bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mammalian Retinal Bipolar Cells: Morphological Identification and Systematic Classification in Rabbit Retina with a Comparative Perspective
Authors: Famiglietti Edward V.
Published: September 2024

Retinal bipolar cells (BCs) convey visual signals from photoreceptors to more than 50 types of rabbit retinal ganglion cells (Famiglietti, 2020). More than 40 years ago, 10-11 types of bipolar cell were recognized in rabbit and cat retinas (Famiglietti, 1981). Twenty years later 10 were identified in mouse, rat, and monkey, while recent molecular genetic studies indicate that there are 15 types of bipolar cell in mouse retina (Shekhar et al., 2016). The present detailed study of more than 800 bipolar cells in ten Golgi-impregnated rabbit retinas indicates that there are 14-16 types of cone bipolar cell and one type of rod bipolar cell in rabbit retina. These have been carefully analyzed in terms of dendritic and axonal morphology, and axon terminal stratification with respect to fiducial starburst amacrine cells. In fortuitous proximity, several types of bipolar cell can be related to identified ganglion cells by stratification and by contacts suggestive of synaptic connection. These results are compared with other studies of rabbit bipolar cells. Homologies with bipolar cells of mouse and monkey are considered in functional terms.
Filamentation and proline inhibition of glutamate kinase
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Leng Qingqing , Hu Huan-Huan , Liu Ji-Long
Published: September 2024

Glutamate kinase (GK) is the first committed enzyme in the proline biosynthesis pathway. Belonging to amino acid kinase (AAK) superfamily, most prokaryotic GKs have an additional PseudoUridine synthase and Archaeosine transglycosylase (PUA) domain at the C-terminus, while the function of the PUA domain in GK is poorly understood. Here, we find thatEscherichia coliGK (EcGK) assembles into filaments and bundles in the state of apo and proline binding. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, we determine the high-resolution structures of EcGK filaments and bundles. The PUA domain is necessary for EcGK filaments and bundles, and the main interfaces have been clearly defined. The feedback inhibitor proline binds at the same pocket as substrate glutamate, inducing conformational changes on nearby regulatory loop which facilitate proline binding. The PUA domain stabilizes the regulatory loop and contributes to proline feedback inhibition. This study reports the special filament-based assembly of EcGK at apo and proline binding state. The first proline binding structure in the GK family illustrates the feedback inhibition mechanism. Intriguingly, the PUA domain is involved in both filamentation and feedback inhibition of EcGK, revealing the versatility of this ancient domain.
Preventing Inappropriate Signals Pre- and Post-Ligand Perception by a Toggle-Switch Mechanism of ERECTA
Authors: Chen Liangliang , Maes Michal , Cochran Alicia M. , Avila Julian R. , Derbyshire Paul , Sklenar Jan , Haas Kelsey M. , Villén Judit , Menke Frank L.H. , Torii Keiko U.
Published: September 2024

Dynamic control of signaling events requires swift regulation of receptors at an active state. By focusing on Arabidopsis ERECTA (ER) receptor kinase, which perceives peptide ligands to control multiple developmental processes, we report a mechanism preventing inappropriate receptor activity. The ER C-terminal tail (ER_CT) functions as an autoinhibitory domain: its removal confers higher kinase activity and hyperactivity during inflorescence and stomatal development. ER_CT is required for the binding of a receptor kinase inhibitor, BKI1, and two U-box E3 ligases PUB30 and PUB31 that inactivate activated ER. We further identify ER_CT as a phosphodomain trans-phosphorylated by the co-receptor BAK1. The phosphorylation impacts the tail structure, likely releasing from autoinhibition. The phosphonull version enhances BKI1 association, whereas the phosphomimetic version promotes PUB30/31 association. Thus, ER_CT acts as an off-on-off toggle switch, facilitating the release of BKI1 inhibition, enabling signal activation, and swiftly turning over the receptors afterwards. Our results elucidate a mechanism fine-tuning receptor signaling via a phosphoswitch module, keeping the receptor at a low basal state and ensuring the robust yet transient activation upon ligand perception.

Significance

Cells perceive and process external signals through their cell-surface receptors, whose activity must be tightly maintained to prevent the spread of misinformation. How do plant cells prevent the inappropriate receptor activity? We identify a structural module within the C-terminal tail of the ERECTA (ER_CT), that inhibits the receptor pre- and post-signal activation. The ER_CT comprises of a linker and an α-helix. Before activation, ER_CT is autoinhibitory and associates with an inhibitory protein. Ligand perception triggers the transphosphorylation of ER_CT by the co-receptor, which then recruits a degradation machinery to swiftly turn over the activated receptor. Thus, we reveal an off-on-off toggle switch mechanism that finely adjusts the activity of the plant receptor, enabling the precise control over cell signaling.
Probing The Edge Of Synchronization: Cortical Activity Transiently Slips Into Slow Waves In Behaving Monkeys
Authors: Pazienti Antonio , Galluzzi Andrea , Pani Pierpaolo , Ferraina Stefano , Mattia Maurizio
Published: September 2024

Brain networks oscillate between sleep and wakefulness, following circadian rhythms. Theoretical models suggest distinct phases within this cycle, separated by a critical point where long-range activity patterns emerge, an advantageous condition for information processing in cortical networks. However, the exact nature of this critical dynamics remains elusive. A key question is whether the brain operates at this critical point during cognitive tasks or only during resting wakefulness. Here, we analyzed neural signals from the premotor cortex (PMC) of two macaque monkeys engaged in a delayed-reaching task and under drug-induced unconsciousness. We found evidence of criticality during resting periods at the end of behavioral trials in the awake state. This scale-free activity appeared as coordinated traveling waves, like those observed during anesthesia. As predicted by spiking networks models, activity-dependent adaptation influences wave size, supporting the hypothesis that the PMC operates near a synchronization phase transition while avoiding it during active behaviors.
Patterned wireless transcranial optogenetics generates artificial perception
Authors: Wu Mingzheng , Yang Yiyuan , Zhang Jinglan , Efimov Andrew I , Vazquez-Guardado Abraham , Li Xiuyuan , Zhang Kaiqing , Wang Yue , Gu Jianyu , Zeng Liangsong , Liu Jiaqi , Riahi Mohammad , Yoon Hyoseo , Kim Minsung , Zhang Haohui , Lee Minkyu , Kang Jiheon , Ting Kaila , Cheng Stephen , Zhang Wenming , Banks Anthony , Good Cameron H , Cox Julia M. , Pinto Lucas , Huang Yonggang , Kozorovitskiy Yevgenia , Rogers John A.
Published: September 2024

Synthesizing perceivable artificial neural inputs independent of typical sensory channels remains a fundamental challenge in the development of next-generation brain-machine interfaces. Establishing a minimally invasive, wirelessly effective, and miniaturized platform with long-term stability is crucial for creating a clinically meaningful interface capable of mediating artificial perceptual feedback. In this study, we demonstrate a miniaturized fully implantable wireless transcranial optogenetic encoder designed to generate artificial perceptions through digitized optogenetic manipulation of large cortical ensembles. This platform enables the spatiotemporal orchestration of large-scale cortical activity for remote perception genesis via real-time wireless communication and control, with optimized device performance achieved by simulation-guided methods addressing light and heat propagation during operation. Cue discrimination during operant learning demonstrates the wireless genesis of artificial percepts sensed by mice, where spatial distance across large cortical networks and sequential order-based analyses of discrimination performance reveal principles that adhere to general perceptual rules. These conceptual and technical advancements expand our understanding of artificial neural syntax and its perception by the brain, guiding the evolution of next-generation brain-machine communication.
Klebsiella pneumoniaeisolated from the intestines ofTenebrio molitorlarvae (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) that consume expanded polystyrene
Authors: Caruajulca-Marin Luis , Huaman-Ventura Katherin , Purihuaman Marilin Sanchez , Caro-Castro Junior , Barturen-Quispe Ada , Vasquez-Llanos Segundo , Carreno-Farfan Carmen
Published: September 2024

Plastics such as polystyrene are resistant to biodegradation, pollute the environment, and negatively impact the health of living organisms. However, several organisms, such as the larvae ofTenebrio molitor(Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) and their associated gut microbiome, contribute to its degradation. The aim of this research was to determine the efficiency of expanded polystyrene (EPS) degradation by gut bacteria isolated fromT. molitorlarvae. To achieve this, a set of EPS-degrading bacteria was selected based on the time required to utilize the polymer as a carbon and energy source. Additionally, EPS degradation efficiency was compared, and the most efficient degrading bacterium was identified at the molecular level. Results showed that 95.13% of the bacteria isolated on nutrient agar and 86.57% of those isolated on McConkey agar were able to grow on EPS, with five bacteria being selected that utilized the polymer after 36 hours of incubation. The efficiency of EPS degradation, expressed as the percentage of weight loss by the degrading bacteria, ranged from 5.29% to 12.68%, with a reduction rate of 0.0005 to 0.0013 g per day and a half-life of 533.15 to 1386.20 days. Finally, 16S rRNA gene analysis identified the bacterium asKlebsiella pneumoniae. Cultivable gut bacteria fromT. molitorlarvae have demonstrated potential as candidates for EPS degradation, and biotechnological techniques can further enhance the efficiency of the degradation process.
Microbiome determinants of productivity in whiteleg shrimp aquaculture
Authors: Shan Xiaoyu , Li Kunying , Stadler Patrizia , Borbor Martha , Reyes Guillermo , Solórzano Ramiro , Chamorro Esmeralda , Bayot Bonny , Cordero Otto X.
Published: September 2024

Aquaculture holds immense promise for addressing the food needs of our growing global population. Yet, a quantitative understanding of the factors that control its efficiency and productivity has remained elusive. In this study, we address this knowledge gap by focusing on the microbiome determinants of productivity, more specifically animal survival and growth, for one of the most predominant animal species in global aquaculture, whiteleg shrimp (Penaeus vannamei). Through analysis of the shrimp-associated microbiome from 610 aquaculture samples across Asia and Latin America, we established the presence of core phylogenetic groups, widely prevalent across aquaculture conditions in disparate geographic locations and including both pathogenic and beneficial microbes. Focusing on early stages of growth (larval hatcheries), we showed that the composition of the microbiome alone can predict approximately 50% of the variation in shrimp larvae survival rates. Taxa associated with high survival rates share recently acquired genes that appear to be specific to aquaculture conditions. These genes are involved in the biosynthesis of growth factors and in protein degradation, underscoring the potential role of beneficial microorganisms in nutrient assimilation. In contrast, the predictability of the microbiome on the adult shrimp weight in grow-out farms is weaker (10-20%), akin to observations in the context of livestock. In conclusion, our study unveils a novel avenue for predicting productivity in shrimp aquaculture based on microbiome analysis. This paves the way for targeted manipulation of the microbiome as a strategic approach to enhancing aquaculture efficiency from the earliest developmental stages.
Biases in population codes with a few active neurons
Authors: Keemink Sander , van Rossum Mark C.W.
Published: September 2024

Throughout the brain information is coded in the activity of multiple neurons at once, so called population codes. Population codes are a robust and accurate way of coding information. One can evaluate the quality of population coding by trying to read out the code with a decoder, and estimate the encoded stimulus. Coding quality has traditionally been evaluated in terms of the trial-to-trial variation in the estimate. However, codes can also display biases. While most decoders yield unbiased estimators in the limit of many active neurons, we find that when only few neurons are active, biases readily emerge for many decoders. We show that the biases turn out to have a non-trivial dependence on noise and tuning curve properties. We also introduce a technique to estimate the bias and variance of Bayesian decoders. Overall, the work expands our understanding of population coding.
An intrinsically disordered RNA-binding region provides local target selectivity and is essential for LARP6 function
Authors: Capraro Federica , Abis Giancarlo , Karimzadeh Mehran , Masino Laura , Barley Alexander , Bui Tam T.T. , Goodarzi Hani , Conte Maria R. , Mardakheh Faraz K.
Published: September 2024

In addition to structured RNA-binding domains (RBDs), most RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) contain intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), which are thought to possess additional RNA-binding activities. Despite their prevalence, the specific RNA-binding functions of IDRs in RBPs have remained largely uncharacterised. Here we examined the ordered and disordered RNA-binding activities of LARP6, an RBP known for its diverse RNA-binding repertoire. Using mass spectrometry-based mapping of RNA-protein interaction sites, we showed that both the La-module RBD and the two IDRs of LARP6 directly interact with RNA in living cells. Mutagenesis coupled with individual-nucleotide resolution UV crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) revealed the La-module to be indispensable for LARP6 binding to RNA. Deletion of the IDRs did not diminish the RNA-binding capability of LARP6, but instead broadened its interaction footprints on the target RNAs, and impaired LARP6 function in promoting cancer cell viability and invasion.In vitrobiophysical analysis corroborated the iCLIP-based findings, demonstrating that rather than independently binding to RNA, IDRs can modulate the RNA-binding patterns of the tethered RBD. Based on these findings, we propose a previously unknown role for IDRs in fine-tuning RNA-RBD interactions through modulating local RNA-binding selectivity, resulting in highly specific RNA-protein interaction patterns that are critical for RBP functions.
Evidence that Dmrta2 acts as a transcriptional repressor ofPax6in murine cortical progenitors and identification of a mutation crucial for DNA recognition associated with microcephaly in human
Authors: Shen Xueyi , Anirudhan Jithu , Fatima Ambrin , Szemes Tünde , Keruzore Marc , Plant Estelle , San José Alba Sabaté , Kricha Sadia , Delhaye Louis-Paul , Mian Bilal Ahmad , Khalid Lubaba Bintee , Ali Farhan , Zahra Hijab , Ali Asmat , Toft Mathias , Dieu Marc , Lint Carine Van , Achouri Younes , Renard Patricia , Iqbal Zafar , Bellefroid Eric
Published: September 2024

Dmrta2 (also designated Dmrt5) is a transcriptional regulator expressed in cortical progenitors in a caudomedialhigh/rostrolaterallowgradient with important roles at different steps of cortical development. Dmrta2 has been suggested to act in cortex development mainly by differential suppression of Pax6 and other homeobox transcription factors such as the ventral telencephalic regulator Gsx2, which remains to be fully demonstrated. Here we have addressed the epistatic relation betweenPax6andDmrta2by comparing phenotypes in mutant embryos or embryos overexpressing both genes in various allelic combinations. We showed that Dmrta2 cooperates with Pax6 in the maintenance of cortical identity in dorsal telencephalic progenitors and that it acts as a transcriptional repressor ofPax6to control cortical patterning. Mechanistically, we show that in P19 cells, Dmrta2 can act as a DNA-binding dependent repressor on thePax6 E60enhancer and that a point mutation that affects its DNA binding properties leads to agenesis of the corpus callosum, pachygyria, and the absence of the cingulate gyrus. Finally, we provide evidence that Dmrta2 binds to the Zfp423 zinc finger protein and that it enhances its ability to recruit the NurD repressor complex. Together, our results highlight the importance and conserved function of Dmrta2 in cortical development and provide novel insights into its mechanism of action.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Corticogenesis is controlled by an array of transcription factors that coordinate neural progenitor self-renewal and differentiation to generate correct cortical cell number and diversity. However, how this complex array of transcription factors works in concert to regulate this delicate process remains largely unknown. Here we provide important insights into the mechanism of action of Dmrta2 by demonstrating that it cooperates with the transcription factorPax6to define the pallium-subpallium boundary and that it acts by repressing it, likely via the recruitment of Zfp423 and the NurD repressor complex, to control cortical patterning. Our data also reveal that a point mutation that affects its DNA binding causes cortical abnormalities in human, further highlighting its importance in cortex development.
Chain Termination Effects of Chemically Modified Nucleoside Analogs on SARS-CoV-2 RNA Polymerase
Authors: Yang Lin , Xu Xinzhou , Liang Zhibin , Zhang Buyu , Tse Ka Man , Cheung Peter
Published: September 2024

In the current scenario, the available drugs for SARS-CoV-2 are extremely limited. Among the potential therapeutic targets, the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) complex, essential for viral replication and transcription, presents a promising focal point for drug design. This study explores the mechanistic effects of chemically modified nucleoside analogs on the activity of SARS-CoV-2 RdRp and the subsequent chain termination of viral RNA synthesis. We investigate a range of modifications, including 2’-fluoro (2’-F), 2’-O-methyl, and 3’-deoxy substitutions on the sugar as well as base component changes, to ascertain their incorporation by RdRp and resistance to proofreading by the nsp14/nsp10 exonuclease complex. Through a combination of enzymatic experiments, we elucidate the influence of these modifications on RdRp efficiency. Our findings demonstrate that 2’-OMe-NTP, 3’-dNTP, 6-Aza-UTP can enhance the likelihood of chain termination, offering insights into the design of nucleoside analogs with potent antiviral activities. The study’s comprehensive analysis not only furthers our understanding of SARS-CoV-2’s molecular biology but also contributes to the strategic development of antiviral agents with the potential to combat the current pandemic and prepare for future coronavirus outbreaks.
BrainUnit: Integrating Physical Units into High-Performance AI-Driven Scientific Computing
Authors: Wang Chaoming , He Sichao , Luo Shouwei , Huan Yuxiang , Wu Si
Published: September 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing scientific research across various disciplines. The foundation of scientific research lies in rigorous scientific computing based on standardized physical units. However, current mainstream high-performance numerical computing libraries for AI generally lack native support for physical units, significantly impeding the integration of AI methodologies into scientific research. To fill this gap, we introduceBrainUnit, a unit system designed to seamlessly integrate physical units into AI libraries, with a focus on compatibility with JAX.BrainUnitoffers a comprehensive library of over 2000 physical units and more than 300 unit-aware mathematical functions. It is fully compatible with JAX transformations, allowing for automatic differentiation, just-in-time compilation, vectorization, and parallelization while maintaining unit consistency. We demonstrateBrainUnit’s efficacy through several use cases in brain dynamics modeling, including detailed biophysical neuron simulations, multiscale brain network modeling, neuronal activity fitting, and cognitive task training. Our results show thatBrainUnitenhances the accuracy, reliability, and interpretability of scientific computations across scales, from ion channels to whole-brain networks, without impacting performance. By bridging the gap between abstract computational frameworks and physical units,BrainUnitrepresents a crucial step towards more robust and physically grounded AI-driven scientific computing.
IGF-1 and insulin receptors in LepRb neurons jointly regulate body growth, bone mass, reproduction, and metabolism
Authors: Wang Mengjie , Czernik Piotr J. , Lecka-Czernik Beata , Xu Yong , Hill Jennifer W.
Published: September 2024

Leptin receptor (LepRb)-expressing neurons are known to link body growth and reproduction, but whether these functions are mediated via insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) signaling is unknown. IGF-1 and insulin can bind to each other’s receptors, permitting IGF-1 signaling in the absence of IGF1R. Therefore, we created mice lacking IGF1R exclusively in LepRb neurons (IGF1RLepRbmice) and simultaneously lacking IGF1R and insulin receptor (IR) in LepRb neurons (IGF1R/IRLepRbmice) and then characterized their body growth, bone morphology, reproductive and metabolic functions. We found that IGF1R and IR in LepRb neurons were required for normal timing of pubertal onset, while IGF1R in LepRb neurons played a predominant role in regulating adult fertility and exerted protective effects against reproductive aging. Accompanying these reproductive deficits, IGF1RLepRbmice and IGF1R/IRLepRbmice had transient growth retardation. Notably, IGF1R in LepRb neurons was indispensable for normal trabecular and cortical bone mass accrual in both sexes. These findings suggest that IGF1R in LepRb neurons is involved in the interaction among body growth, bone development, and reproduction. Though only mild changes in body weight were detected, simultaneous deletion of IGF1R and IR in LepRb neurons caused dramatically increased fat mass composition, decreased lean mass composition, lower energy expenditure, and locomotor activity in both sexes. Male IGF1R/IRLepRbmice exhibited impaired insulin sensitivity. These findings suggest that IGF1R and IR in LepRb neurons jointly regulated body composition, energy balance, and glucose homeostasis. Taken together, our studies identified the sex-dependent complex roles of IGF1R and IR in LepRb neurons in regulating body growth, reproduction, and metabolism.
Dynamic spatial–temporal conflict quantification of construction machinery for pouring blocks in arch dams
Authors: Liang Zhipeng , Zhao Chunju , Zhou Huawei , Zhou Yihong , Liu Quan , Fang Tao , Wang Fang
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The spatial–temporal conflicts in the construction process of concrete arch dams are related to the construction quality and duration, especially for pouring blocks with a continuous high-strength and high-density construction process. Furthermore, the complicated construction technology and limited space resources aggravate the spatial–temporal conflicts in the process of space resource allocation and utilization, directly affecting the pouring quality and progress of concrete. To promote the high-strength, quality-preserving and rapid construction of dams and to clarify the explosion moment and influence degree of the spatial–temporal conflicts of construction machinery during the pouring process, a quantification method and algorithm for a “Conflict Bubble” (CB) between construction machines is proposed based on the “Time–Space Microelement” (TSM).

Design/methodology/approach

First, the concept of a CB is proposed, which is defined as the spatial overlap of different entities in the movement process. The subsidiary space of the entity is divided into three layered spaces: the physical space, safe space and efficiency space from the inside to the outside. Second, the processes of “creation,” “transition” and “disappearance” of the CB at different levels with the movement of the entity are defined as the evolution of the spatial–temporal state of the entity. The mapping relationship between the spatial variation and the running time of the layered space during the movement process is defined as “Time–Space” (TS), which is intended to be processed by a microelement.

Findings

The quantification method and algorithm of the CB between construction machinery are proposed based on the TSM, which realizes the quantification of the physical collision accident rate, security risk rate and efficiency loss rate of the construction machinery at any time point or time period. The risk rate of spatial–temporal conflicts in the construction process was calculated, and the outbreak condition of spatial–temporal conflict in the pouring process was simulated and rehearsed. The quantitative calculation results show that the physical collision accident rate, security risk rate and efficiency loss rate of construction machinery at any time point or time period can be quantified.

Originality/value

This study provides theoretical support for the quantitative evaluation and analysis of the spatial–temporal conflict risk in the pouring construction process. It also serves as a reference for the rational organization and scientific decision-making for pouring blocks and provides new ideas and methods for the safe and efficient construction and the scientific and refined management of dams.
Effects of autonomy support on innovation: resolving the dilemma of participation in innovation with trust
Authors: Park Rhokeun , Kang Saehee
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to integrate the componential model of creativity and innovation with a participative safety perspective to investigate the association between autonomy support and innovation as well as the organizational factors that strengthen this association. Specifically, the study suggests that autonomy support is more effective in fostering innovation in organizations characterized by higher levels of trust, strong organizational fairness and effective communication.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed hypotheses were investigated using moderated mediation models with panel data collected over four waves.

Findings

This study found that autonomy support positively contributes to organizational innovation. Moderation analyses demonstrated that trust, perceptions of fairness and communication strengthen the effect of autonomy support on innovation.

Originality/value

This study is the first to demonstrate the moderating roles of various organizational contexts (i.e. trust, fairness perception and communication) in the association between autonomy support and innovation and to investigate the role of trust as a mediating moderator.
Antecedents and performance outcomes of exporters’ use of internet B2B platforms
Authors: Jean Ruey Jer Bryan , Kim Daekwan , Cadogan John W.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop and test a framework of the antecedents to and performance outcomes of exporters’ use of different services offered by Internet-based Business-to-Business (I-B2B) platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

We test the model based on a unique survey dataset of 350 Chinese exporters who subscribed to Alibaba.com, a major I-B2B platform.

Findings

Drawing on the signaling theory, export and I-B2B platform literature, we develop a typology of exporters’ use of services offered by I-B2B platforms. We find that the extent to which firms have cost efficiency advantages, adopt an export diversity strategy, operate under high levels of psychic distance and experience high levels of domestic regulatory uncertainty are all positively related to exporters’ use of I-B2B platform services. The use of those services is either positively or negatively related to export success depending on the services in question. The magnitudes of these performance relationships are contingent on the exporters’ transparency strategies.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the antecedents to and consequences of exporters’ use of the services offered by I-B2B platforms.
Do job crafting and leisure crafting enhance job embeddedness: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Teng Hsiu-Yu , Chen Chien-Yu
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Recognition of the complexity of job embeddedness in the work environment has grown, highlighting the need for a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to this phenomenon. This study analyzed how and when job crafting and leisure crafting are linked to job embeddedness by investigating employee resilience as a mediator and employee adaptivity as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 568 Taiwanese hotel employees. The PROCESS macro was used to verify all hypotheses.

Findings

Both job crafting and leisure crafting increased job embeddedness. Employee resilience mediated the impacts of job and leisure crafting on job embeddedness. The positive relationship between employee resilience and job embeddedness was stronger when employee adaptivity was high. Employee adaptivity moderated the indirect impacts of job and leisure crafting on job embeddedness through employee resilience.

Practical implications

Hotel managers should foster a workplace culture that encourages employees to engage in job crafting. Additionally, managers can offer employee assistance programs to proactively encourage workers to participate in leisure crafting. Providing training and wellness programs to strengthen employee resilience, along with allocating resources and designing learning programs to enhance employee adaptability, can further promote job embeddedness.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature through the construction of a moderated mediation model that explored how and when job and leisure crafting affect job embeddedness.
Teaching a doctoral-level, interdisciplinary social studies course on critical social justice
Authors: Simola Sheldene
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This article discusses the underlying teaching framework of relational cultural theory (RCT), as well as additional teaching practices used within a doctoral-level, interdisciplinary social studies course on critical social justice. Areas for future development are identified.

Design/methodology/approach

A research-engaged, conceptual report on practice was used to identify and integrate relevant scholarship for the purpose of formulating and analyzing teaching practices for this type of course, and to iteratively identify possible directions for future development.

Findings

RCT is a generative, underlying teaching framework for the interdisciplinary social study of critical social justice. Additional teaching practices including a community agreement to guide challenging discussions; participant-led presencing activities at the outset of classes; and, co-creation by participants of the content topics can be fruitfully embedded within RCT. Potential future development could include team-based, community-engaged, experiential term projects aimed at further deepening interdisciplinarity and civic engagement skills.

Practical implications

Practical guidance is provided on the use of RCT, community agreements, co-creation, presencing activities and Indigenous land acknowledgments or contemplations on Indigenous works.

Social implications

RCT can be used across different educational levels or contexts. Practices of co-creation, presencing and contemplation of Indigenous works are receiving increased consideration in diverse contexts. However, conventional grading procedures can be inconsistent with critical social justice, suggesting the need for research-engaged policy review.

Originality/value

This article responds to recent scholarly calls for discussion of teaching practices in the interdisciplinary, social study of critical social justice in post-secondary education.
Treating Pox, Pests and Worms: Saints, Sympathy and Materiality in Late‐Medieval English Charms
Authors: Burrell Elizabeth
Published: September 2024

Charms were a commonplace form of medical intervention in late‐medieval England, as they allowed afflicted and ailing devotees to seek the aid of saints and biblical figures. Those holy dead who had suffered something on earth were considered particularly adept at posthumously treating the same in their devotees, with the words used to recount their travails believed to possess curative power. This essay examines a selection of pox, earwig and worm charms circulating in England ca. 1300–1550, specifically those powered by the fifth‐century saint Nicasius of Rheims and Old Testament figure Job. It begins by demonstrating how charms aligned with contemporary medicine, natural philosophy and orthodox Christian devotion, particularly regarding the use of words as material ingredients. Then, this essay reconstructs how these otherwise static texts, at the nexus of religion and medical science, could transform into living, curative performances.
Assessing crisis spillover risks: The role of perceived severity and corporate response effectiveness in China
Authors: Wang Yijing , Laufer Daniel , Ding Jia
Published: September 2024

Although the spillover effect of crises represents an emerging area of interest within crisis communication studies, the perspective of consumers on the risk of crisis spillover as a result of corporate misconduct by another company remains underexplored in emerging markets like China. This study aims to fill the void through assessing how the severity of a crisis and the strategic responses by companies influence consumer perceptions of spillover risks from corporate misconduct by another company. A pre‐test (N = 120) determined two corporate misconducts as characteristic for the automotive industry in China. These scenarios were utilized in an online experiment (N = 320) to examine the effects of two crisis response strategies (issuing a denial vs. giving no response) by a competitor automaker. The results reveal that when a corporate misconduct is perceived as more severe, the perceived crisis spillover risks to the industry is higher; this perceived risk mediates the impact of crisis severity on negative word‐of‐mouth. Issuing a denial is more effective than giving no response, and leads to more positive consumer outcomes. This research unravels the complex dynamics at play in shaping consumer attitudes towards companies indirectly impacted by a crisis through a spillover effect.
Investigating proxies for retail investor attention in financial markets
Authors: Cahill Daniel , Liu Zhangxin (Frank) , Smales Lee A.
Published: September 2024

Investor attention influences financial markets but “depends on where you search” (Ben‐Rephael et al., The Review of Financial Studies, 2017, 30, 3009). We explore various retail investor attention proxies and their correlations with company characteristics and market reactions. Individually, retail attention proxies have a similar positive association with post‐earnings cumulative abnormal returns; however collectively, only abnormal Twitter (now X) attention remains significant after accounting for other retail attention metrics. Simultaneously high abnormal attention in all proxies captures a subsample that exhibits a post‐earnings announcement drift, contradicting the hypothesis that higher investor attention attenuates such drifts. Using vector autoregression, we find Twitter attention leads other retail attention proxies.
Sleep disorders and orofacial pain: insights for dental practice
Authors: McCloy K , Herrero Babiloni A , Sessle BJ
Published: September 2024

In dental sleep medicine several sleep disorders commonly coexist with pain, contributing to complex clinical presentations which might affect the provision of appropriate and timely treatment. There are associations between sleep disorders and pain in general, as well as with specific orofacial pain conditions. As many as five of six patients with orofacial pain can present with sleep problems. The comorbidity of orofacial pain and sleep disorders overlays a complex web of altered neurobiological mechanisms that predispose to the chronification of orofacial pain. This review discusses the relationship between orofacial pain and sleep disorders and highlights their interactions and the neurobiological mechanisms underlying those relationships.
Thermal balance in Andean lizards: A perspective from the high mountains
Authors: Montoya‐Cruz Alexandra , Díaz‐Flórez Ronald A. , Carvajalino‐Fernández Juan Manuel
Published: September 2024

High Andean lizards in the Andes face numerous challenges in high‐altitude environments characterized by significant temperature, spatial and temporal variations. These factors greatly influence their thermal characteristics and adaptive strategies for coping with temperature fluctuations. This study aims were to investigate the thermal biology of high mountain lizards (>2000 m) inhabiting the Andes Mountain range, using information from existing literature, and to identify the potential impacts of the original climate change scenarios developed in this study. Within the Andes, high‐altitude species are primarily found in families like Liolaemidae, Gymnophthalmidae, Tropiduridae, Anolidae and Leiourisauridae. Notably, we found in the literature that the higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures in southern species compared to those closer to the tropics. Typically, diurnal and seasonal temperature variations have a significant impact on the body temperature of these high‐altitude lizards, but their adaptive behaviours and physiological mechanisms enhance their resistance to extreme temperatures. Populations situated below the equator often exhibit higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures, largely due to their exposure to higher ambient temperatures during summer. With all global warming scenarios indicating temperature increases in latitudinal regions, tropical high‐altitude lizards, historically less thermally adaptable, may be particularly susceptible to these temperature rises. It is crucial to consider that additional factors, such as species activity patterns, thermal resource availability and diminishing suitable thermal habitats, will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these lizard species, making the situation even more complex and challenging.
Thirty years of stasis in the dynamics of the Knysna Afro‐montane forest, South Africa
Authors: Midgley Jeremy J. , Cramer Michael D. , Durrheim Graham
Published: September 2024

We analysed nearly 31 years (1991–2022) of tree population dynamics in 108 permanent plots each 0.04 ha of the Lilyvlei Nature Reserve, a section of the Knysna Forest in South Africa which has not historically been disturbed by harvesting. The Knysna Forest is the only large piece of forest in South Africa and is marginal for tall forest, having low mean annual rainfall of only about 1000 mm and occurs on nutrient poor soils. In contrast to many studies of other forests globally, we found almost no change in overall biomass. Even at the scale of our small plots and on 10–30 year time scales, there has been little change. The forest has very low recruitment and mortality rates and thus low growth rates. Climatic changes too were minimal over this 30‐year period. The proportion of stems that died per size class was concentrated in the larger size‐classes per species, even for shorter species. This suggests that senescence rather than external disturbances determines the low mortality and thus the low dynamism and the high biomass (approx. 600 Mg ha−1AGB or 41 m2 ha−1 basal area) of the forest. Mortality of some species exceeded conspecific recruitment, a trend accompanied by non‐significant declines in biomass. However, these trends are not significant. In conclusion, neither composition nor biomass has changed significantly in these forests over a period of 30 years. This suggests that not all Southern Hemisphere forests are in a state of decline.
Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease and MetALD increases the risk of liver cancer and gastrointestinal cancer: A nationwide cohort study
Authors: Park Yewan , Jung Jooyi , Han Seungbong , Kim Gi‐Ae
Published: September 2024

Background

The new nomenclature of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) substituting nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was proposed along with a new category of MASLD with increased alcohol intake (MetALD).

Aims

We aimed to explore the cancer risk by MASLD and MetALD.

Methods

This nationwide cohort study included 3,596,709 participants who underwent a health check‐up in 2011 in South Korea. Steatotic liver disease (SLD) was defined as a fatty liver index ≥30. Participants were categorized into four exclusive groups: MASLD, MetALD, other combination aetiology and no SLD. The subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) was calculated using the Fine–Gray model after adjusting other variables.

Results

During the 33.9 million person‐years of follow‐up, 285,845 participants (7.9%) developed cancers. Compared with no SLD, MASLD, MetALD and other combination aetiology had an increased risk of all cancer. Liver cancer risk escalated from no SLD to MASLD (SHR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.12–1.21), MetALD (SHR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.92–2.20) and other combination aetiology (SHR, 8.16; 95% CI, 7.69–8.67). Gastrointestinal cancers including oesophagus, stomach, colorectal, biliary and pancreas cancers increased in MASLD (SHR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.11–1.15), MetALD (SHR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.14–1.21) and other combination aetiology (SHR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05–1.13). A modest increase in lung cancer and hormone‐sensitive cancer was observed with MASLD.

Conclusions

This study showed that MASLD and MetALD are associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly liver and gastrointestinal cancers. The findings build new evidence for the clinical outcomes of MetALD while highlighting the importance of managing alcohol intake properly in MASLD and MetALD.
Just go with your body? A conversation analytic study of the transition from first to second stage of labor in UK midwife‐led care
Authors: Jackson Clare , Beynon‐Jones Siân
Published: September 2024

Background

The transition from first to second stage of labor is poorly understood. While the onset of second stage is defined by cervical measurement, dilation cannot be directly sensed or externally observed. Thus, uncertainty exists when women report pushing urges before dilation is confirmed. This study aimed to explore how sensations of pushing and uncertainty over progress are interactionally managed.

Methods

We audio/video recorded the labors of 37 women in two midwife‐led units in England. Our analysis focused on a subset of 28 recordings that featured discussion of transition from first to second stage of labor. The interactions between midwives, laboring women and their birth partners were transcribed and analyzed using conversation analysis.

Results

We identified a ‘pushing until proven otherwise’ rule granting temporary, contingent authority to bodily urges to push while tracking progress over time. Specifically, midwives supported reported pushing sensations without insisting on examinations. Caution was occasionally expressed in distinguishing between irresistible and forced pushing. Across multiple contractions, midwives watched and waited for alignment of sensations with signs of descent. Where signs of progress were absent over time, examinations were treated as clinically indicated.

Discussion

Thus, a complex interplay of women's sensations and midwifery expertise produced care. Compared to past research, our analysis demonstrates increased validation of embodied experience in contemporary midwife‐led practice. However, uncertainty still requires navigation through collaborative work. We evidence how this navigation is accomplished in real‐time interactions.
Children's and adolescents' expectations, evaluations and reasoning about a bystander who challenges social exclusion within intragroup and intergroup peer contexts
Authors: Yüksel Ayşe Şule , Palmer Sally B. , Argyri Eirini K. , Rutland Adam
Published: September 2024

This paper examined British children's (8‐ to 10‐year‐olds) and adolescents' (13‐ to 15‐year‐olds, N = 340; Female N = 171, 50.3%) expectations, evaluations and reasoning about a bystander peer who challenges the social exclusion of an immigrant or non‐immigrant peer by a peer group of non‐immigrant students. Participants read a hypothetical scenario in which a peer was excluded from an afterschool club by the peer group. The scenarios were either intergroup or intragroup contexts. Participants' expectations of a peer bystander challenging the social exclusion by the peer group, their perception of how the peer group would evaluate the challenger, and their reasoning around their expectations were measured. Adolescents were less likely to expect a peer bystander to challenge exclusion compared to children. Participants' perceptions of how the group would evaluate the challenger were significantly lower in intergroup compared to intragroup contexts. In intergroup contexts, adolescents with low expectations of challenging favoured group dynamics and group repercussions reasoning over moral reasoning, while children did not use group repercussions reasoning.
Therapeutic and pharmacological applications of extracellular vesicles and lipoproteins
Authors: Németh Krisztina , Kestecher Brachyahu M. , Ghosal Sayam , Bodnár Bernadett R. , Kittel Ágnes , Hambalkó Szabolcs , Kovácsházi Csenger , Giricz Zoltán , Ferdinandy Péter , Osteikoetxea Xabier , Burkhardt Ralph , Buzas Edit I. , Orsó Evelyn
Published: September 2024

In recent years, various approaches have been undertaken to eliminate lipoproteins co‐isolated with extracellular vesicles, as they were initially regarded as contaminating entities. However, novel discoveries are reshaping our perspective. In body fluids, these distinct particles not only co‐exist, but also interactions between them are likely to occur. Extracellular vesicles and lipoproteins can associate with each other, share cargo, influence each other's functions, and jointly have a role in the pathomechanisms of diseases. Additionally, their association carries important implications for therapeutic and pharmacological aspects of lipid‐lowering strategies. Extracellular vesicles and lipoprotein particles may have roles in the elimination of each other from the circulation. The objective of this minireview is to delve into these aspects. Here, we show that under certain physiological and pathological conditions, extracellular vesicles and lipoproteins are ‘partners’ rather than ‘strangers’ or ‘rivals’.