bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BCL-XL blockage in TNBC models confers vulnerability to inhibition of specific cell cycle regulators
Authors: Castellanet Olivier , Ahmad Fahmida , Vinik Yaron , Mills Gordon B. , Habermann Bianca , Borg Jean-Paul , Lev Sima , Lamballe Fabienne , Maina Flavio
Published: March 2021

Cell cycle regulators are frequently altered in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC). Emerging agents targeting these signals offer the possibility to design new combinatorial therapies. However, preclinical models that recapitulate TNBC primary resistance and heterogeneity are essential to evaluate the potency of these combined treatments.

Methods

Bioinformatic processing of human breast cancer datasets was used to analyse correlations between expression levels of cell cycle regulators and patient survival outcome. TheMMTV-R26Metmouse model of TNBC resistance and heterogeneity was employed to analyse expression and targeting vulnerability of cell cycle regulators in the presence of BCL-XL blockage. Robustness of outcomes and selectivity was further explored using a panel of human breast cancer cells. Alterations of protein expression, phosphorylation, and/or cellular localisation were analysed by western blots, reverse phase protein array, and immunocytochemistry. Bioinformatics was performed to highlight drug’s mechanisms of action.

Results

We report that high expression levels of BCL-XL and specific cell cycle regulators correlate with poor survival outcomes of TNBC patients. Blockage of BCL-XL confers vulnerability to drugs targeting CDK1/2/4, but not FOXM1, CDK4/6, Aurora A and Aurora B, to allMMTV-R26Metand human TNBC cell lines tested. Mechanistically, we show that, co-targeting of BCL-XL and CDK1/2/4 synergistically inhibited cell growth by combinatorial depletion of survival and RTK/AKT signals, and concomitantly restoring FOXO3a tumour suppression actions. This was accompanied by an accumulation of DNA damage and consequently apoptosis.

Conclusions

Our studies illustrate the possibility to exploit the vulnerability of TNBC cells to CDK1/2/4 inhibition by targeting BCL-XL. Moreover, they underline that specificity matters in targeting cell cycle regulators for combinatorial anticancer therapies.
The neural mechanisms of active removal from working memory
Authors: Shan Jiangang , Postle Bradley R.
Published: March 2021

The ability to frequently update the contents working memory (WM) is vital for the flexible control of behavior. Whether there even exists a mechanism for the active removal of information from working memory, however, remains poorly understood. In this Registered Report we will test the predictions of models for two different (and not mutually exclusive) mechanisms of active removal: adaptation-hijacking and mental-context shifting. We will collect functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data while subjects perform a novel “ABC-retrocuing” task designed to elicit two modes of removal, active or passive (Shan & Postle, Registered Report). The adaptation-hijacking model posits an adaptation-like modification of perceptual circuits combined with a weak activation of the to-be-removed item. Its predictions will be assessed by using multivariate inverted encoding modeling (IEM) and photic “pings” to assay the state of feature-selective encoding channels and of activity-silent representations under active-removal versus passive-removal conditions. A second model – “working memory episodic memory” (WMEM) – posits that interference from no-longer-relevant information is minimized by making the mental context associated with new information dissimilar from that associated with the to-be-“removed” information. This will be tested by using representational similarity analysis (RSA) to compare the rate of contextual drift under active-removal versus passive-removal conditions.
Birdsong Phrase Verification and Classification Using Siamese Neural Networks
Authors: Rentería Santiago , Vallejo Edgar E. , Taylor Charles E.
Published: March 2021

The process of learning good features to discriminate among numerous and different bird phrases is computationally expensive. Moreover, it might be impossible to achieve acceptable performance in cases where training data is scarce and classes are unbalanced. To address this issue, we propose a few-shot learning task in which an algorithm must make predictions given only a few instances of each class. We compared the performance of different Siamese Neural Networks at metric learning over the set of Cassini’s Vireo syllables. Then, the network features were reused for the few-shot classification task. With this approach we overcame the limitations of data scarcity and class imbalance while achieving state-of-the-art performance.
AC2P20 selectively killsM. tuberculosisat acidic pH by depleting free thiols
Authors: Dechow Shelby J. , Coulson Garry B. , Wilson Michael W. , Larsen Scott D. , Abramovitch Robert B.
Published: March 2021

Mycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) senses and adapts to host immune cues as part of its pathogenesis. One environmental cue sensed by Mtb is the acidic pH of its host niche in the macrophage phagosome. Disrupting the ability of Mtb to sense and adapt to acidic pH has the potential to reduce survival of Mtb in macrophages. Previously, a high throughput screen of a ∼220,000 compound small molecule library was conducted to discover chemical probes that inhibit Mtb growth at acidic pH. The screen discovered chemical probes that kill Mtb at pH 5.7 but are inactive at pH 7.0. In this study, AC2P20 was prioritized for continued study to test the hypothesis that it was targeting Mtb pathways associated with pH-driven adaptation. RNAseq transcriptional profiling studies showed AC2P20 modulates expression of genes associated with redox homeostasis. Gene enrichment analysis revealed that the AC2P20 transcriptional profile had significant overlap with a previously characterized pH-selective inhibitor, AC2P36. Like AC2P36, we show that AC2P20 kills Mtb by selectively depleting free thiols at acidic pH. Mass spectrometry studies show the formation of a disulfide bond between AC2P20 and reduced glutathione, supporting a mechanism where AC2P20 is able to deplete intracellular thiols and dysregulate redox homeostasis. The observation of two independent molecules targeting free thiols to kill Mtb at acidic pH further supports that Mtb has restricted redox homeostasis and sensitivity to thiol-oxidative stress at acidic pH.
Cellular pathways during spawning induction in the starlet sea anemoneNematostella vectensis
Authors: Reuven Shelly , Rinsky Mieka , Brekhman Vera , Malik Assaf , Levy Oren , Lotan Tamar
Published: March 2021

In cnidarians, long-term ecological success relies on sexual reproduction. The sea anemoneNematostella vectensis, which has emerged as an important model organism for developmental studies, can be induced for spawning by temperature elevation and light exposure. To uncover molecular mechanisms and pathways underlying spawning, we characterized the transcriptome ofNematostellafemales before and during spawning induction. We identified an array of processes involving numerous receptors, circadian clock components, cytoskeleton, and extracellular transcripts that are upregulated upon spawning induction. Concurrently, processes related to the cell cycle, fatty acid metabolism, and other housekeeping functions are downregulated. Real-time qPCR revealed that light exposure has a minor effect on expression levels of most examined transcripts, implying that temperature change is a stronger inducer for spawning inNematostella. Our findings reveal the mechanisms that may enable the mesenteries to serve as a gonad-like tissue for the developing oocytes and expand our understanding of sexual reproduction in cnidarians.

Summary statement

Analysis of transcriptional changes during spawning induction inNematostella vectensis, revealed upregulation of processes related to signal perception and cytoskeleton rearrangement and downregulation of fatty acid metabolism and housekeeping processes.
MDGAs are fast-diffusing molecules that delay excitatory synapse development by altering neuroligin behavior
Authors: Toledo Andrea , Bimbi Giorgia , Letellier Mathieu , Tessier Béatrice , Daburon Sophie , Favereaux Alexandre , Chamma Ingrid , Vennekens Kristel M. , Vanderlinden Jeroen , Sainlos Matthieu , de Wit Joris , Choquet Daniel , Thoumine Olivier
Published: March 2021

MDGAs are molecules that can bind neuroliginsin cisand interfere with trans-synaptic neurexin-neuroligin interactions, thereby impairing synapse development. However, the sub-cellular localization and dynamics of MDGAs, as well as their specific mode of action in neurons are still unclear. Here, using both surface immunostaining of endogenous MDGAs and single molecule tracking of recombinant MDGAs in dissociated hippocampal neurons, we show that MDGA1 and MDGA2 molecules are homogeneously distributed and exhibit fast membrane diffusion, with a small reduction in mobility across neuronal maturation in culture Using shRNAs and CRISPR/Cas9 strategies to knock-down/out MDGA1 or MDGA2, we demonstrate an increase in the density of excitatory synapses accompanied by enhanced membrane immobilization and an increase in the phosphotyrosine level of neuroligins associated with excitatory post-synaptic differentiation. Finally, we show that decreasing MDGA expression level reduces the mobility of AMPA receptors and increases the frequency of AMPA receptor mediated mEPSCs. Overall, our results support a mechanism by which interactions between MDGAs and neuroligin-1 delays the assembly of functional excitatory synapses containing AMPA receptors.
FastTomo: A SerialEM Script for Collecting Electron Tomography Data
Authors: Xu Albert , Xu Chen
Published: March 2021

FastTomo is a SerialEM script for collecting tilted specimen images in transmission electron microscopes to be further used in tomographic reconstruction. It achieves a speedup over conventional tracking methods by minimizing the usage of off-target tracking shots, and instead applies proportional control to the specimen images. Movement in the Z coordinate is estimated prior to each tilt series in a separate calibration routine. Overall, this method is fast and reliable when the field of view is at least 1 um, and can tolerate minor errors in setting eucentric height. The implemented tilt series schemes include the unidirectional, bidirectional, and dose-symmetric schemes.
Rat ultrasonic vocalizations and novelty-induced social and non-social investigation behavior in a seminatural environment
Authors: Heinla Indrek , Chu Xi , Ågmo Anders , Snoeren Eelke
Published: March 2021

Although rats are known to emit ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs), it remains unclear whether these calls serve an auditory communication purpose. For USVs to be part of communication, the vocal signals will need to be a transfer of information between two or more conspecifics, and with the possibility to induce changes in the behavior of the recipient. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the role of USVs in adult rats’ social and non-social investigation strategies when introduced into a large novel environment with unfamiliar conspecifics. We quantified a wide range of social and non-social behaviors in the seminatural environment, which could be affected by subtle signals, including USVs. We found that during the first hour in the seminatural environment the ability to vocalize did not affect how quickly adult rats met each other, their overall social investigation behavior, their passive social behavior nor their aggressive behavior. Furthermore, the non-social exploratory behaviors and behaviors reflecting anxiety/stress-like states were also unaffected. These results demonstrated that a disability to vocalize did not result in significant disadvantages (or changes) compared to intact conspecifics regarding social and non-social behaviors. This suggests that other (multi)sensory cues are more relevant in social interactions than USVs.
Towards the NMR solution Structure and the Dynamics of the C-terminal Region of APOL1 and its G1, G2 Variants with a Membrane Mimetic
Authors: Madhavan Sethu M. , Hansen Alexandar L. , Cao Shufen , Sedor John R. , Buck Matthias
Published: March 2021

Secreted apolipoprotein L1 (APOL1) is well known as an innate immune factor, protecting against African trypanosomiasis. The intracellular form has multiple functions, including regulating autophagy, intracellular vesicle trafficking, and ion channel activity. The APOL1 protein (G0) has two common variants (denoted G1 and G2) in the C-terminal region and are associated with a high risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and progression to end-stage kidney disease. Our previous studies using molecular modeling suggested that APOL1 G1 and G2 stabilize an autoinhibited state of the C-terminus, leading to impaired intracellular interactions with SNARE proteins. To characterize the structural consequence of kidney disease-associated APOL1 variants further, we assigned the C-terminal region proteins using1H,13C,15N multidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra in solution in the presence of membrane mimetic dodecylphosphocholine micelles. We then derived models for the three-dimensional structure of APOL1-G0, and -G1 and -G2 variant C-terminal regions using the chemical shifts of the main chain nuclei followed by NMR relaxation measurements. The data suggest that changes in the three-dimensional structure of APOL1 C-terminal region induced by kidney disease-associated variants, not least the alteration of key sidechains and their interactions, could disrupt membrane association and the yet to be characterized protein-protein interactions including its binding partners, such as SNARE proteins. Such interactions could underlie the intracellular mechanisms that mediate the pathogenesis of CKD. In the future, one may try to reverse such structural and dynamics changes in the protein by designing agents that may bind and then mitigate APOL1 variant-associated CKD.
Collagen density defines 3D migration of CTLs and their consequent cytotoxicity against tumor cells
Authors: Zhao Renping , Zhou Xiangda , Khan Essak S. , Alansary Dalia , Friedmann Kim S , Yang Wenjuan , Schwarz Eva C. , del Campo Aránzazu , Hoth Markus , Qu Bin
Published: March 2021

Solid tumors are often characterized by condensed extracellular matrix (ECM). The impact of dense ECM on cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) function is not fully understood. Here, we report that CTL-mediated cytotoxicity is substantially impaired in dense collagen matrices. Although the intrinsic killing machinery including expression of cytotoxic proteins and degranulation was intact, CTL motility was substantially compromised in dense collagen. We found that for 3D CTL migration, persistence and velocity was regulated by collagen stiffness and the porosity, respectively. Interestingly, 3D CTL velocity is strongly correlated with their nuclear deformability/flexibility during migration, which is regulated by the microtubule network. Moreover, CTL migration was completely abolished by inhibition of actin polymerization and or myosin IIA. Remarkably, disruption of the microtubule-networks significantly improves the impaired migration, search efficiency, and cytotoxicity of CTLs in dense collagen. Our work suggests the microtubule network as a promising target to rescue impaired CTL killing capacity in solid tumor related scenarios.
Spinal sensory neurons project onto hindbrain to stabilize posture and enhance locomotor speed
Authors: Wu Ming-Yue , Carbó-Tano Martin , Mirat Olivier , Lejeune Francois-Xavier , Roussel Julian , Quan Feng , Fidelin Kevin , Wyart Claire
Published: March 2021

In the spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs) are GABAergic interoceptive sensory neurons that detect spinal curvature via a functional coupling with the Reissner fiber. This mechanosensory system has recently been found involved in spine morphogenesis and postural control but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In zebrafish, CSF-cNs project an ascending and ipsilateral axon reaching two to six segments away. Rostralmost CSF-cNs send their axons ipsilaterally into the hindbrain, a brain region containing motor nuclei and reticulospinal neurons (RSNs), which send descending motor commands to spinal circuits. Until now, the synaptic connectivity of CSF-cNs has only been investigated in the spinal cord where they synapse onto motor neurons and premotor excitatory interneurons. The identity of CSF-cN targets in the hindbrain and the behavioral relevance of these sensory projections from spinal cord to hindbrain are unknown. Here, we provide anatomical and molecular evidence that rostralmost CSF-cNs synapse onto the axons of large RSNs including the Mauthner cells and early bornchx10+neurons. Functional anatomy and optogenetic-assisted mapping reveal that rostral CSF-cNs also synapse onto the soma and dendrites of cranial motor neurons innervating hypobranchial muscles. During acousto-vestibular evoked escape responses, ablation of rostralmost CSF-cNs results in a weaker escape response with a decreased C-bend amplitude, lower speed and a deficient postural control. Our study demonstrates that spinal sensory feedback enhances speed and stabilizes posture, and reveals a novel spinal gating mechanism acting on the output of descending commands sent from the hindbrain to the spinal cord.

eTOC

Cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons are mechanosensory cells that detect spinal curvature. Wuet al.show here that rostralmost CSF-cNs synapse in the hindbrain onto cranial motor neurons and the descending axons of reticulospinal neurons, and enhance speed and power as well as postural control during active locomotion.

Highlights

Cerebrospinal fluid-contacting neurons (CSF-cNs) in rostral spinal cord form inhibitory synapses onto cranial motor neurons

Rostral CSF-cNs synapse onto descending axons of reticulospinal neurons

CSF-cN sensory feedback in the rostral spinal cord enhance speed and power of locomotion

Rostral CSF-cNs projecting to the hindbrain contribute to postural control
Infants’ cortex undergoes microstructural growth coupled with myelination
Authors: Natu Vaidehi S. , Rosenke Mona , Wu Hua , Querdasi Francesca R. , Kular Holly , Lopez-Alvarez Nancy , Grotheer Mareike , Berman Shai , Mezer Aviv A. , Grill-Spector Kalanit
Published: March 2021

Development of cortical tissue during infancy is critical for the emergence of typical brain functions in cortex. However, how cortical microstructure develops during infancy remains unknown. We measured the longitudinal development of cortex from newborns to six-months-old infants using multimodal quantitative imaging of cortical microstructure. Here we show that infants’ cortex undergoes profound microstructural tissue growth during the first six months of human life. Comparison of postnatal to prenatal transcriptomic gene expression data demonstrates that myelination and synaptic processes are dominant contributors to this postnatal microstructural tissue growth. Using visual cortex as a model system, we find hierarchical microstructural growth: higher-level visual areas have less mature tissue at birth than earlier visual areas but grow at faster rates. This overturns the prevailing view that visual areas that are most mature at birth develop fastest. Together,in vivo, longitudinal, and quantitative measurements, which we validated withex vivotranscriptomic data, shed new light on the rate, sequence, and specific biological mechanisms of developing cortical systems. Importantly, our findings propose a new hypothesis that cortical myelination is a key factor in cortical development during early infancy, which has significant implications for diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders and delays in infants.
Modelling Human Gait using a Nonlinear Differential Equation
Authors: Schmalz Jelena , Paul David , Shorter Kathleen , Schmalz Xenia , Cooper Matthew , Murphy Aron
Published: March 2021

We introduce an innovative method for the investigation of human gait, which is based on the visualisation of the vertical component of the movement of the centre of mass during walking or running, in the space of the coordinates position, velocity, and acceleration of the centre of mass. Collected data has been numerically approximated by the best fitting curve for a non-linear model. The resulting equation for the best fitting plane or curve in this space is a differential equation of second order. The model that we suggest is a Duffing equation with coefficients that depend on the height of a walker or runner and on the angular frequency of the oscillation. Statistics about the distribution of the Duffing stiffness depending on the speed is presented.

1

Author Summary

We study the human gait modelled by the movement of the centre of mass of the test person. This is an example of a biological process which can be considered as a periodical dynamic system. Roughly, this movement behaves in a similar way to a vibrating mass suspended on a spring, but it is more complex. The vertical component of the movement during walking or running can be visualised as an oscillogram: a graph of the position as a function of time. We suggest a visualisation of the data in 3D space, where the coordinates describe position, velocity, and acceleration. Our new visualisation method allows us to model the movement of a person’s centre of mass by a nonlinear differential equation. The resulting curve for an ideal spring-mass movement, without viscosity or external force, is an ellipse in the suggested 3D space. The shape of the data curve shows at which position an additional force was applied, or the movement slowed down. Some deviations are common for all test persons and others are different. In the future we plan to investigate the reasons for these deviations, such as different running techniques or the presence of injuries.
Alginate-based microparticles coated with HPMCP/AS cellulose-derivatives enable the Ctx(Ile21)-Ha antimicrobial peptide application as a feed additive
Authors: Roque Borda Cesar Augusto , Leite Silva Hanyeny Raiely , Junior Edson Crusca , Aparecida Serafim Jéssica , Bagliotti Meneguin Andréia , Chorilli Marlus , Macedo Wagner Costa , Teixeira Silvio Rainho , Lopes Guastalli Elisabete Aparecida , Soares Nilce Maria , Blair Jessica MA , Pikramenou Zoe , Vicente Eduardo Festozo
Published: March 2021

Microencapsulation is a potential biotechnological tool, which can overcome AMPs instabilities and reduce toxic side effects. Thus, this study evaluates the antibacterial activities of the Ctx(Ile21)-Ha antimicrobial peptide against MDR and non-resistant bacteria, develop and characterize peptide-loaded microparticles coated with HPMCAS and HPMCP. Ctx(Ile21)-Ha microencapsulation was performed by ionic gelation with high-efficiency, maintaining the physical-chemical stability. Ctx(Ile21)-Ha coated-microparticles were characterized, and their hemolytic activity assay demonstrated that hemolysis was decreased up to 95% compared to single molecule. In addition,in vitrorelease control profile simulating different portions of gastrointestinal tract was performed and showed the microcapsules’ ability to protect the peptide and release it in the intestine, aimed pathogens location, mainly bySalmonellasp. Therefore, use of microencapsulated Ctx(Ile21)-Ha can be allowed as an antimicrobial controller in monogastric animal production, being a valuable option for molecules with low therapeutic indexes or high hemolytic rates.
Early-Emerging and Highly-Heritable Sensitivity to Human Communication in Dogs
Authors: Bray Emily E. , Gnanadesikan Gitanjali E. , Horschler Daniel J. , Levy Kerinne M. , Kennedy Brenda S. , Famula Thomas R. , MacLean Evan L.
Published: March 2021

Dogs exhibit similarities to humans in their sensitivity to cooperative-communicative cues, but the extent to which they are biologically prepared for communication with humans is heavily debated. To investigate the developmental and genetic origins of these traits, we tested 375 eight-week-old dog puppies on a battery of social-cognitive measures. We hypothesized that if dogs’ social skills for cooperating with humans are biologically prepared, then these skills should emerge robustly in early development, not require extensive socialization or learning, and exhibit heritable variation. Puppies were highly skillful at using diverse human gestures and we found no evidence of learning across test trials, suggesting that they possess these skills prior to their first exposure to these cues. Critically, over 40% of the variation in dogs’ point-following abilities and attention to human faces was attributable to genetic factors. Our results suggest that these social skills in dogs emerge early in development and are under strong genetic control.

Highlights

-

Genetic factors account for nearly half of variation in dog social skills

-

Puppies displayed social skills and interest in human faces from 8 weeks old

-

Puppies successfully used human gestures from the very first trial
Tumor-reactivity of δ2 negative γδT cells and the role of the γδT cell receptor
Authors: van Dooremalen Sanne , Janssen Anke , Bloemenkamp Lauri , Yonika Austin , Beringer Dennis X. , Kuball Jürgen
Published: March 2021

αβT cells engineered to express a defined γδTCR (TEG) to attack cancer cells have shown great promise when using a γ9δ2TCR to redirect αβT cells (1–9). Reports by us (1–9) and recent reports by others (10, 11) support the key role of the γ9δ2TCR in cancer recognition. We further emphasized the crucial role of the δTCR chain and that differences in CDR3 sequences of the δTCR chain modulates functional avidity of TEGs (2, 8). We and others demonstrated that also δ2 negative γδTCRs are able to redirect αβT cells towards different tumor cell lines (12–15). However, some studies suggest that δ2 negative γδTCRs play a minor role in the tumor recognition by δ2 negative γδT cells (16, 17). In addition for both modes of action for tumor-recognition, δ2 negative γδTCR-dependent and -independent, it has been suggested that CMV infection is not only a major driver of δ2 negative γδT cell expansion (18) but also induces tumor-cross reactive δ2 negative γδT cells (19–21). Therefore, we aimed to systematically explore frequencies of tumor reactive δ2 negative γδT cells in naïve repertoires (cord blood) and patients with or without CMV infection and examined the potential role the parental δ2 negative γδTCR in anti-tumor reactivity of selected clones. We observed that approximately 30% of all tested clones were tumor-reactive, though no differences were observed between different sources. Surprisingly, none of the so far tested γδTCR did mediate strong anti-tumor reactivity of the parental clones. Though numbers of tested TCR sequences are still low, our data imply that tumor-reactivity of δ2 negative γδT cells is frequently not mediated by the δ2 negative γδTCR alone.
Real Time Face Recognition with limited training data: Feature Transfer Learning integrating CNN and Sparse Approximation
Authors: Bajpai Supriya , Mishra Gargi
Published: March 2021

It is highly challenging to obtain high performance with limited and unconstrained data in real time face recognition applications. Sparse Approximation is a fast and computationally efficient method for the above application as it requires no training time as compared to deep learning methods. It eliminates the training time by assuming that the test image can be approximated by the sum of individual contributions of the training images from different classes and the class with maximum contribution is closest to the test image. The efficiency of the Sparse Approximation method can be further increased by providing high quality features as input for classification. Hence, we propose to integrate pre-trained CNN architecture to extract the highly discriminative features from the image dataset for Sparse classification. The proposed approach provides better performance even for one training image per class in complex environment as compared to the existing methods. Highlight of the present approach is the results obtained for LFW dataset with one and thirteen training images per class are 84.86% and 96.14% respectively, whereas the existing deep learning methods use a large amount of training data to achieve comparable results.
Beyond single discrete responses: An integrative and multidimensional analysis of behavioral dynamics assisted by Machine Learning
Authors: Leon Alejandro , Hernandez-Eslava Varsovia , Lopez Juan , Guzman Isiris , Quintero Victor , Toledo Porfirio , Avendaño Martha Lorena , Hernandez-Linares Carlos , Escamilla Esteban
Published: March 2021

Behavioral systems, understanding it as an emergent system comprising the environment and organism subsystems, include spatial dynamics as a primary dimension in natural settings. Nevertheless, under the standard approaches, the experimental analysis of behavior is based on the single response paradigm and the temporal distribution of discrete responses. Thus, the continuous analysis of spatial behavioral dynamics has been a scarcely studied field. The technological advancements in computer vision have opened new methodological perspectives for the continuous sensing of spatial behavior. With the application of such advancements, recent studies suggest that there are multiple features embedded in the spatial dynamics of behavior, such as entropy, and that they are affected by programmed stimuli (e.g., schedules of reinforcement), at least, as much as features related to discrete responses. Despite the progress, the characterization of behavioral systems is still segmented, and integrated data analysis and representations between discrete responses and continuous spatial behavior are exiguous in the Experimental Analysis of Behavior. Machine Learning advancements, such as t-SNE, variable ranking, provide invaluable tools to crystallize an integrated approach for analyzing and representing multidimensional behavioral data. Under this rationale, the present work: 1) proposes a multidisciplinary approach for the integrative and multilevel analysis of behavioral systems, 2) provides sensitive behavioral measures based on spatial dynamics and helpful data representations to study behavioral systems, and 3) reveals behavioral aspects usually ignored under the standard approaches in the experimental analysis of behavior. To exemplify and evaluate our approach, the spatial dynamics embedded in phenomena relevant to behavioral science, namelywater-seeking behavior, andmotivational operations, are examined, showing aspects of behavioral systems hidden until now.
Crystal structure and enantiomeric layer disorder of a copper(I) nitrate π-coordination compound
Authors: Kowalska Dorota A. , Kinzhybalo Vasyl , Slyvka Yuriy I. , Wołcyrz Marek
Published: March 2021

The novel π-coordination compound [CuI(m-dmphast)NO3], wherem-dmphast= 5-(allylthio)-1-(3,5-dimethylphenyl)-1H-tetrazole, is characterized using single-crystal X-ray diffraction and crystallizes in a noncentrosymmetric space group. Additionally, for the first time in this group of materials, the streaks of X-ray diffuse scattering in the reciprocal space sections were observed and described. This gave the possibility for a deeper insight into the local structure of the title compound. The conjecture about the origin of diffuse scattering was derived from average structure solution. It was then confirmed using the local structure modelling. The extended [Cu(m-dmphast)NO3]∞chains, connected by weak interactions, produce layers which can exist in two enantiomeric forms, one of which predominates.
Is local the new organic? Empirical evidence from German regions
Authors: Winterstein Julia , Habisch André
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper measures German customers' label-depending preference and willingness to pay for organic and local food.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample covers 325 survey respondents from 12 out of the 16 German federal states. Data was collected through convenience sampling in December 2019. A choice-based conjoint analysis was operated.

Findings

Customers value local food from their federal state most, thereby accepting a price premium of no less than 200%. The label moderates the influence of organic production conditions on price acceptance significantly.

Research limitations/implications

Based on self-reported data from a convenience sample, the demographic distribution of the sample differs from that of the German population. Moreover, the willingness to pay was found to be product-specific, limiting general applicability.

Practical implications

Marketers should focus on local and local organic food in the assortment. Marketing strategies should include information campaigns. Producers may sell their products regionally or cooperate with local retailers. Introducing a separate official “local organic” label is suggested.

Originality/value

The study provides detailed evidence on the preference of German costumers and suggests a significantly higher willingness to pay for organic and local food than previous literatures.
The nexus between diversity management (DM) and organizational performance (OP): mediating role of cognitive and affective diversity
Authors: Showkat Shagufta , Misra Siddharth
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Present day organizations are considering workforce diversity as one of the main challenges in the human resource management. This study aims to find out the relationship between diversity management (DM) in the context of strategic human resource management (SHRM) and organizational performance (OP). An attempt is made to find out the mediation effect of cognitive diversity (CD) and affective diversity (AD) in the relationship between DM and OP.

Design/methodology/approach

The constructs investigated in the present study include DM, OP, CD and AD. Structural equation modeling has been used to test the model fit. The data was collected from 50 human resource professionals working in different organizations in the information technology (IT) sector in Bangalore, India. Confirmatory factor analysis has been used for establishing the reliability.

Findings

The results show that there exists a significant relationship between DM and OP. This significant positive relationship can be attributed to the mediating role of CD and significant negative relationship is because of the AD.

Research limitations/implications

This study has several limitations. In this study, only three DM practices have been considered. The generalization of the results is another limitation as the study has been conducted in the IT sector in Bangalore, India. Similarly, sample size also affects the implications of an empirical study and sample size in this study is small. This study has investigated only the impact of two aspects of diversity, cognitive and affective, while neglecting the effect of communicational and symbolic processes.

Practical implications

The results indicate that organizations must consider that by providing intercultural trainings (ICTs), work–life balance (WLB) and work-time flexibility options, the negative aspects of diversity can be minimized. Moreover, organizations should encourage the task conflict which leads to better decision-making as well as creates a sense of group identification, which may help in the avoidance of negative consequences of AD.

Originality/value

This study is undertaken to find out the effect of certain diversity-oriented SHRM practices such as flexible working times, WLB, ICT and its impact on the OP in the Indian IT industry. This study has investigated the mediating role of CD and AD on the relationship between diversity-oriented SHRM practices and OP, which is the novelty of this study. Third, the study has been undertaken considering that there is a dearth of research on the impact of AD and CD on OP in the Indian context.
The real losers during times of economic crisis: evidence of the Korean gender pay gap
Authors: Patterson Louise , Benuyenah Vic
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of the employment figures in the labour market after the two Korean financial crises (1997 and 2008), focusing on the gender gap across different characteristics. Based on several data points, a general trend becomes evident whereby, as companies retrenched, they shifted the demographics of their employees to those perceived as most valuable, i.e. workers with university educations. However, when distinguished by gender, it is evident that their priorities changed. This discovery suggests that as the world faces another global health crisis (COVID-19) with its associated impact on organisational retrenchment, the gender gap in Korea could widen further.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was conducted by applying a simple compounded average growth rate (CAGR) analysis to determine the impact of the two crises on employment by the educational level.

Findings

A general trend becomes evident whereby, as companies retrenched, they shifted the demographics of their employees to those perceived as most valuable, i.e. workers with university educations. However, when distinguished by gender, it is evident that their priorities changed.

Research limitations/implications

Secondary data were used for the analysis as data for unemployed, who had given up looking for work, were not available.

Practical implications

Managers can use the findings when making decisions about laying-off staff during times of financial/economic crisis.

Social implications

There is a perceived negative impact upon highly educated Korean women.

Originality/value

The paper advances the pay gap literature by providing evidence from Korea. CAGR analysis has never been used previously in analysing the pattern of labour market data to reveal gender discrimination. With a global health crisis (COVID-19) with its associated impact on organisational retrenchment, the gender gap in Korea could widen further.
Safety effects of work zone advisory systems under the intelligent connected vehicle environment: a microsimulation approach
Authors: Mao Suyi , Xiao Guiming , Lee Jaeyoung , Wang Ling , Wang Zijin , Huang Helai
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the safety effects of work zone advisory systems. The traditional system includes a dynamic message sign (DMS), whereas the advanced system includes an in-vehicle work zone warning application under the connected vehicle (CV) environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative analysis was conducted based on the microsimulation experiments.

Findings

The results indicate that the CV-based warning system outperforms the DMS. From this study, the optimal distances of placing a DMS varies according to different traffic conditions. Nevertheless, negative influence of excessive distance DMS placed from the work zone would be more obvious when there is heavier traffic volume. Thus, it is recommended that the optimal distance DMS placed from the work zone should be shortened if there is a traffic congestion. It was also revealed that higher market penetration rate of CVs will lead to safer network under good traffic conditions.

Research limitations/implications

Because this study used only microsimulation, the results do not reflect the real-world drivers’ reactions to DMS and CV warning messages. A series of driving simulator experiments need to be conducted to capture the real driving behaviors so as to investigate the unresolved-related issues. Human machine interface needs be used to simulate the process of in-vehicle warning information delivery. The validation of the simulation model was not conducted because of the data limitation.

Practical implications

It suggests for the optimal DMS placement for improving the overall efficiency and safety under the CV environment.

Originality/value

A traffic network evaluation method considering both efficiency and safety is proposed by applying traffic simulation.
Leadership in startup communities: how incubator leaders develop a regional entrepreneurial ecosystem
Authors: Roundy Philip T.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Scholars are increasingly adopting an ecosystems perspective focused on the complex systems of factors that influence organizations. A type of ecosystem that is receiving significant academic and practitioner attention is the entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE): the interconnected system of actors and forces that supports or hinders entrepreneurship in a geographic area. However, the role that leaders play in ecosystem development, particularly in unmunificent contexts, has received little attention. The purpose of this study was to investigate EE leadership and development and induce a theory explaining how it unfolds.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive research design was combined with the case study methodology to analyze the leadership of an entrepreneurial support organization (an incubator) and its role in developing an entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Findings

The findings revealed that incubator leaders constructed a dynamic leadership model that evolved as the EE developed and was tailored to the region's strengths and weaknesses.

Originality/value

The study contributes to research at the nexus of leadership and entrepreneurship by introducing a new level of analysis (the meta-organization), focusing on an underexamined leader type (the support organization) and emphasizing the interplay between leadership and regional characteristics.
Modeling size-dependent thermal-mechanical behaviors of shape memory polymer Timoshenko micro-beam
Authors: Zhao Fei , Zheng Xueyao , Zhou Shichen , Zhou Bo , Xue Shifeng
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In this paper, a three-dimensional size-dependent constitutive model of SMP Timoshenko micro-beam is developed to describe the micromechanical properties.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the Hamilton's principle, the equilibrium equations and boundary conditions of the model are established and according to the modified couple stress theory, the model is available to capturing the size effect because of the material length scale parameter. Based on the model, the simply supported beam was taken for example to be solved and simulated.

Findings

Results show that the size effect of SMP micro-beam is more obvious when the dimensionless beam height is similar or the larger of the value of loading time. The rigidity and strength of the SMP beam decrease with the increasing of the dimensionless beam height or the loading time. The viscous property of SMP micro-beam plays a more important role with the larger dimensionless beam height. And the smaller the dimensionless beam height is, the more obvious the shape memory effect of the SMP micro-beam is.

Originality/value

This work implies prediction of size-dependent thermo-mechanical behaviors of the SMP micro-beam and will provide a theoretical basis for design SMP microstructures in the field of micro/nanomechanics.
The effects of internal, external and aggregated CSR practices on the firm's reputation and profitability
Authors: Chapagain Bal Ram
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Contemplating the concerns often expressed by skeptics about the value generated by corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices, this study aims to examine the effects of CSR practices on the firm's reputation and profitability in the distinct socio-economic context of Nepal.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a simple random sampling method in collecting data from 168 listed companies in Nepal. The data were collected using structured questionnaires. Then, hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to test the stated hypotheses.

Findings

Results showed that all types of CSR practices positively affect the firm's reputation and profitability. However, a firm's reputation was better explained by the external CSR practices, and profitability was better explained by the internal CSR practices. Moreover, CSR practices were more strongly linked with the firm's reputation than profitability.

Research limitations/implications

Perceptual data on profitability may be seen as a limitation although it can capture the current profitability situation as well as a future prospect within a single construct.

Practical implications

Practicing managers can consider CSR as an important strategic issue to stay ahead in competition rather than simply a response to regulatory requirements or stakeholder pressures.

Originality/value

Perhaps this is the first study to examine the effects of internal CSR practices, external CSR practices, and aggregated CSR practices separately on the firm's reputation and profitability in the unique socio-economic context of Nepal.
The consensus Nglyco‐X‐S/T motif and a previously unknown Nglyco‐N‐linked glycosylation are necessary for growth and pathogenicity of Phytophthora
Authors: Zhang Can , Cai Meng , Chen Shanshan , Zhang Fan , Cui Tongshan , Xue Zhaolin , Wang Weizhen , Zhang Borui , Liu Xili
Published: March 2021

Asparagine (Asn, N)‐linked glycosylation within Nglyco‐X‐S/T; X ≠ P motif is a ubiquitously distributed post‐translational modification that participates in diverse cellular processes. In this work, N‐glycosylation inhibitor was shown to prevent Phytophthora sojae growth, suggesting that N‐glycosylation is necessary for oomycete development. We conducted a glycoproteomic analysis of P. sojae to identify and map N‐glycosylated proteins and to quantify differentially expressed glycoproteins associated with mycelia, asexual cyst, and sexual oospore developmental stages. A total of 355 N‐glycosylated proteins was found, containing 496 glycosites, potentially involved in glycan degradation, carbon metabolism, glycolysis, or other metabolic pathways. Through PNGase F deglycosylation assays and site‐directed mutagenesis of a GPI transamidase protein (GPI16) upregulated in cysts and a heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) upregulated in oospores, we demonstrated that both proteins were N‐glycosylated and that the Nglyco‐N motif is a target site for asparagine – oligosaccharide linkage. Glycosite mutations of Asn 94 Nglyco‐X‐S/T in the GPI16 led to impaired cyst germination and pathogenicity, while mutation of the previously unknown Asn 270 Nglyco‐N motif in HSP70 led to decreased oospore production. In addition to providing a map of the oomycete N‐glycoproteome, this work confirms that P. sojae has evolved multiple N‐glycosylation motifs essential for growth.
Ground‐Rent and Capital Accumulation in Australia
Authors: Grinberg Nicolás
Published: March 2021

This paper presents an original estimation of the size of the ground‐rent appropriated by competing social subjects in the Australian economy over the long term, and of several economic variables necessary to accomplish that measurement. The paper also assesses the relative importance of ground‐rent in total surplus‐value and the Australian process of capital accumulation, finding that it constitutes a significant portion. Finally, the paper estimates the determinants of the ground‐rent yielded by mining lands used to produced iron ore and mineral coal during the recent ‘commodities price boom’, stressing the importance of the location factor.