bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Vigorous Exercise Decreases Subsequent Non-Exercise Physical Activity and Body Temperature Linked to Weight Gain
Authors: Funabashi Daisuke , Dobashi Shohei , Sameshima Kazuki , Sagayama Hiroyuki , Nishijima Takeshi , Matsui Takashi
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Exercise benefits the body and mind, but its weight loss effect is less than generally expected. Although this phenomenon is likely primarily due to a decrease in non-exercise physical activity (NEPA) resulting in a decrease in non-exercise activity thermogenesis, the underlying mechanisms and effects of exercise intensity remain unknown. Here we show that acute vigorous exercise decreases subsequent NEPA and body temperature (BT) in association with body weight gain.

Methods

Adult male C57BL/6J mice were categorized into three groups: sedentary, moderate exercise, and vigorous exercise, with exercise groups undergoing a 30 min treadmill session. Using an intraperitoneally implanted activity monitor, NEPA and BT were monitored for two days before and three days after exercise. The daily synchrony between NEPA and BT was evaluated using a cross-correlation function. Plasma corticosterone was also detected 6 and 24 h after exercise.

Results

Notably, Only the vigorous exercise group exhibited a decline in both NEPA and BT, resulting in body weight gain the following day, despite no observed changes in food intake. Furthermore, vigorous exercise induces a distinct delay in the daily dynamics of NEPA compared to BT. A positive correlation was observed between plasma corticosterone levels and changes in NEPA levels before and after exercise across all exercise groups.

Conclusions

Our findings provide evidence for vigorous exercise-specific reduction in subsequent NEPA, BT, and their synchrony linked to weight gain, likely due to the disturbed circadian rhythm of corticosterone. This ultimately redefines the significance of exercise intensity in beneficial effects beyond the energy expenditure of the exercise itself.
PerSEveML: A Web-Based Tool to Identify Persistent Biomarker Structure for Rare Events Using Integrative Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Dutta Sreejata , Mudaranthakam Dinesh Pal , Li Yanming , Sardiu Mihaela E.
Published: October 2023

Omics datasets often pose a computational challenge due to their high dimensionality, large size, and non-linear structures. Analyzing these datasets becomes especially daunting in the presence of rare events. Machine learning (ML) methods have gained traction for analyzing rare events, yet there remains a limited exploration of bioinformatics tools that integrate ML techniques to comprehend the underlying biology. Expanding upon our previously developed computational framework of an integrative machine learning approach1, we introduce PerSEveML, an interactive web-based that uses crowd-sourced intelligence to predict rare events and determine feature selection structures. PerSEveML provides a comprehensive overview of the integrative approach through evaluation metrics that help users understand the contribution of individual ML methods to the prediction process. Additionally, PerSEveML calculates entropy and rank scores, which visually organize input features into a persistent structure of selected, unselected, and fluctuating categories that help researchers uncover meaningful hypotheses regarding the underlying biology. We have evaluated PerSEveML on three diverse biologically complex data sets with extremely rare events from small to large scale and have demonstrated its ability to generate valid hypotheses. PerSEveML is available athttps://biostats-shinyr.kumc.edu/PerSEveML/andhttps://github.com/sreejatadutta/PerSEveML.
Histone deacetylase inhibition mitigates cognitive deficits and astrocyte dysfunction induced by Aβ oligomers
Authors: Morgado Juliana , Diniz Luan Pereira , Araujo Ana Paula Bergamo , Antônio Leticia Maria da Silva , Araujo Hanna Paola Mota , Pinheiro Pedro de Sena Murteira , Sagrillo Fernanda Savacini , Cesar Gabriele Vargas , Ferreira Sérgio T. , Figueiredo Cláudia Pinto , Fraga Carlos Alberto Manssour , Gomes Flávia Carvalho Alcantara
Published: October 2023

Inhibitors of histone deacetylases (iHDACs) are promising drugs for neurodegenerative diseases. We have evaluated the therapeutic potential of the new iHDAC6 LASSBio-1911 in Aβ oligomer (AβO) toxicity models and astrocytes, key players in neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Astrocyte phenotype and synapse density were evaluated by flow cytometry, Western blotting, immunofluorescence and qPCR, in vitro and in mice. Cognitive function was evaluated by behavioural assays using a mouse model of intracerebroventricular infusion of AβO. LASSBio-1911 modulates reactivity and synaptogenic potential of cultured astrocytes and improves synaptic markers in cultured neurons and in mice. It prevents AβO-triggered astrocytic reactivity in mice and enhances the neuroprotective potential of astrocytes. LASSBio-1911 improves behavioural performance and rescues synaptic and memory function in AβO-infused mice. These results contribute to unveiling the mechanisms underlying astrocyte role in AD and provide the rationale for using astrocytes as targets to new drugs for AD.
Extracting diamonds: Identifiability of 4-node cycles in level-1 phylogenetic networks under a pseudolikelihood coalescent model
Authors: Tiley George , Solís-Lemus Claudia
Published: October 2023

Here, we investigate the (generic) identifiability of the position of the hybrid node in a 4-node hybridization cycle in a semi-directed level-1 phylogenetic network. While generic identifiability is easily attained under non-restrictive assumptions such ast∈ (0, ∞) for all branches andγ∈ (0, 1) for the inheritance probability of the hybrid edges, simulations show that accurate detection of these cycles can be complicated by inadequate sampling, small sample size or gene tree estimation error. We identify practical advice for evolutionary biologists on best sampling strategies to improve the detection of this type of hybridization cycle.
Biophysical cartography of the native and human-engineered antibody landscapes quantifies the plasticity of antibody developability
Authors: Bashour Habib , Smorodina Eva , Pariset Matteo , Zhong Jahn , Akbar Rahmad , Chernigovskaya Maria , Quý Khang Lê , Snapkov Igor , Rawat Puneet , Krawczyk Konrad , Sandve Geir Kjetil , Gutierrez-Marcos Jose , Gutierrez Daniel Nakhaee-Zadeh , Andersen Jan Terje , Greiff Victor
Published: October 2023

Designing effective monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapeutics faces a multi-parameter optimization challenge known as “developability”, which reflects an antibody’s ability to progress through development stages based on its physicochemical properties. While natural antibodies may provide valuable guidance for mAb selection, we lack a comprehensive understanding of natural developability parameter (DP) plasticity (redundancy, predictability, sensitivity) and how the DP landscapes of human-engineered and natural antibodies relate to one another. These gaps hinder fundamental developability profile cartography. To chart natural and engineered DP landscapes, we computed 40 sequence- and 46 structure-based DPs of over two million native and human-engineered single-chain antibody sequences. We found lower redundancy among structure-based compared to sequence-based DPs. Sequence DP sensitivity to single amino acid substitutions varied by antibody region and DP, and structure DP values varied across the conformational ensemble of antibody structures. Sequence DPs were more predictable than structure-based ones across different machine-learning tasks and embeddings, indicating a constrained sequence-based design space. Human-engineered antibodies were localized within the developability and sequence landscapes of natural antibodies, suggesting that human-engineered antibodies explore mere subspaces of the natural one. Our work quantifies the plasticity of antibody developability, providing a fundamental resource for multi-parameter therapeutic mAb design.
Fungal infection alters collective nutritional intake of ant colonies
Authors: Csata Enikő , Pérez-Escudero Alfonso , Laury Emmanuel , Leitner Hanna , Latil Gérard , Heinze Jürgen , Simpson Stephen J. , Cremer Sylvia , Dussutour Audrey
Published: October 2023

In many animals, parasitic infections impose significant fitness costs [1–6]. Animals are known to alter their feeding behavior when infected to help combat various parasites [7–12]. For instance, they can adjust nutrient intake to support their immune system [13,14]. However, parasites can also manipulate host foraging behavior to increase their own development, survival and transmission [15–18]. The mechanisms by which nutrition influences host-parasite interactions are still not well understood. Until now, studies that examine the impact of diet on infection have mainly focused on the host, and less on the parasite [12,13, 19–25]. Using Nutritional Geometry [26], we investigated the role of key nutrients: amino acids and carbohydrates, in a host-parasite system: the Argentine ant,Linepithema humile,and the entomopathogenic fungus,Metarhizium brunneum. We first established that the fungus grew and reproduced better on diets comprising four times less amino acids than carbohydrates (1:4 AA:C ratio). Second, when facing food combinations, the fungus exploited the two complementary food resources to reach the same performance as on this optimal diet, revealing the ability of fungal pathogens to solve complex nutritional challenges. Third, when ants were fed on this optimal fungal diet, their lifespan decreased when healthy, yet not whenMetarhizium-infected, compared to their favored carbohydrate-rich diet. Interestingly, when the ants were given a binary choice between different diets, the foragers of uninfected colonies avoided intake of the fungal optimum diet, whilst choosing it when infected. Experimental disentanglement of full pathogenic infection and pure immune response to fungal cell wall material, combined with immune measurements, allowed us to conclude that this change of nutritional choice in infected ants did not result from pathogen manipulation but likely represents a compensation of the host to counterbalance the cost of using amino acids during the immune response. The observed change in foraging behavior in infected colonies towards an otherwise harmful diet (self-medication), suggests a collective compensatory mechanism for the individual cost of immunity. In short, we demonstrated that infected ants converge on a diet that is proven to be costly for survival in the long term but that could help them fight infection in the short term.

Highlights

The insect-pathogenic fungusMetarhizium brunneumperforms best on protein-rich diets and is able to solve complex nutritional challenges

While harmful to healthy ants, protein-rich diets did not shorten infected ants’ lifespan

Contrary to healthy ants, when given a choice, infected and immune-stimulated ants choose a protein-rich diet
Impact of a tilted coverslip on two-photon and STED microscopy
Authors: Le Bourdelles Guillaume , Mercier Luc , Roos Johannes , Bancelin Stephane , Nägerl U. Valentin
Published: October 2023

The advent of super-resolution microscopy has opened up new avenues to unveil brain structures with unprecedented spatial resolution in the living state. Yet, its application to live animals remains a genuine challenge. Getting optical access to the brainin vivorequires the use of a ‘cranial window’, whose mounting greatly influences image quality. Indeed, the coverslip used for the cranial window should lie as orthogonal as possible to the optical axis of the objective, or else significant optical aberrations occur. In this work, we assess the effect of the tilt angle of the coverslip on STED and two-photon microscopy, in particular image brightness and spatial resolution. We then propose an approach to measure and reduce the tilt using a simple device added to the microscope, which can ensure orthogonality with a precision of 0.07°.
The effect of problem-based learning on improving problem-solving, self-directed learning, and critical thinking ability for the pharmacy students
Authors: Zhao Yi-Jing , Huang Feng-Qing , Liu Qun , Li Ying , Alolga Raphael N , Zhang Lei , Ma Gaoxiang
Published: October 2023

Objective

This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effect of PBL on problem-solving, self-directed learning, and critical thinking ability of pharmaceutical students through a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and meta-analysis of RCTs.

Methods

In 2021, 57 third-year pharmacy students from China Pharmaceutical University were randomly divided into a PBL group and a lecture-based learning (LBL) group. Mean scores were compared between the two groups for problem-solving, self-directed learning, communication skills, critical thinking, and final exam grades. Students’ feedback on the implementation of PBL was also collected. A meta-analysis was subsequently performed on eight studies involving 1,819 students.

Results

The PBL group had significantly higher mean scores for problem-solving (8.43±1.56) and self-directed learning (7.39±1.19) than the LBL group (7.02±1.72 and 6.41±1.28, respectively). The PBL group also showed better communication skills (8.86±1.47) than the LBL group (7.68±1.89). The mean level of critical thinking was significantly higher in the PBL group than the LBL group (p=0.02). The PBL group also had better final exam grades (79.86±1.38) compared to the LBL group (68.1±1.76). Student feedback on PBL implementation was positive. The subsequent meta-analysis confirmed these findings.

Conclusion

This study found that PBL is an effective teaching method for pharmacy students.
The CUT&RUN Greenlist: genomic regions of consistent noise are effective normalizing factors for quantitative epigenome mapping
Authors: de Mello Fabio N. , Tahira Ana C. , Berzoti-Coelho Maria Gabriela , Verjovski-Almeida Sergio
Published: October 2023

Cleavage Under Targets and Release Using Nuclease (CUT&RUN) is a recent development for epigenome mapping, but its unique methodology can hamper proper quantitative analyses. As traditional normalization approaches have been shown to be inaccurate, we sought to determine endogenous normalization factors based on regions of constant nonspecific signal. This constancy was determined by applying Shannon’s information entropy, and the set of normalizer regions, which we named the “greenlist,” was extensively validated using publicly available datasets. We demonstrate here that the greenlist normalization outperforms the current top standards, and remains consistent across different experimental set-ups, cell lines, and antibodies; the approach can even be applied to other organisms or to CUT&Tag. Requiring no additional experimental steps and no added cost, this approach can be universally applied to CUT&RUN experiments to greatly minimize the interference of technical variation over the biological epigenome changes of interest.
Investigation of 3D Printed Bioresorbable Vascular Scaffold Crimping Behavior
Authors: Collins Caralyn P. , Leng Junqing , Fu Rao , Ding Yonghui , Ameer Guillermo , Sun Cheng
Published: October 2023

The rise in additive manufacturing (AM) offers myriad opportunities for 3D-printed polymeric vascular scaffolds, such as customization and on-the-spot manufacturing,in vivobiodegradation, incorporation of drugs to prevent restenosis, and visibility under X-ray. To maximize these benefits, informed scaffold design is critical. Polymeric bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) must undergo significant deformation prior to implantation in a diameter-reduction process known as crimping which enables minimally invasive surgery. Understanding the behavior of vascular scaffolds in this step provides twofold benefits: first, it ensures the BVS is able to accommodate stresses occurring during this process to prevent failure, and further, it provides information on the radial strength of the BVS, a key metric to understanding its post-implant performance in the artery. To capitalize on the fast manufacturing speed AM provides, a low time cost solution for understanding scaffold performance during this step is necessary. Through simulation of the BVS crimping process in ABAQUS using experimentally obtained bulk material properties, we have developed a qualitative analysis tool which is capable of accurately comparing relative performance trends of varying BVS designs during crimping in a fraction of the time of experimental testing, thereby assisting in the integration of informed design into the additive manufacturing process.
Inhalation Delivered RNA Aptamer for Therapeutics against SARS-CoV2
Authors: Song Minsun , Zhou Jiehua , Herrera Alberto , Baines Peter , Rossi John J.
Published: October 2023

The continual emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases has led to a pressing need for the development of swift and targeted therapeutic interventions. SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19, is a prime example of such a rapidly spreading virus[1]. The global crisis caused by this virus has propelled researchers to explore and adopt novel techniques in the hopes of effectively combating its spread[2]. One such innovative approach is the use of aptamers—single-stranded RNA molecules that can bind targets with high specificity.
Potential Impact of a Diagnostic Test for Detecting Prepatent Guinea Worm Infections in Dogs
Authors: Smalley Hannah , Keskinocak Pinar , Swann Julie , Hanna Christopher , Weiss Adam
Published: October 2023

Chad has seen a considerable reduction in cases of Guinea worm disease (or dracunculiasis) in domestic dogs in recent years. Tethering of dogs and application of Abate®larvicide to water sources appear to have contributed to this progress, but with 767 reported dog cases in 2021, accelerating elimination of the disease in Chad may require additional tools. We investigate the potential benefits of a hypothetical diagnostic test which could be capable of detecting pre-patent infections in dogs. We adapt an agent-based simulation model for forecasting the impact of interventions on guinea worm disease in dogs to examine the interaction of multiple test factors including test accuracy, when the test can detect infection, dog selection, and dog-owner compliance with tethering recommendations. We find that a diagnostic test could be successful if used in conjunction with existing interventions, and elimination can be achieved within two years with 80% or higher test sensitivity, 90% or higher specificity, systematic testing of each dog twice per year, and over 90% long-term tethering compliance when a dog tests positive or a worm is emerging. Because of the long incubation period of Guinea worm disease (10-14 months) and the fact that no treatment exists, the benefits of the test rely on the testing rollout and response of dog owners. If the test could estimate the timing of worm emergence, long-term tethering could be eliminated and infected dogs could be tethered only when the worms are expected, minimizing the related resources (human and financial) to support the intervention.
IGF2 Peptide-Based LYTACs for Targeted Degradation of Extracellular and Transmembrane Proteins
Authors: Mikitiuk Michał , Barczyński Jan , Bielski Przemysław , Arciniega Marcelino , Błaszkiewicz Urszula , Hec Aleksandra , Lipińska Andrea D. , Rychłowski Michał , Holak Tad A. , Sitar Tomasz
Published: October 2023

Lysosome Targeting Chimeras (LYTACs) have recently been developed to facilitate lysosomal degradation of specific extracellular and transmembrane molecular targets. However, the LYTAC particles described to date are based on glycopeptide conjugates, which are difficult to prepare and produce on a large scale. Here we report the development of pure protein LYTACs based on the non-glycosylated IGF2 peptides, which can be readily produced in virtually any facility capable of monoclonal antibody production. These chimeras utilize the IGF2R/CI-M6PR pathway for lysosomal shuttling and, in our illustrative example, target programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1), eliciting physiological effects analogous to immune checkpoint blockade. Results from in vitro assays significantly exceed the effects of anti-PD-L1 antibodies alone.
The mtDNA-derived lncMtDloop promotes mitochondrial homeostasis maintenance and implications in AD
Authors: Xiong Wandi , Xu Kaiyu , Sun Jacquelyne Ka-Li , Liu Siling , Zhao Baizhen , Shi Jie , Herrup Karl , Chow Hei-Man , Lu Lin , Li Jiali
Published: October 2023

Maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis stands as a critical factor for cell survival and the health of organisms, as evidenced by the links between mitochondrial dysfunction and a spectrum of diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here we report thatlncMtDloop, a lncRNA originating from the mtDNA D-loop, upholds mitochondrial homeostasis.LncMtDloopdemonstrates an affinity for mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), thereby facilitating TFAM’s recruitment to mtDNA promoters and enhancing gene transcription. We further observed decreasedlncMtDloopexpression in the brains of human AD patients and 3xTg mice. Through the introduction of allotropiclncMtDloopwith the 3’UTR ofMRPS12, a significant improvement in mitochondrial homeostasis and a concurrent amelioration of AD-like pathology were found, which exerts a positive influence on synaptic plasticity and behavioral deficits observed in AD mice. Our study provides mechanistic insights intolncMtDloopas a regulator of mitochondrial homeostasis, shedding light on a perspective regarding its contribution to Alzheimer’s pathogenesis.
Evidence for circulation of Rift Valley fever virus in wildlife and domestic animals in a forest environment in Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: Becquart Pierre , Kombila Linda Bohou , Mebaley Telstar Ndong , Paupy Christophe , Garcia Déborah , Nesi Nicolas , Olive Marie-Marie , Vanhomwegen Jessica , Boundenga Larson , Mombo Illich Manfred , Piro-Mégy Camille , Fritz Matthieu , Lenguiya Léadisaelle Hosanna , Gouilh Meriadeg Ar , Leroy Eric M. , N’Dilimabaka Nadine , Cêtre-Sossah Catherine , Maganga Gael Darren
Published: October 2023

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis caused by the RVF virus (RVFV) that can infect domestic and wild animals. Although the RVFV transmission cycle has been well documented across Africa in savanna ecosystems, little is known about its transmission in tropical rainforest settings, particularly in Central Africa. We therefore conducted a survey in northeastern Gabon to assess RVFV circulation among wild and domestic animals. Among 163 wildlife samples tested using RVFV-specific RT-qPCR, four ruminants belonging to subfamily Cephalophinae were detected positive. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the four RVFV sequences clustered together with a virus isolated in Namibia within the well-structured Egyptian clade. A cross-sectional survey conducted on sheep, goats and dogs living in villages within the same area determined the IgG RVFV-specific antibody prevalence using cELISA. Out of the 306 small ruminants tested (214 goats, 92 sheep), an overall antibody prevalence of 15.4% (95% CI [11.5–19.9]) was observed with a higher rate in goats than in sheep (20.1%versus3.3%). RVFV-specific antibodies were detected in a single dog out 26 tested. Neither age, sex of domestic animals nor season was found to be significant risk factors of RVFV occurrence. Our findings highlight sylvatic circulation of RVFV for the first time in Gabon. These results stress the need to develop adequate surveillance plan measures to better control the public health threat of RVFV.

Author summary

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis caused by the RVF virus (RVFV) that can affect wild and domestic animals. Although the RVFV transmission cycle has been well documented across Africa in savanna ecosystems, little is known about its transmission in tropical rainforests, especially in Central Africa. We thus conducted a survey in northeastern Gabon to assess RVFV circulation among wild and domestic animals. In this study, we demonstrated for the first time in Gabon the presence of the RVFV in two wildlife species (Peter’s duikerCephalophus callipygusand the blue duikerPhilantomba monticola). In addition, we detected RVFV-specific antibodies in small domestic ruminants (sheep and goats) with an overall antibody prevalence of 15.4%, with a much higher seroprevalence rate in goats than sheep (20.1% versus 3.3%). Furthermore, RVFV-specific antibodies were also observed in a single (hunting) dog out of the 26 tested. These results stress the need to develop adequate surveillance plan measures to better control the public health threat of RVFV.
Multiple transcription factors mediate acclimation of Chlamydomonas to light stress
Authors: Wulf Donat , Krüger Fabian Janosch , Klages Levin Joe , Viehöver Prisca , Jin EonSeon , Wobbe Lutz , Eisenhut Marion , Kruse Olaf , Blifernez-Klassen Olga , Bräutigam Andrea
Published: October 2023

Light as a substrate for photosynthesis may be a boon or a bane. To thrive, photosynthetic organisms must constantly respond to changing light and CO2 conditions by balancing energy harvest and consumption in a highly dynamic way. Two major safeguard measures of photoacclimation, that is photoprotection and carbon concentrating mechanism, underlie tight transcriptional control, leading to expression changes under high light and limited CO2 with different dynamics for both systems. Here, by using a consensus gene regulatory network inferred by employing a compendium of 1,869 RNA-seq datasets, we identified and validatedin vivoeight candidate transcription factors (TFs) that contribute to photoacclimation inChlamydomonas reinhardtii. Target gene analyses indicate that the TFs act individually in associated pathways but also influence each other in expression, and function as network parts with partial redundancy with respect to photoprotection. The analyses unveil that stress responses inChlamydomonasare mediated by a complex, interconnected network of TFs rather than a hierarchical system where multiple regulators can influence each other and target gene expression and thereby mitigate the effects of loss.
Biosynthesis of macrocyclic peptides with C-terminal β-amino-α-keto acid groups by three different metalloenzymes
Authors: Nguyen Dinh T. , Zhu Lingyang , Gray Danielle L. , Woods Toby J. , Padhi Chandrashekhar , Flatt Kristen M. , Mitchell Douglas A. , van der Donk Wilfred A.
Published: October 2023

Advances in genome sequencing and bioinformatics methods have identified a myriad of biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) encoding uncharacterized molecules. By mining genomes for BGCs containing a prevalent peptide-binding domain used for the biosynthesis of ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), we uncovered a new class involving modifications installed by a cytochrome P450, a multi-nuclear iron-dependent non-heme oxidative enzyme (MNIO, formerly DUF692), a cobalamin- and radicalS-adenosyl-L-methionine-dependent enzyme (B12-rSAM), and a methyltransferase. All enzymes encoded by the BGC were functionally expressed inBurkholderiasp. FERM BP-3421. Structural characterization with 2D-NMR and Marfey’s method on the resulting RiPP demonstrated that the P450 enzyme catalyzed the formation of a biaryl C-C crosslink between two Tyr residues with the B12-rSAM generating β-methyltyrosine. The MNIO transformed a C-terminal Asp residue into aminopyruvic acid while the methyltransferase acted on the β-carbon of the α-keto acid. Exciton-coupled circular dichroism spectroscopy and microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) were used to elucidate the stereochemical configurations of the atropisomer that formed upon biaryl crosslinking. The conserved Cys residue in the precursor peptide was not modified as in all other characterized MNIO-containing BGCs; However, mutational analyses demonstrated that it was essential for the MNIO activity on the C-terminal Asp. To the best of our knowledge, the MNIO featured in this pathway is the first to modify a residue other than Cys. This study underscores the utility of genome mining to discover new macrocyclic RiPPs and that RiPPs remain a significant source of previously undiscovered enzyme chemistry.
SPARK regulates AGC kinases central to theToxoplasma gondiiasexual cycle
Authors: Herneisen Alice L. , Peters Michelle L. , Smithh Tyler A. , Shortt Emily , Lourido Sebastian
Published: October 2023

Apicomplexan parasites balance proliferation, persistence, and spread in their metazoan hosts. AGC kinases, such as PKG, PKA, and the PDK1 ortholog SPARK, integrate environmental signals to toggle parasites between replicative and motile life stages. Recent studies have cataloged pathways downstream of apicomplexan PKG and PKA; however, less is known about the global integration of AGC kinase signaling cascades. Here, conditional genetics coupled to unbiased proteomics demonstrates that SPARK complexes with an elongin-like protein to regulate the stability of PKA and PKG in the model apicomplexanToxoplasma gondii. Defects attributed to SPARK depletion develop after PKG and PKA are down-regulated. Parasites lacking SPARK differentiate into the chronic form of infection, which may arise from reduced activity of a coccidian-specific PKA ortholog. This work delineates the signaling topology of AGC kinases that together control transitions within the asexual cycle of this important family of parasites.
The human factor: results of a small-angle scattering data analysis round robin
Authors: Pauw Brian R. , Smales Glen J. , Anker Andy S. , Annadurai Venkatasamy , Balazs Daniel M. , Bienert Ralf , Bouwman Wim G. , Breßler Ingo , Breternitz Joachim , Brok Erik S. , Bryant Gary , Clulow Andrew J. , Crater Erin R. , De Geuser Frédéric , Del Giudice Alessandra , Deumer Jérôme , Disch Sabrina , Dutt Shankar , Frank Kilian , Fratini Emiliano , Garcia Paulo R. A. F. , Gilbert Elliot P. , Hahn Marc B. , Hallett James , Hohenschutz Max , Hollamby Martin , Huband Steven , Ilavsky Jan , Jochum Johanna K. , Juelsholt Mikkel , Mansel Bradley W. , Penttilä Paavo , Pittkowski Rebecca K. , Portale Giuseppe , Pozzo Lilo D. , Rochels Leonhard , Rosalie Julian M. , Saloga Patrick E. J. , Seibt Susanne , Smith Andrew J. , Smith Gregory N. , Spiering Glenn A. , Stawski Tomasz M. , Taché Olivier , Thünemann Andreas F. , Toth Kristof , Whitten Andrew E. , Wuttke Joachim
Published: October 2023

A round-robin study has been carried out to estimate the impact of the human element in small-angle scattering data analysis. Four corrected datasets were provided to participants ready for analysis. All datasets were measured on samples containing spherical scatterers, with two datasets in dilute dispersions and two from powders. Most of the 46 participants correctly identified the number of populations in the dilute dispersions, with half of the population mean entries within 1.5% and half of the population width entries within 40%. Due to the added complexity of the structure factor, far fewer people submitted answers on the powder datasets. For those that did, half of the entries for the means and widths were within 44 and 86%, respectively. This round-robin experiment highlights several causes for the discrepancies, for which solutions are proposed.
A new polymorph of white phosphorus at ambient conditions
Authors: Herbst-Irmer Regine , Wang Xiaobai , Haberstock Laura , Köhne Ingo , Oswald Rainer , Behler Jörg , Stalke Dietmar
Published: October 2023

Phosphorus exists in several different allotropes: white, red, violet and black. For industrial and academic applications, white phosphorus is the most important. So far, three polymorphs of white phosphorus, all consisting of P4 tetrahedra, have been described. Among these, β-P4 crystallizes in the space group P
1 and γ-P4 in the space group C2/m. α-P4 forms soft plastic crystals with a proposed structure in the cubic space group I
43m with the lattice constant a = 18.51 (3) Å, consisting of 58 rotationally disordered tetrahedra and thus is similar to the structure of α-Mn. Here we present a new polymorph, δ-P4. It crystallizes as a sixfold twin with the cell dimensions a = 18.302 (2), b = 18.302 (2), c = 36.441 (3) Å in the space group P212121 with 29 P4 tetrahedra in the asymmetric unit. The arrangement resembles the structure of α-Mn, but δ-P4 differs from α-P4. DFT calculations show δ-P4 to be metastable at a similar energy level to that of γ-P4.
Chiral spiral cyclic twins. II. A two-parameter family of cyclic twins composed of discrete circle involute spirals
Authors: Hornfeck Wolfgang
Published: October 2023

A mathematical toy model of chiral spiral cyclic twins is presented, describing a family of deterministically generated aperiodic point sets. Its individual members depend solely on a chosen pair of integer parameters, a modulusmand a multiplier μ. By means of their specific parameterization they comprise local features of both periodic and aperiodic crystals. In particular, chiral spiral cyclic twins are composed of discrete variants of continuous curves known as circle involutes, each discrete spiral being generated from an integer inclination sequence. The geometry of circle involutes does not only provide for a constant orthogonal separation distance between adjacent spiral branches but also yields an approximate delineation of the intrinsically periodic twin domains as well as a single aperiodic core domain interconnecting them. Apart from its mathematical description and analysis,e.g.concerning its circle packing densities, the toy model is studied in association with the crystallography and crystal chemistry of α-uranium and CrB-type crystal structures.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of bis(3-aminopyrazole-κN
1)bis(3-aminopyrazole-κN
2)bis(nitrato-κO)copper(II)
Authors: Kucheriv Olesia I. , Golenya Irina A. , Prysiazhna Olena , Partsevska Sofiia V. , Gural'skiy Il'ya A.
Published: October 2023

In the crystal structure of the title compound, [Cu(NO3)2(C3H5N3)4], the CuII atom is situated on an inversion center (Wyckoff position 2c of space group P21/n) and shows an octahedral [N4O2] coordination environment. The axial positions are occupied by O atoms of nitrate anions, while the equatorial positions are taken up by the N atoms of four 3-aminopyrazole ligands. As a result of the tautomerism of the latter, two coordinate with the N1-atom of 3-aminopyrazole while the other two with the N2-atom. The presence of pyrrole-like N—H groups and amine substituents as donor groups leads to numerous intra- and intermolecular hydrogen-bonding interactions, which were quantified by Hirshfeld surface analysis.
Creating a Compelling Data Story: Inside a Search Engine's Ad Sales Strategy
Authors: Ranganathan Kavitha
Published: October 2023

The case revolves around a marketing/sales executive who works in the Ad Sales wing of a popular search engine. Over the course of the case, the protagonist realizes that their marketing strategy needs to refocus on a different vertical than the one they have been paying the most attention to. He had done the required data analysis and feels the data strongly points to a need for change in their strategy. However, he needs to convincing the higher management by put together a compelling pitch using storytelling elements, so that the message in his data gets across clearly, compelling them to act.
Orchestration of value: the role of customer success managers within sales ecosystems
Authors: Goad Emily A. , Chase Kevin S. , Brauer David B. , Chefor Ellis , Chaker Nawar N. , Rabago Ruben , Hochstein Bryan , Hansen John D.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to integrate research on customer success (CS) management with the service ecosystems perspective of selling to enhance the understanding of the CS management function and the outcomes selling firms should expect based on implementation of CS management.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply the service ecosystems perspective of selling to describe how CS management is manifested in practice by offering relevant insights and practical industry examples.

Findings

Study findings identify relevant ecosystem actors, acting on behalf of the customer, required for the delivery of desirable customer outcomes. Study findings also link the orchestration efforts of CS managers to theory-based tenets for explanation of how CS management facilitates the attainment of competitive advantages via the thickening and thinning of ecosystem crossing points.

Research limitations/implications

Given that the research is conceptual, additional research that empirically examines this framework and the insights presented would lend further credence to the recommendations the authors suggest.

Practical implications

From a practical perspective, the authors present a “Customer Relationship and Solution Innovation Matrix” which integrates necessary value-creating activities that CS managers perform and the coordination with internal actors that CS managers rely on to create value.

Originality/value

Although the practice of CS management is becoming increasingly common, theoretical approaches capable of explaining the function have been lacking. Similarly, while the service ecosystems perspective redefines selling to encompass a broader set of actors than traditionally examined, practical examinations of the theory are limited. The authors address these issues, integrating both research streams for an enhanced understanding of the CS management function through the service ecosystems perspective theoretical lens.
Does inflation expectation affect banks' performances? Evidence from Indian banking sector
Authors: Maria Minnu Baby , Hussain Farah
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The study intends to evaluate the impact of inflation expectation on the performance of listed commercial banks in India during 2005–2021. Inflation expectation is considered as a direct policy tool by the policymakers for stability of the economy. The study explores how inflation expectation affects the performance indicators of the Indian banking industry while controlling for a wide range of bank-specific factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies the generalized method of moments (GMM) on a panel sample of 27 listed bank to analyse the impact of inflation expectation on banking sector performance. The data on inflation expectation are obtained from the household inflation expectation survey introduced in India by the Reserve Bank of India in 2005. Return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE) and Tobin's Q have been considered as the banking performance indicators in this study.

Findings

Empirical results exhibit that inflation expectation is instrumental in deciding the banking sector's performance. Inflation expectation has been found to have a significant and positive impact on accounting-based measures of banking performance. At the same time, it shows negative impact on the marketing-based measure.

Practical implications

The study gives a clear picture about how inflation expectation affects the banking performance and the monetary policy of the country. The study provides crucial insights to develop strategic decisions for the Indian banking sector. The adoption of proper macroeconomic policies, taking into account inflation expectation levels, is instrumental in enhancing bank's performance and in achieving economic growth.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing body of literature on the impact of inflationary conditions on banking performance. The originality lies in capturing the role of inflation expectation solely in determining banking sector performance.
Knowledge management and resistance to change as moderators in the relationship between change management and job satisfaction
Authors: Shaik Shamshad Ahamed , Batta Ankaiah , Parayitam Satyanarayana
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This research aims to explore the effect of change management on job satisfaction. A conceptual model involving knowledge management and resistance to change as moderators tested the relationships in the context of a developing country, India.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 413 respondents from four important sectors – healthcare, education, manufacturing and information technology – were collected from southern India. First, the psychometric properties of the survey instrument were checked, and then hypotheses were tested using Hayes's PROCESS macros.

Findings

The results indicate that change management significantly predicts employee productivity and job satisfaction. Further, employee productivity mediated the relationship between change management and job satisfaction. This study also found that the resistance to change (first moderator) and knowledge management (second moderator) interacted with change management to enhance employee productivity.

Research limitations/implications

This study has several contributions to the practitioners and academic scholars. The study has limitations, which are inherent in survey-based research, of common method bias and social desirability bias. However, the authors have taken adequate care to minimize these biases.

Originality/value

The three-way interaction (moderated moderated-mediation) tested in this research uniquely contributes to the literature on change management. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this moderated moderated-mediation has been tested for the first time in the context of a developing country, India, and provides valuable insights into the practicing managers and change agents in bringing successful change in organizations.
Metaverse-infused academic libraries: a glimpse into the future
Authors: Amzat Omolara Basirat , Adewojo Akinade Adebowale
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the transformative potential of integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and the metaverse into academic libraries, envisioning a future where personalized, immersive and accessible user experiences redefine the traditional concept of libraries. The purpose is to analyse the synergy between AI and the metaverse in enhancing library services and user interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a literature review approach to synthesize current knowledge on AI, the metaverse and their integration into academic libraries. It delves into the functionalities of AI in cataloguing, personalization and predictive analysis, coupled with the immersive experiences offered by the metaverse. The design envisions metaverse-infused academic libraries as digital spaces hosting AI-driven virtual assistants, personalized learning paths and collaborative environments.

Findings

The integration of AI and the metaverse in academic libraries presents opportunities for personalized learning experiences, efficient resource management and global collaboration. The findings suggest that the synergy enhances accessibility, inclusivity and efficiency in library services, albeit with challenges such as the digital divide, privacy concerns and technical complexities.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discourse on the future of academic libraries by proposing a comprehensive vision of metaverse-infused libraries empowered by AI. It underscores the originality and value of the integration, emphasizing the potential for personalized, interactive and globally accessible learning and research environments.
The utilisation of open research data repositories for storing and sharing research data in higher learning institutions in Tanzania
Authors: Mosha Neema Florence , Ngulube Patrick
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the utilisation of open research data repositories (RDRs) for storing and sharing research data in higher learning institutions (HLIs) in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research design was employed to collect data from postgraduate students at the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST) in Arusha, Tanzania. The data were collected and analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. A census sampling technique was employed to select the sample size for this study. The quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), whilst the qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Findings

Less than half of the respondents were aware of and were using open RDRs, including Zenodo, DataVerse, Dryad, OMERO, GitHub and Mendeley data repositories. More than half of the respondents were not willing to share research data and cited a lack of ownership after storing their research data in most of the open RDRs and data security. HILs need to conduct training on using trusted repositories and motivate postgraduate students to utilise open repositories (ORs). The challenges for underutilisation of open RDRs were a lack of policies governing the storage and sharing of research data and grant constraints.

Originality/value

Research data storage and sharing are of great interest to researchers in HILs to inform them to implement open RDRs to support these researchers. Open RDRs increase visibility within HILs and reduce research data loss, and research works will be cited and used publicly. This paper identifies the potential for additional studies focussed on this area.
Evaluating the intention to use Industry 5.0 (I5.0) drones for cleaner production in Sustainable Food Supply Chains: an emerging economy context
Authors: Mahroof Kamran , Omar Amizan , Vann Yaroson Emilia , Tenebe Samaila Ado , Rana Nripendra P. , Sivarajah Uthayasankar , Weerakkody Vishanth
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate food supply chain stakeholders’ intention to use Industry 5.0 (I5.0) drones for cleaner production in food supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a quantitative research design and collected data using an online survey administered to a sample of 264 food supply chain stakeholders in Nigeria. The partial least square structural equation model was conducted to assess the research’s hypothesised relationships.

Findings

The authors provide empirical evidence to support the contributions of I5.0 drones for cleaner production. The findings showed that food supply chain stakeholders are more concerned with the use of I5.0 drones in specific operations, such as reducing plant diseases, which invariably enhances cleaner production. However, there is less inclination to drone adoption if the aim was pollution reduction, predicting seasonal output and addressing workers’ health and safety challenges. The findings outline the need for awareness to promote the use of drones for addressing workers’ hazard challenges and knowledge transfer on the potentials of I5.0 in emerging economies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to address I5.0 drones’ adoption using a sustainability model. The authors contribute to existing literature by extending the sustainability model to identify the contributions of drone use in promoting cleaner production through addressing specific system operations. This study addresses the gap by augmenting a sustainability model, suggesting that technology adoption for sustainability is motivated by curbing challenges categorised as drivers and mediators.