bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A long-lived pool of PINK1 imparts a molecular memory of depolarisation-induced activity
Authors: Pollock Liam , Georgiou Ioanna Ch. , Rusilowicz-Jones Emma V. , Clague Michael J. , Urbé Sylvie
Published: July 2024

The Parkinson’s disease linked kinase, PINK1, is a short lived protein that undergoes cleavage upon mitochondrial import leading to its release to the cytosol and proteasomal degradation. Under mitochondria depolarising conditions, it accumulates on mitochondria where it becomes activated, phosphorylating both ubiquitin and the ubiquitin E3 ligase Parkin, at Ser65. Here we have used a ubiquitylation inhibitor TAK-243 to accumulate cleaved PINK1 (cPINK1) in a cell line that lacks Parkin. We show that cPINK1 phosphorylates free ubiquitin and can be released to the cytosol in an active form. We show that in RPE1 cells under mitochondria depolarising conditions (i) the majority of PINK1 cleavage proceeds unimpeded and (ii) accrued PINK1 cannot be accounted for by protein stabilisation alone. Accordingly, we suggest that translation of PINK1 mRNA must be mobilised under mitochondrial depolarisation. We have further discovered a pre-conditioning phenomenon, whereby an initial depolarising treatment leaves a residual pool of active PINK1, which remains competent for seeding the activation of nascent cPINK1, despite a 16 hour recuperation period.
Evaluation of the efficacy of the protopine total alkaloids ofMacleaya cordata(Willd.) R. Br. in controllingE. coliinfection in broiler chickens
Authors: Dong Zhen , Xu Yufeng , Liu Zhiqin , Zeng Jianguo
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study was carried out to investigate the preliminary evaluation of the effectiveness of protopine total alkaloids of Macleaya cordata (Willd.) R. Br. (MPTA) extract in the control of artificially infected avian pathogenic E. coli in the peritoneal cavity of chickens.

Methods

In this test, Lingnan yellow hybrid chickens (male, 10 days old) were attacked with E. coli O78 and then treated orally with different concentrations (25 - 1600 mg/kg) of MPTA Pulvis (MPTA-P) and 0.5% Siweichuanxinlian Powder (SWCXL-P).

Results

The results showed that different concentrations of MPTA-P and SWCXL-P were effective in reducing the mortality of E. coli and promoting the recovery of the affected organs, with the best intervention being the supplementation of 400-1600 mg/kg of MPTA-P for 7 consecutive days. It has been concluded that the addition of 400 mg/kg MPTA-P for 7 days reduces the severity and mortality and accelerates the recovery process of E. coli disease in chickens and has a protective effect against organ lesions caused by E. coli infection.

Limitations

The study lacked comparisons of carrier populations and characterization of inflammatory markers.

Conclusions

MPTA may be a potential alternative drug for the prevention or treatment of avian E. coli disease.
A DIY guide for image-based spatial transcriptomic: TLS as a case example
Authors: Defard Thomas , Desrentes Auxence , Fouillade Charles , Mueller Florian
Published: July 2024

Spatial RNA profiling methods provide insight to the cellular heterogeneity and spatial architecture of complex, multi-cellular systems. Combining molecular and spatial information provides important clues to study tissue architecture in development and disease. Here, we present a comprehensive do-it-yourself guide to perform such experiments at reduced costs leveraging open-source approaches. This guide spans the entire life cycle of a project, from its initial definition to experimental choices, wet lab approaches, instrumentation and analysis. As a concrete example, we focus on Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), which we use to develop typical questions that can be addressed by these approaches.
De novoacquisition of antibiotic resistance in six species of bacteria
Authors: Wang Xinyu , de Koster Alphonse , Koenders Belinda B. , Jonker Martijs , Brul Stanley , ter Kuile Benno H.
Published: July 2024

Bacteria can become resistant to antibiotics in two ways, by acquiring resistance genes through horizontal gene transfer and byde novodevelopment of resistance upon exposure to non-lethal concentrations. The importance of the second process,de novobuild-up, has not been investigated systematically over a range of species and may be underestimated as a result. To investigate the DNA mutation patterns accompanying thede novoantibiotic resistance acquisition process, six bacterial species encountered in the food chain were exposed to step-wise increasing sublethal concentrations of six antibiotics to develop high levels of resistance. Phenotypic and mutational landscapes were constructed based on whole genome sequencing (WGS) sequencing at two time points of the evolutionary trajectory. In this study, we found: 1) all of the six strains can develop high levels of resistance against most antibiotics. 2) increased resistance is accompanied by different mutations for each bacterium-antibiotic combination. 3) the number of mutations varies widely, withY. enterocoliticahaving by far the most. 4) in the case of fluoroquinolone resistance, a mutational pattern ofgyrAcombined withparCis conserved in five of six species. 5) mutations in genes coding for efflux pumps are widely encountered in gram-negative species. The overall conclusion is that very similar phenotypic outcomes are instigated by very different genetic changes.

IMPORTANCE

The significance of this study lies in the comparison of how six species of distinct genomic background under uniform conditions develop high levels of antibiotic resistance against six antibiotics. The mutational patterns in these six species of bacteria identify common target mutations and reveal how they acquire mutations from various pathways to survive and grow when exposed to sub-lethal levels of antibiotics. In addition to providing insights in microbial genetics, outcome of this study will assist policymakers when formulating practical strategies to prevent development of antimicrobial resistance in human and veterinary health care.
The archaeal classNitrososphaeriais a key player of the reproductive microbiome in sponges during gametogenesis
Authors: Turon Marta , Koutsouveli Vasiliki , Conejero María , Taboada Sergi , Verdes Aida , Lorente-Sorolla José María , Díez-Vives Cristina , Riesgo Ana
Published: July 2024

Sponge-associated microbes play fundamental roles in regulating their hosts’ physiology, yet their contribution to sexual reproduction has been largely overlooked. Most studies have concentrated on the proportion of the microbiome transmitted from parents to offspring, providing little evidence of the putative microbial functions during gametogenesis in sponges. Here, we use 16S rRNA gene analysis to assess whether the microbial composition of five gonochoristic sponge species differs between reproductive and non-reproductive individuals and correlate these changes with their gametogenic stages. In sponges with mature oocytes, reproductive status did not influence either beta or alpha microbial diversity. Interestingly, in two of the studied species,Geodia macandrewiiandPetrosia ficiformis,which presented oocytes at the previtellogenic stage, significant microbial composition changes were detected between reproductive and non-reproductive individuals. These disparities were primarily driven by differentially abundant taxa affiliated with theNitrososphaeriaarchaeal class in both species. We speculate that the previtellogenic stages are more energetically demanding, leading to microbial changes due to the phagocytosis of microbes to meet nutritional demands during this period. Supporting our hypothesis, we observed significant transcriptomic differences inG. macandrewii, mainly associated with the immune system, indicating potential changes in the sponge’s recognition system. Overall, we provide the first insights into the possible roles of sponge microbiomes during reproductive periods, potentially uncovering critical interactions that support reproductive success.
An emerging PB2-627 polymorphism increases the pandemic potential of avian influenza virus by breaking through ANP32 host restriction in mammalian and avian hosts
Authors: Guo Yuxin , Shu Sicheng , Zhou Yong , Peng Wenjing , Jiang Zhimin , Li Yudong , Li Tian , Du Fanshu , Wang Linlin , Chen Xue , Dong Jinze , Zhao Chuankuo , Wang Maggie Haitian , Sun Yipeng , Sun Honglei , Lu Lu , Digard Paul , Chang Kin-Chow , Yen Hui-Ling , Liu Jinhua. , Pu Juan
Published: July 2024

Alterations in the PB2-627 domain could substantially increase the risk of an avian influenza virus (AIV) pandemic. So far, a well-known mammalian mutation PB2-E627K has not been maintained in AIV in poultry, which limits the spread of AIVs from avian to humans. Here, we discovered a variant, PB2-627V, which combines the properties of avian-like PB2-627E and human-like PB2-627K, overcoming host restrictions and posing a risk for human pandemics. Specifically, by screening the global PB2 sequences, we discovered a new independent cluster with PB2-627V emerged in the 2010s, which is prevalent in various avian, mammalian, and human isolates of AIVs, including H9N2, H7N9, H3N8, 2.3.4.4b H5N1, and other subtypes. And, the increasing prevalence of PB2-627V in poultry is accompanied by a rise in human infection cases with this variant. Then we systematically assessed its host adaptation, fitness, and transmissibility across three subtypes of AIVs (H9N2, H7N9, and H3N8) in different host models, including avian and human cells, chickens, mice, and ferrets where infections naturally occur. We found that PB2-627V facilitates AIVs to efficiently infect and replicate in chickens and mice by utilizing both avian- and human-origin ANP32A proteins. Importantly, and like PB2-627K, PB2-627V promotes efficient transmission between ferrets through respiratory droplets. Deep sequencing in passaged chicken samples and transmitted ferret samples indicates that PB2-627V remains stable across the two distinct hosts and has a high potential for long-term prevalence in avian species. Therefore, the mutation has the ability to continue spreading among poultry and can also overcome the barrier between birds and humans, greatly enhancing the likelihood of AIVs infecting humans. Given the escalating global spread of AIVs, it is crucial to closely monitor influenza viruses carrying PB2-627V to prevent a pandemic.
Structurally diverse calloses/β-1,3-glucans in plant cell wall microdomains
Authors: Amsbury Sam , Marcus Susan E. , Yeshvekar Richa , Barber Jenny , German Liam , Ross James F. , Lelenaite Ieva , de Souza Moraes Tatiana , Wickramanayake Janithri , Klebanovych Anastasiya , Czymmek Kirk , Burch-Smith Tessa M. , Bayer Emmanuelle M. , Willats William , Manfield Iain W. , Knox Paul , Benitez-Alfonso Yoselin
Published: July 2024

Cell walls underpin the mechanics of cell growth, intercellular signalling, and defence against pathogenic organisms. β-(1,3)-glucans (also known as callose) are polysaccharides found in plants, fungi, and some bacterial species. In developing plant organs, callose accumulates around intercellular channels (plasmodesmata) controlling cell-to-cell communication. We developed monoclonal antibodies for the detection of β-(1,3)-glucans and using these identified distinct populations of callose differing in size and secondary structure. Callose sub-populations were in proximal but not overlapping cell wall microdomains implying distinct spatial and functional microenvironments. We also unveiled callose interaction with xyloglucan; another plant glycan regulating cell wall functions. This work challenges previous views demonstrating structural heterogeneity in plant callose and supporting interactions between glycans with roles in the regulation of cell wall properties and functions.
E3 ligase recruitment by UBQLN2 protects substrates from proteasomal degradation
Authors: Scheutzow Ashley , Thanthirige Sachini , Siffer Gracie , Wohlever Matthew L.
Published: July 2024

Ubiquilins are a family of proteins critical to cellular proteostasis that are also linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS, with specific mutations in UBQLN2 causing dominant, X-linked ALS. Despite an initial characterization as proteasomal shuttle factors, Ubiquilins have paradoxically been reported to stabilize numerous substrates. The basis of this triage decision remains enigmatic. Many other fundamental aspects of Ubiquilin function are unclear at the mechanistic level, such as the physiological significance of Ubiquilin phase separation, the unique role of each Ubiquilin paralog, and the mechanistic defects of ALS mutants. To address these questions, we utilized a library of triple knockout (TKO) rescue cell lines with physiological expression of single Ubiquilin paralogs or disease mutants in an isogenic background. Our findings reveal that UBQLN2 has a unique ability to protect substrates from degradation and that substrate stabilization correlates with the recruitment of multiple E3 ligases, including SCFbxo7. Substrate stabilization is diminished in ALS mutants and this defect is exacerbated upon overexpression. We propose that UBQLN2 is a molecular chaperone that recruits multiple E3 ligases to modulate substrate stability. This proposal unifies many existing observations in the field and presents a new paradigm for understanding Ubiquilin function in health and disease.
Development of a highly active engineered PETase enzyme for polyester degradation
Authors: Bhattacharya Shapla , Castagna Rossella , Estiri Hajar , Upmanis Toms , Ricci Andrea , Gautieri Alfonso , Parisini Emilio
Published: July 2024

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) accounts for ≈6% of global plastic production, contributing considerably to the global solid waste stream and environmental plastic pollution. Since the discovery of PET-depolymerizing enzymes, enzymatic PET recycling has been regarded as a promising method for plastic disposal, particularly in the context of a circular economy strategy. However, as the PET degrading enzymes developed so far suffer from relatively limited thermostability, low catalytic efficiency, as well as degradation intermediate-induced inhibition, their large scale industrial applications are still largely hampered. To overcome these limitations, we usedin silicoprotein design methods to develop an engineered Leaf-branch Compost Cutinase (LCC), named DRK3, that features enhanced thermal stability and PETase activity relative to the current gold standard LCC enzyme (LCC-ICCG). DRK3 features a 4.1°C increase in melting temperature relative to the LCC-ICCG enzyme. Under optimal reaction conditions (68°C), the DRK3 enzyme hydrolyzes amorphous PET material into TPA with a 2-fold higher efficiency compared to LCC-ICCG. Owing to its enhanced properties, DRK3 may be a promising candidate for future applications in industrial PET recycling processes.

Graphical abstract
Linking functional and structural brain organisation with behaviour in healthy adults
Authors: Forde Natalie J , Llera Alberto , Beckmann Christian
Published: July 2024

Multimodal data integration approaches, such as Linked Independent Component Analysis (LICA), increase sensitivity to brain-behaviour relationships and allow us to probe the relationship between modalities. Here we focus on inter-regional functional and structural organisation to determine if organisational patterns persist across modalities and if investigating multi-modality organisations provides increased sensitivity to brain-behaviour associations.

We utilised multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; T1w, resting-state functional [fMRI] and diffusion weighted [DWI]) and behavioural data from the Human Connectome Project (HCP, n=676; 51% female). Unimodal features were extracted to produce individual grey matter density maps, probabilistic tractography connectivity matrices and connectopic maps from the T1w, DWI and fMRI data, respectively. DWI and fMRI analyses were restricted to subcortical regions for computational reasons. LICA was then used to integrate features, generating 100 novel independent components. Associations between these components and demographic/behavioural (n=308) variables were examined.

15 components were significantly associated with various demographic/behavioural measures. 2 components were strongly related to various measures of intoxication, driven by DWI and resemble components previously identified. Another component was driven by striatal functional data and related to working memory. A small number of components showed shared variance between structure and function but none of these displayed any significant behavioural associations.

Our working memory findings provide support for the use of fMRI connectopic mapping in future research of working memory. Given the lack of behaviourally relevant shared variance between functional and structural organisation, as indexed here, we question the utility of integrating connectopic maps and tractography data.
Challenges for error-correction coding in DNA data storage: photolithographic synthesis and DNA decay
Authors: Gimpel Andreas L. , Stark Wendelin J. , Heckel Reinhard , Grass Robert N.
Published: July 2024

Efficient error-correction codes are crucial for realizing DNA’s potential as a long-lasting, high-density storage medium for digital data. At the same time, new workflows promising low-cost, resilient DNA data storage are challenging their design and error-correcting capabilities. This study characterizes the errors and biases in two new additions to the state-of-the-art workflow in DNA data storage: photolithographic synthesis and DNA decay. Photolithographic synthesis offers low-cost, scalable oligonucleotide synthesis but suffers from high error rates, necessitating sophisticated error-correction schemes, for example codes introducing within-sequence redundancy combined with clustering and alignment techniques for retrieval. On the other hand, the decoding of oligo fragments after DNA decay promises unprecedented storage densities, but complicates data recovery by requiring the reassembly of full-length sequences or the use of partial sequences for decoding. Our analysis provides a detailed account of the error patterns and biases present in photolithographic synthesis and DNA decay, and identifies considerable bias stemming from sequencing workflows. We implement our findings into a digital twin of the two workflows, offering a tool for developing error-correction codes and providing benchmarks for the evaluation of codec performance.
Retrospective Analysis of the Effects of BWF Interdisciplinary Postdoctoral to Faculty Transition Awards on Future Funding Success
Authors: Sekhon Mandeep K. , Scott Melanie , Green Cynthia L. , Rose Miquella C.
Published: July 2024

Established by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund (BWF) in 2001, the Career Award at the Scientific Interface (CASI) is a career development award for scientists with doctoral training in the physical/mathematical/computational sciences or engineering conducting postdoctoral research in the biological sciences. The goal of the program is to support early career scientists interested in pursuing an independent research career with an interdisciplinary focus. In order to assess the benefit of the CASI award on recipients, the authors undertook a retrospective analysis of the funding data for CASI recipients to evaluate success against matching cohorts. These cohorts included applicants who succeeded to the final interview stage but were ultimately unsuccessful (interviewed), applicants who submitted proposals but did not make it to the final interview stage (proposal declined), and a randomly selected dataset of researchers from a comparable program, the highly competitive Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00) from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The results indicate that CASI recipients outperformed unsuccessful applicants and their K99/R00 counterparts in federal grant rates and overall grant dollars. The authors’ conclusion affirms that the CASI mechanism and BWF support successfully achieve the objective of invigorating the careers of young investigators, resulting in tangible downstream long-term effects.
The welfare effects of degrowth as a decarbonization strategy
Authors: Andrés Javier , Boscá José E. , Doménech Rafael , Ferri Javier
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to asses the welfare and macroeconomic implications of three distinct degrowth strategies designed to reduce carbon emissions: penalizing fossil fuel demand, substituting aggregate consumption with leisure and disincentivizing total factor productivity (TFP) growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an environmental dynamic general equilibrium (eDGE) model that incorporates both green renewable technologies and fossil fuels in the production process, this study sets an emissions reduction target aligned with the goals of the Paris Agreement by 2050.

Findings

The results reveal that the conventional degrowth strategy, wherein a reduction in the consumption of goods and services is compensated with an increase in leisure, may entail significant economic consequences, leading to a notable decline in welfare. In particular, a degrowth scenario resulting from a decline in TFP yields the most pronounced reduction in welfare. Conversely, inducing a reduction in fossil fuel demand by fiscally inflating the price of the imported commodity, despite potential social backlash, exhibits noticeably less detrimental welfare effects compared to other degrowth policies. Furthermore, under this degrowth strategy, the findings suggest that a globally coordinated strategy could result in long-term welfare gain.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first contribution that uses an eDGE model to evaluate the welfare implications of an additional degrowth strategy amidst the ongoing inertial reduction of carbon emissions.
Academic leadership and job performance: the effects of organizational citizenship behavior and informal institutional leadership
Authors: Ludwikowska Kamila , Zakkariya K.A. , Aboobaker Nimitha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Grounded on the distributed theory and the social exchange theory, the current study investigates the determinants that positively influence job performance among educators within the realm of higher education in India. It particularly assesses the impact of perceived academic leadership on performance and explores the mediating and moderating effects of organizational citizenship behavior and informal institutional leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a descriptive research design, this study encompasses a broad cross-section of faculty members from various higher educational institutions across India. Data were gathered from 826 educators using a snowball sampling technique, with questionnaires administered online. Each variable was measured using prevalidated scales.

Findings

The findings from the moderated mediation model indicate a significant indirect relationship between perceived academic leadership and job performance, which is mediated by organizational citizenship behavior. Furthermore, informal institutional leadership demonstrates significant conditional indirect effects, enhancing the link between academic leadership and job performance up to a threshold, beyond which its influence diminishes.

Originality/value

This study pioneers the exploration of academic dynamics beyond mere titles and ranks in the Indian educational sector. It delineates both the direct and indirect roles these dynamics play in enhancing faculty performance, providing a novel insight into the complexities of academic leadership.
A computational predictive model for nanozyme diffusion dynamics: optimizing nanosystem performance
Authors: Fatima Maryam , Sohail Ayesha , Lei Youming , Sait Sadiq M. , Ellahi R.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Enzymes play a pivotal role in orchestrating essential biochemical processes and influencing various cellular activities in tissue. This paper aims to provide the process of enzyme diffusion within the tissue matrix and enhance the nano system performance by means of the effectiveness of enzymatic functions. The diffusion phenomena are also documented, providing chemical insights into the complex processes governing enzyme movement.

Design/methodology/approach

A computational analysis is used to develop and simulate an optimal control model using numerical algorithms, systematically regulating enzyme concentrations within the tissue scaffold.

Findings

The accompanying videographic footages offer detailed insights into the dynamic complexity of the system, enriching the reader’s understanding. This comprehensive exploration not only contributes valuable knowledge to the field but also advances computational analysis in tissue engineering and biomimetic systems. The work is linked to biomolecular structures and dynamics, offering a detailed understanding of how these elements influence enzymatic functions, ultimately bridging the gap between theoretical insights and practical implications.

Originality/value

A computational predictive model for nanozyme that describes the reaction diffusion dynamics process with enzyme catalysts is yet not available in existing literature.
The effect of financial inclusion and economic integration on green growth in ASEAN
Authors: Putra Anak Agung Ketut Agung Dharma , Oktora Siskarossa Ika
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study was conducted to review the overview of green growth and examine the role of financial inclusion as well as economic integration and other variables on green growth in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to construct financial inclusion variables and panel data regression analysis to examine the effect of financial inclusion and economic integration on green growth in 10 ASEAN countries from 2010 to 2021.

Findings

The results showed that financial inclusion had played a role in supporting green growth in ASEAN. The rapid development of green finance and green bonds promoted the implementation of better green growth. The variables of export diversification and trade openness had a significant effect on green growth. Therefore, there is a need for appropriate policies to prevent negative effects on the environment and the behavior of ASEAN countries.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study suggest that policymakers in ASEAN countries not only focus on gaining economic benefits from financial inclusion and economic integration activities but also pay attention to environmental impacts. Moreover, the ASEAN region is actively developing strategic steps in providing easy access to capital and finance as well as expanding international trade activities through ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA). Therefore, it is hoped that apart from being able to establish sustainable policies, this region will also encourage and optimize previous policies to make them more environmentally friendly.

Originality/value

This study used a green growth approach with the Index by the Global Green Growth Institute. This index considered aspects of green economic opportunities and social inclusion that have not been applied in previous studies. In addition, this study contributed to review the activities of economic integration and financial inclusion and the sustainability of green growth in ASEAN countries. Until now, there has been no research focused on ASEAN; even though ASEAN has long carried out economic integration and encouraged financial inclusion policies, this region is vulnerable to environmental degradation issues.
Corporate COVID-19 disclosure and stock price volatility: evidence from Egypt
Authors: Saleh Mohsen Anwar Abdelghaffar , Wu Dejun
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between corporate COVID-19 disclosure (COVID_DISC) and stock price volatility (SPV) in Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the manual content analysis method to measure corporate COVID-19 disclosure in the narrative sections of annual reports. The authors use ordinary least squares (OLS) regression to examine the impact of corporate COVID-19 disclosure on stock price volatility using unique data from Egyptian-listed firms during COVID-19 pandemic over the period of 2020 to 2022. Propensity score matching method was adopted to mitigate the potential endogeneity issue.

Findings

This study reveals that corporate COVID-19 disclosure has a significant negative impact on stock price volatility, suggesting COVID-19 disclosure reduces stock price volatility. In addition, the results confirm that COVID-19 disclosure offers value relevant information to investors, which is consistent with the Egyptian Financial Supervisory Authority’s (EFSA) motivation in calling for more information on COVID-19 pandemic.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can help corporate managers and EFSA in enhancing corporate disclosure and transparency during future financial crises. Moreover, the findings offer valuable insights to investors, helping them gain a better understanding of the business environment during COVID-19 crisis.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first Egyptian empirical evidence that examines the relationship between corporate COVID-19 disclosure and stock price volatility.
Does financial reporting quality matter for the auditee characteristics-audit fees relationship? Evidence from an emerging market
Authors: Elswah Tamer , Abozaid Eid , Diab Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The various factors influencing audit fees are still unclear, which may undermine the possibility of attaining fair audit pricing. Against this concern, this study aims to investigate the relationship between the auditee’s corporate characteristics and audit fees. In addition, it reveals if accounting comparability, as a proxy for financial reporting quality, mediates such a relationship by bringing evidence from an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study depends on data from nonfinancial companies listed on the Egyptian stock exchange from 2016 to 2019. It adopts multiple regression models to test the impact of corporate characteristics and accounting comparability on audit fees and uses path analysis to test the indirect effect of the audit clients’ characteristics on audit fees through accounting comparability.

Findings

The authors found a significant positive (negative) effect of firm profitability on audit fees (accounting comparability). Further, accounting comparability has a significant negative effect on audit fees. The authors also found that accounting comparability partially mediates the significant relationship between profitability and audit fees. However, the authors found no significant association between leverage and audit fees. Finally, the authors found that accounting comparability does not mediate the relationship between leverage and audit fees.

Practical implications

This study’s findings can benefit audit practitioners in Egypt by showing the main factors affecting audit fees, especially audit clients’ attributes. The current findings also guide professional bodies responsible for issuing accounting and audit standards regarding the importance of financial reporting quality for audit pricing decisions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by examining the mediating effect of accounting comparability concerning the corporate characteristics-audit fees relationship in developing African countries such as Egypt. This study’s findings can benefit audit practitioners in Egypt by showing the main factors affecting audit fees, especially audit clients’ attributes. The current findings also guide professional bodies responsible for issuing accounting and audit standards regarding the importance of financial reporting quality for audit pricing decisions.
Does perceived overqualification promote (or inhibit) knowledge-sharing behavior? The roles of intrinsic motivation and rewards for knowledge sharing
Authors: Zhu Yanghao , Xu Yunpeng , Zhang Yannan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The relationship between perceived overqualification and knowledge sharing has always been a hot topic, but scholars have come to different conclusions on this issue. The purpose of this study is to integrate conflicting conclusions by considering the moderating role of rewards for knowledge sharing and the mediating role of intrinsic motivation in the relationship between perceived overqualification and knowledge sharing based on self-determination theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected three-wave survey data from 246 research and development employees in four companies in China.

Findings

The results showed that when rewards for knowledge sharing was higher, employees with perceived overqualification would have higher intrinsic motivation, which could promote their knowledge-sharing behavior. However, when rewards for knowledge sharing was lower, employees with perceived overqualification would have lower intrinsic motivation, thus inhibiting their knowledge-sharing behavior. This result supported the informational function rather than the controlling function of rewards for knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

By considering the important boundary condition of rewards for knowledge sharing, this study reconciles the contradictory conclusions on the relationship between perceived overqualification and knowledge-sharing behavior. At the same time, the authors tell organizations that they can increase the knowledge-sharing behavior of overqualified employees through rewards for knowledge sharing.
Cognitive systems for improving decision-making in the workplace: an explorative study within the waste management field
Authors: Esposito Paolo , Antonucci Gianluca , Palozzi Gabriele , Fijałkowska Justyna
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) can help in defining preventive strategies in taking decisions in complex situations. This paper aims to research how workers might deal with intervening AI tools, with the goal of improving their daily working decisions and movements. We contribute to deepening how workers might deal with intervening AI tools aiming at improving their daily working decisions and movements. We investigate these aspects within a field, which is growing in importance due to environmental sustainability issues, i.e. waste management (WM).

Design/methodology/approach

This manuscript intends to (1) investigate if AI allows better performance in WM by reducing social security costs and by guaranteeing a better continuity of service and (2) examine which structural change is required to operationalize this predictive risk model in the real working context. To achieve these goals, this study developed a qualitative inquiry based on face-to-face interviews with highly qualified experts.

Findings

There is a positive impact of AI schemes in helping to detect critical operating issues. Specifically, AI potentially represents a tool for an alignment of operational behaviours to business strategic goals. Properly elaborated information, obtained through wearable digital infrastructures, allows to take decisions to streamline the work organization, reducing potential loss due to waste of time and/or physical resources.

Research limitations/implications

Being a qualitative study, and the limited extension of data, it is not possible to guarantee its replication and generalizability. Nevertheless, the prestige of the interviewees makes this research an interesting pilot, on such an emerging theme as AI, thus eliciting stimulating insights from a deepening of information coming from respondents’ knowledge, skills and experience for implementing valuable AI schemes able to an align operational behaviours to business strategic goals.

Practical implications

The most critical issue is represented by the “quality” of the feedback provided to employees within the business environment, specifically when there is a transfer of knowledge within the organization.

Originality/value

The study focuses on a less investigated context, the role of AI in internal decision-making, particularly, for what regards the interaction between managers and workers as well as the one among workers. Algorithmically managed workers can be seen as the players of summarized results of complex algorithmic analyses offered through simpleminded interfaces, which they can easily use to take good decisions.
How does strategic agenda building affect valuation of supply resources and sourcing policies? A case from the food industry
Authors: Hjørringgaard Karina , Andersen Poul Houman Houman
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Business strategy issues increasingly concern value realized from supply resources. However, how supply resources are valorized by managerial factions in a strategic issue setting is not sufficiently explored. In organizations operating in complex business contexts, several strategic agendas and supply value perceptions typically coexist. This study aims to explore the process of developing corporate attention towards supply-related strategic issues and how it links to sourcing strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

An explorative longitudinal case study within the food industry is conducted. Data are collected in a four year period. Working physically from the case company made it possible to be close to the company’s actors. The first author participated in 26 formal team meetings ranging from 1.5 h to 3 days long, conducted 28 interviews across managerial levels and functions and participated in informal verbal and written communications.

Findings

This study explores strategizing efforts of organizations and scrutinize consequences of strategic ambiguity for sourcing strategy and supply resources. Furthermore, this study outlines implications for management and theory development.

Research limitations/implications

Since this paper is based on an in-depth single case study, its findings are not empirically generalizable.

Practical implications

This paper suggests that managers should pay stronger attention to constituents’ valuation of supply resources, and how they fit with the different strategic agendas within the firm. By doing so, a more comprehensive supply resource mobilization is possible.

Originality/value

Business strategy research increasingly focuses on the value of supply resources for a buying firm’s business strategy (Kotabe and Murray 2018; Lee and Rammohan 2017; Schiele, Calvi, and Gibbert 2012). In a context where the value obtained from sourcing is gaining increased importance, more organizations link supply policies with corporate strategic goals (Andersen, Ellegaard, and Kragh 2016; Hesping and Schiele 2015; Pardo et al., 2011). However, existing supply chain research does not incorporate an organization’s strategizing efforts, when considering supply resource valuation, and how this can be a source of ambiguity to sourcing strategy. The is the paper’s contribution.
Exploring the intersection of income and race in an age diverse sample of people with Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Bell Mallory J. , Neff Olivia T.
Published: July 2024

Prior literature suggests that the social gradient in health is racialised such that Black individuals receive fewer health benefits from socioeconomic status than White individuals, yet scarce research studies examine whether this relationship persists in the context of Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Further, most research studies on racial health disparities in T1D outcomes focus on health during early life. We used data from the 2017–2018 wave of the T1D Exchange Registry (N = 11,963) and examined the relationship between household income, race and HbA1c in an age diverse sample of people with T1D. Results revealed that the inverse association between income and HbA1c is stronger for Black T1Ds compared to White T1Ds. Despite this, Black T1Ds with an income of $100,000 or more had higher HbA1c values compared to White individuals with an income of less than $25,000. Further, Black adolescents with T1D had particularly high HbA1c values. There is an urgent need for more research on the interpersonal and structural barriers associated with suboptimal glycaemic control among Black individuals.
Examining the role of ChatGPT in the management of distal radius fractures: insights into its accuracy and consistency
Authors: Knee Christopha J , Campbell Ryan J , Graham David J , Handford Cameron , Symes Michael , Sivakumar Brahman S
Published: July 2024

Background

The optimal management of distal radius fractures remains a challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs), especially ChatGPT, affords significant potential in improving healthcare and research. This study aims to assess the accuracy and consistency of ChatGPT's knowledge in managing distal radius fractures, with a focus on its capability to provide information for patients and assist in the decision‐making processes of orthopaedic clinicians.

Methods

We presented ChatGPT with seven questions on distal radius fracture management over two sessions, resulting in 14 responses. These questions covered a range of topics, including patient inquiries and orthopaedic clinical decision‐making. We requested references for each response and involved two orthopaedic registrars and two senior orthopaedic surgeons to evaluate response accuracy and consistency.

Results

All 14 responses contained a mix of both correct and incorrect information. Among the 47 cited references, 13% were accurate, 28% appeared to be fabricated, 57% were incorrect, and 2% were correct but deemed inappropriate. Consistency was observed in 71% of the responses.

Conclusion

ChatGPT demonstrates significant limitations in accuracy and consistency when providing information on distal radius fractures. In its current format, it offers limited utility for patient education and clinical decision‐making.
Vesico‐ureteral reflux diagnosis after initial kidney abscess: Results from a Paediatric Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Preka Evgenia , Miller Nicholas , Avramescu Marina , Berteloot Laureline , Vinit Nicolas , Botto Nathalie , Grapin Mathilde , Prévot Maud , Boistault Margaux , Garcelon Nicolas , Taghavi Kiarash , Schrimpf Cécile , Cohen Jérémie F. , Blanc Thomas , Boyer Olivia
Published: July 2024

Aims

Guidelines regarding voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) indications following a paediatric kidney abscess are lacking. This study evaluates vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) prevalence and outcome after a first kidney abscess.

Methods

This retrospective study included all children presenting to a tertiary paediatric reference centre with de‐novo kidney abscesses from 2011 to 2022, diagnosed through imaging (ultrasonography or computed tomography). VCUG's clinical utility was assessed by exploring outcomes related to interventions.

Results

Among the 17 patients (median age 9 months, IQR; 6 months–6 years), VCUG identified VUR in 7 (41%; 95% CI: 18–65%), including two with grade IV–V. Median abscess size was 19 mm (IQR; 14–27). 7/8 (88%) children with DMSA scan presented scars, including 4 with hypofunctioning (20%–44%), and one with a non‐functioning kidney. Scarring on the DMSA scan was similar regardless of identified VUR. Six children had subsequent pyelonephritis. Three of the remaining 11 had grade I–III and two IV–V VUR. Surgery was required in four children overall: three for recurrent pyelonephritis and one for high‐grade VUR and scars.

Conclusion

Among initial kidney abscess cases, 41% had VUR, similar to children experiencing their first uncomplicated pyelonephritis. VCUG results guided antibiotic prophylaxis but not surgical decisions. We suggest considering VCUG following recurrent pyelonephritis/kidney abscess and/or kidney scarring.
Mitochondrial dysfunction and NLRP3 inflammasome: key players in kidney stone formation
Authors: Su Boyan , Ren YaLin , Yao Weimin , Su Yue , He Qiqi
Published: July 2024

The mitochondrion serves as a critical intracellular organelle, engaging in essential roles in the regulation of energy production, oxidative stress management, calcium homeostasis, and apoptosis. One such disease that has been particularly associated with these functions is kidney stone disease (KSD), specifically calcium oxalate (CaOx). It is underpinned by oxidative stress and tissue inflammation. Recent studies have shed light on the vital involvement of mitochondrial dysfunction, the nucleotide‐binding domain and leucine‐rich repeat containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, endoplasmic reticulum stress and subsequent cell death in CaOx crystal retention and aggregation. These processes are pivotal in the pathogenesis of kidney stone formation. This review focuses on the pivotal roles of mitochondria in renal cell functions and provides an overview of the intricate interconnectedness between mitochondrial dysfunction and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in the context of KSD. It is essential to recognise the utmost significance of gaining a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms that safeguard mitochondrial function and regulate the NLRP3 inflammasome. Such knowledge carries significant scientific implications and opens up promising avenues for the development of innovative strategies to prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Understanding the role of BRD8 in human carcinogenesis
Authors: Yamaguchi Kiyoshi , Nakagawa Saya , Furukawa Yoichi
Published: July 2024

The bromodomain is a conserved protein–protein interaction module that functions exclusively to recognize acetylated lysine residues on histones and other proteins. It is noteworthy that bromodomain‐containing proteins are involved in transcriptional modulation by recruiting various transcription factors and/or protein complexes such as ATP‐dependent chromatin remodelers and acetyltransferases. Bromodomain‐containing protein 8 (BRD8), a molecule initially recognized as skeletal muscle abundant protein and thyroid hormone receptor coactivating protein of 120 kDa (TrCP120), was shown to be a subunit of the NuA4/TIP60‐histone acetyltransferase complex. BRD8 has been reported to be upregulated in a subset of cancers and implicated in the regulation of cell proliferation as well as in the response to cytotoxic agents. However, little is still known about the underlying molecular mechanisms. In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the bromodomain of BRD8 recognizes acetylated and/or nonacetylated histones H4 and H2AZ, and that BRD8 is associated with cancer development in both a NuA4/TIP60 complex‐dependent and ‐independent manner. In this review, we will provide an overview of the current knowledge on the molecular function of BRD8, focusing on the biological role of the bromodomain of BRD8 in cancer cells.