bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The UV 2175Å attenuation bump and its correlation with PAH emission at z ∼ 2
Authors: Shivaei Irene , Boogaard Leindert , Díaz-Santos Tanio , Battisti Andrew , da Cunha Elisabete , Brinchmann Jarle , Maseda Michael , Matthee Jorryt , Monreal-Ibero Ana , Nanayakkara Themiya , Popping Gergö , Vidal-García Alba , Weilbacher Peter M
Published: May 2022

The UV bump is a broad absorption feature centred at 2175 Å that is seen in the attenuation/extinction curve of some galaxies, but its origin is not well known. Here, we use a sample of 86 star-forming galaxies at z = 1.7–2.7 with deep rest-frame UV spectroscopy from the MUSE HUDF Survey to study the connection between the strength of the observed UV 2175 Å bump and the Spitzer/MIPS 24 $\mu$m photometry, which at the redshift range of our sample probes mid-IR polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) emission at ∼6–8 μm. The sample has robust spectroscopic redshifts and consists of typical main-sequence galaxies with a wide range in stellar mass (log (M*/M⊙) ∼ 8.5–10.7) and star formation rates (SFRs; SFR$\sim 1\rm{-}100\, M_{\odot }\, {\rm yr}^{-1}$). Galaxies with MIPS detections have strong UV bumps, except for those with mass-weighted ages younger than ∼150 Myr. We find that the UV bump amplitude does not change with SFR at fixed stellar mass but increases with mass at fixed SFR. The UV bump amplitude and the PAH strength (defined as mid-IR emission normalized by SFR) are highly correlated and both also correlate strongly with stellar mass. We interpret these correlations as the result of the mass–metallicity relationship, such that at low metallicities PAH emission is weak due to a lower abundance of PAH molecules. The weak or complete absence of the 2175 Å bump feature on top of the underlying smooth attenuation curve at low mass/metallicities is then expected if the PAH carriers are the main source of the additional UV absorption.
Transcription feedback dynamics in the wake of cytoplasmic mRNA degradation shutdown
Authors: Chappleboim Alon , Joseph-Strauss Daphna , Gershon Omer , Friedman Nir
Published: May 2022

In the last decade, multiple studies demonstrated that cells maintain a balance of mRNA production and degradation, but the mechanisms by which cells implement this balance remain unknown. Here, we monitored cells’ total and recently-transcribed mRNA profiles immediately following an acute depletion of Xrn1—the main 5′-3′ mRNA exonuclease—which was previously implicated in balancing mRNA levels. We captured the detailed dynamics of the adaptation to rapid degradation of Xrn1 and observed a significant accumulation of mRNA, followed by a delayed global reduction in transcription and a gradual return to baseline mRNA levels. We found that this transcriptional response is not unique to Xrn1 depletion; rather, it is induced earlier when upstream factors in the 5′-3′ degradation pathway are perturbed. Our data suggest that the mRNA feedback mechanism monitors the accumulation of inputs to the 5′-3′ exonucleolytic pathway rather than its outputs.
AutoESD: a web tool for automatic editing sequence design for genetic manipulation of microorganisms
Authors: Yang Yi , Mao Yufeng , Wang Ruoyu , Li Haoran , Liu Ye , Cheng Haijiao , Shi Zhenkun , Wang Yu , Wang Meng , Zheng Ping , Liao Xiaoping , Ma Hongwu
Published: May 2022

Advances in genetic manipulation and genome engineering techniques have enabled on-demand targeted deletion, insertion, and substitution of DNA sequences. One important step in these techniques is the design of editing sequences (e.g. primers, homologous arms) to precisely target and manipulate DNA sequences of interest. Experimental biologists can employ multiple tools in a stepwise manner to assist editing sequence design (ESD), but this requires various software involving non-standardized data exchange and input/output formats. Moreover, necessary quality control steps might be overlooked by non-expert users. This approach is low-throughput and can be error-prone, which illustrates the need for an automated ESD system. In this paper, we introduce AutoESD (https://autoesd.biodesign.ac.cn/), which designs editing sequences for all steps of genetic manipulation of many common homologous-recombination techniques based on screening-markers. Notably, multiple types of manipulations for different targets (CDS or intergenic region) can be processed in one submission. Moreover, AutoESD has an entirely cloud-based serverless architecture, offering high reliability, robustness and scalability which is capable of parallelly processing hundreds of design tasks each having thousands of targets in minutes. To our knowledge, AutoESD is the first cloud platform enabling precise, automated, and high-throughput ESD across species, at any genomic locus for all manipulation types.
Risk of intracranial hemorrhage with direct oral anticoagulants vs low molecular weight heparin in glioblastoma: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Reed-Guy Lauren , Desai Arati S , Phillips Richard E , Croteau Desiree , Albright Karen , O’Neill Meghan , Brem Steven , O’Rourke Donald M , Amankulor Nduka M , Bagley Stephen J
Published: May 2022

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is associated with a high incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE), but there are little data to guide anticoagulation in patients with GBM, in whom the risks of VTE must be balanced against the risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH).

Methods

We performed a single-institution retrospective cohort study of patients with GBM diagnosed with VTE from 2014 to 2021 who were treated with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC). The incidence of ICH was compared between the LMWH and DOAC groups. The primary outcome was clinically relevant ICH within the first 30 days of anticoagulation, defined as any ICH that was fatal, symptomatic, required surgical intervention, and/or led to cessation of anticoagulation. Secondary outcomes included clinically relevant ICH within 6 months, fatal ICH within 30 days and 6 months, and any bleeding within 30 days and 6 months.

Results

One hundred twenty-one patients were identified in the cohort for 30-day outcome analyses (DOAC, n = 33; LMWH, n = 88). For 6-month outcome analyses, the cohort included only patients who were maintained on their initial anticoagulant (DOAC, n = 32; LMWH, n = 75). The incidence of clinically relevant ICH at 30 days was 0% in the DOAC group and 9% in the LMWH group (P = .11). The cumulative incidence of clinically relevant ICH at 6 months was 0% in the DOAC group and 24% in the LMWH group (P = .001), with 4 fatal ICHs in the LMWH group.

Conclusions

DOACs are associated with a lower incidence of clinically relevant ICH in patients with GBM-associated VTE compared to LMWH.
Three worlds of austerity: voter congruence over fiscal trade-offs in Germany, Spain and the UK
Authors: Hübscher Evelyne , Sattler Thomas , Truchlewski Zbigniew
Published: May 2022

Political opposition to fiscal adjustments has varied significantly across countries. Our analysis links this variation to differences in the congruence of voter attitudes towards fiscal trade-offs across political blocs in different countries. These differences in attitudes, in turn, coincide with the implications of the distinct macroeconomic growth strategies that these countries pursue. Based on original survey data, we show that in Germany, supporters of different parties not only share similar views on the appropriate size of fiscal adjustment, but also on how to distribute these cuts across various spending items. In Spain, there is fundamental disagreement on the amount of austerity, but voters largely agree on the composition of fiscal adjustments. In the UK, there is disagreement between voters of diverging political blocs on both accounts. Variation in public attitudes, therefore, gives rise to very diverse political dynamics surrounding fiscal adjustments in different countries.
Combining Species Delimitation, Species Trees, and Tests for Gene Flow Clarifies Complex Speciation in Scrub-Jays
Authors: DeRaad Devon A , McCormack John E , Chen Nancy , Peterson A Townsend , Moyle Robert G
Published: May 2022

Complex speciation, involving rapid divergence and multiple bouts of post-divergence gene flow, can obfuscate phylogenetic relationships and species limits. In North America, cases of complex speciation are common, due at least in part to the cyclical Pleistocene glacial history of the continent. Scrub-Jays in the genus Aphelocoma provide a useful case study in complex speciation because their range throughout North America is structured by phylogeographic barriers with multiple cases of secondary contact between divergent lineages. Here, we show that a comprehensive approach to genomic reconstruction of evolutionary history, i.e., synthesizing results from species delimitation, species tree reconstruction, demographic model testing, and tests for gene flow, is capable of clarifying evolutionary history despite complex speciation. We find concordant evidence across all statistical approaches for the distinctiveness of an endemic southern Mexico lineage (A. w. sumichrasti), culminating in support for the species status of this lineage under any commonly applied species concept. We also find novel genomic evidence for the species status of a Texas endemic lineage A. w. texana, for which equivocal species delimitation results were clarified by demographic modeling and spatially explicit models of gene flow. Finally, we find that complex signatures of both ancient and modern gene flow between the non-sister California Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica) and Woodhouse’s Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma woodhouseii) result in discordant gene trees throughout the species’ genomes despite clear support for their overall isolation and species status. In sum, we find that a multi-faceted approach to genomic analysis can increase our understanding of complex speciation histories, even in well-studied groups. Given the emerging recognition that complex speciation is relatively commonplace, the comprehensive framework that we demonstrate for interrogation of species limits and evolutionary history using genomic data can provide a necessary roadmap for disentangling the impacts of gene flow and incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) to better understand the systematics of other groups with similarly complex evolutionary histories. [Gene flow; genomics; introgression; phylogenomics; population genetics; species delimitation; species trees; systematics.]
What the DAO?
Authors: Brassey John , Burns Rosalind , Knight Laura
Published: May 2022

Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs) are the current “new thing” in the world of crypto but this does not mean that they are not here to stay. In fact … they might be the biggest culture change of the modern world in terms of corporate governance, autonomy and transparency.
Inhibition of PIKfyve Ameliorates the Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Vascular Intima Hyperplasia By Reducing mTORC1 Activity
Authors: Gu Min , Wang Zhen , Feng Feifei , Yang Yongjian , Sun Xiongshan , Yang Dachun
Published: May 2022

This study was designed to investigate the role and mechanism of PIKfyve in the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and vascular intima hyperplasia. We first observed increased protein levels of PIKfyve, phospho (p)-S6 Ribosomal Protein (S6)Ser235/236, p-4EBP1Thr37/46 in VSMCs after 24 hours of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-BB treatment. By using cell counting kit-8 assay, Ki-67 immunofluorescence staining and wound healing assay, we found that PIKfyve inhibition ameliorated the enhanced activity of VSMC proliferation and migration induced by PDGF-BB. Silencing PIKfyve also suppressed the phosphorylation of S6 and 4EBP1 (2 major effectors of mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1), glucose consumption, activity of hexokinase, and LDH in PDGF-BB-challenged VSMCs. After rescuing the phosphorylation of S6 and 4EBP1 by silencing Tsc1, the suppressive effects of PIKfyve inhibition on glucose utilization, proliferation, and migration in VSMCs were abolished. The animal model of vascular restenosis was established in C57BL/6J mice by wire injury. We found the expression of PIKfyve was increased in carotid artery at day 28 after injury. Reducing the activity of PIKfyve alleviated vascular neointima hyperplasia after injury. In conclusion, targeting PIKfyve might be a novel effective method to reduce the proliferation and migration of VSMCs and vascular restenosis by affecting mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1–mediated glucose utilization.
Factors Associated With Knowledge and Attitude Among Vietnamese Nursing Staff Regarding Pain Management in a Vietnam National Hospital
Authors: Nga Doan Thi , Van Giang Nguyen , Thai Duong Hong , Hue Hoang Thi , Lee Bih-O
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND: Nurses play an important role in providing holistic care and effective pain management, which is significantly associated with their knowledge and attitudes. Limited evidence is available from Vietnamese nursing studies evaluating the knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward pain management. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of Vietnamese nurses and identify factors associated with pain management. METHODS: This study used a descriptive and cross-sectional design and was conducted at a national hospital in Vietnam from May to June 2021. Nurses working in all clinical units were surveyed to collect demographic data and assessed using the structured Knowledge and Attitudes Survey Regarding Pain (KASRP) scale. Multiple linear regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with knowledge and attitudes. RESULTS: Two hundred seventy-nine nurses completed the survey, including 152 (54.5%) who read books or journals about pain, 25 (9.0%) who reported the use of unit-based pain guidelines, and 77 (27.6%) who used a numeric rating tool. The mean number of correct answers on the KASRP was 23.34 (mean KASRP correct percentage of 54.9%), and only 16 nurses (5.7%) had passing scores. Having a bachelor's degree or higher, reading books or journals about pain, using a numeric rating tool, and using unit-based pain guidelines were significantly associated with higher KASRP scores (P < .01) among nurses. CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge and attitudes of nurses regarding pain management were far from satisfactory. Regular pain management training, access to pain-related reading materials, and the frequent use of a numeric tool to assess pain intensity are recommended to enhance the quality of care for patients provided by clinical nurses.
Orthobiologics for the Management of Early Arthritis in the Middle-Aged Athlete
Authors: Rauck Ryan C. , Eliasberg Claire D. , Rodeo Scott , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: May 2022

This article is dedicated to the use of orthobiologic therapies in the management of early osteoarthritis in middle-aged athletes. Understanding a patient’s presenting symptoms, physical examination, imaging results, and goals is of critical importance in applying orthobiologic therapies. The field of orthobiologics is expanding at a rapid pace, and the clinical studies examining the utility of each treatment lag behind the direct-to-consumer marketing that leads to these products being used. Here we provide a review of the available treatments, emerging treatments, and the current literature supporting or refuting their use. Currently studied orthobiologics include autologous and allogenic cell therapies, autologous blood products, hyaluronic acid, gene therapies, Wnt inhibitors, and a variety of systemic treatments.
Calcific Tendinopathy of the Shoulder: A Retrospective Comparison of Traditional Barbotage Versus Percutaneous Ultrasonic Barbotage
Authors: Berrigan William , Olufade Oluseun , Negron Giorgio , Easley Kirk , Sussman Walter I.
Published: May 2022

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to compare a traditional barbotage technique with percutaneous ultrasonic barbotage (PUB) for the treatment of rotator cuff (RC) calcific tendinopathy.

Design:

Three-year retrospective review.

Setting:

Participants aged 18 to 75 presenting at 2 highly specialized outpatient orthopedic referral centers with symptomatic RC calcific tendinopathy.

Patients:

There were 75 patients included (23 patients in the traditional barbotage group; 52 patients in the PUB group) with an average age of 55.3(6.5) and 55.9(9.8), respectively. There was no significant difference in demographics between groups.

Interventions:

Traditional barbotage or PUB.

Main Outcome Measures:

Primary outcome measure was pain rated on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) with secondary outcomes investigating patient satisfaction.

Results:

The barbotage and PUB group demonstrated a significant improvement in pain (barbotage 2.4, P = 0.01; PUB = 2.6, P < 0.001) with no statistically significant difference between the 2 treatment modalities (95% CI: −1.8 to 2.2; P = 0.83, P = 0.83). Median follow-up for NPRS recordings was 17-weeks in the barbotage group and 8-weeks in the PUB group (P = 0.004). Both groups demonstrated similar patient-reported satisfaction, without major complications.

Conclusion:

The traditional barbotage and PUB procedures improved pain with a high patient satisfaction rate.

Level of evidence:

Level III.
The Relationship Between Duration of General Anesthesia and Postoperative Fall Risk During Hospital Stay in Orthopedic Patients
Authors: Hata Takeo , Shima Hiroaki , Nitta Masahiko , Ueda Eiichiro , Nishihara Masami , Uchiyama Kazuhisa , Katsumata Takahiro , Neo Masashi
Published: May 2022

Objectives

We performed a retrospective observational study to investigate the relationship between general anesthesia duration and postoperative falls of hospitalized patients who underwent orthopedic surgery.

Methods

We used electronic medical record data and incident report data from the Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University Hospital. The study included 4,042 patients admitted to the Department of Orthopedic Surgery from 2014 to 2018, and the following exclusion criteria were applied: no surgery, less than 18 years of age, and fall between admission and surgery. This study only considered falls that occurred within 21 days of surgery. The multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for patient background was used to determine the risk of falling according to the duration of general anesthesia.

Results

After exclusions, 3,398 patients were included in the analysis. Among them, 45 patients (1.32%) had fallen, of whom 7 (15.6%) were injured and 2 (4.4%) experienced fractures. Multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine the adjusted odds ratio showed that longer general anesthesia duration was an independent risk factor for postoperative falls. In addition, cardiovascular disease had significantly higher associations with postoperative falls.

Conclusions

In the postoperative care of orthopedic patients, the risk of falling should be assessed by considering the duration of general anesthesia in addition to the traditional fall risk factors. Furthermore, falls could be prevented by educating patients and their caregivers about the risk and mobilizing staff to support postoperative patients at a higher risk of falls when they walk in the hospital.
Remarks on stationary and uniformly rotating vortex sheets: flexibility results
Authors: Gómez-Serrano Javier , Park Jaemin , Shi Jia , Yao Yao
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we construct new, uniformly rotating solutions of the vortex sheet equation bifurcating from circles with constant vorticity amplitude. The proof is accomplished via a Lyapunov–Schmidt reduction and a second-order expansion of the reduced system.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Mathematical problems in physical fluid dynamics (part 2)’.
The peptide GOLVEN10 controls nodule and lateral root organogenesis and positioning along the longitudinal root axis
Authors: Roy Sonali , Torres-Jerez Ivone , Zhang Shulan , Liu Wei , Schiessl Katharina , Boschiero Clarissa , Lee Hee-Kyung , Zhao Patrick X. , Murray Jeremy D. , Oldroyd Giles E. D. , Scheible Wolf-Rüdiger , Udvardi Michael
Published: May 2022

GLV/RGF peptide encoding genes can be identified in genomes of all plants that can form roots or root-like structures suggesting they were essential for transition of plants to land.

In Medicago truncatula, five of fifteen GOLVEN(GLV)/ROOT MERISTEM GROWTH FACTOR (RGF) peptide coding genes were induced during nodule organogenesis and to a varying extent under nitrogen deficiency and auxin treatment. Expression of MtGLV9 and MtGLV10 at nodule initiation sites was dependent on the transcription factor NODULE INCEPTION.

Overexpression of all five nodule-induced GLV genes in M. truncatula hairy roots as well as application of the corresponding synthetic peptides resulted in a 25-50% reduction in nodule number indicating GOLVENs are negative regulators of nodule organogenesis.

The peptide GOLVEN10 shifted the position of the first formed lateral root (rhizotaxis) as well as the first formed nodule along the longitudinal primary root axis, a phenomenon we term ‘nodulotaxis’, thereby reducing the absolute length of the zone of lateral organ formation on roots.

Application of synthetic GOLVEN10 peptide caused an increase in cell number but not cell length in each root cortical cell layer causing an increase in root length and a consequent spatiotemporal delay in formation of the first lateral organ.

Plain Language Summary

Nodule positioning is an understudied trait, yet it determines the length of the root that can support nodule formation and consequently the total number of functional nodules formed. We identify for the first time, genetic factors called GOLVEN peptides that alter nodule and lateral root positioning on the primary root along with several other traits including nodule organ initiation and root architecture.
Sonic Hedgehog Activates Prostaglandin Signaling to Stabilize Primary Cilium Length
Authors: Ansari Shariq S. , Dillard Miriam E. , Zhang Yan , Austria Mary Ashley , Boatwright Naoko , Shelton Elaine L. , Johnson Amanda , Young Brandon M. , Rankovic Zoran , Schuetz John D. , Robinson Camenzind G. , Ogden Stacey K.
Published: May 2022

Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) signaling is an essential driver of embryonic patterning that, when corrupted, leads to developmental disorders and cancers. SHH effector responses are organized through nonmotile primary cilia that grow and retract with the cell cycle and in response to distinct extracellular cues. Destabilization of primary cilium length corrupts SHH pathway regulation, which places significant pressure on SHH to maintain ciliary architecture. Herein, we investigate whether SHH signaling promotes ciliary length control. We reveal a signal crosstalk circuit induced by SHH activation of Phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) that drives ciliary EP4signaling to stabilize primary cilium length. We demonstrate that chemical or genetic blockade of SHH-EP4crosstalk leads to destabilized primary cilium cyclic AMP (cAMP) control, reduced ciliary length, and attenuated SHH pathway induction. Accordingly, we find thatEp-/-mice display shortened neuroepithelial primary cilia and altered SHH-dependent neuronal cell fate specification. Thus, SHH initiates a signaling crosstalk circuit that maintains primary cilium length for a robust downstream signaling response.
DNA methylation Dependent Restriction of Tyrosine Hydroxylase Contributes to Pancreatic β-cell Heterogeneity
Authors: Parveen Nazia , Wang Jean Kimi , Bhattacharya Supriyo , Cuala Janielle , Rajkumar Mohan Singh , Wu Xiwei , Shih Hung-Ping , Georgia Senta K. , Dhawan Sangeeta
Published: May 2022

The molecular and functional heterogeneity of pancreatic β-cells is well recognized. Pancreatic islets harbor a small subset of β-cells that co-express Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH), an enzyme involved in synthesis of catecholamines that repress insulin secretion. Restriction of this sub-population within islets is essential for appropriate insulin secretion. However, the distinguishing characteristics of this subpopulation and the mechanisms that restrict TH expression in β-cells are not known. Here, we define the specific molecular and metabolic characteristics of the TH+ β-cells and show that TH expression in β-cells is restricted by DNA methylation patterning during β-cell lineage specification. Ablation of de novo DNA methyltransferase Dnmt3a in the pancreatic- and endocrine-progenitor lineages results in a dramatic increase in the proportion of TH+ β-cells, while β-cell specific ablation of Dnmt3a has no effect on this sub-population. We demonstrate that maintenance of Th promoter DNA methylation patterns is essential for its continued restriction in postnatal β-cells, and that loss of DNA methylation dysregulates TH expression in β-cells in response to chronic overnutrition, contributing to impairment of β-cell identity. These data highlight the essential requirement of DNA methylation patterning in regulating endocrine cell fates, and reveal a novel role of DNA methylation in β-cell heterogeneity.
Reduced representation sequencing accurately quantifies relative abundance and reveals population-level variation in Pseudo-nitzschia spp.
Authors: Kenkel Carly D. , Smith Jayme , Hubbard Katherine A. , Chadwick Christina , Lorenzen Nico , Tatters Avery O. , Caron David A.
Published: May 2022

Certain species within the genus Pseudo-nitzschia are able to produce the neurotoxin domoic acid (DA), which can cause illness in humans, mass-mortality of marine animals, and closure of commercial and recreational shellfisheries during toxic events. Understanding and forecasting blooms of these harmful species is a primary management goal. However, accurately predicting the onset and severity of bloom events remains difficult, in part because the underlying drivers of bloom formation have not been fully resolved. Furthermore, Pseudo-nitzschia species often co-occur, and recent work suggests that the genetic composition of a Pseudo-nitzschia bloom may be a better predictor of toxicity than prevailing environmental conditions. We developed a novel next-generation sequencing assay using restriction site-associated DNA (2b-RAD) genotyping and applied it to mock Pseudo-nitzschia communities generated by mixing cultures of different species in known abundances. On average, 94% of the variance in observed species abundance was explained by the expected abundance. In addition, the false positive rate was low (0.45% on average) and unrelated to read depth, and false negatives were never observed. Application of this method to environmental DNA samples collected during natural Pseudo-nitzschia spp. bloom events in Southern California revealed that increases in DA were associated with increases in the relative abundance of P. australis. Although the absolute correlation across time-points was weak, an independent species fingerprinting assay (Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis) supported this and identified other potentially toxic species. Finally, we assessed population-level genomic variation by mining SNPs from the environmental 2bRAD dataset. Consistent shifts in allele frequencies in P. pungens and P. subpacifica were detected between high and low DA years, suggesting that different intraspecific variants may be associated with prevailing environmental conditions or the presence of DA. Taken together, this method presents a potentially cost-effective and high-throughput approach for studies aiming to evaluate both population and species dynamics in mixed samples.

Highlights

2bRAD method facilitates species- and population-level analysis of the same sample

Method accurately quantifies species relative abundance with low false positives

Consistent shifts in allele frequencies were detected between high and low DA years

Certain Pseudo-nitzschia spp. populations may be more associated with DA presence
Local adaptation ofAedes aegyptimosquitoes toWolbachia-induced fitness costs
Authors: Ross Perran A. , Hoffmann Ary A.
Published: May 2022

Aedes aegyptimosquito eggs can remain quiescent for many months before hatching, allowing populations to persist through unfavorable conditions.Aedes aegyptiinfected with theWolbachiastrainwMel have been released in tropical and subtropical regions for dengue control.wMel reduces the viability of quiescent eggs, but this physiological cost might be expected to evolve in natural mosquito populations that frequently experience stressful conditions. We therefore compared the costs ofwMel infection for quiescent egg viability in field-derived and laboratory populations. Quiescent egg viability was highly variable inwMel-infected populations, with greater costs ofwMel in field-derived populations. In contrast, there was little variation between matched field-derived and long-term laboratory populations lackingwMel, suggesting that laboratory adaptation does not influence this trait and that differences are due towMel infection. Comparisons of populations collected a year apart show a decline in costs under laboratory rearing conditions involving a rapid turnover of mosquito generations; this pattern was consistent across populations despite their origin, suggesting adaptation of mosquitoes to thewMel infection under laboratory conditions. Reciprocal crossing experiments confirm that differences in quiescent egg viability were mainly due to the genetic background and notWolbachiaalone.wMel-infected mosquitoes hatching from long-term quiescent eggs showed partial loss of cytoplasmic incompatibility and female infertility, highlighting additional costs of long-term quiescence. Our study provides the first evidence for a shift inWolbachiaphenotypic effects following deliberate field release and establishment and it highlights interactions betweenWolbachiainfections and local adaptation. The unexpected changes in fitness costs observed here suggest potential tradeoffs with undescribed fitness benefits of thewMel infection.
Model2SAS: software for small-angle scattering data calculation from custom shapes
Authors: Li Mu , Yin Panchao
Published: May 2022

To meet the challenges in resolving the complex morphologies of emergent nanoparticles, a program with a user-friendly graphical user interface has been developed for calculating small-angle scattering curves from custom shapes. The software allows STL-format 3D models, models defined by mathematical functions or combinations of the two as initial input. As a transitional stage, lattice models are generated and the orientation-averaged small-angle scattering data can be calculated using typical spherical harmonics expansion. The validity of the protocol is verified by demonstration models with Protein Data Bank structures and known scattering functions. The software is applied to successfully calculate the scattering curves of a porous spherical shell model where traditional mathematical derivation fails.
Hexamethylenetetramine–tridecanedioic acid (1/1): temperature-induced order–disorder structural phase transitions with phase co-existence
Authors: Zapata Maximiliano Jesús Moreno , Oliveira Willian Xerxes Coelho , Pinheiro Carlos Basílio
Published: May 2022

The cocrystal hexamethylenetetramine–tridecanedioic acid (1/1) (HMT–C13), C6H12N4·C13H24O4, was investigated by single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques at several temperatures during cooling and heating processes. Our results show the formation of two crystalline phases, separated by a large temperature phase co-existence between 290 and 340 K. Phase I, stable above 341 K, presents an orthorhombic structure described in the space group Bmmb, with one N4(CH2)6·C13H22O4 adduct in its asymmetric unit. Phase II, stable below 290 K, presents a monoclinic symmetry described by the space group P21/c, with two N4(CH2)6·C13H22O4 adducts in its asymmetric unit. The phase co-existence is observed both upon cooling and heating, and seems to be related to a complex domain-growth dynamic within the crystal.
Competing institutional logics and power dynamics in Islamic financial reporting standardisation projects
Authors: Abras Ahmad , Jayasinghe Kelum
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper examines the historical evolvement of competing institutional logics (i.e. religion, profession, state, market and community) underpinning Islamic accounting standardisation projects and power relations between internal actors representing these logics.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a case-study approach and analyses two Islamic accounting standardisation projects implemented at the national and international levels. Documentary review and semi-structured interviews are used for data collection. Analysis is informed by the “Institutional Logics Perspective” and Bourdieu's notion of “power as capital in a field”.

Findings

Research findings illustrate how some local actors pre-dispose themselves in promoting strict compliance to IFRS, while others endeavour to ensure compliance to “Islamic Sharia requirements” in financial reporting. In this power dynamic, there is an ongoing “constructive resistance” actively exerted by the latter group against the former, preserving the existence of religion-based reporting demands in Islamic accounting standardisation approaches. The paper also highlights chronological “dynamic” accounts that explain the evolvement of institutional logics prevailing in these projects over different historical stages at both national and international levels.

Originality/value

This paper's findings contrast and challenge the existing assumption that the “epistemic community” promoting IFRS agenda always faces “passive responses” from local actors. Moreover, the paper's offering of a dynamic view to institutional logic mapping extends the previously used “static analyses” of logics prevailing in Islamic accounting standardisation projects.
An effort saving method to establish global aerodynamic model using CFD
Authors: Xie Jingfeng , Huang Jun , Song Lei , Fu Jingcheng , Lu Xiaoqiang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The typical approach of modeling the aerodynamics of an aircraft is to develop a complete database through testing or computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The database will be huge if it has a reasonable resolution and requires an unacceptable CFD effort during the conceptional design. Therefore, this paper aims to reduce the computing effort required via establishing a general aerodynamic model that needs minor parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The model structure was a preconfigured polynomial model, and the parameters were estimated with a recursive method to further reduce the calculation effort. To uniformly disperse the sample points through each step, a unique recursive sampling method based on a Voronoi diagram was presented. In addition, a multivariate orthogonal function approach was used.

Findings

A case study of a flying wing aircraft demonstrated that generating a model with acceptable precision (0.01 absolute error or 5% relative error) costs only 1/54 of the cost of creating a database. A series of six degrees of freedom flight simulations shows that the model’s prediction was accurate.

Originality/value

This method proposed a new way to simplify the model and recursive sampling. It is a low-cost way of obtaining high-fidelity models during primary design, allowing for more precise flight dynamics analysis.
The viticulture revolution @ Tabor Winery: Michal Akerman’s visionary leadership
Authors: Kumar K.B.S.
Published: May 2022

Study level/applicability

MBA/MS/Executive Training.

Subject area

Business and society; sustainability; women business leaders.

Case overview

This case is about the development of sustainable viticulture in Israel. Michal Akerman, a viticulturist and agronomist, implemented out-of-the box ideas at Tabor Winery, Israel, and was successful in developing organic and sustainable vineyard. However, she faced challenges in terms of improving the quality of grapes as she looked forward to growing some of the best quality French grapes in Israel in the challenging conditions of the Negev desert region.

Expected learning outcomes

The expected learning outcomes are: to analyze the environmental impact of viticulture and sustainable viticulture through Tabor’s example, to examine how leaders can drive businesses to be involved in sustainable practices and challenges involved in implementing sustainable practices and to develop a framework for female leaders working in male-dominated business environments.

Social implications

This case captures Michal Akerman’s (Michal) endeavours to develop organic and sustainable viticulture at Israel-based Tabor Winery. The traditional practices followed to grow the vineyards were proving adverse to the biodiversity. Unsustainable practices wiped out rare plants, and micro-organisms, which were essential for cultivation of grapes. The imbalance and unnatural ecosystem ultimately posed a threat to the very sustenance of the vineyards. As a seasoned viticulturist, Michal was of the view that a stable, diverse and balanced ecosystem prevented diseases among plants, and improved the quality of grapes.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 4: Environmental Management.
Drivers of privacy concerns when interacting with a chatbot in a customer service encounter
Authors: Bouhia Mariem , Rajaobelina Lova , PromTep Sandrine , Arcand Manon , Ricard Line
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the antecedents of privacy concerns in the era of artificial intelligence. Specifically, it focuses on the impact of various factors related to interactions with a chatbot (creepiness and perceived risk) and individual traits (familiarity with chatbots and need for privacy) in relation to privacy when interacting with a chatbot in the context of financial services. The moderating effect of gender on these relationships was also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 430 Canadians responded to an online questionnaire after interacting with a chatbot in the context of a simulated auto insurance quote. A structural equation model was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results showed that privacy concerns are influenced primarily by creepiness, followed by perceived risk and the need for privacy. The last two relationships are moderated by gender. Conversely, familiarity with chatbots does not affect privacy concerns in this context.

Originality/value

This study is the first to consider the influence of creepiness as an antecedent of privacy concerns arising from interactions with AI tools and highlight its key impacts. It also shows how gender moderates specific relationships in this context.
The interplay between relationships, technologies and organizational structures in enhancing supply chain resilience: empirical evidence from a Delphi study
Authors: Küffner Christoph , Kopyto Matthias , Wohlleber Annika Judith , Hartmann Evi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

COVID-19 has highlighted the need to reflect on how firms should improve their supply chains (SCs) to enhance agility and robustness. Recent studies focus more on the short-term rather than on the long-term developments and lack insights regarding the enhancement of supply chain resilience (SCRES) based on the interplay between multiple levers. Therefore, using a long-term perspective, this research evaluates the interaction between three SCRES levers – relationships, technologies and organizational structures – to improve SCRES.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an extensive literature review, multiple interviews and workshops, 13 future projections were developed. These projections were assessed using a two-round Delphi study that included 83 international experts from industry, academia and politics/associations to determine the probability of occurrence by 2035, their impact on SCRES and their desirability.

Findings

This study provides empirical evidence that the long-term enhancement of SCRES is achieved through the interplay of multiple levers rather than unilateral optimization. The study suggests that, by 2035, collaboration between SC partners will be a key factor for SCRES enhancement. Additionally, SC stakeholders should be aware that failing to invest in digital technologies will negatively impact the agility and robustness of future SCs. Furthermore, humans are expected to continue to play a major role, given that relationship-oriented tasks are perceived to remain important.

Originality/value

This paper adds to current literature, describing how SCRES can be improved in the long term through the interplay of multiple levers and the combination of robust and agile elements. Considering the importance of ensuring resilient SCs, this paper provides valuable insights for academics and practitioners.
Emotions, identity, social bonds and commitment to the family business: moderating role of controlling generation
Authors: Razzak Mohammad Rezaur
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Drawing on the stakeholder theory, the purpose of this study is to examine relationships between family identity, emotional attachment and binding social ties, and commitment of family firm owners to the family enterprise in the context of an emerging economy. Furthermore, this study examines whether the strength of the above relationships significantly vary between the founder generation and the subsequent generation of owners.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of hypotheses is tested by applying partial least squares structural equation modeling on a sample of 357 family-owned manufacturing companies in Bangladesh. Deploying SmartPLS (v. 3.2), the path model is analyzed through bootstrapping procedure. The moderating effect is tested through multigroup analysis.

Findings

The findings suggest that the relationships between emotional attachment and family identity and commitment are positive and significant, whereas the association between binding social ties and commitment was not significant. Furthermore, a multigroup analysis revealed that there is a significant difference between the founder generation and their next generation in terms of influence of binding social ties and family identity on commitment, whereas there appears to be no difference in terms of emotional attachment and commitment between the two generations.

Practical implications

This study shows that compared to the founder generation, the next generation prioritizes family identity and social bonds, which leads to greater levels of collective commitment to the organization. Such knowledge may provide clues to incumbent family-firm leaders by identifying the areas where they need to emphasize in generating greater levels of commitment among their successors.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this appears to be the first such study that provides a nuanced understanding of how family generation in control of the family firm influences the relationships between psychosocial components of socioemotional wealth and collective commitment of the owners of family firms in the context of an emerging economy.
Delphi study for evaluating key risk factors inherent in public-private partnership (PPP) power projects in Ghana
Authors: Kukah Augustine Senanu Komla , Owusu-Manu De-Graft , Badu Edward , Edwards David John
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the key risk factors inherent in public–private partnership (PPP) power projects in Ghana and further determine the critical risk factors affecting both the public and private sectors in PPP power projects.

Design/methodology/approach

Ranking-type Delphi survey in two rounds was conducted to establish a comprehensive list of critical risk factors of PPP. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques helped obtain experts for the Delphi survey. Mean score ranking, factor analysis, Cronbach α coefficient and Kendall’s concordance were used for analysis. The probability of occurrence and severity of each risk factor were computed to obtain the risk impact.

Findings

From the list of 67 risks, 37 risk factors were deemed to be critical. The five topmost risk factors were: delay payment on contract, private investor change, political risks, fluctuating demand of power generated and public opposition. Principal component analysis grouped the risk factors into seven major themes.

Originality/value

This study develops an authoritative risk factor list for PPP power projects, which reflects both sector and country conditions for prioritizing and mitigating risk factors. Delphi approach adopted in this study can be used by future studies in similar environments where PPP is novel and expert respondents scarce.
Measurement and structural modelling on factors of Islamic Fintech adoption among millennials in Malaysia
Authors: Rahim Norafni @ Farlina , Bakri Mohammed Hariri , Fianto Bayu Arie , Zainal Nurazilah , Hussein Al Shami Samer Ali
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the results of structural equation modelling in applying unified theory of acceptance and use of technology in adopting Islamic Fintech among millennials in Malaysia via measurement and structural models.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 418 valid responses have been obtained from Malaysians who are using Islamic Fintech. Before the data is analysed into measurement and structural modelling preliminary analysis such as common method bias has been conducted.

Findings

All the requirements for model fit in this study have been achieved. Four exogenous constructs are performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating condition. The mediating construct is behavioural intention, whereas the endogenous variable is user adoption. All exogenous constructs show significant p-values except for effort expectancy.

Practical implications

This study offers important implications, specifically for the digital economy that is currently making its way throughout every aspect of human life, namely, social, religious, financial transaction, entertainment and others. The impact of the digital economy can be traced through the emergence of Fintech. The adoption of Islamic Fintech is one of the least discussed areas academically, therefore, this study is considered necessary to explore the prediction of consumer behaviour in Islamic Fintech adoption as a part of the digital economy in Malaysia.

Originality/value

This study fills the perceived gap in the existing financial technology literature by assessing Islamic financial technology adoption via measurement and structural modelling.
The thin line between corporate gift, hospitality and corruption: a legal study on Malaysia’s and the UK’s position
Authors: Ahamad Kuris Nur Hazirah , Mohd Zahir Mohd Zamre , Mohd Ali Hasani , Hassan Muhamad Sayuti
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Corporate gift-giving and hospitality are some of the high-risk areas for corruption. This paper aims to see comparisons between the Malaysian Ministerial Guidelines and the UK Guidance and to analyse whether the guideline in Malaysia is adequate in dealing with corporate gift-giving and hospitality.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used in this paper is qualitative research which is based on data collection through online searches, legal databases, information obtained from articles, books, statutes and related government publications.

Findings

The findings show that the statutory guideline in Malaysia is immature, still not adequate, and lacks detailed regulations in determining gifts and hospitality as corruption (unclear boundary), as compared to the UK law which is more detailed.

Originality/value

This paper explains on comparison of corporate gift giving and hospitality practise in Malaysia and the UK based on the statutory guidelines.