reviewed journals. As preprints become more common, questioning and understanding their future role is critical for maintaining a healthy scholarly communication ecosystem. By examining the values, concerns and goals of preprint server managers, this study highlights the significant influence these individuals have in shaping the future of preprints.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative, interview-based approach was used to gather insights from preprint server managers on their roles, challenges and visions for the future of preprints within the broader scholarly communication system.FindingsThe findings point to a lack of consensus on how preprint servers and journals should interact and to diverging views on how the certification and curation functions are best performed and by whom. Concerns about credibility and long-term financial sustainability are increasingly driving independent and community-run preprint servers to align more closely with journals, potentially undermining the disruptive and emancipatory potential of preprints.Originality/valueThis study is the first to examine the relationship between preprints and journals from the perspective of preprint server managers in the later stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. It sheds light on how preprint servers are navigating external pressures and market dynamics, how they are seeking to establish credibility and trust, and how, in doing so, they are reshaping the core functions of scholarly communication.