bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Channel EEG Artifact Identification with the Spectral Slope
Authors: Fasol Melissa C. M. , Escudero Javier , Gonzalez-Sulser Alfredo
Published: November 2023

Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals are a valuable recording technique to diagnose neurological disorders and identify noninvasive biomarkers for clinical application, however, they are vulnerable to various artifacts. It is difficult to define exact parameters which efficiently distinguish artifacts from neural activity, and thus cleaning EEG data often relies on labor-intensive visual scoring methods. While signal processing techniques to remove artifacts exist, many state-of- the-art techniques are designed for multivariate signals, which can be challenging to implement in recording setups with few electrodes. We demonstrate how the spectral slope - a method previously used to distinguish between conscious states by linear regression of the logarithmic EEG power spectra - can also be used to identify epochs contaminated by recording artifacts in rat EEG recordings and propose this as a first pass artifact detection method. We computed the mean spectral slope for both ‘clean’ and ‘noisy’ epochs and compared the distributions among individual recordings to determine whether the decision threshold should be dynamic or fixed. We found no significant difference between the mean of these distributions and determined that a spectral slope threshold of -8μV2/Hzwas effective at identifying noisy epochs across all recordings. The accuracy of our method was evaluated against visually scored recordings and obtained an average accuracy, F1 and Cohen Kappa score of 94.2%, 86.4%, and 83%, respectively, across all epochs. Our study contributes to the automation of EEG artifact detection by presenting a straightforward initial method for identifying contaminated epochs based on the spectral slope of a single EEG channel in rodent recordings.
Novel loading protocol combines highly efficient encapsulation of exogenous therapeutic toxin with preservation of extracellular vesicles properties, uptake and cargo activity
Authors: Zuppone Stefania , Zarovni Natasa , Noguchi Kosuke , Loria Francesca , Morasso Carlo , Lohmus Andres , Nakase Ikuhiko , Vago Riccardo
Published: November 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have mostly been investigated as carriers of biological therapeutics such as proteins and RNA. Nevertheless, small-molecule drugs of natural or synthetic origin have also been loaded into EVs, resulting in an improvement of their therapeutic properties. A few methods have been employed for EV cargo loading, but poor yield and drastic modifications of vesicles remain unsolved challenges. We tested a different strategy based on temporary pH alteration through incubation of EVs with alkaline sodium carbonate, which resulted in conspicuous exogenous molecule incorporation. In-depth characterization showed that vesicle size, morphology, composition, and uptake were not affected. Our method was more efficient than gold-standard electroporation, particularly for a potential therapeutic toxin: the plant Ribosome Inactivating Protein saporin. The encapsulated saporin resulted protected from degradation, and was efficiently conveyed to receiving cancer cells and triggered cell death. EV-delivered saporin was more cytotoxic compared to the free toxin. This approach allows both the structural preservation of vesicle properties and the transfer of protected cargo in the context of drug delivery.
Leveraging whole genome sequencing to promote genetic diversity and population health in zoo-housed western lowland gorillas
Authors: Gorzynski J. E. , Danforth M. D. , Strong V. , Kutinsky I. , Murphy H. , Lowenstine L. , Priest J. R. , Ashley E. A.
Published: November 2023

The sustainability of zoo populations is dependent on maintaining genetic diversity and controlling heritable disease. Here, we explore the integration of whole genome sequencing data in the management of the international zoological population of western lowland gorillas, focusing on genetic diversity and heritable diseases. By comparing kinship values derived from classical pedigree mapping and whole genome sequencing, we demonstrate that genomic data provides a more sensitive measure of relatedness. Our analysis reveals a decrease in genetic diversity due to closed breeding, emphasizing the potential for genetic intervention to mitigate negative impact on population fitness. We identify contributing factors to the decreasing genetic diversity including breeding within a closed population, unknown kinship among potential mates, and disproportionate genetic contributions from individual founders. Additionally, we highlight idiopathic myocardial fibrosis (IMF), a common cardiovascular pathology observed in zoologically housed gorillas, and identify a novel genetic variant in the TNNI3K gene that appears to be associated with this condition. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating molecular data into ex-situ population management strategies, and advocate for the adoption of advanced genomic techniques to optimize the genetic health and diversity of zoologically housed western lowland gorillas.
Transcriptomic landscape ofseedstickinArabidopsis thalianafuniculus after fertilisation
Authors: Ferreira Maria João , Silva Jessy , Takeuchi Hidenori , Suzuki Takamasa , Higashiyama Tetsuya , Coimbra Sílvia
Published: November 2023

In Angiosperms, the continuation of plant species is intricately dependent on the funiculus multifaceted role in nutrient transport, mechanical support, and dehiscence of seeds. SEEDSTICK (STK) is a MADS-box transcription factor involved in seed size and dehiscence, and one of the few genes identified as affecting funiculus growth. Given the importance of the funiculus to a correct seed development, allied with previous phenotypic observations ofstkmutants, we performed a transcriptomic analysis ofstkfuniculi, using RNA-sequencing, to infer on the deregulated networks of genes. The generated dataset of differentially expressed genes was enriched with cell wall biogenesis, cell cycle, sugar metabolism and transport terms, all in accordance withstkphenotype. We selected eight differentially expressed genes involved with abscission, seed development or novel functions instkfuniculus, such as hormones/secondary metabolites transport, for transcriptome validation using qPCR and/or promoter reporter lines. Overall, the analysis performed in this study allowed delving into the STK-network established in Arabidopsis funiculus, fulfilling a literature gap. Simultaneously, our findings reinforced the reliability of the transcriptome, and identified processes and new candidate genes that will enable a better understanding on the role of this sporophytic structure and how seed development may be affected by it.
Synthesis of Dendritic Cell-Targeted Polymeric Nanoparticles for Selective Delivery of mRNA Vaccines to Elicit Enhanced Immune Responses
Authors: Fan Chen-Yo , Wang Szu-Wen , Chung Cinya , Chen Chia-Yen , Chang Chia-Yen , Chen Yu-Chen , Hsu Tsui-Ling , Cheng Ting-Jen R. , Wong Chi-Huey
Published: November 2023

Recent development of SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA vaccines to control the pandemic is a breakthrough in the field of vaccine development. mRNA vaccines are generally formulated with lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) which are composed of several lipids with specific ratios; however, they generally lack selective delivery. To develop a simpler method selective delivery of mRNA, we reported here the synthesis of biodegradable copolymers decorated with guanidine and zwitterionic groups and an aryltrimannoside ligand as polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) for encapsulation and selective delivery of an mRNA to dendritic cells (DCs). A representative DC-targeted SARS-CoV-2 spike mRNA-PNP vaccine was shown to elicit a stronger protective immune response in mice as compared to the mRNA-LNP and mRNA-PNP vaccines without the selective delivery design. It is anticipated that this technology will be generally applicable to development of DC-targeted mRNA vaccines with enhanced immune response.

TOC

Dendritic cell-targeted mRNA-PNP vaccines
Loss of cis-PTase function in the liver promotes a highly penetrant form of fatty liver disease that rapidly transitions to hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Singh Abhishek K. , Chaube Balkrishna , Citrin Kathryn M , Fowler Joseph Wayne , Lee Sungwoon , Catarino Jonatas , Knight James , Lowery Sarah , Shree Sonal , Boutagy Nabil , Ruz-Maldonado Inmaculada , Harry Kathy , Shanabrough Marya , Ross Trenton Thomas , Malaker Stacy , Suárez Yajaira , Fernández-Hernando Carlos , Grabinska Kariona , Sessa William C.
Published: November 2023

Obesity-linked fatty liver is a significant risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)1,2; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the transition from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to HCC remains unclear. The present study explores the role of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein NgBR, an essential component of the cis-prenyltransferases (cis-PTase) enzyme3, in chronic liver disease. Here we show that genetic depletion of NgBR in hepatocytes of mice (N-LKO) intensifies triacylglycerol (TAG) accumulation, inflammatory responses, ER/oxidative stress, and liver fibrosis, ultimately resulting in HCC development with 100% penetrance after four months on a high-fat diet. Comprehensive genomic and single cell transcriptomic atlas from affected livers provides a detailed molecular analysis of the transition from liver pathophysiology to HCC development. Importantly, pharmacological inhibition of diacylglycerol acyltransferase-2 (DGAT2), a key enzyme in hepatic TAG synthesis, abrogates diet-induced liver damage and HCC burden in N-LKO mice. Overall, our findings establish NgBR/cis-PTase as a critical suppressor of NAFLD-HCC conversion and suggests that DGAT2 inhibition may serve as a promising therapeutic approach to delay HCC formation in patients with advanced non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Human Papillomavirus 16 replication converts SAMHD1 into a homologous recombination factor and promotes its recruitment to replicating viral DNA
Authors: James Claire D. , Youssef Aya , Prabhakar Apurva T. , Otoa Raymonde , Witt Austin , Lewis Rachel L. , Bristol Molly L. , Wang Xu , Zhang Kun , Li Renfeng , Morgan Iain M.
Published: November 2023

We have demonstrated that SAMHD1 (sterile alpha motif and histidine-aspartic domain HD-containing protein 1) is a restriction factor for the HPV16 life cycle. Here we demonstrate that in HPV negative cervical cancer C33a cells and human foreskin keratinocytes immortalized by HPV16 (HFK+HPV16), SAMHD1 is recruited to E1-E2 replicating DNA. Homologous recombination (HR) factors are required for HPV16 replication and viral replication promotes phosphorylation of SAMHD1, which converts it from a dNTPase to an HR factor independent from E6/E7 expression. A SAMHD1 phosphor-mimic (SAMHD1 T592D) reduces E1-E2 mediated DNA replication in C33a cells and has enhanced recruitment to the replicating DNA. In HFK+HPV16 cells SAMHD1 T592D is recruited to the viral DNA and attenuates cellular growth, but does not attenuate growth in isogenic HFK cells immortalized by E6/E7 alone. SAMHD1 T592D also attenuates the development of viral replication foci following keratinocyte differentiation. The results indicated that enhanced SAMHD1 phosphorylation could be therapeutically beneficial in cells with HPV16 replicating genomes. Protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) can dephosphorylate SAMHD1 and PP2A function can be inhibited by endothall. We demonstrate that endothall reduces E1-E2 replication and promotes SAMHD1 recruitment to E1-E2 replicating DNA, mimicking the SAMHD1 T592D phenotypes. Finally, we demonstrate that in head and neck cancer cell lines with HPV16 episomal genomes endothall attenuates their growth and promotes recruitment of SAMHD1 to the viral genome. The results suggest that targeting cellular phosphatases has therapeutic potential for the treatment of HPV infections and cancers.

Importance

Human papillomaviruses are causative agents in around 5% of all human cancers. The development of anti-viral therapeutics depends upon an increased understanding of the viral life cycle. Here we demonstrate that HPV16 replication converts SAMHD1 into an HR factor via phosphorylation. This phosphorylation promotes recruitment of SAMHD1 to viral DNA to assist with replication. A SAMHD1 mutant that mimics phosphorylation is hyper-recruited to viral DNA and attenuates viral replication. Expression of this mutant in HPV16 immortalized cells attenuates the growth of these cells, but not cells immortalized by the viral oncogenes E6/E7 alone. Finally, we demonstrate that the phosphatase inhibitor endothall promotes hyper-recruitment of endogenous SAMHD1 to HPV16 replicating DNA and can attenuate the growth of both HPV16 immortalized human foreskin keratinocytes and HPV16 positive head and neck cancer cell lines. We propose that phosphatase inhibitors represent a novel tool for combating HPV infections and disease.
MERS-Coronavirus across Kenya: a spatial examination of social and environmental drivers
Authors: Lawrence Ted J. , Kangogo Geoffrey , Fredman Avery , Deem Sharon L. , Fèvre Eric M. , Gluecks Ilona , Brien James D. , Shacham Enbal
Published: November 2023

Climate and agricultural land-use change have increased the likelihood of infectious disease emergence and transmissions, but these drivers are often examined separately as synergistic effects are ignored. Further, seldom are the influence of climate and agricultural land use on emerging infectious diseases examined in a spatially explicit way at regional scales.

Our objective in this study was to spatially examine the climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors related to agro-pastoralism that can influence the prevalence of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in dromedary camels across northern Kenya. Our research questions were: 1) how has MERS-CoV in dromedary camels varied across geographic regions of northern Kenya, and 2) what climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors of agro-pastoralism were spatially related to the geographic variation in MERS-CoV cases? To answer our questions, we analyzed the spatial distribution of historical cases of serological evidence of MERS-CoV at the county level and applied spatial statistical analysis to examine the spatial relationships of the MERS-CoV cases between 2016 and 2018 to climate, agriculture, and socio-demographic factors of agro-pastoralism.

Regional differences in MERS-CoV cases were spatially correlated with both social and environmental factors and highlight the complexity in the distribution of MERS-CoV in dromedary camels across Kenya.
Clinical practice recommendations on lipoprotein apheresis for children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: an expert consensus statement from ERKNet and ESPN
Authors: Reijman M. Doortje , Kusters D. Meeike , Groothoff Jaap W. , Arbeiter Klaus , Dann Eldad J. , de Boer Lotte M. , de Ferranti Sarah D. , Gallo Antonio , Greber-Platzer Susanne , Hartz Jacob , Hudgins Lisa C. , Ibarretxe Daiana , Kayikcioglu Meral , Klingel Reinhard , Kolovou Genovefa D. , Oh Jun , Planken R. Nils , Stefanutti Claudia , Taylan Christina , Wiegman Albert , Schmitt Claus Peter
Published: November 2023

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia is a life-threatening genetic condition, which causes extremely elevated LDL-C levels and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease very early in life. It is vital to start effective lipid- lowering treatment from diagnosis onwards. Even with dietary and current multimodal pharmaceutical lipid- lowering therapies, LDL-C treatment goals cannot be achieved in many children. Lipoprotein apheresis is an extracorporeal lipid-lowering treatment, which is well established since three decades, lowering serum LDL-C levels by more than 70% per session. Data on the use of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia mainly consists of case-reports and case-series, precluding strong evidence-based guidelines. We present a consensus statement on lipoprotein apheresis in children based on the current available evidence and opinions from experts in lipoprotein apheresis from over the world. It comprises practical statements regarding the indication, methods, treatment targets and follow-up of lipoprotein apheresis in children with homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia and on the role of lipoprotein(a) and liver transplantation.
Exploring priority and year effects on plant diversity, productivity and vertical root distribution: first insights from a grassland field experiment
Authors: Alonso-Crespo Inés M. , Temperton Vicky M. , Fichtner Andreas , Niemeyer Thomas , Schloter Michael , Delory Benjamin M.
Published: November 2023

The order of arrival of plant species during community assembly can affect how species interact with each other. These so-called priority effects can have strong implications for the structure and functioning of plant communities. However, the extent to which the strength, direction, and persistence of priority effects are modulated by weather conditions during plant establishment (‘year effects’) is not well known.

Here we present the first results from a long-term field experiment (POEM: PriOrity Effects Mechanisms) initiated in 2020 in Northern Germany to test how plant functional group (PFG) order of arrival and the year of initiation of an experiment interactively affect the structure and functioning of nutrient-poor dry acidic grasslands, both above and belowground. To do this, we established the same experiment, manipulating the order of arrival of forbs, grasses and legumes on the same site, but in different years.

We found that time since establishment was a stronger driver of plant community composition than PFG order of arrival and year of initiation. These three factors interactively affected plant species diversity, with the effect of PFG order of arrival on plant species richness depending on time since establishment. Year of initiation, not PFG order of arrival, was the strongest driver of aboveground community productivity. Although we did not find any effect of PFG order of arrival on root productivity, it had a strong impact on the vertical distribution of roots. Communities where grasses were sown first rooted more shallowly than communities in which forbs or legumes were sown first.

Synthesis: Our results demonstrate that plant order of arrival and year effects jointly affect plant diversity and species composition, with time since establishment also playing an important role. While year effects were more important than plant order of arrival in modulating aboveground biomass production in our nutrient-poor grassland, we showed that plant order of arrival can strongly affect the vertical distribution of roots, with communities in which forbs or legumes were sown first rooting deeper than grasses-first communities. These results suggest that a deeper understanding of priority and year effects is needed to better predict restoration outcomes.
The effect of antibiotic selection on collateral effects and evolvability of uropathogenicEscherichia coli
Authors: James Beth , Reesaul Hishikha , Kashif Sidra , Behruznia Mahboobeh , Meehan Conor J. , Domingo-Sananes Maria Rosa , Hubbard Alasdair T. M.
Published: November 2023

Trimethoprim is recommended as a first-line treatment of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the UK. In 2018, 31.4% ofEscherichia coliisolated from UTIs in England were trimethoprim resistant, leading to overreliance on other first and second-line antibiotics. Here, we assessed whether prior selection with trimethoprim results in collateral effects to other antibiotics recommended for the treatment of UTIs. As collateral effects, we considered changes in susceptibility, mutation-selection window and population establishment probability. We selected 10 trimethoprim-resistant derivatives from three clinical isolates of uropathogenicEscherichia coli.We found that mutations conferring trimethoprim resistance did not have any collateral effects to fosfomycin. In contrast, resistance to trimethoprim resulted in decreased susceptibility (collateral resistance) to nitrofurantoin, below the clinical breakpoint, and narrowed the mutation-selection window thereby reducing the maximum concentration for selection of nitrofurantoin resistance mutations. Our analyses demonstrate that multiple collateral responses should be accounted for when predicting and optimising antibiotic use, limiting future AMR emergence.
Evidence that variation in root anatomy contributes to local adaptation in Mexican native maize
Authors: McLaughlin Chloee M. , Li Meng , Perryman Melanie , Heymans Adrien , Schneider Hannah , Lasky Jesse R. , Sawers Ruairidh J. H.
Published: November 2023

Mexican native maize (Zea maysssp.mays) is adapted to a wide range of climatic and edaphic conditions. Here, we focus specifically on the potential role of root anatomical variation in this adaptation. In light of the investment required to characterize root anatomy, we present a machine learning approach using environmental descriptors to project trait variation from a relatively small training panel onto a larger panel of genotyped and georeferenced Mexican maize accessions. The resulting models defined potential biologically relevant clines across a complex environment and were used subsequently in genotype-environment association. We found evidence of systematic variation in maize root anatomy across Mexico, notably a prevalence of trait combinations favoring a reduction in axial conductance in cooler, drier highland areas. We discuss our results in the context of previously described water-banking strategies and present candidate genes that are associated with both root anatomical and environmental variation. Our strategy is a refinement of standard environmental genome wide association analysis that is applicable whenever a training set of georeferenced phenotypic data is available.
Electronic Polarizability Tunes the Function of the Human Bestrophin 1 Cl⁻ Channel
Authors: Phan Linda X. , Owji Aaron P. , Yang Tingting , Crain Jason , Sansom Mark S.P. , Tucker Stephen J.
Published: November 2023

Mechanisms of anion permeation within ion channels and nanopores remain poorly understood. Recent cryo-electron microscopy structures of the human bestrophin 1 Cl⁻ channel (hBest1) provide an opportunity to evaluate ion interactions predicted by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations against experimental observations. Here, we implement the fully polarizable forcefield AMOEBA in MD simulations on different conformations of hBest1. This forcefield models multipole moments up to the quadrupole; therefore, it captures induced dipole and anion-π interactions. We show that key biophysical properties of the channel can only be simulated when electronic polarization is included in the molecular models and that Cl⁻ permeation through the neck of the pore is achieved through hydrophobic solvation concomitant with partial ion dehydration. Furthermore, we demonstrate how such polarizable simulations can help determine the identity of ion-like densities within high-resolution cryo-EM structures and that neglecting polarization places Cl⁻ at positions that do not correspond with their experimentally resolved location. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of including electronic polarization in realistic and physically accurate models of biological systems, especially channels and pores that selectively permeate anions.

Statement of Significance

Ion channels are nanoscale protein pores that enable the selective passage of charged ions across cell membranes. Understanding the underlying mechanisms for selective anion permeation through such pores remains a challenge. To simulate their behavior efficientlyin silico, fixed charge models are typically employed. However, this approach is insufficient for the study of anions. Here, we use simulations with explicit treatment of electrostatics to investigate the interactions of chloride ions in the human bestrophin 1 channel. We find that electronic polarization tunes the state of the channel and affects the interactions of chloride ions thereby revealing a mechanism for permeation. Furthermore, these simulations can be used to resolve experimental ambiguity in ion-like densities from cryo-EM structures.
The cell cycle controls spindle architecture in Arabidopsis by modulating the augmin pathway
Authors: Motta Mariana Romeiro , Nédélec François , Woelken Elke , Saville Helen , Jacquerie Claire , Pastuglia Martine , Stolze Sara Christina , Van De Slijke Eveline , Chen Poyu , Böttger Lev , Belcram Katia , Nakagami Hirofumi , De Jaeger Geert , Bouchez David , Schnittger Arp
Published: November 2023

To ensure an even segregation of chromosomes during somatic cell division, eukaryotes rely on specific microtubule structures called mitotic spindles. There are, however, striking differences in overall spindle organization among eukaryotic super groups, and in particular little is known about how spindle architecture is determined in plants. As a foundation for our work, we have measured prime characteristics of Arabidopsis mitotic spindles and built a three-dimensional dynamic model of the Arabidopsis mitotic spindle using Cytosim. Next, we identified the cell-cycle regulator CYCLIN-DEPENDENT KINASE B1 (CDKB1) together with its cyclin partner CYCB3;1 as key regulators of spindle shape and organization in Arabidopsis. Loss of CDKB1 function resulted in a high number of astral microtubules that are normally absent from plant spindles, as opposed to animal ones. We identified an augmin complex member, ENDOSPERM DEFECTIVE1 (EDE1), as a substrate of the CDKB1;1-CYCB3;1 complex. A non-phosphorylatable mutant of EDE1 displayed spindles with extended pole-to-pole distance, resembling the phenotypes ofcycb3;1andcdkb1mutants. Moreover, we found that the mutated EDE1 version associated less efficiently with spindle microtubules. Consistently, reducing the level of augmin in Cytosim simulations largely recapitulated the spindle phenotypes observed incycb3;1andcdkb1mutants. Our results emphasize the importance of cell cycle-dependent phospho-control of the mitotic spindle in plant cells. They also support the validity of our computational model as a framework for the exploration of mechanisms controlling the organization of the spindle in plants and in other species.
A high-temperature sample changer for parallelized in situ X-ray studies to efficiently explore reaction space
Authors: Sanchez Monserrate Bryan A. , Grenier Antonin , Chupas Peter J. , Chapman Karena W.
Published: November 2023

A sample environment for high-throughput X-ray scattering studies in transmission geometry to probe the mechanism and kinetics of moderate-temperature reactions in solution, molten fluxes and solids is described. This high-temperature sample changer enables efficient studies of reactions that are slow relative to the timescale of the X-ray scattering measurements by allowing up to 18 samples to be probed at the same temperature in parallel. This significantly enhances the throughput of in situ X-ray scattering studies as the sample changer effectively facilitates systematic studies that compare different reaction parameters (e.g. concentration, precursor, composition, additives), reference samples (e.g. background, pure precursors) and replicates (to demonstrate reproducibility) with enhanced consistency afforded by the quasi-simultaneous nature of the measurements. The large sample volumes, compared with those typically used for X-ray scattering measurements, are on a similar scale to those in the laboratory, making the results more directly comparable.
Unearthing historical insights: semantic organization and application of historical newspapers from a fine-grained knowledge element perspective
Authors: Sun Shaodan , Deng Jun , Qin Xugong
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to amplify the retrieval and utilization of historical newspapers through the application of semantic organization, all from the vantage point of a fine-grained knowledge element perspective. This endeavor seeks to unlock the latent value embedded within newspaper contents while simultaneously furnishing invaluable guidance within methodological paradigms for research in the humanities domain.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the semantic organization process and knowledge element concept, this study proposes a holistic framework, including four pivotal stages: knowledge element description, extraction, association and application. Initially, a semantic description model dedicated to knowledge elements is devised. Subsequently, harnessing the advanced deep learning techniques, the study delves into the realm of entity recognition and relationship extraction. These techniques are instrumental in identifying entities within the historical newspaper contents and capturing the interdependencies that exist among them. Finally, an online platform based on Flask is developed to enable the recognition of entities and relationships within historical newspapers.

Findings

This article utilized the Shengjing Times·Changchun Compilation as the datasets for describing, extracting, associating and applying newspapers contents. Regarding knowledge element extraction, the BERT + BS consistently outperforms Bi-LSTM, CRF++ and even BERT in terms of Recall and F1 scores, making it a favorable choice for entity recognition in this context. Particularly noteworthy is the Bi-LSTM-Pro model, which stands out with the highest scores across all metrics, notably achieving an exceptional F1 score in knowledge element relationship recognition.

Originality/value

Historical newspapers transcend their status as mere artifacts, evolving into invaluable reservoirs safeguarding the societal and historical memory. Through semantic organization from a fine-grained knowledge element perspective, it can facilitate semantic retrieval, semantic association, information visualization and knowledge discovery services for historical newspapers. In practice, it can empower researchers to unearth profound insights within the historical and cultural context, broadening the landscape of digital humanities research and practical applications.
How does frugality influence customer complaints through the mediation of the zone of tolerance? Empirical evidence from Chinese consumers purchasing Shanzhai products
Authors: Lin Ming , Tian Mu , Wang Yifan , Shu Libing
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether frugality increases customer complaints via the mediating role of the zone of tolerance (ZOT) of quality for Shanzhai products. Additionally, the study seeks to explore how customer empathy as a boundary condition affects the relationship between the ZOT of quality and customer complaints.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the purchasing data of 241 low-income customers from business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce and social platforms in China, hierarchical analysis was conducted in the study. Moreover, “PROCESS SPSS Macro” was used to test the mediation effect of the ZOT of quality and the moderated mediation effect with customer empathy as a moderator.

Findings

The results indicate a positive impact of frugality on customer complaints, which is mediated by the ZOT of quality. Moreover, with an increase in customer empathy, the negative effect of the ZOT of quality on customer complaints increases, and the positive influence of frugality on customer complaints, through the mediation of the ZOT of quality, also becomes stronger.

Originality/value

Drawing upon the principle of cognitive consistency, this study not only extends the stream of research on frugality by exploring how frugality influences customer complaints via the mediation of the ZOT of quality but also sheds new light on the research on customer empathy by exploring its moderating role in the relationship between the ZOT of quality and customer complaints.
Employee and manager's emotional intelligence and individual adaptive performance: the role of servant leadership climate
Authors: Balti Mariem , Karoui Zouaoui Samia
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The present research attempts to show the contribution of emotional intelligence and servant leadership climate to individual adaptive performance. The authors intend to explain the relations between the emotional intelligence of employees as well as of manager and the employee's adaptive performance. Moreover, this research assesses the significance of the mediating role of “servant leadership” climate in the relationship between the emotional intelligence of the manager and the employee's adaptive performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses the quantitative research method and is included in explanatory research. Data collection used several informants for each organization. Data were collected using a sample of 57 managers and 204 team members spread over 24 companies belonging to different sectors of activity.

Findings

Employees' emotional intelligence directly influences individual adaptive performance. There is a direct influence of manager's emotional intelligence on individual adaptive performance. Then, there is an indirect influence of emotional intelligence on individual adaptive performance through the mediation of servant leadership climate.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research is in its effort to observe the multilevel mediation of servant leadership climate with other variables developed in the research model. No previous studies have found a relationship between employee and manager's emotional intelligence and individual adaptive performance.
Foreign market involvement, entry-mode learning potential and SME internationalization outcomes
Authors: Elbanna Said , Hsieh Linda , Child John , Narooz Rose , Marinova Svetla , Puthusserry Pushyarag , Karmowska Joanna , Tsai Terence , Zhang Yunlu
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Drawing on an organizational learning perspective, this paper examines the effect of levels of foreign market involvement (intensity and geographic spread) on internationalization outcomes recognizing that the moderating influence of entry-mode learning potential is not well documented in the literature on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 180 SMEs evenly selected from three industries: biotechnology, software and clothing (60 firms in each industry). The sampled firms employ less than 250 employees and are equally distributed between three developed economies and three emerging economies. All were engaged in foreign business.

Findings

The authors find that there is a direct relationship between levels of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes. Entry-mode learning potential moderates the relationship between intensity of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes but not the relationship between geographic spread and internationalization outcomes.

Practical implications

This study reveals several new insights that help explain the pathway through which foreign market involvement activities are translated into internationalization outcomes.

Originality/value

The authors conclude that the positive relationship between intensity of foreign market involvement and internationalization outcomes is strengthened when SMEs also use an entry mode with a higher learning potential than exporting only.
Decoupling of body size, physiological state and subsequent performance in a developmentally manipulated songbird
Authors: Allen Joshua M. , Hodinka Brett L. , Hall Hannah M. , Leonard Kathryn M. , Barbera Raven A. , Desjardin Genavieve C. , Williams Tony D.
Published: November 2023

It is generally assumed that larger juveniles are more physiologically mature, hence their overall condition and subsequent performance are higher.

Some taxa face extreme workload transitions during development (e.g. nest departure in birds), which may select for non‐linear growth profiles that decouple relationships between body size and physiological state, making the links between metrics of development (e.g. body mass) and juvenile performance uncertain.

We manipulated perceived mass in European starlings approaching fledging using 4.0 g weighted backpacks, measuring subsequent growth trajectories (mass, wing length) and physiological state (aerobic capacity, energy state, oxidative status) to test whether body size and physiology are coupled during a non‐linear developmental phase (pre‐fledging mass recession). Nanotag radio transmitters were then used to track post‐fledging performance (activity, activity‐slope, dispersal).

Weighted nestlings had greater pre‐fledging mass recession and marginally reduced wing growth when compared to controls. Consequently, weighted birds had lower body mass at fledging, while also displaying markers of oxidative stress (increased reactive oxygen metabolites), yet aerobic capacity and energy state were equal between treatment groups.

Previously weighted birds showed no correlation between fledgling state (body size, physiology) and subsequent performance. However, control fledglings that had decreased mass recession and greater wing growth prior to fledging dispersed earlier, while longer wings at fledging were associated with more rapid increases in post‐fledging activity (activity‐slope). In addition, control fledglings with lower haemoglobin also dispersed earlier, while increased reactive oxygen metabolites were associated with decreased activity levels. Body mass and energy state were unrelated to any metric of post‐fledging performance.

Our data suggest mass‐independent development of some physiological traits in species with non‐linear growth profiles, potentially with a context‐dependent oxidative cost, and that physiology may predict some measures of post‐fledging performance not captured by body size.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Wide divergence of fungal communities inhabiting rocks and soils in a hyper‐arid Antarctic desert
Authors: Canini Fabiana , Borruso Luigimaria , Newsham Kevin K. , D'Alò Federica , D'Acqui Luigi P. , Zucconi Laura
Published: November 2023

Highly simplified microbial communities colonise rocks and soils of continental Antarctica ice‐free deserts. These two habitats impose different selection pressures on organisms, yet the possible filtering effects on the diversity and composition of microbial communities have not hitherto been fully characterised. We hence compared fungal communities in rocks and soils in three localities of inner Victoria Land. We found low fungal diversity in both substrates, with a mean species richness of 28 across all samples, and significantly lower diversity in rocks than in soils. Rock and soil communities were strongly differentiated, with a multinomial species classification method identifying just three out of 328 taxa as generalists with no affinity for either substrate. Rocks were characterised by a higher abundance of lichen‐forming fungi (typically Buellia, Carbonea, Pleopsidium, Lecanora, and Lecidea), possibly owing to the more protected environment and the porosity of rocks permitting photosynthetic activity. In contrast, soils were dominated by obligate yeasts (typically Naganishia and Meyerozyma), the abundances of which were correlated with edaphic factors, and the black yeast Cryomyces. Our study suggests that strong differences in selection pressures may account for the wide divergences of fungal communities in rocks and soils of inner Victoria Land.
Active, assertive, anointed, absconded? Testing claims about career politicians in the United Kingdom
Authors: WARNCKE PHILIP , SEARING DONALD D. , ALLEN NICHOLAS
Published: November 2023

This article undertakes a comprehensive investigation into several common critiques of career politicians. Career politicians are said to be self‐serving: active and assertive when it suits their career interests, and much more interested in attaining higher offices than in serving as constituency‐oriented MPs. Yet, empirical investigations of their alleged behaviours are few, and the results are patchy and mixed. Focusing on the United Kingdom case and using a multi‐dimensional conceptualization that accords with academic and popular understandings of career politicians, the article draws on uniquely rich attitudinal and longitudinal behavioural data covering the first large generational wave of career politicians to be elected to parliament in the early 1970s. It reports findings consistent with contemporary critiques, suggesting that such dispositions are inherent in the role of career politician. The strongest career politicians among this first wave concentrated strategically on career‐serving activities, voted strategically to safeguard their careers, attained and retained successfully ministerial offices and prioritized their personal goals over their party obligations. The article further demonstrates that different measures used by researchers can produce contradictory results and that future comparative research should seek to range beyond unidimensional indicators.
Exploration of proteomic biomarkers and digital imaging analysis for Oryctes rhinoceros nudivirus infection
Authors: Cho Se‐Young , Vaidya Bipin , Kwon Hyuk‐Jung , Kim Eunsun , Kim Youngsoon , Choi Ji Yeong , Seo Hyomin , Kwon Joseph , Kim Duwoon
Published: November 2023

Oryctes rhinoceros nudivirus (OrNV) infects the larval stage of many coleopteran insects; however, the underlying mechanisms and biomarkers of infection are not fully characterised. In this study, an optimal culture condition was developed for OrNV replication and proteomic biomarkers were identified using comparative proteomic analysis. The highest level of viral copy number was observed in Sf9 cells treated with 450 μM of H2O2 and 2% foetal bovine serum (FBS). Among the 48 identified proteins, 14 proteins were significantly modulated in 2% FBS and H2O2‐ treated OrNV‐infected cells (F2V) as compared with 10% FBS treated non‐infected cells (F10M). Network analysis revealed that SLC25A5, VDAC3, PHB2, and ANXA1 act as signature proteins for OrNV replication. Moreover, viral envelope glycoproteins, GRBNV_gp28‐like and GrBNV_gp62‐like proteins could be used as sensitive diagnostic signatures for OrNV infection. Furthermore, to conveniently identify the OrNV‐infection in Allomyrina dichotoma larvae, an image classification model was trained by Google Teachable Machine, which distinguished images with accuracy rates of 91% and 86% for infected and non‐infected larvae, respectively, at a learning rate of 0.001. This study demonstrated that Sf9 cell medium treated with 2% FBS and 450 μM H2O2 is a permissible culture condition for OrNV replication. Proteomic signatures may be involved in the progression of viral infection. Additionally, a low‐cost and non‐invasive machine learning‐derived digital imaging analysis may improve the prediction of OrNV infection in larvae.
Diagnostic delay and its associated factors in Chinese axial spondyloarthritis: A single‐center study of 1295 patients
Authors: Zheng Xuqi , Chen Zena , Wu Xinyu , Xie Ya , Wu Jialing , Xiao Min , Yang Mingcan , Tu Liudan , Cao Shuangyan , Wei Qiujing , Gu Jieruo
Published: November 2023

Aim

To delineate the landscape of diagnostic delay in Chinese axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), investigate its associated factors, and explore its potential impact on medication modalities.

Methods

A total of 1295 patients fulfilling the ASAS classification criteria were obtained. Demographic and clinical data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews, based on predesigned questionnaires and available medical records. Logistic regression analyses under univariate and multivariable model were performed, using the median of diagnostic delay as the cut‐off point for group classification. Differences between early‐ and late‐diagnosed groups were subsequently compared by the Pearson chi‐square test or Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Of 1295 axSpA patients, 80.3% were male and the median of disease duration was 8.0 years. The median (IQR) diagnostic delay in Chinese axSpA was 3.0 (1.0 ~ 7.0) years and 24.8% of them reported a history of misdiagnosis. Older age at onset (OR = 0.97, p < .001) and higher education attainment (p = .001) were correlated with early diagnosis of axSpA, whereas coming from less developed areas (p = .002), a history of peripheral arthritis at the time of diagnosis (OR = 1.58, p = .002) and history of misdiagnosis (OR = 1.98, p < .001) increased the risk of diagnostic delay. Oral medication modalities were similar between two groups, but the proportion with no medication ever was higher in the late‐diagnosed group (26.5% vs. 20.7%, p = .02).

Conclusion

Our findings depicted a detailed spectrum of diagnostic delay in Chinese axSpA, verified five associated factors that may help facilitate timely diagnosis of axSpA, and pinpointed that timely medication was unsatisfying, especially in the late diagnosis group.
Flower/testa colour associations with grain yield, quality and tolerance to seed weevil in grass pea phenotypes
Authors: Tsialtas Ioannis T. , Irakli Maria
Published: November 2023

Grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) is considered an orphan/underutilised grain legume with high yield and nutritive potential. It is variable in flower and seed coat (testa) colour and this variation could possibly be used as a biomarker in phenotypic selection for yield and quality traits. Three phenotypes differing in flower/testa colour (white flower‐white to creamy testa and white hilum [TWHW], slightly blue banner and wing colouration‐white to creamy testa and coloured halo around hilum [TWHC] and blue banner and wing colouration‐spotted testa and coloured halo around hilum [TSHC]) were tested over two growing seasons, under rainfed, Mediterranean conditions. They differed only in the number of seeds per pod; the phenotype TWHW had the lowest number (2.2 seeds pod−1). The seed yield per plant (SY) was highly correlated with the number of pods per plant and was higher under wetter and warmer conditions during the reproductive period (April–May). The three phenotypes showed no difference in tolerance against bruchid (Bruchus tristiculus) infection (F2,8 = 0.14, p > .05), which was higher in the most productive growing season (6.44%, F1,4 = 14.8, p < .05). In the phenotype TWHW, three seed classes (intact, bruchid‐damaged, parasitoid‐damaged seeds) were tested for SY, quality traits and tolerance to bruchids. Though insect damaged seeds showed significant reduction in emergence rates (from −57% up to −91%), there were no differences in SY (19.11–24.53 g plant−1, F2,8 = 0.86, p > .05) and yield components (seeds per pod, 1000‐seed weight, number of pods per plant). However, seeds of plants derived from parasitoid‐damaged seeds had higher concentration of the neurotoxin ODAP (4.92 mg g−1, F2,8 = 8.76, p < .01). On the other hand, seeds of plants derived from bruchid‐damaged seeds showed higher percentage of damaged seeds by the endoparasitoid Triaspis thoracica (2.25% vs. 0.67%–1.00%, F2,8 = 5.47, p < .05). Concluding, flower and testa colour cannot be used as biomarkers of seed yield and quality in grass pea, but it seemed that a tripartite interaction (grass pea–bruchid–endoparasitoid) may occur that affects ODAP concentration and the susceptibility of seeds to insect damages.