bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The stress-protectant molecule trehalose mediates fluconazole tolerance inCandida glabrata
Authors: Zhu Qingjuan , Wijnants Stefanie , Feil Regina , Vergauwen Rudy , Lunn John E. , Ende Mieke Van , Van Dijck Patrick
Published: July 2024

The incidence of non-albicans Candidainfections has witnessed a substantial rise in recent decades.Candida glabrata (Nakaseomyces glabratus), an opportunistic human fungal pathogen, is accountable for both superficial mucosal and life-threatening bloodstream infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Distinguished by its remarkable resilience to environmental stressors,C. glabrataexhibits intrinsic tolerance to azoles and a high propensity to swiftly develop azole resistance during treatment. The molecular mechanism for the high tolerance is not fully understood. In this work we investigated the possible role of trehalose in this tolerance. We generated mutants in theC. glabrata TPS1,TPS2, andNTH1genes, encoding trehalose 6-phosphate synthase (Tps1), trehalose 6-phosphate phosphatase (Tps2), and neutral trehalase (Nth1), respectively. As expected, thetps1Δstrain cannot grow on glucose. Thetps2Δ strain demonstrated diminished trehalose accumulation and very high levels of trehalose 6-phosphate (T6P), the biosynthetic intermediate, in comparison to the WT strain. Whereas these higher T6P levels did not affect growth, the lower trehalose levels clearly resulted in lower environmental stress tolerance and a lower susceptibility to fluconazole. More interestingly, thetps2Δstrain completely lost tolerance to fluconazole, characterized by the absence of slow growth at supra-MIC concentrations of this drug. All these phenotypes are reversed in thenth1Δ strain, which accumulates high levels of trehalose. Our findings underscore the role of trehalose in enabling tolerance towards fluconazole inC. glabrata. We further show that the change in tolerance is a result of the effect that trehalose has on the sterol pattern in the cell, showing that accumulation of ‘toxic’ sterols correlate with absence of tolerance.

Author summary

C. glabratais a yeast of significant medical importance, known for causing nosocomial outbreaks of invasive candidiasis. Its propensity to develop resistance to antifungal medications, notably azoles such as fluconazole, raises considerable concern. An underlying reason for the rapid development of resistance is its intrinsic tolerance to this drug. The underlying molecular mechanism of tolerance to fluconazole is heavily studied but not understood. This study sheds light on the involvement of trehalose in modulating tolerance to fluconazole. We have elucidated that trehalose serves not only as a protective agent against various stresses but also as a mediator of fluconazole resistance and tolerance. To start elucidating how this may work, we provide data that trehalose (or the enzymes affecting the amount of trehalose in the cell) alters the ergosterol type and level in the cells, thereby affecting tolerance.
Competition and interdependence define multifaceted interactions of symbioticNostocsp. andAgrobacteriumsp. under inorganic carbon limitation
Authors: Teikari Jonna E. , Russo David A. , Heuser Markus , Baumann Otto , Zedler Julie A. Z. , Liaimer Anton , Dittmann Elke
Published: July 2024

Cyanobacteria of theNostocgenus are capable of forming symbiotic relationships with plants, thus transitioning to a heterotrophic lifestyle in return for providing bioavailable nitrogen to the host. The diazotrophic photoautotrophs also serve as a hub for specialized heterotrophic bacterial communities whose physiological contributions are poorly understood. By comparing the axenic strainNostoc punctiformePCC 73102 and the related strainsNostocsp. KVJ2 and KVJ3, which still maintain their heterotrophic microbiome, we were able to demonstrate an almost obligate dependence of the cyanobacteria on the heterotrophic partners under carbon-limiting conditions. Detailed analysis of the intimate bilateral relationship betweenN. punctiformeand the isolateAgrobacterium tumefaciensHet4 using shotgun proteomics and microscopy uncovered a complex partnership characterized, among other traits, by competition for iron and facilitation for carbon. Although competitive interactions withA. tumefaciensHet4 compromise nitrogen fixation and stimulate the degradation of cyanophycin, mutualistic dependency prevails under inorganic carbon limitation. Both the absence of the high affinity bicarbonate uptake transporter SbtA and the prevalent extracarboxysomal localization of the carbon-fixing enzyme RubisCO, as detected by immunofluorescence microscopy, suggest that a weak carbon concentrating mechanism inN. punctiformeenforces a dependence on heterotrophic bacteria. Further, immunofluorescence, electron microscopic and proteomic analyses reveal a pronounced extracellular recycling of proteins under N- and C-limiting conditions. Our study shows that the pivotal influence of heterotrophic bacteria on symbioticNostocstrains should be considered when analyzing these cyanobacteria, especially in the free-living state. This work also sheds new light on howNostocbenefits from the organic carbon provided by plant hosts.
Comprehensive Biosynthetic Analysis of Human Microbiome Reveals Diverse Protective Ribosomal Peptides
Authors: Zhang Jian , Zhang Dengwei , Xu Yi , Zhang Junliang , Liu Runze , Gao Ying , Shi Yuqi , Cai Peiyan , Zhong Zheng , He Beibei , Li Xuechen , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Muxuan , Li Yong-Xin
Published: July 2024

The human microbiome holds tremendous potential for generating specialized peptides, specifically ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), significantly affecting human health by mediating interactions with other microbes and the human host. However, the capacity of our microbiome to produce these peptides and their links with human health are poorly understood. This study systematically analyzes 306,481 human microbiota-associated genomes, uncovering a broad array of yet-to-be-discovered RiPPs. These RiPPs are distributed across various body sites but show a specific enrichment in the gut and oral microbiome. Big data omics analysis reveals that numerous RiPP families are inversely related to various diseases, suggesting their potential protective effects on health. For a proof of principle study, guided by biosynthetic prediction, nine autoinducing peptides (AIPs) were chemically synthesized forin vitroandex vivoassay. Our findings revealed that five AIPs effectively inhibited the biofilm formation of disease-associated pathogens, with one demonstrating significant anti-inflammatory capabilities. Furthermore, whenex vivotesting gut bacteria from mice with inflammatory bowel disease, we observed that two AIPs could regulate the microbial community and reduce harmful species. These findings highlight the vast potential of human microbial RiPPs in regulating microbial communities and maintaining human health, emphasizing their potential for therapeutic development.
Chemical inactivation of two non-enveloped viruses follows distinct molecular pathways
Authors: Narula Pankhuri , Lokshman Milan Kumar , Pathak Sandip B. , Mukherjee Sayandip , Banerjee Manidipa
Published: July 2024

Non-enveloped viruses, which lack a lipid envelope, typically display higher resistance to disinfectants, soaps and sanitizers compared to enveloped viruses. The capsids of these viruses are highly stable and symmetric protein shells that resist inactivation by commonly employed virucidal agents. This group of viruses include highly transmissible human pathogens such as Rotavirus, Poliovirus, Foot and Mouth Disease Virus, Norovirus and Adenovirus; thus, devising appropriate strategies for chemical disinfection is essential. We tested a mild combination of a denaturant, alcohol, and organic acid on two representative non-enveloped viruses – Human Adenovirus 5 (HAdV5) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV)– and evaluated the molecular pathway of capsid neutralization using biophysical methods. The transition temperatures signifying conformational shifts in the capsid were established in the presence and absence of chemical treatment using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), while the corresponding morphological alterations were visualized and correlated using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). We found that while chemical treatment of purified HAdV5 particles resulted in increased thermal instability, followed by large scale particle aggregation; similar treatment of FCV particles resulted in complete collapse of the capsids. The distinct effects of the chemical treatment on the morphology of HAdV5 and FCV suggests that non-enveloped viruses with icosahedral geometry can follow different molecular pathways to inactivation. Further, while individual components of the chemical formulation caused significant damage to the capsids, a synergistic action of the whole formulation was evident against both non-enveloped viruses tested. Molecular level understanding of inactivation pathways may result in the design and development of effective mass-market formulations for rapid neutralization of non-enveloped viruses.

Highlights

formulation consisting of 3.2% citric acid, 1% urea in 70% ethanol, pH4 effectively inactivates HAdV5 and FCV.

inactivation pathways with complete formulation, are different for the two viruses.

effect of whole formulation is more effective compared to individual components.
Global Prevalence ofCryptosporidiumInfections in Cattle andC. parvum genotypedistribution: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Buchanan Rachel , Matechou Eleni , Katzer Frank , Tsaousis Anastasios D. , Farré Marta
Published: July 2024

Background

The protozoan parasiteCryptosporidiumis the causative agent of a severe diarrhoeal disease, called cryptosporidiosis.Cryptosporidiumspecies are capable of infecting a wide range of hosts including humans and livestock. In cattle, cryptosporidiosis is now one of the most important causes of neonatal scour globally, either as a sole agent or co-infecting with other pathogens. Cryptosporidiosis is considered globally endemic, with a prevalence ofCryptosporidiumin stool samples from 13% to 93% in European cattle. This disease has a significant economic burden, with costs associated with veterinary diagnosis, medication, increased labour, animal rearing and supplemental nutrition as well as being associated with reduced long-term growth rate in calves, causing huge economic losses in livestock industry. Moreover, cattle act as a zoonotic reservoir forCryptosporidium parvum, a species that is capable of infecting humans as well. As such, monitoring the prevalence ofCryptosporidiumin cattle is important due to the public health risk and financial burden the clinical disease causes.

Methods

Publications reporting on the prevalence ofCryptosporidiumin cattle were collected from PubMed and Google Scholar. Information regarding the species ofCryptosporidiumin positive samples, the genotype ofC. parvumfound in samples, and the diarrhoeic status of the cattle was collected where available. A total of 279 publications were collected for this meta-analysis from six continents and 65 countries to provide an estimation for global bovineCryptosporidiumprevalence.

Results

A 25.5% global prevalence ofCryptosporidiuminfection was reported, withC. parvumbeing the most frequently identified species, particularly the IIa subfamily. Diarrhoea was reported in 14,141 cattle samples, of which 36.0% tested positive forCryptosporidium. Regarding symptoms, we found that in countries reporting over 50% of diarrhoeic positive cattle,C. parvumwas the most common species.

Conclusions

Continued monitoring and reporting ofCryptosporidiumin cattle are crucial for both public health and economic reasons. Consequently, efforts should focus on underreported regions and the development of control measures to reduce prevalence and limit zoonotic transmission.
Acinetobacter baumanniiDacC influences cell shape, biofilm formation and physiological fitness by manifesting DD-carboxypeptidase, and β-lactamase dual-enzyme activities
Authors: Pal Shilpa , Jain Diamond , Biswal Sarmistha , Rastogi Sumit Kumar , Kumar Gaurav , Ghosh Anindya S
Published: July 2024

With the growing threat of drug-resistantAcinetobacter baumannii, there is an urgent need to comprehensively understand the physiology of this nosocomial pathogen. As penicillin-binding proteins are attractive targets for antibacterial therapy, herein we have tried to explore the physiological roles of two putative DD-carboxypeptidases, viz.,dacCanddacDinA. baumannii. Surprisingly, the deletion ofdacCresulted in a reduced growth rate, loss of rod-shaped morphology, reduction in biofilm-forming ability, and enhanced susceptibility towards β-lactams, whereas, the deletion ofdacDhad no such effect. Interestingly, ectopic expression ofdacCrestored the lost phenotypes. The double deletion mutant in which bothdacCanddacDwere absent showed properties similar to thedacCsingle knockout. On the other hand, cell-shape reverting efficiency in septuple PBP deletedE. coliandin vitroenzyme kinetics assessments reveal thatdacDis a stronger DD-CPase as compared todacC. The expression ofdacCwas in the log phase whereasdacDexpression takes place in the stationary phase. In summary, we conclude thatdacCencodes a dual enzyme, possessing activities of DD-CPase and β-lactamase, which significantly affects the physiology ofA. baumanniiin various ways whereasdacDencodes a strong DD-CPase and plays a role in cell morphology, though it exerts negligible impact on other physiological aspects like intrinsic antibiotic resistance or biofilm formation.

Graphical Abstract
Stabilised D2R G-protein coupled receptor oligomers identify multi-state β-arrestin complexes
Authors: Sharrocks Katie L. , Fanelli Francesca , Lui Yewei , Milner Annabelle J. , Yining Wu , Byrne Bernadette , Hanyaloglu Aylin C.
Published: July 2024

The G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily directs central roles in many physiological and pathophysiological processes via diverse and complex mechanisms. GPCRs can exhibit signal pleiotropy via formation of di/oligomers both with themselves and other GPCRs. A deeper understanding of the molecular basis and functional role of oligomerization would facilitate rational design of activity-selective ligands. A structural model of the D2 dopamine receptor (D2R) homomer identified distinct combinations of substitutions likely to stabilise protomer interactions. Molecular modelling of β-arrestin-2 (βarr2) bound to predicted dimer models suggests a 2:2 receptor:βarr2 stoichiometry, with the dimer favouring βarr2 over Gαi coupling. A combination of biochemical, biophysical and super-resolution, single molecule imaging approaches demonstrated that the D2R mutant homomers exhibited greater stability. The mutant D2R homomers also exhibited bias towards recruitment of the GPCR adaptor protein βarr2 with either faster or ligand-independent βarr2 recruitment, increased internalization and reprogrammed ERK signaling compared to D2R WT. Through GPCR dimer-stabilisation, we demonstrate that D2R di/oligomerization has a role in βarr2-biased signaling.
Coherent control of multiphoton ionization of lithium atoms by a bichromatic laser field
Authors: Mežinska S. , Dorn A. , Pfeifer T. , Bartschat K.
Published: July 2024

We demonstrate a left-right asymmetry control of the photoelectron angular distribution in multiphoton ionization of Li atoms by a bichromatic laser field. By delaying the fundamental (780 nm) and its second harmonic relative to each other in steps of 130 attoseconds, we can vary the relative phase between the two laser fields with subwavelength accuracy and thereby steer the ejected electrons. Good agreement is found between the measurements and calculations at the appropriate intensities of the two harmonics.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Vortex matching at 6 T in
YBa2Cu3O7−δ
thin films by imprinting a 20-nm periodic pinning array with a focused helium-ion beam
Authors: Karrer Max , Aichner Bernd , Wurster Katja , Magén César , Schmid Christoph , Hutt Robin , Budinská Barbora , Dobrovolskiy Oleksandr V. , Kleiner Reinhold , Lang Wolfgang , Goldobin Edward , Koelle Dieter
Published: July 2024

Controlled engineering of vortex pinning sites in copper-oxide superconductors is a critical issue in manufacturing devices based on magnetic flux quanta. To address this, we employed a focused He-ion beam (He-FIB) to irradiate thin YBa2Cu3O7−δ films and create ultradense hexagonal arrays of defects with lattice spacings as small as 20 nm. Critical current and magnetoresistance measurements demonstrate efficient pinning by a matching field of 6 T visible in a huge temperature range from the critical temperature Tc down to 2 K. These results show that He-FIB irradiation provides excellent opportunities for the development and application of superconducting fluxonic devices based on Abrikosov vortices. In particular, our findings suggest that such devices can operate at temperatures far below Tc, where superconductivity is robust.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Investigating collaborative learning in architectural design studios from the instructors’ perspective
Authors: Karimi Hirou , Farivarsadri Guita
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the barriers to adopting collaboration in architectural design studios from the instructors' perspectives and explore strategies to overcome barriers.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 coordinators in architecture and interior architecture design studios to gather insights into their experiences and perspectives on collaboration. Thematic analysis was employed to identify key themes and patterns in the data.

Findings

The study reveals that collaboration is highly valued by instructors for its potential to enhance creativity, problem-solving abilities, and preparation skills among students. However, the study identified several barriers, such as student conflicts, coordination challenges, cultural differences, and technological constraints.

Practical implications

The instructors recommended specific strategies to promote collaboration in architectural design studios. These strategies include involving students in collaborative projects, providing training in collaboration skills, striking a balance between online and in-person activities, and developing supportive policies and skills. Implementing these strategies can help design programmemes that prepare students for professional success and future careers.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the importance of integrating collaboration skills in architectural education. By exploring barriers and suggesting strategies, it provides valuable insights for educators and encourages further research into the implementation of these strategies. Design programmes can benefit from adopting a multifaceted approach to foster collaboration among students, thereby enhancing their learning experience and future prospects.
Speech intelligibility evaluation of small-scale mosque with multiple domes design
Authors: Alfian Ndaru Nuridho , Kanu Rashid , Mohammed Mohammed Alhaji
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Mosques are built with dome-shaped ceilings for communal worship with common architectural styles worldwide for prayer. Since the acoustics of worship buildings are just as significant as their aesthetics, they should enhance people’s sense of hearing. This study evaluates the speech intelligibility of a small mosque with multiple domes to determine the space acoustic conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation involved extensive literature reviews to collect relevant data to model the case study. The Enhanced Acoustics Simulator for Engineers (EASE) software program was used to integrate critical parameters such as the absorption coefficient of materials, dome shapes and the number of domes in the simulation. The study employed speech intelligibility parameters such as C50, S.T.I. and %ALcons to assess the acoustic conditions. The assessment model was validated through statistical analysis and a paired t-test.

Findings

The study discovered that varying shapes of the multiple domes showed no significant impact on speech intelligibility. However, different multiple domes materials resulted in significant disparities in speech intelligibility. Applying high-absorption materials in multiple dome designs achieved the most effective acoustic performance. Except for C50 in some circumstances and receiver positions, all other alternatives met the optimal value for overall speech intelligibility because the sound was not sufficiently diffused early on, suggesting that the early reflection sounds were either weak or insufficient.

Originality/value

This study not only helps to determine the multiple-dome effect on mosque acoustics but also empowers archaeoacoustics and historic conservation by documenting these significant places of worship. The findings advocate using high-absorption materials in multiple dome designs and offer practical insight into mosque design material selection. By enhancing the understanding of the acoustic conditions in small-scale mosques, this study equips architects, engineers and builders with the knowledge to create spaces prioritizing speech clarity and intelligibility.
Circular economy implementation and sustainability performance of the textile industry in an emerging economy
Authors: Ho Yi-Hui , Lin Chieh-Yu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study attempts to explore the association between circular economy implementation and sustainability performance for the textile industry in Vietnam. This study also investigated the influences of corporate green commitment on implementing circular economy practices as well as the moderating effect of corporate green efficacy on the relationship between corporate green commitment and circular economy implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The circular economy practices in the study were divided into three categories: internal environmental management, eco-design, and investment recovery. Sustainability performance consists of economic performance, environmental performance, and social performance. A questionnaire survey on Vietnam’s textile companies was conducted in the study to test the proposed research framework.

Findings

Research findings reveal that corporate green commitment significantly influences the implementation of circular economy practices, and circular economy practices have significantly positive influences on sustainability performance. Corporate green efficacy significantly moderates the association between corporate green commitment and circular economy implementation.

Originality/value

As one of the first empirical studies focusing on the circular economy issues in Vietnam’s textile industry, this study extended the understanding of the antecedents and consequences of implementing circular economy practices. The research results are theoretically and practically meaningful.
Navigating human-AI dynamics: implications for organizational performance (SLR)
Authors: Khushk Amir , Zhiying Liu , Yi Xu , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the key characteristics of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizational settings, analyze its capacity to reduce customer service jobs in favor of more advanced roles and analyze its efficacy in candidate screening by emphasizing performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive analysis of 40 papers is performed using the PRISMA method based on data from Web of Science, Scopus, Emerald and Google Scholar.

Findings

The findings show optimized human resource management operations such as recruiting and performance monitoring, resulting in increased precision in hiring and decreased employee turnover. Customer service automation redistributes human labor to more intricate positions that need analytical reasoning and empathetic skills.

Practical implications

The study has two key implications. First, AI can streamline customer service, freeing up human workers for more complex tasks. Second, AI may increase candidate screening accuracy and efficiency, improving recruiting outcomes and organizational performance.

Originality/value

The study adds to the current literature by shedding light on the intricate relationships between AI and organizational performance and providing insights into the processes underpinning trust-building in AI technology.
Characteristics and challenges of teaching and learning in sustainability-oriented Living Labs within higher education: a literature review
Authors: van der Wee Marlies L.E. , Tassone Valentina C. , Wals Arjen E.J. , Troxler Peter
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to bring together the available scattered knowledge about teaching and learning in Living Labs within higher education, and to explore their potential for supporting students’ sustainability-oriented transformative learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was conducted, applying a realist approach. A sample of 35 articles was analyzed qualitatively, mapping the data according to the realist constructs “context,” “intervention,” “mechanism” and “outcome” and using the constant comparison method for data analysis.

Findings

This study identified multiple characteristics of teaching and learning in sustainability-oriented Living Labs, namely, two socio-physical teaching and learning contexts, two pedagogical approaches as interventions therein, four learning processes as (potential) mechanisms and six sustainability-related learning outcomes. Two main challenges were also identified.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that brings together the scattered results from previous studies into a comprehensive description of characteristics and challenges of teaching and learning in Living Labs as sustainability-oriented learning spaces in higher education. The findings can support educators in making scientifically grounded informed choices for teaching and learning in Living Labs and inform future empirical studies to examine when, how and why certain characteristics of teaching and learning in Living Labs, as identified in this study, can support sustainability-oriented transformative learning in higher education.
Topology-preserved distorted space path planning
Authors: Xie Yangmin , Yang Qiaoni , Zhou Rui , Cao Zhiyan , Shi Hang
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Fast obstacle avoidance path planning is a challenging task for multijoint robots navigating through cluttered workspaces. This paper aims to address this issue by proposing an improved path-planning method based on the distorted space (DS) method, specifically designed for high-dimensional complex environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method, termed topology-preserved distorted space (TP-DS) method, mitigates the limitations of the original DS method by preserving space topology through elastic deformation. By applying distinct spring constants, the TP-DS autonomously shrinks obstacles to microscopic areas within the configuration space, maintaining consistent topology. This enhancement extends the application scope of the DS method to handle complex environments effectively.

Findings

Comparative analysis demonstrates that the proposed TP-DS method outperforms traditional methods regarding planning efficiency. Successful obstacle avoidance tasks in the cluttered workspace validate its applicability on a physical 6-DOF manipulator, highlighting its potential for industrial implementations.

Originality/value

The novel TP-DS method generates a topology-preserved collision-free space by leveraging elastic deformation and shows significant capability and efficiency in planning obstacle-avoidance paths in complex application scenarios.
A physics-informed deep learning-based urban building thermal comfort modeling and prediction framework for identifying thermally vulnerable building stock
Authors: Ramalingam Rethnam Omprakash , Thomas Albert
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Due to the increasing frequency of extreme weather and densifying urban landscapes, residences are susceptible to heat-related discomfort, especially those in a naturally ventilated built environment in tropical climates. Indoor thermal comfort is thus paramount to building sustainability and improving occupants' health and well-being. However, to assess indoor thermal comfort considering the urban context, it is conventional to use questionnaire surveys and monitoring units, which are both case-centric and time-intensive. This study presents a dynamic computational thermal comfort modeling framework that can determine indoor thermal comfort at an urban scale to bridge this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework culminates in developing a deep learning model for predicting the accurate hourly indoor temperature of urban building stock by the coupling urban scale capabilities of environment modeling with single-building dynamic thermal simulations.

Findings

Using the framework, a surrogate model is created and verified for Dharavi, India's informal urban settlement. The results indicated that the developed surrogate model could predict the building's indoor temperature in several complex new urban scenarios with different building orientations, layouts, building-to-building distances and surrounding building heights, using five different random urban representative scenarios as the training set. The prediction accuracy was reliable, as evidenced by the mean bias error (MBE) and coefficient of (CV) root mean squared error (MSE) falling between 0 and 5%. The findings also showed that if the urban context is ignored, estimates of annual discomfort hours may be inaccurate by as much as 70%.

Social implications

The developed computational framework could help regulators and policymakers engage in more informed and quantitative decision-making and direct efforts to enhance the thermal comfort of low-income dwellings and informal settlements.

Originality/value

Up to this point, majority of literature that has been presented has concentrated on building a body of knowledge about urban-based modeling from an energy management standpoint. In contrast, this study suggests a dynamic computational thermal comfort modeling framework that takes into account the urban context of the neighborhood while examining the indoor thermal comfort of the residential building stock.
PhD Progression: a micro-credentialing program motivates and supports PhD students’ professional development at a US University
Authors: Gnangnon Bénédicte , Li Kuang , Rezaei Dena Fatemeh , Marks Mishonne Maryann , Dellarocas Chrysanthos , Hokanson Sarah Chobot , Goldman Sasha B.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to present the evaluation of a competency-based online professional development training program, PhD Progression, tied to a digital badge system, created to support PhD students across fields.

Design/methodology/approach

This study took place at Boston University, a large, nonprofit, Carnegie Classified R1 research-intensive institution located in the northeastern region of the USA. Through internal campus collaborations, the authors developed a PhD core capacities framework. Building from this framework, the authors designed the first learning level of the program and ran a pilot study with PhD students from various fields and at different stages of their PhD. Using surveys and focus groups, the authors collected both quantitative and qualitative data to evaluate this program.

Findings

The quantitative and qualitative data show that the majority of the PhD student participants found the contents of the competency-based training program useful, appropriate for building skills and knowledge and therefore relevant for both their degree progress and their future job. Gaining digital badges significantly increased their motivation to complete training modules.

Practical implications

This type of resource is scalable to other institutions that wish to provide self-paced professional development support to their PhD students while rewarding them for investing time in building professional skills and enabling them to showcase these skills to potential employers.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates, for the first time, that tying a digital badging system to a competency-based professional development program significantly motivates PhD students to set professional development goals and invest time in building skills.
Foliar phosphorus concentration modulates the defensive mutualism of an endophytic fungus in a perennial host grass
Authors: Decunta F. A. , Pérez L. I. , Graff P. , Gundel P. E.
Published: July 2024

Grasses hosting Epichloë endophytes are protected against herbivores due to the production of various fungal alkaloids. Previous research has found that high foliar phosphorus concentrations reduce the level of the alkaloid ergovaline, thereby reducing the endophyte‐mediated herbivore resistance. Yet, the impact of phosphorus on ergovaline biosynthesis versus its influence on endophyte growth and synthesis of other fungal alkaloids remains unresolved. Our objective was to elucidate these relationships.

We grew endophyte‐symbiotic and non‐symbiotic Festuca arundinacea plants and fertilised them with different doses of phosphorus. Later, half of the plants from each treatment were challenged with larvae of the generalist chewing insect Spodoptera frugiperda. We assessed the relationships between foliar phosphorus levels, fungal mycelium and alkaloid concentrations, as well as their impacts on larvae performance, herbivore‐caused damage and plant biomass.

Endophyte mycelial biomass in plant tissue was found to be independent of foliar phosphorus concentration. The alkaloids lolines and peramine showed a linear relationship with mycelial biomass but no correlation with foliar phosphorus. Surprisingly, high ergovaline concentrations were positively associated with an interaction between endophyte mycelial biomass and foliar phosphorus concentration. Although herbivory increased loline concentration, only high concentrations of ergovaline and peramine were related to reduced S. frugiperda larvae weight gain. However, endophyte presence did not reduce herbivory damage on plants.

Contrary to expectation, we did not find a negative but a positive association between concentrations of foliar phosphorus and ergovaline alkaloid, through its interaction with endophyte mycelial biomass. Alternatively, our findings suggest that phosphorus plays a crucial role in modulating the Epichloë‐mediated defensive mutualism, primarily through its effects on ergovaline rather than on endophyte concentration or production of other alkaloids.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Long‐term effects of climate change on juvenile bull shark migratory patterns
Authors: Matich Philip , Plumlee Jeffrey D. , Bubley Walter , Curtis Tobey H. , Drymon J. Marcus , Mullins Lindsay L. , Shipley Oliver N. , TinHan Thomas C. , Fisher Mark R.
Published: July 2024

Seasonal variability in environmental conditions is a strong determinant of animal migrations, but warming temperatures associated with climate change are anticipated to alter this phenomenon with unknown consequences.

We used a 40‐year fishery‐independent survey to assess how a changing climate has altered the migration timing, duration and first‐year survival of juvenile bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas).

From 1982 to 2021, estuaries in the western Gulf of Mexico (Texas) experienced a mean increase of 1.55°C in autumn water temperatures, and delays in autumn cold fronts by ca. 0.5 days per year. Bull shark migrations in more northern estuaries concomitantly changed, with departures 25–36 days later in 2021 than in 1982. Later, migrations resulted in reduced overwintering durations by up to 81 days, and the relative abundance of post‐overwintering age 0–1 sharks increased by >50% during the 40‐year study period.

Yet, reductions in prey availability were the most influential factor delaying migrations. Juvenile sharks remained in natal estuaries longer when prey were less abundant. Long‐term declines in prey reportedly occurred due to reduced spawning success associated with climate change based on published reports. Consequently, warming waters likely enabled and indirectly caused the observed changes in shark migratory behaviour.

As water temperatures continue to rise, bull sharks in the north‐western Gulf of Mexico could forgo their winter migrations in the next 50–100 years based on current trends and physiological limits, thereby altering their ecological roles in estuarine ecosystems and recruitment into the adult population. It is unclear if estuarine food webs will be able to support changing residency patterns as climate change affects the spawning success of forage species.

We expect these trends are not unique to the western Gulf of Mexico or bull sharks, and migratory patterns of predators in subtropical latitudes are similarly changing at a global scale.
The Dynamics of Investor Sentiment Impacts in Equity Crowdfunding: Unveiling the When
Authors: Nguyen Thang , Guo Jiaqi , Dao Daniel , Nguyen Frank , To Bao
Published: July 2024

Expanding upon the known impact of investor sentiment on crowdfunding contributions, we delve deeper to pinpoint specific conditions under which sentiment influences investor choices. Grounded in psychological theory, we assert that sentiment's influence thrives at the peak of investor attention, primarily on a campaign's first day and among projects with greater uncertainty. Our empirical study, based on 447 campaigns with 17,244 daily observations from the United Kingdom's Crowdcube platform, substantiates our claim. Our research enhances the comprehension of equity crowdfunding investors and provides practical insights for its proponents.
Market concentration and productivity: evidence from the UK
Authors: Savagar Anthony , Aguda Oluwaseun , Galanakis Yannis , Wu Jingwei
Published: July 2024

We measure product market concentration and business dynamism in the UK from 1997 to 2020 and study the relationship with productivity. Our results show that concentration in the UK is increasing among narrow industries on average, but for a broad market definition, concentration and business dynamism are stable. We find a negative relationship between concentration and productivity for the average firm, but a positive relationship for the average worker. This occurs because higher industry concentration is associated with better allocative efficiency, measured by the proportion of workers in higher‐productivity firms.
Comparability of radar and optical methods in identifying surface water in a semi‐arid protected area
Authors: Dzinotizei Zorodzai , Ndagurwa Hilton G. T. , Ndaimani Henry , Chichinye Angella
Published: July 2024

Surface water assumes a pivotal role in sustaining a wide range of wildlife species in semi‐arid protected areas. However, differences in surface water body typology, underlying soil type, wildlife activity, the presence of phytoplankton amongst other factors, result in high variability of surface water spectral reflectance and detection accuracy. In this study, the performance of radar and optical methods was evaluated in detecting surface water of variable spectral reflectance in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe using Sentinel‐1 radar and Sentinel‐2 optical images for the period 2016–2023. Results demonstrated that radar methods had low surface water detection accuracy which was highly variable as shown by overall accuracy and kappa statistic measures which continuously changed over time compared with optical methods. The overall best‐performing method was the optical AWEInsh (sharpened) which showed high surface water detection accuracy and consistency (OA: 94%–100%) and (κ: 0.88–1.00) from 2016 to 2023. Therefore, optical methods present a stable and robust way for surface water monitoring in heterogeneous semi‐arid protected areas. However, radar‐based methods should be continually explored where optical‐based technologies are impeded as a result of vegetation cover and cloud conditions.
A combined nutritional risk index and carcinoembryonic antigen score predicts the outcome in radically resected colorectal cancer
Authors: Chen Guanzhou , Xie Jiang , Li Panhua , Wang Qin , Ye Qianwen , Feng Shouhan
Published: July 2024

Background

Nutritional risk index (NRI) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) are useful prognostic markers in colorectal cancer (CRC); however, the prognostic value of a combination of the NRI and CEA, namely, the NRI and CEA score (NCS), needs further investigation.

Methods

Stage I‐III CRC patients were collected and then divided into three subgroups by counting the NCS: NCS 1: high NRI with normal CEA; NCS 2: high NRI with elevated CEA or low NRI with normal CEA; and NCS 3: low NRI with elevated CEA. The differences in outcome, counted as disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), were tested among the subgroups.

Results

A total of 285 patients were enrolled, with 108 in NCS 1, 118 in NCS 2 and 59 in NCS 3. Patient features, including age, tumour deposit, T stage, N stage and TNM stage, were significantly different in the NCS subgroups. Both the DFS (log‐rank = 26.06, P<0.001) and OS (log‐rank = 39.10, P<0.001) were significant in different NCS subgroups, even in maximum tumour diameter ≤4 cm cases (DFS: log‐rank = 21.42, P<0.001; OS: log‐rank = 30.95, P<0.001), and NCS 1 patients displayed the best outcome compared with the rest of the subgroups. NCS was also found to be an independent risk factor for both DFS and OS.

Conclusions

NCS was a useful prognostic indicator in stages I–III CRC patients.
Re‐imagining the future state of the ventricular assist device controller interface through human‐centered design
Authors: Hough Rosie , Dunn Jessica Lea , Hepburn Leigh‐Anne
Published: July 2024

Background

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are effective therapy for patients with end‐stage heart failure. Current VAD controllers offer improved interactivity, yet limitations of the visual, tactile, and auditory interface persist that impact patient experience and quality of life (QoL). This study explores how VAD controllers can be redesigned using a human‐centered design approach to enhance the emotional and functional experience of the device for patients.

Methods

VAD patients (n = 21), caregivers (n = 4) and healthcare practitioners (n = 24) were interviewed to uncover design opportunities. From this, a series of realistic scenarios to design for emerged. A “design by analogy” method took inspiration from existing consumer products to ideate new functionality for the VAD wearable system, creating concepts for a controller interface and paired wearable device. An additional 15 patients and 2 caregivers were engaged to explore current VAD controller experiences and evaluate the future‐state concepts.

Results

This research validated the need for increased automation and emergency functionality in VAD controllers, including remote monitoring of data, accurate communication of battery status, and automated medical alerts for critical device alarms. “Manage my health,” “Feeling normal,” “Social belonging,” “Feeling safe,” and “Sense of control” emerged as key patient concerns to be met by future VAD controller designs.

Conclusions

The study demonstrated an innovative and relevant approach to improve usability of future VAD peripherals. By considering both emotional and functional perspectives in the design of lifesaving medical devices such as VADs, device manufacturers can uncover new opportunities to improve patient QoL through improved user experiences.
Letter: MAFLD versus MASLD—The devil lies in the details
Authors: Alboraie Mohamed , Wifi Mohamed‐Naguib , Fouad Yasser
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kim et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18011
Letter: Drug interaction in resmetirom times
Authors: Zhou Xiao‐Dong , Liu Wen‐Yue , Targher Giovanni , Byrne Christopher D. , Zheng Ming‐Hua
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Harrison et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17734
How the manner in which data is visualized affects and corrects (mis)perceptions of political polarization
Authors: Tartaglione JonRobert , de‐Wit Lee
Published: July 2024

While the mechanisms underlying polarization are complex, scholars have consistently found a pervasive overestimation of perceptions of polarization to be a contributing factor. We argue that one mitigation strategy that can work at scale to address such misperceptions might be relatively straightforward: better data visualizations of cross‐party attitudes on key issues. In a large‐scale (N = 6603), international replication, we find that mode of presentation—or the manner in which data are visually presented—plays a significant role in moderating perceptions of polarization, even for longstanding, divisive issues for which partisans would likely hold strong prior beliefs. Additionally, we find the effects that different modes of presentation have on issue‐specific polarization also extend to participant beliefs about overall interparty polarization, with certain modes proving capable of not only promoting less polarized views but also enabling more accurate estimates of the extent to which political groups agree. Finally, our findings also suggest that the manner in which intergroup data are visualized may also exert influence over the degree to which political groups are essentialized—a finding with implications for not only political perception but also for apolitical social psychological phenomena such as dehumanization.
Pathological concordance rate and outcomes by subtype in advanced papillary renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Tripathi Abhishek , Tangen Catherine M. , Plets Melissa , Li Xiaochen , Tretiakova Maria , Humphrey Peter A. , Adeniran Adebowale , Barata Pedro C. , Gulati Shuchi , Bergerot Cristiane D. , Pruthi Deepak K. , Thompson Ian M. , Lara Primo N. , Lerner Seth P. , Pal Sumanta K. , Shuch Brian M.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To evaluate the clinical significance of subtyping (type 1 vs 2) of papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC) in patients treated with targeted therapy, as well as the concordance, sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV) of local review pathology review.

Methods

Patients with advanced refractory PRCC were randomised to receive sunitinib or cabozantinib, crizotinib or savolitinib, stratified by PRCC subtype (type 1, type 2, or not otherwise specified [NOS]/mixed) by local review. Central review was retrospectively conducted by three expert genitourinary pathologists who independently reviewed cases. The sensitivity and PPV of local review were estimated and outcomes [objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS)] were summarised for treatment groups stratified by subtypes by central review.

Results

Amongst the 147 patients reviewed, the prevalence of individual subtypes varied by local or central review (type 1: 17.7% vs 29.3%; type 2: 53.1% vs 45.6%; NOS/mixed: 29.3% vs 25.2%), respectively. Individual cases were frequently reclassified and local pathology review demonstrated low sensitivity (type 1: 48%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 33, 65; type 2: 67%, 95% CI 55, 78; NOS/mixed: 43%, 95% CI 27, 61). The PPVs of local review were 80%, 57.7% and 37% for type 1, 2 and NOS/mixed, respectively. Compared to sunitinib, cabozantinib demonstrated improved PFS for both type 1 and type 2 PRCC subgroups (7.4 vs 9.0 and 2.9 vs 5.6 months, respectfully) as well as higher ORR.

Conclusions

The PRCC subtype assignment did not identify a subset of patients with greater clinical benefit from cabozantinib, with significant discordance between local and central review. Our findings confirm the limited clinical value of pathological subtyping of metastatic PRCC, in line with the recent World Health Organisation 2022 guidelines.

Patient summary

In this study, categorising papillary renal cell carcinoma into type 1 or 2 subtypes showed limited concordance between central and local pathological review and did not enrich for patients more likely to benefit from cabozantinib in the S1500 PAPMET trial.