bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A high-resolution meiotic crossover map from single-nucleus ATAC-seq reveals insights into the recombination landscape in mammalian sperm
Authors: Novakovic Stevan , Harris Caitlin , Liu Ruijie , McCarthy Davis J. , Crismani Wayne
Published: December 2024

Meiotic crossovers promote correct chromosome segregation and the shuffling of genetic diversity. However, the measurement of crossovers remains challenging, impeding our ability to decipher the molecular mechanisms that are necessary for their formation and regulation. Here we demonstrate a novel repurposing of the single-nucleus Assay for Transposase Accessible Chromatin with sequencing (snATAC-seq) as a simple and high-throughput method to identify and characterise meiotic crossovers from sperm nuclei. We first validate the feasibility of obtaining genome-wide coverage from snATAC-seq by using ATAC-seq on bulk haploid mouse sperm, ensuring adequate variant detection for haplotyping. Subsequently, we adapt droplet-based snATAC-seq for crossover detection, revealing over 25,000 crossovers in F1 hybrid mice. Comparison between wildtype and a hyper-recombinogenicFancm-deficient mutant mouse model confirmed an increase in crossover rates in this genotype, however a distribution which was unchanged. We also find that regions with the highest rate of crossover formation are enriched for DMC1 and PRDM9, with a subset that is further enriched for DMC1 inFancm-deficient mice. Our findings demonstrate the utility of snATAC-seq as a robust and scalable tool for high-throughput crossover detection, offering insights into meiotic crossover dynamics and elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms. It is possible that the research presented here with snATAC-seq of haploid sperm could be extended into fertility-related diagnostics.
Functional specialization of the subdomains of a bactofilin driving stalk morphogenesis inAsticcacaulis biprosthecum
Authors: Jacq Maxime , Caccamo Paul D. , Brun Yves V.
Published: December 2024

Bactofilins are a recently discovered class of cytoskeletal protein, widely implicated in subcellular organization and morphogenesis in bacteria and archaea. Several lines of evidence suggest that bactofilins polymerize into filaments using a central β-helical core domain, flanked by variable N- and C-terminal domains that may be important for scaffolding and other functions. However, a systematic exploration of the characteristics of these domains has yet to be performed. InAsticcacaulis biprosthecum, the bactofilin BacA serves as a topological organizer of stalk synthesis, localizing to the stalk base and coordinating the synthesis of these long, thin extensions of the cell envelope. The easily distinguishable phenotypes of wild-typeA. biprosthecumstalks andΔbacA“pseudostalks” make this an ideal system for investigating how mutations in BacA affect its functions in morphogenesis. Here, we redefine the core domain ofA. biprosthecumBacA using various bioinformatics and biochemical approaches to precisely delimit the N- and C-terminal domains. We then show that loss of these terminal domains leads to cells with severe morphological abnormalities, typically presenting a pseudostalk phenotype. BacA mutants lacking the N- and C-terminal domains also exhibit localization defects, implying that the terminal domains of BacA may be involved in its subcellular positioning, whether through membrane interactions through the N-terminal domain or through interactions with the stalk-specific morphological regulator SpmX through the C-terminal domain. We further show that point mutations that render BacA defective for polymerization lead to stalk synthesis defects. Overall, our study suggests that BacA’s polymerization, membrane association, and interactions with other morphological factors all play a crucial role in the protein’s function as a morphogenic regulator. The specialization and modularity of the terminal domains may underlie the remarkable functional versatility of the bactofilins in different species.

Author summary

Bacteria exhibit a wide variety of shapes and structures, many of which are crucial for their cellular functions. Among these structures is the stalk—a thin, tubular extension of the cell envelope formed by bacteria such asAsticcacaulis biprosthecum. Stalk synthesis inAsticcacaulis biprosthecumrelies on the bactofilin BacA, a self-polymerizing cytoskeletal protein, whose deletion results in the dysregulation of stalk synthesis, and the formation of short, stubby “pseudostalks”. We use this unique phenotype to characterize the subdomains of BacA, and find that BacA’s ability to coordinate stalk synthesis depends on its conserved polymerization domain as well as its flanking N- and C-terminal domains, which are essential for proper localization and interactions. Our findings highlight how bactofilins combine conserved and variable regions to generate complex structures that serve as a platform for evolving new functions.
Functional diversification of the MADS-box gene family in fine-tuning the dimorphic transition ofTalaromyces marneffei
Authors: Hu Xueyan , Zhang Yun , Wang Juan , Du Minghao , Yang Yang , Cai James J. , Yang Ence
Published: December 2024

The dynamic transition between yeast and hypha is a crucial adaptive mechanism for many human pathogenic fungi, includingTalaromyces marneffei, a thermodimorphic fungus responsible for causing fatal talaromycosis. In the current study, we elucidated the roles of the MADS-box gene family in fine-tuning the dimorphic transition inT. marneffeithrough functional diversification. Utilizing adaptive laboratory evolution, we identified an enrichment of MADS-box genes in mutants deficient in yeast-to- mycelium transition. Further phylogenetic analyses revealed a significant expansion of MADS-box gene family withinT. marneffei.Functional genetic manipulations revealed that overexpression ofmads9, as opposed to its paralogmads10, effectively impeded the hyphal-to-yeast transition. Through integrating RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq), we demonstrated thatmads9and the previously characterizedmadsAmodulated the rate of hyphal-to-yeast conversion by orchestrating metabolic pathways and membrane dynamics, respectively, with mutual regulation via shared target genes. Our findings illuminated the distinct functional roles of the MADS-box family in regulating dimorphic transitions inT. marneffei, offering new insights into fungal adaptability.
Defense systems and prophage detection inStreptococcus mutansstrains
Authors: Claisse O. , Mosterd C. , Marrec C. Le , Samot J.
Published: December 2024

Although the species is extensively studied, limited data are available on antiphage defense systems (APDSs) inStreptococcus mutans. The present study aimed to explore the diversity and the occurrence of APDSs and to search for prophages in the genomes of clinical isolates ofS. mutansusing bioinformatics tools.

Forty-four clinical isolates ofS. mutanswere obtained from saliva samples of people with Parkinson’s disease. Genomic DNA was extracted, sequenced using Illumina MiSeq technology, and analyzed for the presence of defense systems using DefenseFinder. CRISPR- Cas systems were characterized using CRISPRCasFinder, and prophages were detected by the PhiSpy pipeline from RAST. AcrFinder and AcrHub were used to identify anti-CRISPR proteins.

Each strain harbored between 6 and 12 APDS, with restriction-modification systems being the most prevalent, followed by the MazEF toxin-antitoxin system and CRISPR-Cas systems. Type II-C CRISPR-Cas systems were not identified here inS. mutans. Novel variations in type II-A signature protein Cas9 were identified, allowing their classification into four distinct groups. Variability in direct repeat sequences within the same CRISPR array was also observed, and 80% of the spacers were classified as targeting "dark matter". A unique prophage, phi_37bPJ2, was detected, showing high similarity with previously described phages. The AcrIIA5 protein encoded by phi_37bPJ2 was conserved and suggested to remain functionally active.

This study reveals the diversity of APDSs inS. mutansand the limited presence of prophages. The findings provide a foundation for future research on the evolutionary dynamics of these systems and their role inS. mutansadaptation to phage pressure.
ASalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium Genome-wide CRISPRi Screen Reveals a Role for Type 1 Fimbriae in Evasion of Antibody-Mediated Agglutination
Authors: Lindberg Samantha K. , Willsey Graham G. , Mantis Nicholas J.
Published: December 2024

The O5-specific monoclonal IgA antibody, Sal4, mediates the conversion ofSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium (STm) from virulent, free-swimming cells to non-motile, multicellular aggregates in solution (“flocs”) as well as biofilm-like associations at the air-liquid interface (ALI). We hypothesize that the rapid transition from an invasive to a non-invasive state reflects an adaptation of STm to Sal4 IgA exposure. In this report, we performed a genome-wide CRISPRi screen to identify STm genes that influence multicellular aggregate formation in response to Sal4 IgA treatment. From a customized library of >36,000 spacers, ∼1% (373) were enriched at ALI after two consecutive rounds of Sal4 IgA treatment. The enriched spacers mapped to a diversity of targets, including genes involved in O-antigen modification, cyclic-di-GMP metabolism, outer membrane biosynthesis/signaling, and invasion/virulence, with the most frequently targeted gene beingfimW, which encodes a negative regulator of Type 1 Fimbriae (T1F) expression. Generation of a STm ΔfimWstrain confirmed that the loss of FimW results in a hyperfimbriated phenotype and evasion of Sal4 IgA-mediated agglutination in solution. Closer examination of thefimWmutant revealed its propensity to form biofilms at the ALI specifically in response to Sal4 exposure, suggesting that T1F “primes” STm to transition from a planktonic to a sessile state possibly by facilitating bacterial attachment to abiotic surfaces. These findings shed light on the mechanism by which protective secretory IgA antibodies influence STm virulence in the intestinal environment.
Erythrocytic plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA4b) variations mediate redox imbalance to determine artemisinin sensitivity in malaria
Authors: Agrohi Priya , Garg Swati , Biswas Shreeja , Maurya Preeti , Kumar Vijay , Goswami Bidhan , Sil Samir Kumar , Singh Mrigendra Pal , Chand Sunil Kumar , Shalini Sneh , Singh Om P , Dhangadamajhi Gunanidhi , Ramalingam Sivaprakash , Mallick Prashant Kumar , Singh Shailja
Published: December 2024

Artemisinin resistance inPlasmodium falciparumremains a major public health challenge for the ongoing malaria elimination programs. Till now, artemisinin resistance is linked with the variations in the genome ofP. falciparumwhich are mainly clustered in the Pfkelch13 gene. Several studies reported artemisinin resistance in the malaria endemic areas without finding any evidence of genetic variation in parasite for this occurrence. This study interrogated whether host genetic variations have any association with artemisinin sensitivity of malaria parasite. We investigated the relationship of 1) genetic variations in the human ATP2B4 gene and 2) the resultant surface expression of plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA4b) with the intraerythrocytic levels of calcium, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the resistance towards artemisinin in the intraerythrocytic parasite. This study found negative correlation of PMCA4b expression level with intraerythrocytic calcium and ROS levels. Further in-vitro growth assays revealed that artemisinin sensitivity is reduced in the parasites growing within the RBCs having low PMCA4b and high oxidative stress. Overall, this study highlights the strong association of host PMCA4b in cellular calcium mediated redox imbalance, which significantly contributes to artemisinin resistance in malaria parasite. Hence, this is the first study to document the effect of host variations on artemisinin sensitivity of the parasite. We further emphasize that many redox modulating RBC polymorphisms that are prevalent in malaria endemic areas could influence artemisinin resistance and can serve as potential biomarkers for predicting therapeutic response. Thus, detailed population specific research may provide new insights for personalized malaria treatment and may inform future drug development strategies.

Significance

The human host and malaria parasite share a closely interconnected relationship hence host variations could influence parasite drug resistance. This study demonstrates that reduced PMCA4b expression, the primary calcium efflux pump in RBCs, significantly increases the erythrocytic calcium and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, thereby decreasing theP. falciparumgrowth as well as artemisinin sensitivity. Many ROS inducing RBC polymorphisms, such as sickle cell, thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, PMCA4b variations etc. have emerged as strong malaria protective traits in several studies in malaria endemic areas. But these traits could also influence artemisinin resistance and can serve as potential biomarkers for predicting therapeutic response and highlights the importance of host erythrocytes oxidative microenvironment surveillance in monitoring antimalarial drug resistance.
Ipflufenoquin, Novel Dihydroorotate Dehydrogenase Inhibitor: Efficacy Against Strawberry Diseases and Docking Simulations via AlphaFold2 and Autodock Vina
Authors: Choi Sungyu , Son Doeun , Jang Hyeong-rok , Park Soyoon , Liu Haifeng , Lee Hyeon-gyeong , Sang Hyunkyu
Published: December 2024

In 2023, fungal diseases, includingBotrytis cinerea(gray mold), were isolated from various strawberry fields in Korea. Ipflufenoquin, a novel class 2 dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) inhibitor, was applied to plant pathogenic fungal species. EC50values indicated that ipflufenoquin achieved high sensitivity inB. cinereawhile maintaining broad-spectrum activity against other fungi. Fruit and greenhouse trials confirmed its robust efficacy in gray mold diseases, including those resistant to conventional fungicides like pyraclostrobin, fluxapyroxad, and benomyl. However, the ipflufenoquin application was less effective against fungal pathogens like blossom blight and Rhizopus rot, causing shifts in the fungal community and allowing less sensitive species to emerge. Structural prediction using Alphafold2 and molecular docking simulation showed ipflufenoquin was bound to the quinone binding tunnel in DHODH and highlighted the correlation between protein-ligand binding affinity and fungicide susceptibility, with species showing higher affinities being more sensitive. This study is the first to report sensitivity of strawberry fungal species to ipflufenoquin, and this fungicide is recommended in strawberry farms against gray mold disease. Additionally, we conducted in silico predictions of fungicide sensitivity across various plant pathogenic fungi using Alphafod2 and Autodock Vina. This establishes a foundation for future computational analyses to predict the effectiveness of fungicides, offering important baseline data to enhance fungicide management strategies.
Microbial alginate foraging is conserved in geographically and taxonomically distinct ruminant microbiomes
Authors: Ferrillo Alessandra , Tingley Jeffrey P. , King Marissa L. , Kidane Alemayehu , Bajwa Barinder , Xing Xiaohui , Johannessen Tina , Lysberg Alexsander , Mydland Liv Torunn , Øverland Margareth , Reintjes Greta , Shearer Anna Y. , Klassen Leeann , Low Kristin E. , Patel Trushar R. , Terry Stephanie A. , Pope Phillip B. , Abbott D. Wade , Hagen Live H.
Published: December 2024

Seaweed plays a crucial role in carbon cycling and is expected to be a valuable resource for sustainable biomass, with applications in biofuel production, human nutrition, and animal feed. Although seaweed has historically been used as a feed source for livestock grazing near coastlines, the process by which it is digested in the rumen remains unknown. Here, we show how the brown algaeSaccharina latissimais catabolized in the rumen ecosystem of two different species usingin vivoandin vitroexperimental systems. We determined that the ruminal decomposition of alginate, a prominent component of the brown algae cell wall, requires microbial catabolic pathways complete with alginate lyases and transport proteins. Evidence of digestion was obtained through a combination of animal models, bacterial imaging, multilayered meta-omics, and enzyme biochemistry. The evolution of and implications for acquisition of ‘alginate utilization loci’ within geographically and taxonomically distinct ruminants are considered.

Graphical abstract

Saccharina latissimais a brown alga commonly found in the North Atlantic, Arctic and Pacific oceans.S. latissimawas collected from the west coast and Canada and Norway for microbiome studies. Alginate constitutes a substantial portion of the cell wall ofS. latissima(SL), and its digestion requires a specific set of enzymes, alginate lyases. We investigated if and howS. latissimais metabolized in geographically distinct rumen ecosystems throughin vivolamb feeding experiments (2.5 and 5% inclusion, DM basis) andin vitrocattle-based rumen simulation technique, RUSITEC, experiments (up to 50% inclusion). Evidence supporting ruminal degradation of alginate was explored using a combination of multilayered meta-omics, physiology (fluorescently labelledS. latissimahot water extracts (FLA-SLAT)) and biochemical characterization of PL6 alginate lyases.
Cofilin promotes actin turnover and flexibility to drive coordinated cell movementsin vivo
Authors: do Carmo Ana Maria , Sayo Ji Hong , Fernandez-Gonzalez Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

Embryos display a striking ability to repair wounds rapidly, with no inflammation or scarring. Embryonic wound healing is driven by the collective movement of the cells adjacent to the wound. The cells at the wound edge polarize actin and the molecular motor non-muscle myosin II, forming a supracellular cable around the wound that generates force and coordinates cell movements to close the lesion. Actin network contraction has been associated with the disassembly of the actin filaments that form the network. We found that the actin-severing protein cofilin and its co-factor Aip1 accumulated at the edge of epidermal wounds inDrosophilaembryos. Reducing cofilin activity slowed down wound closure by 26%, indicating that cofilin is necessary for rapid wound healing. Using quantitative microscopy, we showed that cofilin controls F-actin turnover at the wound edge, but not F-actin polarity or contractile force generation. Combining genetic and pharmacological manipulations, we found that F-actin turnover at the wound edge must be tightly regulated for wounds to close rapidly. Computational modelling suggested that cofilin may contribute to rapid wound repair by maintaining a flexible actin network at the wound edge. Consistent with this model, fluorescence fluctuation analysis revealed that F-actin networks at the wound edge were significantly more rigid when we reduced cofilin activity. Together, our results indicate that cofilin promotes F-actin turnover at the wound edge to maintain a flexible actin network and facilitate rapid contraction and wound healing.
DUX4-induced HSATII RNA accumulation drives protein aggregation impacting RNA processing pathways
Authors: Arends Tessa , Bennett Sean R. , Tapscott Stephen J.
Published: December 2024

RNA-driven protein aggregation leads to cellular dysregulation, disrupting normal cellular processes, and contributing to the development of diseases and tumorigenesis. Here, we show that double homeobox 4 (DUX4), an early embryonic transcription factor and causative gene of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), induces the accumulation of stable intranuclear RNAs, including nucleolar RNA and human satellite II (HSATII) RNA. Stable intranuclear RNAs drive protein aggregation in DUX4-expressing muscle cells. Specifically, HSATII RNA sequesters RNA methylation factors. HSATII-YBX1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex formation is mediated by HSATII double-stranded RNA and NSUN2 activity. Aberrant HSATII-RNP complexes affect RNA processing pathways, including RNA splicing. Differential splicing of genes mediated by HSATII-RNP complexes are associated with pathways known to be dysregulated by DUX4 expression. These findings highlight the broader influence of DUX4 on nuclear RNA dynamics and suggest that HSATII RNA could be a critical mediator of RNA processing regulation. Understanding the impact of HSATII-RNP formation on RNA processing provides insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying FSHD.

Arends et al. show that DUX4-induction of stable intranuclear RNA, including pericentromeric human satellite II (HSATII) repeat RNA, leads to nuclear protein aggregation. HSATII ribonucleoprotein complexes impact RNA processing downstream of DUX4 expression.
Potential mechanisms and effects of melatonin-regulated Nrf2/HO-1 pathway on acute lung injury due to formaldehyde exposure
Authors: Wang Bihong , Lv Jianguo , Xu Miao , Chang Dewei , Wu Zhe , Sun Yanling
Published: December 2024

Acute lung injury is a topic of great interest in critical care medicine due to its high mortality rates. The lungs are the immediate target organ for formaldehyde inhalation damage. Lung damage and fibrosis are the most important outcomes of severe and acute lung disease and pose a serious threat to human health. Melatonin (MT), a natural bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, However, it is not clear whether MT can prevent FA-induced acute lung injury (ALI). Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the protective effects of MT and the potential mechanisms against FA-induced ALI. An environmental exposure bin was used to inhale 3 mg·m3 FA-induced ALI, which was given intraperitoneally with different doses of MT (5/10/20 mg/kg) after successful modeling. In addition, rats were treated with Nrf2 inhibitor (ML385) to validate the signaling pathway. Lung function was measured, histopathological/morphological changes in lung tissue were assessed, and inflammatory expression and oxidation levels in lung tissue were detected. We observed that MT greatly alleviated the lung dysfunction, pathological lung injury, pulmonary edema and inflammatory response after successful modeling of FA. In additional, MT played a role in modulating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, which effectively inhibit oxidative stress caused by FA-induced lung tissue injure. Moreover, we found that activation of the NF-κB pathway is associated with inflammation caused by this injury. Overall, our data suggest that MT inhibits the expression of oxidative stress and inflammation in lung tissue through the institutional or Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, alleviating FA-induced ALI.
How does immediate auditory feedback coupled to locomotion influence the spontaneous actions of rats?
Authors: Yoshida Kosuke , Wada Reo , Hakataya Shiomi , Toya Genta , Okanoya Kazuo , Koda Hiroki
Published: December 2024

Sense of agency is a subjective experience that is difficult to examine in animals and preverbal infants. In animals and infants, the sensory monitoring of self-motion, which is the basis of this sense, and the contingency between self-motion and sensory feedback are investigated. Here, we performed experiments on rats using locomotor movements and auditory feedback of pulsed sounds with real-time changes in pulse interval corresponding to the velocity of locomotion, and tested whether rats change their locomotion depending on the degree of contingency between locomotion and auditory feedback. The results showed that rats increased their locomotion distance when the pulse interval of sound changed in accordance with the velocity of locomotion. However, this effect was not long-lasting. This study provides a simple and convenient method to examine the awareness of the contingency between self-motion and auditory feedback in a wide range of animal species without long-term training, and is expected to be a useful tool for comparisons with humans.
Diffusion-based generation of gene regulatory networks from scRNA-seq data with DigNet
Authors: Wang Chuanyuan , Liu Zhi-Ping
Published: December 2024

A gene regulatory network (GRN) intricately encodes the interconnectedness of identities and functionalities of genes within cells, ultimately shaping cellular specificity. Despite decades of endeavors, reverse engineering of GRNs from gene expression profiling data remains a profound challenge, particularly when it comes to reconstructing cell-specific GRNs that are tailored to precise cellular and genetic contexts. Here, we propose a discrete diffusion generation model, called DigNet, capable of generating corresponding GRNs from high-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data. DigNet embeds the network generation process into a multistep recovery procedure with Markov properties. Each intermediate step has a specific model to recover a portion of the gene regulatory architectures. It thus can ensure compatibility between global network structures and regulatory modules through the unique multistep diffusion procedure. Furthermore, through iMetacell integration and non-Euclidean discrete space modeling, DigNet is robust to the presence of noise in scRNA-seq data and the sparsity of GRNs. Benchmark evaluation results against more than a dozen state-of-the-art network inference methods demonstrate that DigNet achieves superior performance across various single-cell GRN reconstruction experiments. Furthermore, DigNet provides unique insights into the immune response in breast cancer, derived from differential gene regulation identified in T cells. As an open-source software, DigNet offers a powerful and effective tool for generating cell-specific GRNs from scRNA-seq data.
Interacting Dark Energy after DESI Baryon Acoustic Oscillation Measurements
Authors: Giarè William , Sabogal Miguel A. , Nunes Rafael C. , Di Valentino Eleonora
Published: December 2024

We investigate the implications of the baryon acoustic oscillations measurement released by the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument for interacting dark energy (IDE) models characterized by an energy-momentum flow from dark matter to dark energy. By combining Planck-2018 and Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument data, we observe a preference for interactions, leading to a nonvanishing interaction rate ξ=−0.32−0.14+0.18, which results in a present-day expansion rate H0=70.8−1.7+1.4  km/s/Mpc, reducing the tension with the value provided by the SH0ES Collaboration to less than ∼1.3σ. The preference for interactions remains robust when including measurements of the expansion rate H(z) obtained from the relative ages of massive, early-time, and passively evolving galaxies, as well as when considering distance moduli measurements from Type Ia supernovae sourced from the Pantheon-plus catalog using the SH0ES Cepheid host distances as calibrators. Overall, the IDE framework provides an equally good, or better, explanation of both high- and low-redshift observations compared to the lambda cold dark matter model, while also yielding higher H0 values that align more closely with the local distance ladder estimates. However, a limitation of the IDE model is that it predicts lower Ωm and higher σ8 values, which may not be fully consistent with large-scale structure data at the level.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Sustainability and its influence on the complexity of the food supply chain: a survey study
Authors: Silva Bibiana Porto da , Cassel Ricardo Augusto , Wachs Priscila , Martins Vera Lúcia Milani , Saurin Tarcisio Abreu
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To explore the relationship between sustainability and the complexity of the food supply chain (FSC) and to promote adopting a sustainable approach that balances financial growth, environmental preservation and social well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

Aquantitative method approach was employed using a survey of 379 respondents. Principal component analysis (PCA) was employed to evaluate the factors contributing to sustainability and their impact on the complexity of the FSC.

Findings

Sustainability amplifies the complexity of the FSC. Several factors that influence the complexity attributes were identified, including clean technologies, stakeholder engagement and supply chain coordination.

Research limitations/implications

Highlights the importance of adopting a sustainable approach that balances financial growth, environmental preservation and social well-being in FSCs. It also suggests the need for further research to improve understanding of the factors influencing the complexity of the FSC.

Practical implications

Companies operating in the FSC should invest in control measures, risk identification and prevention, employee training and awareness and policies and procedures for waste management and environmental sustainability.

Social implications

Highlights the importance of social responsibility in the FSC, including all stakeholders. It also emphasizes the need to minimize negative impacts on the environment and ensure the preservation of natural resources.

Originality/value

Provides a comprehensive analysis of the complexity attributes of the FSC and their relationship with sustainability factors. It offers practical and theoretical insights for companies to sustainably manage the FSC.
Stator inter-turn shortcircuit fault diagnosis of induction motor based on characteristic current
Authors: Wang Xilian , Zhou Jinhan , Qin Jiayi , Geng Min , Zhao Bo
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to facilitate reliable online diagnosis of early faults in the stator winding inter-turn short circuits of induction motors (IMs) under various operating conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel fault characteristic component, the characteristic current amplitude, is proposed for the fault. Defined as the product of short-circuit coefficient and short-circuit current, the characteristic current is derived from the positive and negative-sequence components of the stator-side current and voltage.

Findings

Simulation models of the IMs pre- and postfault, along with an experimental platform for the motor’s inter-turn short circuit, were established. The characteristic current amplitude proves more robust against voltage unbalance and load variations, which offers enhanced reliability and sensitivity for early fault diagnosis of inter-turn short circuit in IMs stator windings.

Originality/value

A novel feature is proposed. Compared with negative-sequence current, which is considered as a traditional fault feature, the characteristic current amplitude exhibits a greater robustness against the imbalanced conditions, which simultaneously possesses the attributes of both reliability and expeditiousness in fault detection.
Adoption of AI by the HR function in the civil service
Authors: Smith Mel , Prabhakar Guru , Nisar Tahir M. , Tseng Hsiao-Ting
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper uses the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to assess the readiness of the HR function within the UK Civil Service (CSHR) to implement AI to support performance. Academic literature in relation to AI acceptance in HR functions is currently limited, so this paper aims to establish a better understanding of the current landscape and level of ambition in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research approach was adopted to determine likely behavioral intentions of workers in the human resource (HR)function if AI were implemented, by investigating key aspects of the TAM (the perceived usefulness of AI and the transparency of the CSHR in adopting AI).

Findings

While the results suggest that the CSHR is not ready to harness AI opportunities, employees were personally ready, despite perceiving a lack of sufficient knowledge in this area. The paper identifies that more time needs to be spent on raising awareness and upskilling the HR function before the CS can be considered fully ready to harness these opportunities.

Originality/value

The penetration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into the global workforce brings transformative potential to the governance structures and use of digital platforms in public sector organizations. AI is likely to play a role in the operation of HR functions and influence how they might operate in the near future.
Young or old CEOs: digital transformation level influences IT investment performance feedback of manufacturing firms
Authors: Guan Feiyang , Wang Tienan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Since IT investment constitutes a significant portion of a firm’s budget, evaluating IT investment performance is important for both research and firms’ operations. In the digital era, there are significant disparities in the effects of IT investment on firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the resource-based view and upper echelons theory, we investigate the effect of IT investment on the business performance of manufacturing firms. We also explore the moderating role of digital transformation and dual moderating effect of digital transformation and CEO age in this relationship.

Findings

Analyzing a sample of Chinese manufacturing firms spanning 2016–2020, we find that IT investment by Chinese manufacturing firms has a negative effect on business performance. However, this negative effect is moderated by digital transformation. Furthermore, digital transformation has a more pronounced inverse moderating influence on this negative effect for firms with older CEOs.

Originality/value

Hence, we reveal that the key factors for reducing the negative effect of IT investment on China’s manufacturing firms are digital transformation and the appointment of older CEOs who actively lead firms’ digital transformation.
Key structure and technology of bridge cable maintenance robot – a review
Authors: Jiang Jingang , Bai Yan Shuang , Wu Dian Hao , Yu Yan Xin , Ma Xue Feng , Lin Chuan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The cable inspection robot is essential in maintaining bridge cables. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the maintenance methods of bridge cables. It summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the critical structures of the external overall frame, intermediate adhesion device, attachment mechanism and driving method of the cable inspection robot. Finally, it discusses the challenges the cable inspection robot faces and the direction of future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes the research progress of the cable inspection robot and details the advantages and disadvantages of critical structures such as the external frame, intermediate adhesion device, attachment mechanism, driving method and safe return device of the robot. Finally, it points out the future direction of cable inspection robots, including lightweight design, hybrid design, multi-robot cooperative work, multi-technology integration and intelligent cable inspection digital twin model.

Findings

The cables are the main load-bearing components of a bridge, and their safety is crucial. However, subjected to varying loads and environmental influences over a long period, cables are prone to damage, threatening the bridge’s stability. Cable inspection robots can comprehensively detect and repair cable damage, significantly improving efficiency and safety.

Originality/value

This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current research on cable inspection robots, enabling readers to have a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the critical structures and key technologies of cable inspection robots and providing scientific references for researchers working on cable inspection robots.
Interorganizational negotiation perspective: the role of interaction, pluralistic discord and relative strength of formal and informal institutions
Authors: Zakaria Rimi , Yang Kun Michelle
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study extends the relationship, behavior and condition perspective on international business negotiation to predict cross-border merger and acquisition negotiation outcomes. Taking a two-dimensional approach to classifying institutional distance (ID), the authors identify a set of cognitive and behavioral mechanisms underlying interfirm negotiation processes. The purpose of this study is to propose that the degree, interaction, pluralistic discord of institutional dimensions and the relative importance of IDs shape cross-national negotiation workflows and tactics.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional sample of over 76,000 interfirm merger and acquisition deals, the authors find that this study’s empirical results support their overarching theory of relationship-, behavior- and condition-focused cross-border negotiation outcomes. Applying the Mahalanobis approach to multidimensional IDs, the authors conduct logistic regression analyses to run the competing models to test the hypotheses.

Findings

This research finds that the degree of dimensional interactions, pluralistic discord and relative impact – all three ID dynamics – at the dyadic level undermine the likelihood of deal completion. As such, interfirm negotiations require managing cognitive and behavioral costs underlying the intricacies of IDs.

Originality/value

The relationship, behavior and condition-centric interfirm negotiation theory proposed in this study informs our existing knowledge of both institutional and behavioral negotiations. Simulating the context of de facto deals, the research model simultaneously captures formal and informal ID dimensions as a tandem to identify some exogenous and endogenous bargaining dynamics to provide new insights. The results of this study demonstrate that the codified, authoritative, and legally enforceable attributes of distance (i.e. formal directives) undermine cross-border deals more acutely than the socio-culturally embedded norms (i.e. informal conventions).
The TabNet Model for Diagnosing Axial Spondyloarthritis Using MRI Imaging Findings and Clinical Risk Factors
Authors: Zhang Zhaojuan , Pan Yiling , Lu Yanjie , Ye Lusi , Zheng Mo , Zhang Guodao , Chen Dan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study is to develop and validate a model for predicting axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) based on sacroiliac joint (SIJ)‐MRI imaging findings and clinical risk factors.

Methods

The study is implemented on the data of 942 patients which contains of 707 patients with axSpA and 235 patients with non‐axSpA. To begin with, the patients were split into training (n = 753) and validation (n = 189) cohorts. Secondly, multiple assessors manually extract the features of active inflammation (bone marrow edema) and structural lesions (erosions, sclerosis, ankylosis, joint space changes, and fat lesions). Meanwhile, we utilize 11 machine learning models and TabNet to develop imaging models, which contain six clinical risk factors for clinical models and combined clinical‐imaging models. Finally, the diagnostic performance of the aforementioned models was evaluated in the validation cohort including accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, F1‐score, and Matthew's correlation coefficient (MCC).

Results

Six features were extracted from the imaging findings. The combined clinical‐imaging models outperform the clinical and imaging models. In contrast, the combined clinical‐imaging model via TabNet (CCMRT) achieved the optimal AUC of 0.93(95% CI: 0.89, 0.97). Furthermore, it is observed that the bilateral joint space changes and right‐sided erosions, HLA‐B27 positivity, and CRP values significantly affected axSpA diagnostic prediction.

Conclusion

The prediction model based on clinical risk factors and SIJ‐MRI imaging features can distinguish axSpA and non‐axSpA effectively. In addition, the TabNet demonstrates superior diagnostic efficacy compared with machine learning models.
Prevalence of invasive fish and plants in the winter diet of the rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster)
Authors: Sanders Emmalie , Wassens Skye , Turner James M. , Michael Damian R.
Published: December 2024

Understanding the dietary components of a species can help reveal complex ecological interactions within an ecosystem. We analysed the diet of a native semi‐aquatic predator, the rakali (Hydromys chrysogaster), to investigate its reported preference for invasive species in a regulated freshwater system. We used faecal metabarcoding analysis to identify key dietary items consumed during winter in the Yanco Creek System of southern New South Wales. While rakali did not display a significant difference in the consumption of invasive and native fish, 79.5% of total fish relative read abundance were invasive. The common carp (Cyprinus carpio) comprised 16.8% of the total diet relative read abundance and was present in 78.6% of samples. Plant matter was present in all samples and over half of the total relative read abundance of the diet. The prevalence of plants in the winter diet of rakali indicates that they are an important dietary supplement when other resources are limited. We show that the prevalence of invasive fish consumed by rakali is likely a result of their greater abundance in the system, rather than a direct preference. Further research is needed to determine the extent to which rakali can control invasive prey populations.
Post‐fire grazing by feral ungulates significantly reduces perennial grass cover in north Australian mesic savannas
Authors: Vincent James D. , Mihailou Helenna , Massaro Melanie
Published: December 2024

Since the late 1800s, north Australian savannas have experienced a fundamental shift in grazing pressure, moving from an assemblage of native macropods to introduced ungulates. In contrast to macropods, ungulates have hard hooves, are greater in size and exhibit bulk feeding strategies, resulting in a greater impact on perennial grass cover. However, the response of perennial grasses to ungulate grazing may vary depending on rainfall, soil fertility and fire, as well as ungulate density and feeding behaviour. Interactions between grazing, drought and fire are of particular interest, as climate change is predicted to increase rainfall variability and fire frequency across northern Australia. In this study, we tested for interactions between grazing and drought, as well as fire and grazing, on two vegetation zones surrounding waterholes, through a 5 years fencing exclusion experiment. Despite drought conditions occurring over 2 years of the study, no interaction between grazing and drought was detected. This is most likely due to the relatively low ungulate density present during the study (~1 ungulate/km2). In contrast, after fire was introduced to the study sites, significantly more perennial grass cover was recorded at fenced sites relative to unfenced sites. Due to the study design the cause of change cannot be directly inferred. However, when the potential drivers are considered further (rainfall, soil properties, fire and changes in ungulate density), an interaction between grazing and fire is the most probable cause. Wetland vegetation showed a stronger response to fencing than the surrounding savanna, with this result most likely due to differences in ungulate feeding behaviour between the two vegetation zones. Our findings are important, as fire and ungulate grazing are both widespread across Australia's savannas and reduced perennial grass cover has been linked to increased cat predation on rapidly declining small, native mammal populations.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Study on the Connective Tissue Cores of the Lingual Epithelium of the Domestic Chicken (Gallus gallus Domesticus)
Authors: Mohamed Mayada Youssef
Published: December 2024

Anatomically the tongue of Gallus gallus domesticus (Galliformes: Phasianidae) is distinguished into sharp rostral apex, body and root with numerous conical papillae arranged in rows in different sizes in the free portion and the root of the tongue. The epithelium covered the dorsal and ventral surfaces of the free portion and the dorsal surface of the root of the tongue. Numerous orifices of the salivary glands were scattered in the root of the tongue. SEM investigation of the connective tissue cores after maceration of the tongue in 10% NaOH showed the presence of thread‐like structures of the connective tissue cores in the rostral apex of the tongue, rod‐shaped protrusions in the middle of the free portion and ring‐like process posteriorly, while in the conical papillae, they appeared like thin parallel striations. The connective tissue core formed sheaths around the orifices of the salivary glands. While the connective tissue cores of the laryngeal area showed saw‐shaped protrusions. Ventrally, the connective tissue core of the lingual nail was arranged in longitudinal parallel rows. SEM investigation revealed that the connective tissue core of the epithelium covered the tongue and closely conformed to the form and size of the filiform papillae.
Paving the way: Scientometrics of consumer behavior in sustainable fashion for future research agenda
Authors: Brinda Sree Tamilarasan , Kavitha Ramasamy
Published: December 2024

Research on sustainable consumer behavior has recently gained stream. An increasing number of academic articles seem to be focused on this subject. This study aims to identify and analyze the scientific literature using bibliometric analysis to identify the most cited articles, authors, and countries in the literature on consumer behavior in sustainable fashion. This study comprehensively investigates the topic by scrutinizing 759 publications between 1992 and 2024 sourced from the Scopus database. The study applied the VOSviewer to visualize and interpret the data. The study's findings are presented in a quantitative analysis with tables and maps. We analyzed an exponential increase in papers or research published on consumer behavior in sustainable fashion from 2012 to 2024. In addition to offering recommendations for future research directions, this paper provides significant insights that could influence firms' and regulators' policies and tactics targeted at encouraging sustainable fashion among consumers.
Fewer patients with insufficient weight loss after one anastomosis gastric bypass compared to Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass after 5 years of follow‐up
Authors: van der Laan Lindsy , Sizoo Dionne , de Heide Loek J. M. , van Beek André P. , Emous Marloes
Published: December 2024

This study aims to give a comprehensive overview of the one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) and Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) during 5 years of follow‐up in terms of weight loss, the remission of obesity‐associated diseases and complications. We performed a retrospective cohort study, with a 1:1 propensity‐score matched (PSM) comparison between all adult patients who underwent a primary OAGB or RYGB in 2016. Patients with a body mass index (BMI) ≥50 kg/m2 were excluded. In total, 372 patients underwent OAGB and 113 patients RYGB. After performing a 1:1 PSM, we obtained two nearly identical cohorts of 113 patients. After OAGB, the percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) was significantly higher during 5 years of follow‐up. Also, more patients after OAGB had a successful weight loss (TWL > 20%) after 5 years (86% vs. 72%; p = .019). The remission of obesity‐associated diseases and short‐term complications did not differ between both procedures. Persistent reflux was the reason for conversion to RYGB in 11.3% of the patients after OAGB. More internal herniations were seen after RYGB (10.4% vs. 1.9%; p = .010). Overall, the proportion of patients with major mid‐term complications did not differ between both procedures. In conclusion, OAGB resulted in more weight reduction and especially fewer patients with insufficient weight loss during 5 years of follow‐up, while remission of obesity‐associated diseases remained the same.