bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Observation of Electrically Conductive Pili Emanating fromGeobacter sulfurreducens
Authors: Liu Xinying , Walker David J. F. , Nonnenmann Stephen S. , Sun Dezhi , Lovley Derek R.
Published: July 2021

Geobacter sulfurreducensis a model microbe for elucidating the mechanisms for extracellular electron transfer in several biogeochemical cycles, bioelectrochemical applications, and microbial metal corrosion. Multiple lines of evidence previously suggested that electrically conductive pili (e-pili) are an essential conduit for long-range extracellular electron transport inG. sulfurreducens. However, it has recently been reported thatG. sulfurreducensdoes not express e-pili and that filaments comprised of multi-hemec-type cytochromes are responsible for long-range electron transport. This possibility was directly investigated by examining cells, rather than filament preparations, with atomic force microscopy. Approximately 90 % of the filaments emanating from wild-type cells had a diameter (3 nm) and conductance consistent with previous reports of e-pili harvested fromG. sulfurreducensor heterologously expressed inE. colifrom theG. sulfurreducenspilin gene. The remaining 10% of filaments had a morphology consistent with filaments comprised of thec-type cytochrome OmcS. A strain expressing a modified pilin gene designed to yield poorly conductive pili expressed 90 % filaments with a 3 nm diameter, but greatly reduced conductance, further indicating that the 3 nm diameter conductive filaments in the wild-type strain were e-pili. A strain in which genes for five of the most abundant outer-surfacec-type cytochromes, including OmcS, was deleted yielded only 3 nm diameter filaments with the same conductance as in the wild-type. These results demonstrate that e-pili are the most abundant conductive filaments expressed byG. sulfurreducens, consistent with previous functional studies demonstrating the need for e-pili for long-range extracellular electron transfer.

Importance

Electroactive microbes have significant environmental impacts as well as applications in bioenergy and bioremediation. The composition, function, and even existence of electrically conductive pili (e-pili) has been one of the most contentious areas of investigation in electromicrobiology, in part because e-pili offer a mechanism for long-range electron transport that does not involve the metal co-factors common in much of biological electron transport. This study demonstrates that e-pili are abundant filaments emanating fromGeobacter sulfurreducens, which serves as a model for long-range extracellular electron transfer in direct interspecies electron transfer, dissimilatory metal reduction, microbe-electrode exchange, and corrosion caused by direct electron uptake from Fe(0). The methods described in this study provide a simple strategy for evaluating the distribution of conductive filaments throughout the microbial world with an approach that avoids artifactual production and/or enrichment of filaments that may not be physiologically relevant.
The core root microbiome of Spartina alterniflora is predominated by sulfur-oxidizing and sulfate-reducing bacteria in Georgia salt marshes, USA
Authors: Rolando Jose L. , Kolton Max , Song Tianze , Kostka J.E.
Published: July 2021

Background

Salt marshes are dominated by the smooth cordgrass Spartina alterniflora on the US Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coastlines. Although soil microorganisms are well known to mediate important biogeochemical cycles in salt marshes, little is known about the role of root microbiomes in supporting the health and productivity of marsh plant hosts. Leveraging in situ gradients in aboveground plant biomass as a natural laboratory, we investigated the relationships between S. alterniflora primary productivity, sediment redox potential, and the physiological ecology of bulk sediment, rhizosphere, and root microbial communities at two Georgia barrier islands over two growing seasons.

Results

A marked decrease in prokaryotic alpha diversity with high abundance and increased phylogenetic dispersion was found in the S. alterniflora root microbiome. Significantly higher rates of enzymatic organic matter decomposition, as well as the relative abundances of putative sulfur (S)-oxidizing, sulfate-reducing, and nitrifying prokaryotes correlated with plant productivity. Moreover, these functional guilds were overrepresented in the S. alterniflora rhizosphere and root core microbiomes. Core microbiome bacteria from the Candidatus Thiodiazotropha genus, with the metabolic potential to couple S oxidation with C and N fixation, were shown to be highly abundant in the root and rhizosphere of S. alterniflora.

Conclusions

The S. alterniflora root microbiome is dominated by highly active and competitive species taking advantage of available carbon substrates in the oxidized root zone. Two microbially-mediated mechanisms are proposed to stimulate S. alterniflora primary productivity: (i.) Enhanced microbial activity replenishes nutrients and terminal electron acceptors in higher biomass stands, and (ii.) coupling of chemolithotrophic S oxidation with carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) fixation by root and rhizosphere associated prokaryotes detoxify sulfide in the root zone while potentially transferring fixed C and N to the host plant.
Oxidative phosphorylation safeguards pluripotency via UDP-N-acetylglucosamine
Authors: Cao Jiani , Li Meng , Liu Kun , Shi Xingxing , Sui Ning , Yao Yuchen , Wang Xiaojing , Tan Shaojing , Zhao Qian , Wang Liang , Chai Xiahua , Zhang Lin , Liu Chong , Li Xing , Chang Zhijie , Li Dong , Zhao Tongbiao
Published: July 2021

The roles of mitochondrial respiration in pluripotency remain largely unknown. We show here that mouse ESC mitochondria possess superior respiration capacity compared to somatic cell mitochondria, and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) generates the majority of cellular ATP in ESCs. Inhibition of OXPHOS results in extensive pluripotency and metabolic gene expression reprogram, leading to disruption of self-renewal and pluripotency. Metabolomics profiling identifies UDP-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc) as one of the most significantly decreased metabolites in response to OXPHOS inhibition. The loss of ESC identity induced by OXPHOS inhibition can be ameliorated by directly adding GlcNAc both in vitro and in vivo. This work demonstrates that mitochondrial respiration, but not glycolysis, produces the majority of ATP in ESCs, and uncovers a novel mechanism whereby mitochondrial respiration is coupled with the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway to generate UDP-GlcNAc for ESC identity maintenance.

SIGNIFICANCE

Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and glycolysis are the two major pathways for generating ATP in mammalian cells. It is widely assumed that somatic cells utilize OXPHOS, whereas embryonic stem cells (ESCs) utilize glycolysis with low mitochondrial respiration rates even under aerobic conditions. However, the relative contribution of OXPHOS and glycolysis to ATP generation in ESCs, and the role of mitochondrial respiration in regulating ESC identity, have remained unclear. In this study, Cao et al demonstrate that mouse ESC mitochondria have a significantly higher respiration capacity than somatic cell mitochondria. Oxidative phosphorylation produces the majority of cellular ATP in mESCs and is coupled with the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway to generate UDP-GlcNAc for pluripotency maintenance. These findings define the function and mechanism of OXPHOS in regulating pluripotency, and challenge the traditional concept that mESCs rely on glycolysis over OXPHOS for their major supply of energy.

HIGHLIGHTS

ESC mitochondria have a significantly higher respiration capability than somatic cell mitochondria

OXPHOS, but not glycolysis, produces the majority of cellular ATP in ESCs

OXPHOS inhibition induces a decrease in O-GlcNAcylation and the expression of pluripotency genes in blastocysts that can be partially rescued by adding GlcNAc

OXPHOS is coupled with the hexosamine biosynthesis pathway for UDP-GlcNAc biosynthesis to maintain ESC identity
Vibrio cholerae motility in aquatic and mucus-mimicking environments
Authors: Grognot Marianne , Mittal Anisha , Mah’moud Mattia , Taute Katja M.
Published: July 2021

Cholera disease is caused by Vibrio cholerae infecting the lining of the small intestine and results in severe diarrhea. V. cholerae’s swimming motility is known to play a crucial role in pathogenicity and may aid the bacteria in crossing the intestinal mucus barrier to reach sites of infection, but the exact mechanisms are unknown. The cell can be either pushed or pulled by its single polar flagellum, but there is no consensus on the resulting repertoire of motility behaviors.

We use high-throughput 3D bacterial tracking to observe V. cholerae swimming in buffer, in viscous solutions of the synthetic polymer PVP, and in mucin solutions that may mimic the host environment. We perform a statistical characterization of its motility behavior on the basis of large 3D trajectory datasets. We find that V. cholerae performs asymmetric run-reverse-flick motility, consisting of a sequence of a forward run, reversal, and a shorter backward run, followed by a turn by approximately 90°, called a flick, preceding the next forward run. Unlike many run-reverse-flick swimmers, V. cholerae’s backward runs are much shorter than its forward runs, resulting in an increased effective diffusivity. We also find that the swimming speed is not constant, but subject to frequent decreases. The turning frequency in mucin matches that observed in buffer. Run-reverse-flick motility and speed fluctuations are present in all environments studied, suggesting that these behaviors may also occur in natural aquatic habitats as well as the host environment.

Importance

Cholera disease produces vomiting and severe diarrhea and causes approximately 100,000 deaths per year worldwide. The disease is caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae colonizing the lining of the small intestine. V. cholerae’s ability to swim is known to increase its infectivity, but the underlying mechanisms are not known. One possibility is that swimming may aid in crossing the protective mucus barrier that covers the lining of the small intestine. Our work characterizing how V. cholerae swims in environments that mimic properties of the host environment may advance the understanding of how motility contributes to infection.
Dual-lipid metabolomics revealed the communication of MTB or MB with Bovine alveolar macrophages in lipid metabolisms
Authors: Gao Weifeng , Cai Yurong , Zhang Gang , Wang Xiaoping , Wang Juan , Li Yong , Wang Yujiong
Published: July 2021

M. tuberculosis(MTB) and M. bovis(MB) of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) are the causative agents of the notorious infectious disease tuberculosis(TB) in a range of mammals, including cattle and human. The lipid composition of MTB/MB performed imperative function as invading host macrophage. In the present study, a dual-lipid metabolomics were used to elucidate the differences in lipid composition of MTB and MB and the different responses in lipid metabolisms of bovine alveolar macrophage challenged by MTB/MB. The lipid metabolomics of MTB and MB indicated that there were significant differences in lipid composition of both bacteria that the level of various lipids belonged to Glycerophospholipids, Sterol Lipids, Fatty Acyls and Polyketides exhibited differences between MTB and MB. Meanwhile, both MTB and MB with different lipid composition could invoked different responses in lipid metabolisms of the host macrophage. MTB infection mainly induced the increase in content of Polyketides and Glycerophospholipids in macrophages, whereas MB infection induced the level of Glycerophospholipids and Sterol Lipids of macrophages. Furthermore, we identified TAG 13:0-18:5-18:5 of MTB and PC(16:1(9E)/0:0), PI(20:2(11Z,14Z)/22:6(4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)), 4,6-Decadiyn-1-ol isovalerate and LacCer(d18:1/24:1(15Z)) of MB caused the different variations in lipid metabolisms of macrophage following MTB/MB attacks, respectively. Finally, we proposed MTB and MB with different lipid compositions could successfully colonize in macrophage by different mechanisms that MTB could promote the formation of foam cells of macrophage for its colonization and development, while MB mainly through suppressing the macrophage autophagy to escape the immune responses of host.

Importance

The differences in lipid composition of MTB and MB and the different responses in lipid metabolisms of bovine alveolar macrophage challenged by MTB/MB were elucidated in this study. The lipid composition of MTB and MB exhibited significantly different patterns, which could induced different responses of the host macrophage during the infection process of MTB or MB, respectively. MTB infection mainly induced the increase in content of Polyketides and Glycerophospholipids in macrophages, whereas MB infection induced the level of Glycerophospholipids and Sterol Lipids of macrophages.The results presented here thus provides a comprehensively dual-lipid metabolomics profile in MTB/MB and MTB/MB-attacked macrophages, which deepened our understanding of the interaction between host and pathogens in lipid metabolisms.
Missense variants affecting the actin-binding domains of PLS3 cause X-linked congenital diaphragmatic hernia and body wall defects
Authors: Petit Florence , Longoni Mauro , Wells Julie , Maser Richard , Dysart Matthew J. , Contreras Hannah T.M. , Frénois Frederic , Bogenschutz Eric , Pober Barbara R. , Clark Robin D. , Giampietro Philip F. , Ropers Hilger H. , Hu Hao , Loscertales Maria , Ai Xingbin , Brand Harrison , Jourdain Anne-Sophie , Delrue Marie-Ange , Gilbert-Dussardier Brigitte , Devisme Louise , Keren Boris , McCulley David J. , Qiao Lu , Hernan Rebecca , Wynn Julia , Scott Tiana M. , Calame Daniel G. , Coban-Akdemir Zeynep , Hernandez Patricia , Hernandez-Garcia Andres , Yonath Hagith , Lupski James R. , Shen Yufeng , Chung Wendy K. , Scott Daryl A. , Bult Carol J. , Donahoe Patricia K. , High Frances A.
Published: July 2021

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a relatively common and genetically heterogeneous structural birth defect associated with high mortality and morbidity. We describe eight unrelated families with a novel X-linked condition characterized by diaphragm defects, variable anterior body wall anomalies, and/or facial dysmorphism. Using linkage analysis and whole exome or whole genome sequencing, we identified novel missense variants in the actin binding domains of plastin 3 (PLS3), a gene encoding an actin bundling protein, that co-segregate with disease in all families. Loss-of-function variants in PLS3 have been described previously in association with X-linked osteoporosis. To address these seemingly disparate clinical phenotypes, we performed in silico protein modeling and cellular overexpression experiments, which suggest that the affected residues in individuals with CDH are important for actin binding and result in disorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and a reduction in normal actin stress fiber formation. A mouse knock-in model of a variant identified in one of the families, p.W499C, shows partial perinatal lethality and recapitulates the key findings of the human phenotype, including diaphragm and abdominal wall defects. Both the mouse model and one surviving adult patient with a PLS3 variant were observed to have increased, rather than decreased, bone mineral density. Together, these clinical and functional data in human and mouse reveal that specific missense variants affecting the actin binding domains of PLS3 may have a gain-of-function effect and cause a new Mendelian disorder.
Sensitivity of SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests with late convalescent sera
Authors: Kannenberg Judith , Schnurra Carolin , Reiners Nina , Henschler Reinhard , Buhmann Raymund , Kaiser Thorsten , Biemann Ronald , Hönemann Mario , Ackermann Grit , Trawinski Henning , Jassoy Christian
Published: July 2021

SARS-CoV-2-specific IgM antibodies wane during the first three months after infection and IgG antibody levels decline. This may limit the ability of antibody tests to identify previous SARS CoV-2 infection at later time points. To examine if the sensitivity of antibody tests falls off, we compared the sensitivity of two nucleoprotein-based antibody tests, the Roche Elecsis II Anti-SARS-CoV-2 and the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG assay and three glycoprotein-based tests, the Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant, Siemens Atellica IM COV2T and Euroimmun SARS-CoV-2 assay with 56 sera obtained 6-8 months after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The sensitivity of the Roche, Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG II Quant and Siemens antibody assays was 94.6 % (95% confidence interval (CI) 85.1-98.9 %), 98.2 % (95% CI: 90.4-99.9 %) and 100 % (95% CI: 93.6-100 %). The sensitivity of the N-based Abbott SARS-CoV-2 IgG and the glycoprotein-based Euroimmun ELISA was 48.2 % (95% CI: 34.7-62.0 %) and 83.9 % (95% CI: 71.7-92.4 %). The nucleoprotein-based Roche and the glycoprotein-based Abbott RBD and Siemens tests were more sensitive than the N-based Abbott and the Euroimmun antibody tests (p=0.0001 to p=0.039). The N-based Abbott antibody test was less sensitive 6-8 months than 4-10 weeks after SARS-CoV-2 infection (p = 0.0002). The findings show that most SARS CoV-2 antibody assays correctly identified previous infection 6-8 months after infection. The sensitivity of pan-Ig antibody tests was not reduced at 6-8 months when IgM antibodies have usually disappeared. However, one of the nucleoprotein-based antibody tests significantly lost sensitivity over time.

Highlights

Most antibody tests correctly identified SARS CoV-2 infection 6-8 months after infection

The sensitivity of the antibody tests was 48.2-100 %

The three tests with the highest sensitivity (94.6-100 %) were the N-based Roche and the RBD-based Abbott and Siemens assays

The N-based Abbott IgG CMIA was significantly less sensitive 6-8 months than 4-10 weeks after infection (p = 0.0002)
SARS-CoV-2 IgG detection in human oral fluids
Authors: Hoschler Katja , Ijaz Samreen , Andrews Nick , Ho Sammy , Dicks Steve , Jegatheesan Keerthana , Poh John , Warrener Lenesha , Kankeyan Thivya , Baawuah Frances , Beckmann Joanne , Okike Ifeanichukwu O , Ahmad Shazaad , Garstang Joanna , Brent Andrew J , Brent Bernadette , Aiano Felicity , Brown Kevin E , Ramsay Mary E , Brown David , Parry John V , Ladhani Shamez N , Zambon Maria
Published: July 2021

Seroepidemiological studies to monitor antibody kinetics are important for assessing the extent and spread of SARS-CoV-2 in a population. Non-invasive sampling methods are advantageous to reduce the need for venepuncture, which may be a barrier to investigations particularly in paediatric populations. Oral Fluids are obtained by gingiva-crevicular sampling from children and adults and are very well accepted. ELISA based on these samples have acceptable sensitivity and specificity compared to conventional serum-based antibody ELISAs and are suitable for population-based surveillance.

We describe the development and evaluation of SARS-COV-2 IgG ELISAs using SARS-CoV-2 viral nucleoprotein (NP) and spike (S) proteins in IgG isotype capture format and an indirect receptor-binding-domain (RBD) IgG ELISA, intended for use in children. All three assays were assessed using a panel of 1999 paired serum and oral fluids from children and adults participating in national primary school SARS-CoV-2 surveillance studies during and after the first and second pandemic wave in the UK. The anti NP IgG capture assay was the best candidate, with an overall sensitivity of 75% (95% CI: 71–79%) specificity of 99% (95% CI: 78–99%) when compared with paired serum antibodies measured using a commercial assay SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein IgG assay (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA). Higher sensitivity was observed in children (80%, 95% CI: 71–88%) compared to adults (67%, CI: 60%-74%). Oral fluid assays using spike protein and RBD antigens were also 99% specific and achieved reasonable but lower sensitivity in the target population (78%, 95% CI (68%-86%) and 53%, 95% CI (43%-64%), respectively).

Conclusion statement

Oral Fluid assays based on the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are a suitable tool for population based seroepidemiology studies in children.
Dynamic Apical-Basal Enrichment of the F-Actin during Cytokinesis in Arabidopsis Cells Embedded in their Tissues
Authors: Lebecq Alexis , Fangain Aurélie , Boussaroque Alice , Caillaud Marie-Cécile
Published: July 2021

During the life cycle of any multicellular organism, cell division contributes to the proliferation of the cell in the tissues as well as the generation of specialized cells, both necessary to form a functional organism. Therefore, the mechanisms of cell division need to be tightly regulated, as malfunctions in their control can lead to tumor formation or developmental defects. This is particularly true in land plants, where cells cannot relocate and therefore cytokinesis is key for morphogenesis. In the green lineage, cell division is executed in radically different manners than animals, with the appearance of new structures (the preprophase band (PPB), cytokinetic the cell plate and phragmoplast), and the disappearance of ancestral mechanisms (cleavage, centrosomes). While F-actin and microtubules closely co-exist to allow the orientation and the progression of the plant cell division, recent studies mainly focused on the microtubule’s involvement in this key process. Here, we used our recently developed root tracking system to follow actin dynamics in dividing Arabidopsis meristematic root cells. In this study, we imaged in time and space the fluorescent-tagged F-actin reporter Lifeact together with cell division markers in dividing cells embedded in their tissues. In addition to the F-actin accumulation’s in the phragmoplasts, we observed and quantified a dynamic apical-basal enrichment of the F-actin during cytokinesis. The role and the possible actors responsible for F-actin dynamics during cytokinesis are discussed.
Distinct mitochondrial remodeling during early cardiomyocyte development in a human-based stem cell model
Authors: Mostafavi Sepideh , Balafkan Novin , Nitschke Pettersen Ina Katrine , Nido Gonzalo S. , Siller Richard , Tzoulis Charalampos , Sullivan Gareth , Bindoff Laurence A.
Published: July 2021

Given the considerable interest in using stem cells for modelling and treating disease, it is essential to understand what regulates self-renewal and differentiation. Remodeling of mitochondria and metabolism, with the shift from glycolysis to oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), play a fundamental role in maintaining pluripotency and stem cell fate. It has been suggested that metabolic ‘switch’ from glycolysis to OXPHOS is germ-layer specific as during early ectoderm commitment, glycolysis remains active while during the transition to mesoderm and endoderm lineages, it is downregulated. How mitochondria adapt during these metabolic changes and whether mitochondria remodeling is tissue specific remains unclear. Here we address the question of mitochondrial adaption by examining the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells to cardiac progenitors and further to functional cardiomyocytes. Contrary to recent findings in neuronal differentiation, we found that mitochondrial content decreases continuously during mesoderm differentiation, despite clear mitochondrial remodeling giving increased mitochondrial activity and higher levels of ATP-linked respiration. Thus, our work both highlights similarities in mitochondrial remodeling during the transition from pluripotent to multipotent state in ectodermal and mesodermal lineages, while at the same time demonstrating cell-lineage-specific adaptions upon further differentiation. Our results improve understanding of how mitochondria remodeling and the metabolism interact during differentiation and show that it is erroneous to assume that increased OXPHOS activity during differentiation requires a simultaneous expansion of mitochondrial content.

Summary statement

We found that mitochondrial content decreases continuously during mesoderm differentiation, despite clear mitochondrial remodeling giving increased mitochondrial activity and higher levels of ATP-linked respiration during mesoderm differentiation.
S18-phosphorylation of USP7 regulates interaction with TCEAL4 that defines specific complexes and potentially distinct functions
Authors: Querques Francesca , Darling Sarah , Cheetham-Wilkinson Izaak , Kim Robbert Q , Hapangama Dharani K , Sixma Titia K , Coulson Judy M
Published: July 2021

USP7 is a nuclear deubiquitylase (DUB) with multiple cancer-associated substrates for which selective inhibitors are available, yet it remains unclear how the pleiotropic effects of USP7 are regulated. We report that S18-phosphorylation does not influence USP7 catalytic activity but instead confers selectivity for protein interactions. In particular, non-S18-phosphorylatable USP7 preferentially interacts with USP11 and TRIM27, together with TCEAL1 and TCEAL4 whose functions are unknown. Intriguingly, USP7 can interact with two cellular forms of TCEAL4, but USP11 only interacts with a lower abundance K142 mono-ubiquitylated form (TCEAL4-Ub), which can scaffold a complex containing both DUBs. Whilst USP11 and TCEAL4 are both USP7 substrates, TCEAL4-Ub levels are specifically maintained by USP11 with their levels positively correlated in cancer cell lines. Together these data illustrate how USP7 phosphorylation and TCEAL4 ubiquitylation combine to define distinct USP7 complexes. As TCEAL4 itself interacts with proteins involved in ubiquitylation and various forms of DNA regulation, these complexes may direct cellular activity of USP7.
NGF-p75 signaling coordinates skeletal cell migration during bone repair
Authors: Xu Jiajia , Li Zhao , Tower Robert J. , Negri Stefano , Wang Yiyun , Meyers Carolyn A. , Sono Takashi , Qin Qizhi , Lu Amy , Xing Xin , McCarthy Edward F. , Clemens Thomas L. , James Aaron W.
Published: July 2021

Bone regeneration following injury is initiated by inflammatory signals and occurs in association with infiltration by sensory nerve fibers. Together, these events are believed to coordinate angiogenesis and tissue reprogramming, but the mechanism of coupling immune signals to re-innervation and osteogenesis is unknown. Here, we found that NGF is expressed following cranial bone injury and signals via p75 in resident mesenchymal osteogenic precursors to impact their migration into the damaged tissue. Mice lacking Ngf in myeloid cells demonstrated reduced migration of osteogenic precursors to the injury site with consequently delayed bone healing. These features were phenocopied by mice lacking p75 in Pdgfra+ osteoblast precursors. Single-cell transcriptomics identified mesenchymal subpopulations with potential roles in cell migration and immune response, altered in the context of p75 deletion. Together, these results identify the role of p75 signaling pathway in coordinating skeletal cell migration during early bone repair.
Integrated treatment of dual disorders in The Netherlands: a qualitative study of client experiences
Authors: Wamel Anneke van , Lempens Ankie , Neven Arjen
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Many clients who suffer from severe mental health problems also struggle with alcohol and drug use. And although there seems to be a consensus in most European countries that integrated treatment models (especially the integrated treatment of dual disorder clients model) are best fitted to help these clients, none of these have strong evidence, mostly owing to methodological limitations in the studies. This study aims to contribute to the knowledge of why integrated treatment is helpful by conducting in-depth interviews with dual disorder clients who are currently receiving integrated treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a qualitative thematic analysis using a timeline tool to elicit participants’ responses. In the interviews, dual diagnosis clients with severe problems reflected on their situation at admission, the care they received in integrated treatment and their opinions on positive and negative elements. The interviews were coded and analysed with MAXQDA.

Findings

In the analyses of the interviews, this study found three clusters of elements that clients indicated were the most helpful during their treatment and recovery process: trusting and meaningful relationship with the team, components of integrated treatment and organisation of care.

Originality/value

The findings emphasized the importance of working relationship in the treatment of complex and long-term problems. This has implications for the evaluation of these integrated treatment models which so far mainly focuses on specific interventions.
Self-efficacy, habit strength, health locus of control and response to the personalised nutrition Food4Me intervention study
Authors: J Stewart–Knox Barbara , Rankin Audrey , P Bunting Brendan , J Frewer Lynn , Celis-Morales Carlos , M Livingstone Katherine , Fischer Arnout R.H. , Poínhos Rui , Kuznesof Sharron , J Gibney Mike , Mathers John C.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Randomised controlled trials identify causal links between variables but not why an outcome has occurred. This analysis sought to determine how psychological factors assessed at baseline influenced response to personalised nutrition.

Design/methodology/approach

Web-based, randomised, controlled trial (RCT) was conducted across seven European countries. Volunteers, both male and female, aged over 18 years were randomised to either a non-personalised (control) or a personalised (treatment) dietary advice condition. Linear mixed model analysis with fixed effects was used to compare associations between internal and external health locus of control (HLoC), nutrition self-efficacy (NS-E) and self-report habit index (S-RHI) at baseline (N = 1444), with healthy eating index (HEI) and Mediterranean diet index (MDI) scores between conditions post-intervention (N = 763).

Findings

An increase in MDI scores was observed between baseline and six months in the treatment group which was associated with higher NS-E (p < 0.001), S-RHI (p < 0.001) and external HLoC (p < 0.001). Increase in HEI between baseline and six months in the treatment group was associated with higher NS-E (p < 0.001) and external HLoC (p = 0.009). Interaction between time and condition indicated increased HEI scores (p < 0.001), which were associated with higher S-RHI scores in the treatment than control group (p = 0.032). Internal HLoC had no effect on MDI or HEI.

Originality/value

Psychological factors associated with behaviour change need consideration when tailoring dietary advice. Those with weaker habit strength will require communication focussed upon establishing dietary habits and support in integrating advised changes into daily routine. Information on habit strength can also be used to inform how progress towards dietary goals is monitored and fed back to the individual. Those with stronger habit strength are more likely to benefit from personalised nutrition.
Strengthening the role of communication departments: A framework for positioning communication departments at the top of and throughout organizations
Authors: Brockhaus Jana , Zerfass Ansgar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Corporate communications is often less successful when it is competing for influence with neighboring functions such as marketing or sales within organizations. This article addresses the internal positioning of communication departments by developing a conceptual framework which helps to understand, analyze and optimize their standing in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a literature review across several disciplines (e.g. organizational communication, strategic management) and supported by 26 qualitative in-depth interviews with board members, executives and communicators in a global industry company. By combining the theoretical and empirical insights, a framework for positioning communication departments within organizations was developed.

Findings

The framework depicts seven strategies (e.g. expectation and impression management, supporting ambassadors from other departments) and three spheres of influence (organizational integration, internal perceptions and social capital) to strengthen the position of corporate communications.

Research limitations/implications

The conceptual framework has been supported by one case study so far, and future research may further develop and verify it by applying it to a larger number of companies in different industries.

Practical implications

Practitioners can use the framework as an analytical tool to reflect the current situation in their organization and identify opportunities for strengthening it.

Originality/value

This article introduces a novel view in the academic debate about the role and influence of corporate communications. It establishes a framework that helps to identify different drivers and strategies, and lays ground for future research.
Shared leadership and innovative behavior in scientific research teams: a dual psychological perspective
Authors: Liu Hongbo , Gao Suying , Xing Hui , Xu Long , Wang Yajie , Yu Qi
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the mechanism of shared leadership on team members’ innovative behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Paired questionnaires were collected from 89 scientific research teams in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region of China at two-time points with a time lag of 4 months. Then multilevel structural equation model method was applied to analyze the multiple mediating effects.

Findings

This study finds that: the form of shared leadership in scientific research teams of universities; shared leadership has a positive impact on team members’ innovative behavior; there are multiple mediations in the relationship including synchronization and sequence of creative self-efficacy and achievement motivation.

Originality/value

According to the “stimulus-organism-response” model, this paper has constructed a multi-level theoretical model that shared leadership influences individual innovation behavior and reveals the “black box” from the perspective of psychological mechanism. It not only verifies that “can-do” shapes “willing to do” but also makes up for the gap of an empirical test of the effectiveness of shared leadership in scientific research teams of universities. Besides, the formal scale of shared leadership in the Chinese situation is revised, which can provide a reference for future empirical research on shared leadership. The research conclusions provide new ideas for improving the management of scientific research teams in universities.
‘Big data’ patentometrics for R&D decision-making
Authors: Verma Charu , Suri Pradeep Kumar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the use of big data through patentometric insights for R&D decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assesses the inventive activity through ‘big data’ patents, registered by inventors worldwide, using WIPO Patentscope database. The objective is to use the insights from patentometrics for R&D decision-making. The data from WIPO PatentScope (https://patentscope.wipo.int/search/en/search.jsf) was searched for current patent scenario in area of ‘big data’. The data was further organized and cleaned using the Google ‘OpenRefine’. Data was pre-processed to remove all null values. Cleaned data was analyzed using programming language ‘R’, MS Excel (charts and Pivot tables) and free data visualization tool called ‘Tableau Public’, to get insights for R&D decision-making.

Findings

The key insights included trends (patents with years of publication), top technologies trending the current space, top organizations leading in these technologies and the top inventors who are publishing patents in these technologies through leading organizations were drawn. Details in Section 5 in the paper.

Research limitations/implications

Global patent data is multi-lingual and spreads across a set of multiple databases. Domain experts may be required to assess, identify and extract the relevant information for analysis and visualization of multi-lingual distributed data sets. Government organizations generally have multi-dimensional goals that may be more toward societal benefits. On the other hand, the commercial companies are more focused on profit. Therefore, the performance management process has to be really effective because it is critical for getting value in the government sector.

Practical implications

Insights from patent analytics serve as the important input to R&D managers as well as policymakers to assess the global needs to plan the national orientation according to the global market. This will help further for R&D projects prioritization, planning, budget allocations, human capital planning and other gamut of R&D management and decision-making.

Social implications

Facilitation for R&D institutions (government as well as private) to formulate the research strategy for the domains or research areas to delve into. R&D decisions will be completely data-driven making them more accurate, reliable, valid and informed. These insights are very relevant for policymakers as well to facilitate the need assessment to determine the National priorities, make improvements in meeting societal country-level challenges during the resource allocation at top and subsequently at all other levels.

Originality/value

Data analytics of global patents in “big data” till 2019 to get insights to facilitate R&D decision-making.
Assessing the integration of climate change adaptation and mitigation into national development planning of Ethiopia
Authors: Hirpha Hurgesa Hundera , Mpandeli Sylvester , Bantider Dagnew Amare , Chibsa Temesgen , Abebe Cherinet
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Policy framework has significant roles in minimizing the impact of climate change in agrarian societies like Ethiopia. The purpose of this paper is to assess the integration of issues related to climate change adaptation into the national development planning of Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research design, which depended on secondary and primary data sources, was used in this study. Data were collected from relevant documents. These were substantiated with field data gathered through key informant interviews and focus group discussions from participants identified using purposive sampling. Thematic analysis of the collected data was done by first considering the relevant documents and then comparing with the field data. During the analysis and interpretation, the results were combined to explain, confirm, refute and/or enrich the data obtained through document reviews and interviews.

Findings

The result of the study revealed that the general issues of environmental management have been included in the relevant documents (national plans). However, the documents do not explicitly identify climate change adaptation strategies and options that can alleviate the current impacts and the projected negative impacts associated with climate change. In fact, some documents were found to be characterized by numerous gaps. For example, the environmental policy of Ethiopia does not address climate trading, climate resilient green economy and recent development. The result from interviews shows that the constitution of the country lacks sufficiently addressing climate change adaptation. The result obtained from focus group discussion with informants indicated that the environmental policy of the country is shallow and suffers from showing clear direction regarding integration. The informants indicate that though there is an office that works on climate change at zonal level, there is no well-defined structure for climate change at zonal, district and Kebele levels and there appears to be weak integration among the different institutions working on climate change.

Originality/value

This study would speed up the revision of environmental policy of Ethiopia and the development of a separate policy document that focuses on adaptation to climate change.
Employees’ challenge-hindrance appraisals toward STARA awareness and competitive productivity: a micro-level case
Authors: Ding Li
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of restaurant employees’ challenge-hindrance appraisals toward smart technology, artificial intelligence, robotics and algorithms (STARA) awareness on individual competitive productivity (ICP) and explore the mediating roles of employees’ work engagement and organizational commitment on the relationship between challenge-hindrance appraisals and ICP.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through an online survey. One hundred and ninety employees who worked at full-time and non-management positions in the USA quick-service restaurants participated. Partial least squares structural equation modeling was used for the data analysis.

Findings

The study identified that restaurant employees’ challenge appraisals toward STARA awareness positively influenced ICP. This relationship is positively mediated by employees’ work engagement.

Practical implications

This study makes practical contributions to human resource practices in restaurants. Employees’ challenge appraisals toward STARA awareness transmit the job insecurity stressor to a higher level of ICP. Restaurant managers should provide employees with adequate resources and support for non-management employees’ professional competency growth. Quick-service restaurants can enjoy a competitive advantage in the market by enhancing employees’ CP.

Originality/value

This study enriches the literature on the CP model, cognitive appraisal theory and person-environment fit theory. The study investigated employees’ challenge and hindrance appraisals toward emerging STARA awareness and emphasized their distinct characteristics to drive ICP in the quick-service restaurant sector.
Have coffee/tea, will travel: assessing the inclination towards sustainable coffee and tea tourism among the green generations
Authors: Yeap Jasmine A.L. , Ooi Say Keat , Ara Husna , Said Muhamad Faizal
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify the key variables which determine intentions to visit coffee/tea tourism plantations particularly those adopting sustainable practices. Also, this study ascertained the perception of risk in travelling due to the fear of Covid-19 on travel intentions to such coffee/tea tourism destinations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the theory of planned behaviour as a basis for this study’s framework, data was gathered from 302 eco-conscious Generation Y and Z consumers via an online survey. Partial least squares were then applied to analyse the data.

Findings

Learning and relaxation motives were important in determining consumers’ attitudes towards sustainable coffee/tea tourism. The intention to engage in sustainable coffee/tea tourism is most strongly affected by the risk of travelling, followed by attitude.

Research limitations/implications

The addition of contemporary variables was given to the theory of planned behaviour’s core constructs to better reflect consumers’ attitude and behaviour towards a growing form of tourism under unprecedented times.

Practical implications

Travel or tourism operators will have first-hand insights on the factors that drive intentions to visit sustainable coffee and tea destinations, thus enabling more strategic action to be undertaken to reach the targeted young consumers.

Originality/value

This study examines young, environmental-conscious consumers’ perspectives on novel travel destinations which adopt sustainable practices. Risk in travelling was assessed which is necessary given Covid-19 has severely disrupted consumers’ travel patterns.
Transition to work, mismatch and underemployment among graduates: an Australian longitudinal study
Authors: Jackson Denise , Li Ian
Published: July 2021

Purpose

There are ongoing concerns regarding university degree credentials leading to graduate-level employment. Tracking graduate underemployment is complicated by inconsistent measures and tendencies to report on outcomes soon after graduation. Our study explored transition into graduate-level work beyond the short-term, examining how determining factors change over time.

Design/methodology/approach

We considered time-based underemployment (graduates are working less hours than desired) and overqualification (skills in employment not matching education level/type) perspectives. We used a national data set for 41,671 graduates of Australian universities in 2016 and 2017, surveyed at four months and three years' post-graduation, to explore determining factors in the short and medium-term. Descriptive statistical techniques and binary logistic regression were used to address our research aims.

Findings

Graduates' medium-term employment states were generally positive with reduced unemployment and increased full-time job attainment. Importantly, most graduates that were initially underemployed transited to full-time work at three years post-graduation. However, around one-fifth of graduates were overqualified in the medium-term. While there was some evidence of the initially qualified transitioning to matched employment, supporting career mobility theory, over one-third remaining overqualified. Skills, personal characteristics and degree-related factors each influenced initial overqualification, while discipline was more important in the medium-term.

Originality/value

Our study explores both time-based underemployment and overqualification, and over time, builds on earlier work. Given the longer-term, negative effects of mismatch on graduates' career and wellbeing, findings highlight the need for career learning strategies to manage underemployment and consideration of future labour market policy for tertiary graduates.
Retail atmospherics effect on store performance and personalised shopper behaviour: a cognitive computing approach
Authors: Behera Rajat Kumar , Bala Pradip Kumar , Tata Sai Vijay , Rana Nripendra P.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The best possible way for brick-and-mortar retailers to maximise engagement with personalised shoppers is capitalising on intelligent insights. The retailer operates differently with diversified items and services, but influencing retail atmospheric on personalised shoppers, the perception remains the same across industries. Retail atmospherics stimuli such as design, smell and others create behavioural modifications. The purpose of this study is to explore the atmospheric effects on brick-and-mortar store performance and personalised shopper's behaviour using cognitive computing based in-store analytics in the context of emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

The data are collected from 35 shoppers of a brick-and-mortar retailer through questionnaire survey and analysed using quantitative method.

Findings

The result of the analysis reveals month-on-month growth in footfall count (46%), conversation rate (21%), units per transaction (27%), average order value (23%), dwell time (11%), purchase intention (29%), emotional experience (40%) and a month-on-month decline in remorse (20%). The retailers need to focus on three control gates of shopper behaviour: entry, browsing and exit. Attention should be paid to the cognitive computing solution to judge the influence of retail atmospherics on store performance and behaviour of personalised shoppers. Retail atmospherics create the right experience for individual shoppers and forceful use of it has an adverse impact.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on strategic decisions of retailers, the tactical value of personalised shoppers and empirically identifies the retail atmospherics effect on brick-and-mortar store performance and personalised shopper behaviour.