bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synaptotagmin-9 In Mouse Retina
Authors: Mesnard Chris S. , Hays Cassandra L. , Townsend Lou E. , Barta Cody L. , Gurumurthy Channabasavaiah B. , Thoreson Wallace B.
Published: June 2023

Synaptotagmin-9 (Syt9) is a Ca2+sensor mediating fast synaptic release expressed in various parts of the brain. The presence and role of Syt9 in retina is unknown. We found evidence for Syt9 expression throughout the retina and created mice to conditionally eliminate Syt9 in a cre-dependent manner. We crossed Syt9fl/flmice with Rho-iCre, HRGP-Cre, and CMV-cre mice to generate mice in which Syt9 was eliminated from rods (rodSyt9CKO), cones (coneSyt9CKO), or whole animals (CMVSyt9). CMVSyt9mice showed an increase in scotopic electroretinogram (ERG) b-waves evoked by bright flashes with no change in a-waves. Cone-driven photopic ERG b-waves were not significantly different in CMVSyt9knockout mice and selective elimination of Syt9 from cones had no effect on ERGs. However, selective elimination from rods decreased scotopic and photopic b-waves as well as oscillatory potentials. These changes occurred only with bright flashes where cone responses contribute. Synaptic release was measured in individual rods by recording anion currents activated by glutamate binding to presynaptic glutamate transporters. Loss of Syt9 from rods had no effect on spontaneous or depolarization-evoked release. Our data show that Syt9 is acts at multiple sites in the retina and suggest that it may play a role in regulating transmission of cone signals by rods.
Homocysteine Metabolites Impair the PHF8/H4K20me1/mTOR/Autophagy Pathway by Upregulating the Expression of Histone Demethylase PHF8-targeting microRNAs in Human Vascular Endothelial Cells and Mice
Authors: Witucki Łukasz , Jakubowski Hieronim
Published: June 2023

The inability to efficiently metabolize homocysteine (Hcy) due to nutritional and genetic deficiencies, leads to hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) and endothelial dysfunction, a hallmark of atherosclerosis which underpins cardiovascular disease (CVD). PHF8 is a histone demethylase that demethylates H4K20me1, which affects the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling and autophagy, processes that play important roles in CVD. PHF8 is regulated by microRNA (miR) such as miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p. Biochemically, HHcy is characterized by elevated levels of Hcy, Hcy-thiolactone andN-Hcy-protein. Here, we examined effects of these metabolites on miR-22-3p, miR-1229-3p, and their target PHF8, as well as on the downstream consequences of these effects on H4K20me1, mTOR-, and autophagy-related proteins and mRNAs expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). We found that treatments withN-Hcy-protein, Hcy-thiolactone, or Hcy upregulated miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p, attenuated PHF8 expression, upregulated H4K20me1, mTOR, and phospho-mTOR. Autophagy-related proteins (BECN1, ATG5, ATG7, lipidated LC3-II, and LC3-II/LC3-I ratio) were significantly downregulated by at least one of these metabolites. We also found similar changes in the expression of miR-22-3p, Phf8, mTOR- and autophagy-related proteins/mRNAs in vivo in hearts ofCbs-/-mice, which show severe HHcy and endothelial dysfunction. Treatments with inhibitors of miR-22-3p or miR-1229-3p abrogated the effects of Hcy-thiolactone,N-Hcy-protein, and Hcy on miR expression and on PHF8, H4K20me1, mTOR-, and autophagy-related proteins/mRNAs in HUVEC. Taken together, these findings show that Hcy metabolites upregulate miR-22-3p and miR-1229-3p expression, which then dysregulate the PHF8/H4K20me1/mTOR/autophagy pathway, important for vascular homeostasis.
Bacterial SEAL domains undergo autoproteolysis and function in regulated intramembrane proteolysis
Authors: Brogan Anna P. , Habib Cameron , Hobbs Samuel J. , Kranzusch Philip J. , Rudner David Z.
Published: June 2023

Gram-positive bacteria use SigI/RsgI-family sigma factor/anti-sigma factor pairs to sense and respond to cell wall defects and plant polysaccharides. InBacillus subtilisthis signal transduction pathway involves regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) of the membrane-anchored anti-sigma factor RsgI. However, unlike most RIP signaling pathways, site-1 cleavage of RsgI on the extracytoplasmic side of the membrane is constitutive and the cleavage products remain stably associated, preventing intramembrane proteolysis. The regulated step in this pathway is their dissociation, which is hypothesized to involve mechanical force. Release of the ectodomain enables intramembrane cleavage by the RasP site-2 protease and activation of SigI. The constitutive site-1 protease has not been identified for any RsgI homolog. Here, we report that RsgI’s extracytoplasmic domain has structural and functional similarities to eukaryotic SEA domains that undergo autoproteolysis and have been implicated in mechanotransduction. We show that site-1 proteolysis inB. subtilisand Clostridial RsgI family members is mediated by enzyme-independent autoproteolysis of these SEA-like (SEAL) domains. Importantly, the site of proteolysis enables retention of the ectodomain through an undisrupted ß-sheet that spans the two cleavage products. Autoproteolysis can be abrogated by relief of conformational strain in the scissile loop, in a mechanism analogous to eukaryotic SEA domains. Collectively, our data support the model that RsgI-SigI signaling is mediated by mechanotransduction in a manner that has striking parallels with eukaryotic mechanotransducive signaling pathways.

SIGNIFICANCE

SEA domains are broadly conserved among eukaryotes but absent in bacteria. They are present on diverse membrane-anchored proteins some of which have been implicated in mechanotransducive signaling pathways. Many of these domains have been found to undergo autoproteolysis and remain noncovalently associated following cleavage. Their dissociation requires mechanical force. Here, we identify a family of bacterial SEA-like (SEAL) domains that arose independently from their eukaryotic counterparts but have structural and functional similarities. We show these SEAL domains autocleave and the cleavage products remain stably associated. Importantly, these domains are present on membrane-anchored anti-sigma factors that have been implicated in mechanotransduction pathways analogous to those in eukaryotes. Our findings suggest that bacterial and eukaryotic signaling systems have evolved a similar mechanism to transduce mechanical stimuli across the lipid bilayer.
Global diversity and inferred ecophysiology of microorganisms with the potential for dissimilatory sulfate/sulfite reduction
Authors: Diao Muhe , Dyksma Stefan , Koeksoy Elif , Ngugi David Kamanda , Anantharaman Karthik , Loy Alexander , Pester Michael
Published: June 2023

Sulfate/sulfite-reducing microorganisms (SRM) are ubiquitous in nature, driving the global sulfur cycle. A hallmark of SRM is the dissimilatory sulfite reductase encoded by the paralogous genesdsrAB. Based on analysis of 950 mainly metagenome-deriveddsrAB-encoding genomes, we redefine the global diversity of microorganisms with the potential for dissimilatory sulfate/sulfite reduction and uncover genetic repertoires that challenge earlier generalizations regarding their mode of energy metabolism. We show: (i) 19 out of 23 bacterial and 2 out of 4 archaeal phyla harbor uncharacterized SRM, (ii) four phyla including theDesulfobacterotaharbor microorganisms with the genetic potential to switch between sulfate/sulfite reduction and sulfur oxidation, and (iii) the combination as well as presence/absence of differentdsrAB-types, dsrL-types anddsrDprovides guidance on the inferred direction of dissimilatory sulfur metabolism. We further provide an updateddsrABdatabase including >60% taxonomically resolved, uncultured family-level lineages and recommendations on existingdsrABprimers for environmental surveys. Our work summarizes insights into the inferred ecophysiology of newly discovered SRM, puts SRM diversity into context of the major recent changes in bacterial and archaeal taxonomy, and provides an up-to-date framework to study SRM in a global context.

One sentence summary

Sulfate/sulfite reducing microorganisms are shaping Earth’s interconnected sulfur and carbon cycles since the Archaean: this legacy unfolds in 27 archaeal and bacterial phyla encountered in diverse marine, terrestrial, and deep-subsurface environments.
The use of plant extracts and bacteriophages as an alternative therapy approach in combating bacterial infections: the study of lytic phages andStevia rebaudiana
Authors: Stachurska Xymena , Mizielińska Małgorzata , Ordon Magdalena , Nawrotek Paweł
Published: June 2023

Introduction

In the light of the problem of antibiotic-resistance, the use of alternative combined therapies in combating bacterial-related issues has gained popularity. Therefore, using up-to-date laboratory techniques, possible interactions of lytic bacteriophages (MS2, T4 and Phi6), acetone and methanolS. rebaudianaextracts (SRa and SRm) in the bacterial environment have been examined.

Material and Methods

Using a microdilution method, phages-extracts coincubation assay, static interactions synographies and dynamic growth profile experiments in a bioreactor, it was found that the interactions in a static environment differ from interactions in a dynamic environment.

Results

Dynamic conditions alter the influence of extracts in a concentration-dependent manner. The effects of the SRa and SRm extracts on bacterial growth in a dynamic environment depend on the species of the phage and bacterial host. The greatest differences were observed forE. colistrains and their phages, whereasP. syringaeand Phi6 phage reacted very similar to both extracts. The differences also emerged for single extracts withinE. colistrains and their phages.

Conclusions

Every extract type should be tested on a case-by-case basis and experiments outcomes should not be generalized before gathering data. Moreover, many varied experiments should be performed, especially when examining such multifactorial mixtures. Tested mixtures could be potentially used in multi-drug resistant bacterial infections treatments.
An engineered biosensor enables dynamic aspartate measurements in living cells
Authors: Davidsen Kristian , Marvin Jonathan S , Aggarwal Abhi , Brown Timothy A , Sullivan Lucas B
Published: June 2023

Intracellular levels of the amino acid aspartate are responsive to changes in metabolism in mammalian cells and can correspondingly alter cell function, highlighting the need for robust tools to measure aspartate abundance. However, comprehensive understanding of aspartate metabolism has been limited by the throughput, cost, and static nature of the mass spectrometry based measurements that are typically employed to measure aspartate levels. To address these issues, we have developed a GFP-based sensor of aspartate (jAspSnFR3), where the fluorescence intensity corresponds to aspartate concentration. As a purified protein, the sensor has a 20-fold increase in fluorescence upon aspartate saturation, with dose dependent fluorescence changes covering a physiologically relevant aspartate concentration range and no significant off target binding. Expressed in mammalian cell lines, sensor intensity correlated with aspartate levels measured by mass spectrometry and could resolve temporal changes in intracellular aspartate from genetic, pharmacological, and nutritional manipulations. These data demonstrate the utility of jAspSnFR3 and highlight the opportunities it provides for temporally resolved and high throughput applications of variables that affect aspartate levels.
Using energy to go downhill – a genoprotective role for ATPase activity in DNA topoisomerase II
Authors: Bandak Afif F. , Blower Tim R. , Nitiss Karin C. , Shah Viraj , Nitiss John L. , Berger James M.
Published: June 2023

Summary

Type II topoisomerases effect topological changes in DNA by cutting a single duplex, passing a second duplex through the break, and resealing the broken strand in an ATP-coupled reaction. Curiously, most type II topoisomerases (topos II, IV, and VI) catalyze DNA transformations that are energetically favorable, such as the removal of superhelical strain; why ATP is required for such reactions is unknown. Here, using human topoisomerase II β (hTOP2β) as a model, we show that the ATPase domains of the enzyme are not required for DNA strand passage, but that their loss leads to increased DNA nicking and double strand break formation by the enzyme. The unstructured C-terminal domains (CTDs) of hTOP2β strongly potentiate strand passage activity in the absence of the ATPase regions, as do cleavage-prone mutations that confer hypersensitivity to the chemotherapeutic agent etoposide. The presence of either the CTD or the mutations lead ATPase-less enzymes to promote even greater levels of DNA cleavaingevitro, as well asin vivo. By contrast, the aberrant cleavage phenotypes of these topo II variants is significantly repressed when the ATPase domains are restored. Our findings are consistent with the proposal that type II topoisomerases acquired an ATPase function to maintain high levels of catalytic activity while minimizing inappropriate DNA damage.
F-actin and Myosin F control apicoplast elongation dynamics which drive apicoplast-centrosome association inToxoplasma gondii
Authors: Devarakonda Parvathi Madhavi , Sarmiento Valeria , Heaslip Aoife T.
Published: June 2023

Toxoplasma gondii contains an essential plastid organelle called the apicoplast that is necessary for fatty acid, isoprenoid, and heme synthesis. Perturbations affecting apicoplast function or inheritance lead to parasite death. The apicoplast is a single copy organelle and therefore must be divided so that each daughter parasite inherits an apicoplast during cell division. In this study we identify new roles for F-actin and an unconventional myosin motor, TgMyoF, in this process. First, loss of TgMyoF and actin lead to an accumulation of apicoplast vesicles in the cytosol indicating a role for this actomyosin system in apicoplast protein trafficking or morphological integrity of the organelle. Second, live cell imaging reveals that during division the apicoplast is highly dynamic, exhibiting branched, U-shaped and linear morphologies that are dependent on TgMyoF and actin. In parasites where movement was inhibited by the depletion of TgMyoF, the apicoplast fails to associate with the parasite centrosomes. Thus, this study provides crucial new insight into mechanisms controlling apicoplast-centrosome association, a vital step in the apicoplast division cycle, which ensures that each daughter inherits a single apicoplast.
Hepatoblastoma exhibits a predominantly myeloid immune landscape and reveals opportunities for macrophage targeted immunotherapy
Authors: Krijgsman Daniëlle , Kraaier Lianne , Verdonschot Meggy , Schubert Stephanie , Leusen Jeanette , Duiker Evelien , de Kleine Ruben , de Meijer Vincent , de Krijger Ronald , Zsiros József , Peng Weng Chuan , Vercoulen Yvonne
Published: June 2023

Background & Aims

Hepatoblastoma (HB) is a rare form of pediatric liver cancer which is currently treated with chemotherapy and surgery. The side effects of chemotherapy pose a major problem in HB and underline the need for an alternative treatment option. We aimed to characterize the immune landscape of HB to improve our understanding of the immunologic contribution to this disease and explore immunotherapeutic options.

Methods

An imaging mass cytometry panel of 36 antibodies was used on tissue of treatment-naive HB (n=5), and chemotherapy-treated HB (n=3), with paired distal normal liver tissue. Immunofluorescence was used to stain HB and normal liver tissue for Kupffer cell marker MARCO. A public single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) dataset was analyzed consisting of 9 chemotherapy-treated HB and paired normal liver tissue.

Results

HB showed a heterogeneous immune landscape predominantly comprising macrophages and monocytes with high expression of immune checkpoints CD47, SIRPα, and VISTA, whereas T cells were limited. Chemotherapy increased influx of macrophages and CD8+T cells in HB. Transcriptome profiling demonstrated an early activated phenotype of CD8+T cells in chemotherapy-treated HB and absence of an exhaustion signature and immune checkpoint expression. Furthermore, tumor-associated macrophages had lowMARCOexpression, upregulated inflammatory markers and a high liver tissue residency score while expressing other Kupffer cell markers, such asCD5L, to a variable degree.

Conclusions

The absence of immune checkpoints and exhaustion markers in CD8+T cells prohibits T cell-targeting by immune checkpoint blockade in HB patients. Instead, HB tumors contain a large myeloid compartment which provide opportunities for macrophage targeting, thereby paving the way for the development of improved treatment strategies for HB patients.

Graphical abstract
The Tubulin Nano-Code: a protofilament-specific pattern of tubulin post-translational modifications regulates ciliary beating mechanics
Authors: Viar G. Alvarez , Klena N. , Martino F. , Nievergelt A. , Pigino G.
Published: June 2023

Control of ciliary beating is crucial for motility and signaling in eukaryotic cells and requires spatially restricted interactions between axonemal proteins and specific protofilaments within the ciliary microtubules. How these interactions are regulated remains poorly understood, but increasing evidence indicates that tubulin post-translational modifications (tPTMs) are required for proper ciliary motility. The Tubulin Code refers to the concept that tPTMs can modulate the function of individual microtubules in cells. Here we use a combination of immuno-cryo-electron tomography, expansion microscopy and mutant analysis to show that, in motile cilia, tubulin glycylation and polyglutamylation form mutually exclusive protofilament-specific nano-patterns at sub-microtubular scale. We show that these two nano-patterns are consistent with the distributions of axonemal dyneins and nexin-dynein regulatory complexes, respectively, and are required for their regulation during ciliary beating. Our discovery of a tubulin nano-code in cilia highlights the need of higher-resolution studies also in other cellular compartments to understand the molecular role of tPTMs.

One-Sentence Summary

Tubulin post-translational modifications form nanopatterns at sub-microtubular scale that enable individual protofilaments to perform specific functions

Graphical Abstract
Characterization and corrosion behavior of Ni-Cr coatings by using pulse current electrodeposition
Authors: Zhu Yesen , Gu Cheng-Qing , Wang Jinliang , Xi Xiaohui , Qin Zhenbo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of chromium content on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of Ni-Cr coating.

Design/methodology/approach

Ni-Cr coating was prepared by pulse current electrodeposition with trivalent chromium. On the basis of studying effect of electroplating parameters on composition and morphology, Ni-Cr alloy coatings with various chromium contents were obtained. The microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffractometer and transmission electron microscopy. Corrosion behavior was studied by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques.

Findings

Electrodeposited chromium was solidly dissolved in nickel and refined the grain of the coating. With the increase of Cr content, the corrosion resistance of Ni-Cr coating was enhanced, which is due to the formation of continuous nickel hydroxide and compact chromium oxide passive films.

Originality/value

Ni-Cr alloy coating without penetration crack was prepared in trivalent chromium electrolyte, and the mechanism of its excellent corrosion resistance was proposed.
Stereotypes, same-sex struggles, and sustainable shopping: intrasexual competition mediates sex differences in green consumption values
Authors: Otterbring Tobias
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The present study aimed to investigate whether male consumers report weaker green consumption values than their female counterparts, and whether such a presumed sex difference, at least in part, can be explained by different levels of intrasexual competition. In other words, the study tested the notion that intrasexual competition acts as a psychological mechanism explaining why male (vs female) consumers are sometimes less prone to prefer and purchase sustainable goods, with their higher tendency to compete with same-sex rivals making them less likely to engage in green consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was based on a large cross-sectional survey, in which a final sample of 1,382 participants (823 female and 559 male) provided complete responses on well-validated scales measuring intrasexual competition and green consumption values. The large sample size implies that even small effect sizes could be detected with high statistical power. The data were analyzed using a series of Mann–Whitney U tests to compare the responses made by male and female participants. Subsequently, multiple linear regressions as well as regression-based mediation and moderation analyses were performed with control variables added to show robustness of the results, test the proposed chain of events, and demonstrate generalizability.

Findings

Male (vs female) participants expressed significantly higher levels of intrasexual competition both generally and on the two subdimensions corresponding to superiority striving and inferiority irritation. Further, they were slightly less inclined to express green consumption values. Importantly, the sex difference in green consumption values was mediated by inferiority irritation as well as the entire intrasexual competition scale but not by superiority striving. Thus, men's inferiority irritation, in particular, and their more pronounced propensity to compete with same-sex rivals, in general, drove them away from green consumption, whereas women's weaker willingness to compete with same-sex rivals instead increased their inclination of “going green.”

Originality/value

Drawing on findings from the domains of competitiveness and gender stereotypes, the current research demonstrates a novel mechanism through which green consumption responses can be understood. Specifically, this study provides empirical evidence for the mediating role of intrasexual competition, especially regarding the more negatively charged subdimension of inferiority irritation, in explaining why male and female consumers may differ in terms of their green consumption values. The present research also contributes to the literature by questioning the unidimensional structure of the intrasexual competition scale and showing that the negative (vs positive) subdimension of this scale is more influential in explaining sex-differentiated patterns in consumers' green consumption values, thereby supporting the notion that “bad is stronger than good.”
Design for adaptability and disassembly: guidelines for building deconstruction
Authors: Munaro Mayara Regina , Tavares Sergio Fernando
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Design for adaptability and disassembly (DfAD) is an effective method to reduce construction and demolition waste generation, landfill loads and greenhouse gas generation; preserve natural resources; and increase environmental awareness in the construction industry. However, it is an underexplored strategy due to a lack of information about projects and a set of agreed guidelines to guide buildings deconstruction. This study aims to understand how DfAD can support the sector’s transition toward circularity.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an integrative literature review, this study analyzed the current publications and terminologies used, identified the main themes discussed and described the key criteria for integrating deconstruction in the building design stage.

Findings

The results showed that the term DfAD encompasses different ecodesign strategies and is concentrated in six major thematic categories (design and construction principles, tools for DfAD, components and connections for DfAD, barriers, drivers and guidelines for DfAD, existing building stock potential and selective deconstruction process). In total, 60 criteria were presented to guide the deconstruction of buildings, emphasizing standardization, modularization and prefabrication of materials and components as fundamental requirements.

Originality/value

The study highlighted the need to expand the knowledge and training of the design team, establish public policies and tax incentives and develop tools, methods, and circular indicators to enable the implementation of deconstruction strategies for buildings.
Minimal mass of prismatic tensegrity structures
Authors: Cao Ziying , Luo Ani , Feng Yaming , Liu Heping
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper is contributed to find the minimal mass prismatic tensegrity structures.

Design/methodology/approach

In the stable state of the structure with any given external force, the internal forces of the structure members are taken as the critical force to calculate the cross-sectional area, and the total mass of the structure can be obtained. Firstly, the mathematical model of prismatic tensegrity was built. Secondly, the stability of the tensegrity was analyzed based on the force equilibrium of one node, the force density relationship of elements was obtained. The deformation of p-bar tensegrity prism unit was studied with the same mass. The force of the structure under external force was analyzed.

Findings

(1) The length of bar and the structural radius are almost invariant, and the mechanical properties of 3-bar tensegrity prism is more outstanding; (2) theoretically, the mass of the structure is minimal while the projection of bar passes the center of the circle. Under the circumstances, the force of diagonal cable is 0 N, the vertical force component of bar cancels the axial external force.

Originality/value

(1) By analyzing the deformation of p-bar tensegrity prism with the same mass, the length of bar and the structural radius are proved be almost invariant and the mechanical properties of 3-bar tensegrity prism is more outstanding; (2) theoretically, the mass of the structure is minimal while the projection of bar passes the center of the circle. Under the circumstances, the force of diagonal cable is 0 N, the vertical force component of bar cancels the axial external force.
Digitalization of information provided by destination marketing organizations in developing regions: the case of Vietnamese Mekong Delta
Authors: Huynh Da Van , Stangl Brigitte , Thi Tran Dieu
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This research aims to investigate how emerging destinations cope with digitalization of information, where they are in the process and how digitalization of information takes place in destination marketing organizations (DMOs). As a case for emerging destinations that must deal with the negative consequences of the digital divide, the Vietnamese Mekong Delta (VMD) will be examined. A new framework, solutions in general, and potential innovative approaches will be presented.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods approach was used. Firstly, a content analysis comprising 68 criteria to examine 10 destination websites was conducted to evaluate the performance of provincial destination websites of VMD. Secondly, the authors interviewed five managers from VMD DMOs to reveal the strategy, status quo and their challenges with digitalization.

Findings

Some digitalization is evident in VMD DMOs, with the digitization of tourist information provision developing from analog formats to digital modes. The content analysis of the websites shows that provincial destination websites of VMD perform well with regard to communication but need improvements for transaction, and especially relationship aspects. Emerging destinations like VMD DMOs are reaching the second or third level in the digitalization process. Yet they face challenges with human and financial resources.

Practical implications

This research provides recommendations concerning destination website performance, the process of digitalization and how to promote digitalization and apply more digital instruments to move to the next stages of destination digitalization. Also, suggestions on how to overcome existing challenges/barriers in similar areas of the world are provided.

Originality/value

A new, extended more granulated version of the digitalization framework by Karpova et al. (2019) has been developed. The new model acknowledges the continued importance of printed information, provides information about the sequence of steps how to implement website dimensions, and which instruments are realistic to implement in different levels of digitalization considering the challenges and barriers developing destinations face.
Bandgap mechanisms and wave characteristics analysis of a three-dimensional elastic metastructure
Authors: Li Yingli , Wu Chenwei , Peng Yong , Jiang Xudong
Published: June 2023

Purpose

In order to investigate the vibration reduction properties of a three-dimensional elastic metastructure with spherical cavities at low frequencies.

Design/methodology/approach

The bandgap characteristics of a three-dimensional elastic metastructure with spherical cavities are studied based on analytical and numerical approaches.

Findings

The results of both method revealed that the vibration of the vertexes masses is important for opening bandgaps. The fact that the big sphere cavity radius or short side length of the cube unit leads to a wider bandgap, is noteworthy.

Originality/value

This research provides theoretical guidance for realizing the vibration attenuation application of EMs in practical engineering.
Effect of laser scanning speed on microstructure and corrosive-wear performance of Ni-60%WC coating in Wusu mine water
Authors: Chuang He , Fan Wang , Zhicheng Liu , Dejun Kong
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of laser scanning speed (LSS) on the corrosive-tribological performance of Ni-60%WC coating in Wusu mine water, which was beneficial to improve the friction–wear performance of cylinder liner on water injection pump.

Design/methodology/approach

Ni-60%WC coatings were fabricated on 45 steel by laser cladding, and the microstructure and tribological performance was analyzed using a super depth of field microscope and ball-on-plate friction tester, and the wear mechanism was also discussed.

Findings

At room temperature (RT, 25 ± 2 °C), the average coefficients of friction of substrate and Ni-60%WC coatings fabricated at the LSS of 6, 10, 12 and 14 mm/s are 0.48 ± 0.08, 0.23 ± 0.01, 0.21 ± 0.05, 0.22 ± 0.02 and 0.25 ± 0.04, respectively, and the corresponding wear rates are 8.755 × 104, 4.525 × 103, 1.539 × 103, 1.957 × 103 and 2.743 × 103 µm3·s–1·N–1, respectively, showing that the coating fabricated at the LSS of 10 mm/s has best friction reduction and wear resistance. The wear mechanism of Ni-60%WC coating is abrasive wear, fatigue wear and oxidative wear, which is resulted from the WC particles with the high-hardness.

Originality/value

Ni-60%WC coatings were first applied for cylinder liner, and the effect of laser scanning speed on its tribological performance was investigated.
Find their country-of-origin Facebook and cross the threshold of overseas legitimacy: a multi-case study of Chinese enterprises
Authors: Zheng Supeng , Xu Yusen , Lin Haifen , Chen Yunqi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Owing to dual constraints including liability of foreignness and liability of origin when emerging multinationals internationalize, they inevitably face the challenge of overseas legitimation. However, few studies have explored how latecomers cross the threshold of legitimacy in the dynamic context of transnational operation. The purpose of this paper is to unravel the evolution process, triggers and specific strategies of overseas legitimacy threshold crossing of emerging multinationals.

Design/methodology/approach

Through the longitudinal case study of Haier Group and Goldwind Sci & Tech Co., Ltd, this study investigates the periodical characteristics of overseas legitimacy threshold crossings and the co-evolution among critical factors influencing the legitimation process in the host country.

Findings

First, it summarizes that the legitimacy threshold in the host country experiences a sequential process from pragmatic legitimacy to normative legitimacy, and finally cognitive legitimacy. It is an inevitable choice for emerging multinational enterprises to realize and sustain legitimation from passive adaptation to active creation. Second, it reveals that the triggers for crossing the threshold of overseas legitimacy include periodically dynamic factors – international network linkage and resource system reconfiguration, as well as cross-stage spiral interaction effects. Third, it determines the specific strategies for crossing the threshold of overseas legitimacy, namely, replacement, upgrading and reconstruction of organizational identity, and reveals the important role of insisting on the country-of-origin Facebook in promoting the legitimation.

Research limitations/implications

This study enriches the legitimacy threshold crossing literature from an evolutional perspective, especially the traditional static legitimacy research. This study also reveals the key impacting factors – international network linkage and resource system reconfiguration – and their evolution process interacted with the legitimation process.

Practical implications

The emerging multinationals should break the stereotypes from developed markets in that only creating new cognitive patterns through active legitimate strategies can they truly cross the legitimacy threshold in the host country. The emerging multinationals also need to retain their own home country legitimacy traits – Facebook and balance the relation between the image of the home country and the image of host country.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the process of overseas legitimacy threshold crossing for emerging multinationals in a dynamic context of transnational operation, particularly with respect to the evolutionary role played by international network linkage and resource system reconfiguration.
Electric vehicles in the business processes and
sustainable development
Authors: Nanjundaswamy Abhishek , Kulal Abhinandan , Dinesh Sahana , Divyashree M.S.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The study aimed at analyzing operations managers’ perception of the
use of electric vehicles (EVs) in business processes and its impact on
overall business process cost (BPC) and sustainable development (SD).

Design/methodology/approach

The present study adopts the triangulation approach which is a combination of
quantitative and qualitative methods. The data was collected using
structured and scientifically tested questionnaires from the industrial
managers working in the industries in the Mysore region of Karnataka.
Descriptive statistics, factor analysis and structural equation models were
employed to analyze and interpret the data.

Findings

The findings revealed that the usage of EVs in Business Processes
significantly impacts the BPC (b = 0.851,
t = 8.037,
p < 0.01) and it is also the usage of EVs
in business processes can significantly impact SD
(b = 0.889,
t = 7.923,
p < 0.01). Thus, the adoption of EVs in
the business process offers many benefits to business organizations such as
minimized operational costs, an eco-friendly business model, more tax
incentives, less BPCs, a low-emission footprint and a contribution towards
SD at large.

Practical implications

Many business organizations operating in the present time show interest in
employing EVs in their business processes. Hence, before introducing EVs in
industries on a large scale, it becomes imperative to obtain the perception
of industrial managers who have already experienced its impact. This study
may help industrial organizations to understand the impact of EV on various
aspects of the business and to design a business model which would help in
achieving SD goals.

Originality/value

The use of EVs in the daily life of human beings and business activities is
gaining importance because of the various positive impacts. Therefore, it is
necessary to understand industrial managers’ opinions regarding the
use of EV in business activities.
Effects of non-symmetric non-uniformly distributed welding residual stress on fatigue failure initiation and propagation in a hydropower generator shaft
Authors: Abdul Jawwad Abdul Kareem , Mahdi Mofid
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This article aims to investigate and model the effects of welding-generated thermal cycle on the resulting residual stress distribution and its role in the initiation and propagation of fatigue failure in thick shaft sections.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental and numerical techniques were applied in the present study to explore the relationship(s) between welding residual-stress distribution and fatigue failure characteristics in a hydropower generator shaft. Experimental techniques included stereomicroscopy, optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), chemical analysis and mechanical testing. Finite element modelling (FEM) was used to model the shaft welding cycle in terms of thermal (temperature) history and the associated development of residual stresses within the weld joint.

Findings

Experimental analyses have confirmed the suitability of the used material for the intended application and confirmed the failure mode to be low cycle fatigue. The observed failure characteristics, however, did not match with the applied loading in terms of design stress levels, directionality and expected crack imitation site(s). FEM results have revealed the presence of a sharp stress peak in excess of 630 MPa (about 74% of material's yield strength) around weld start point and a non-uniform residual stress distribution in both the circumferential and through-thickness directions. The present results have shown very close matching between FEM results and observed failure characteristics.

Practical implications

The present article considers an actual industrial case of a hydropower generator shaft failure. Present results are valuable in providing insight information regarding such failures as well as some preventive design and fabrication measures for the hydropower and other power generation and transmission sector.

Originality/value

The presence of the aforementioned stress peak around welding start/end location and the non-uniform distribution of residual-stress field are in contrast to almost all published results based on some uniformity assumptions. The present FEM results were, however, the only stress distribution scenario capable of explaining the failure considered in the present research.
Integrating ESG disclosure into the relationship between CSR and green organizational culture toward green Innovation
Authors: Mukhtar Bilal , Shad Muhammad Kashif , Woon Lai Fong , Haider Mehwish , Waqas Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose a conceptual framework to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and green organizational culture (GOC) on green innovation with the moderating role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure in the Malaysian manufacturing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on primary data to be collected from 204 manufacturing enterprises of consumers, products and services sector through a questionnaire that incorporates the five-point Likert scale. The exploratory factor analysis is proposed to be performed using SPSS 24.0 and confirmatory factor analysis is suggested to be conducted using AMOS.21 software to explore the factors and reliability of the items and to confirm the factorial structure of pertinent variables, respectively. Furthermore, partial least square structural equation modeling is proposed to investigate relationships between constructs and latent variables.

Findings

The proposed framework suggests that the comprehensive adoption of CSR and GOC with the moderating role of ESG disclosure has a significant and positive impact on green innovation.

Practical implications

This study provides insights into formulating strategies for enhancing green innovation and serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders for sustainable development in manufacturing enterprises.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, regarding originality, this is the first attempt at conceptualizing the integrated framework of CSR, GOC, green innovation and ESG disclosure for collective examination that is likely to extend the existing literature. Furthermore, this study extends stakeholders and resource-based view theory by proving their utility in the perspective of CSR, GOC, green innovation and ESG disclosure to achieve environmental sustainability.
Unpolitical solutionism: Wealth elite sentiments against democracy and politics
Authors: Kuusela Hanna , Kantola Anu
Published: June 2023

The last few decades have been marked by discourses that challenge many basic presumptions supporting liberal democracy. Populist parties in particular have raised criticism against democratic systems, and authoritarian programmes have made electoral gains. This article offers the elite's perspective on this phenomenon, which is often discussed in the context of lower income groups. Drawing from qualitative interviews with 90 Finnish top earners, the article shows how wealth elites sustain strong discontent towards liberal democracy and see it as an ineffective and sometimes fundamentally flawed system. They are concerned with its alleged (in)efficiency and disagreements typical of democratic processes and are correspondingly fascinated by solutions that are presented as self‐evident but that no one has the courage to execute. In this article, we refer to this type of reasoning by introducing and developing the term unpolitical solutionism, which refers to a preoccupation with quick solutions to complex problems that are political in nature. The concept of unpolitical solutionism builds on discussions of unpolitical democracy (Urbinati) and technosolutionism (Morozov) and brings them to our dialog. By analysing wealth elites' views in a Nordic democracy and by developing the concept of unpolitical solutionism, this article contributes to recent discussions on different forms of unpolitical argumentation in the context of (liberal) economic thinking.
Plants affect the horizontal transmission of a new densovirus infecting the green peach aphid Myzus persicae by modulating honeydew production
Authors: Guo Ya , Zhao Yani , Yang Yang , Zhang Yahong , Li Yuying , Tian Honggang , Liu Tong‐Xian , Li Zhaofei
Published: June 2023

In a tritrophic context of plant–insect–entomopathogen, plants play important roles in modulating the interaction of insects and their pathogenic viruses. Currently, the influence of plants on the transmission of insect viruses has been mainly studied on baculoviruses and some RNA viruses, whereas the impact of plants on other insect viruses is largely unknown. Here, we identified a new densovirus infecting the green peach aphid Myzus persicae and tested whether and how host plants influence the transmission of the aphid densovirus. The complete single‐stranded DNA genome of the virus, M. persicae densovirus 2, is 5 727 nt and contains inverted terminal repeats. Transcription and phylogenetic analysis indicated that the virus was distinct from other a few identified aphid densoviruses. The virus abundance was detected highly in the intestinal tract of aphids, compared with the lower level of it in other tissues including head, embryo, and epidermis. Cabbage and pepper plants had no obvious effect on the vertical transmission and saliva‐mediated horizontal transmission of the virus. However, the honeydew‐mediated horizontal transmission among aphids highly depended on host plants (65% on cabbages versus 17% on peppers). Although the virus concentration in the honeydew produced by aphids between 2 plants was similar, the honeydew production of the infected aphids reared on peppers was dramatically reduced. Taken together, our results provide evidence that plants influence the horizontal transmission of a new densovirus in an aphid population by modulating honeydew secretion of aphids, suggesting plants may manipulate the spread of an aphid‐pathogenic densovirus in nature.
The appearance of cytoplasmic cytochrome C precedes apoptosis during Drosophila salivary gland degradation
Authors: Long Shihui , Cao Wenxin , Qiu Yongyu , Deng Ruohan , Liu Jiali , Zhang Lidan , Dong Renke , Liu Fengxin , Li Sheng , Zhao Haigang , Li Na , Li Kang
Published: June 2023

Apoptosis is an important process for organism development that functions to eliminate cell damage, maintain homeostasis, and remove obsolete tissues during morphogenesis. In mammals, apoptosis is accompanied by the release of cytochrome C (Cyt‐c) from mitochondria to the cytoplasm. However, whether this process is conserved in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, remains controversial. In this study, we discovered that during the degradation of Drosophila salivary gland, the transcription of mitochondria apoptosis factors (MAPFs), Cyt‐c, and death‐associated APAF1‐related killer (Dark) encoding genes are all upregulated antecedent to initiator and effector caspases encoding genes. The proteins Cyt‐c and the active caspase 3 appear gradually in the cytoplasm during salivary gland degradation. Meanwhile, the Cyt‐c protein colocates with mito‐GFP, the marker indicating cytoplasmic mitochondria, and the change in mitochondrial membrane potential coincides with the appearance of Cyt‐c in the cytoplasm. Moreover, impeding or promoting 20E‐induced transcription factor E93 suppresses or enhances the staining of Cyt‐c and the active caspase 3 in the cytoplasm of salivary gland, and accordingly decreases or increases the mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively. Our research provides evidence that cytoplasmic Cyt‐c appears before apoptosis during Drosophila salivary gland degradation, shedding light on partial conserved mechanism in apoptosis between insects and mammals.
How to overcome the cost of a criminal record for getting hired
Authors: Santos Mateus R. , Jaynes Chae M. , Thomas Danielle M.
Published: June 2023

Many theories emphasize how employment is protective against criminal recidivism, yet a criminal record is a major barrier for getting hired. We asked 591 managers to make hypothetical hiring decisions between two applicants whose key difference was the presence or absence of a criminal conviction. In addition, we randomly manipulated the education, references, wage, or experience of the applicant with the criminal record to identify which manipulations can offset the cost of the record on an applicant's probability of being selected. We found that, when credentials were the same, the applicant with a criminal record was unlikely to be hired. That applicant, however, could become likely to be hired (i.e., the likelihood crossed 50 percent) by having at least 1 year of relevant experience, a GED or a college degree, or references from a former employer or a professor. Incomplete degrees, references from criminal justice professionals, or wage discounts did not make the applicant with the record likely to be hired. Findings confirm that a criminal record carries a high employability cost but also indicate that this cost can be superseded by specific credentials that signal an applicant's reliability, which can be provided by existing programs and institutions.