bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collagen of ancient bones gives an indication of endogenous DNA preservation based on the next generation sequencing technology
Authors: Nakamura Yuka , Waku Daisuke , Wakiyama Yoshiki , Watanabe Yusuke , Koganebuchi Kae , Nagaoka Tomohito , Hirata Kazuaki , Ohashi Jun , Takahashi Ryuzaburo , Yoneda Minoru , Oota Hiroki
Published: May 2023

Ancient genome analysis has become an indispensable tool in studies of human population history and evolution after the breakthrough of whole genome sequencing technology. Meanwhile, the problem has been not resolved that ancient genome cannot be analyzed without crushing non-small pieces of precious specimens; in spite of that, in many cases, there is no DNA remaining sufficiently in the piece of samples for obtaining the whole genome sequences. In previous studies, therefore, a couple of indicators (e.g., racemization ratios) have been proposed to estimate the endogenous DNA in ancient samples. However, these studies have used polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to test whether endogenous DNA is remaining, which has been inadequate because the success or failure of PCR amplification does not necessarily reflect DNA remaining. To assess the amount of endogenous DNA, we use the ratios of reads generated by the next-generation sequencer (NGS) mapped to the human reference genome sequence. We investigate 40 Jomon remains and find a significant association between the collagen residual ratios (CRRs) in rib bones and the mapping ratios (MRs). Because the weight of bone required to measure collagen residual is much less than that required to obtain DNA needed for NGS analysis, which is always necessary for dating, the collagen in ribs can be a good indicator for successful ancient genome analyses.
Cellular Dynamics of Skeletal Muscle Regeneration
Authors: Collins Brittany C. , Shapiro Jacob B. , Scheib Mya M. , Musci Robert V. , Verma Mayank , Kardon Gabrielle
Published: May 2023

The function of many organs, including skeletal muscle, depends on its three-dimensional structure. Muscle regeneration therefore requires not only reestablishment of myofibers, but restoration of tissue architecture. Resident muscle stem cells (SCs) are essential for regeneration, but how SCs regenerate muscle architecture is largely unknown. We address this problem using genetic labeling of SCs and whole mount imaging to reconstruct in three dimensions muscle regeneration. Unexpectedly, we found that the residual basement membrane of necrotic myofibers is critical for promoting fusion and orienting regenerated myofibers and myofibers form via two distinct phases of fusion. Furthermore, the centralized myonuclei characteristic of regenerated myofibers are associated with myofibrillogenesis and permanently mark regenerated myofibers. Finally, we elucidate a new cellular mechanism for the formation of branched myofibers, a pathology characteristic of diseased muscle. We provide a new synthesis of the cellular events of regeneration and show these differ from those used during development.
A Narrow Range of Transcript-error Rates Across the Tree of Life
Authors: Li Weiyi , Baehr Stephan , Marasco Michelle , Reyes Lauren , Brister Danielle , Pikaard Craig S. , Gout Jean-Francois , Vermulst Marc , Lynch Michael
Published: May 2023

The expression of genomically-encoded information is not error-free. Transcript-error rates are dramatically higher than DNA-level mutation rates, and despite their transient nature, the steady-state load of such errors must impose some burden on cellular performance. However, a broad perspective on the degree to which transcript-error rates are constrained by natural selection and diverge among lineages remains to be developed. Here, we present a genome-wide analysis of transcript-error rates across the Tree of Life using a modified rolling-circle sequencing method, revealing that the range in error rates is remarkably narrow across diverse species. Transcript errors tend to be randomly distributed, with little evidence supporting local control of error rates associated with gene-expression levels. A majority of transcript errors result in missense errors if translated, and as with a fraction of nonsense transcript errors, these are underrepresented relative to random expectations, suggesting the existence of mechanisms for purging some such errors. To quantitatively understand how natural selection and random genetic drift might shape transcript-error rates across species, we present a model based on cell biology and population genetics, incorporating information on cell volume, proteome size, average degree of exposure of individual errors, and effective population size. However, while this model provides a framework for understanding the evolution of this highly conserved trait, as currently structured it explains only 20% of the variation in the data, suggesting a need for further theoretical work in this area.
An E-I Firing Rate Model for Gamma Oscillations
Authors: Lu Yiqing , Rinzel John
Published: May 2023

Firing rate models for describing the mean-field activities of neuronal ensembles can be used effectively to study network function and dynamics, including synchronization and rhythmicity of excitatory-inhibitory populations. However, traditional Wilson-Cowan-like models, being amenable to mathematical analysis, are found unable to capture some dynamics such as Interneuronal Network Gamma oscillations (ING) although use of an explicit delay can help. We resolve this issue by introducing a mean-voltage variable (v) that considers the subthreshold integration of inputs and works as an effective delay in the negative feedback loop between firing rate (r) and synaptic gating of inhibition (s). Here we describe a three-variabler-s-vfiring rate model for I-I networks, which is biophysically interpretable and capable of generating ING-like oscillations. Linear stability analysis, numerical branch-tracking and simulations show that the rate model captures many of the common features of spiking network models for ING. We also propose an alternativer-u-smodel for ING which considers an implicit delay by a pre-synaptic variableu. Furthermore, we extend the framework to E-I networks. With our six-variabler-s-vmodel, we describe for the first time in firing rate models the transition from Pyramidal-Interneuronal Network Gamma (PING) to ING by increasing the external drive to the inhibitory population without adjusting synaptic weights. Having PING and ING available in a single network, without invoking synaptic blockers, is plausible and natural for explaining the emergence and transition of two different types of gamma oscillations.

Author Summary

Gamma rhythm (30-90 Hz) is a neuronal oscillation broadly observed across various animal species. It is associated with cognitive functions and gamma oscillation dysfunction has been found in neurological diseases. Traditional studies of gamma oscillations are primarily conducted in detailed but computational demanding spiking network models. Motivated by the growing size of accessible datasets and large-scale modeling, we develop mean-field representations of gamma oscillations that are computationally lightweight and mathematically analyzable. We resolve the incapability of generating oscillation in inhibitory network with traditional Wilson-Cowan firing rate model by introducing implicit delay with a mean membrane potential variable and generalize the model for excitatory-inhibitory network to capture richer dynamics. Our work provides a potential building block for multi-area large-scale modeling to help understanding the functional roles of circuits at different levels.
Establishment and application of unbiasedin vitrodrug screening assays for the identification of compounds againstEchinococcus granulosus s.s
Authors: Kaethner Marc , Preza Matías , Kaempfer Tobias , Zumstein Pascal , Tamponi Claudia , Varcasia Antonio , Hemphill Andrew , Brehm Klaus , Lundström-Stadelmann Britta
Published: May 2023

Echinococcus multilocularisandE. granulosus s.l.are the causative agents of alveolar and cystic echinococcosis, respectively. Drug treatment options for these severe and neglected diseases are limited to benzimidazoles, which are not always efficacious, and adverse side effects are reported. Thus, novel and improved treatments are needed.

In this study, the previously established platform forE. multilocularis in vitrodrug assessment was adapted toE. granulosus s.s.. In a first step,in vitroculture protocols forE. granulosus s.s.were established. This resulted in the generation of large amounts ofE. granulosus s.s.metacestode vesicles as well as germinal layer (GL) cells.In vitroculture of these cells formed metacestode vesicles displaying structural characteristics of metacestode vesicles generatedin vivo. Next, drug susceptibilities ofE. multilocularisandE. granulosus s.s.protoscoleces, metacestode vesicles and GL cells were comparatively assessed employing established assays including (i) metacestode vesicle damage marker release assay, (ii) metacestode vesicle viability assay, (iii) GL cell viability assay, and (iv) protoscolex motility assay. The standard drugs albendazole, buparvaquone, mefloquine, MMV665807, monepantel, niclosamide and nitazoxanide were included. MMV665807, niclosamide and nitazoxanide were active against the parasite in all four assays against both species. MMV665807 and monepantel were significantly more active againstE. multilocularismetacestode vesicles, while albendazole and nitazoxanide were significantly more active againstE. multilocularisGL cells. Albendazole displayed activity againstE. multilocularisGL cells, but no effects were seen in albendazole-treatedE. granulosus s.s.GL cells within five days. Treatment of protoscoleces with albendazole and monepantel had no impact on motility. Similar results were observed for both species with praziquantel and its enantiomers against protoscoleces. In conclusion,in vitroculture techniques and drug screening methods previously established forE. multiloculariswere successfully implemented forE. granulosus s.s.,allowing comparisons of drug efficacy between the two species.
Inferring control objectives in a virtual balancing task in humans and monkeys
Authors: Sadeghi Mohsen , Razavian Reza Sharif , Bazzi Salah , Chowdhury Raeed , Batista Aaron , Loughlin Patrick , Sternad Dagmar
Published: May 2023

Natural behaviors have redundancy, which implies that humans and animals can achieve their goals with different control objectives. Given only observations of behavior, is it possible to infer the control strategy that the subject is employing? This challenge is particularly acute in animal behavior because we cannot ask or instruct the subject to use a particular control strategy. This study presents a three-pronged approach to infer an animal’s control strategy from behavior. First, both humans and monkeys performed a virtual balancing task for which different control objectives could be utilized. Under matched experimental conditions, corresponding behaviors were observed in humans and monkeys. Second, a generative model was developed that represented two main control strategies to achieve the task goal. Model simulations were used to identify aspects of behavior that could distinguish which control objective was being used. Third, these behavioral signatures allowed us to infer the control objective used by human subjects who had been instructed to use one control objective or the other. Based on this validation, we could then infer strategies from animal subjects. Being able to positively identify a subject’s control objective from behavior can provide a powerful tool to neurophysiologists as they seek the neural mechanisms of sensorimotor coordination.

Impact statement

A computational approach identifies control objectives in humans and monkeys to serve as basis for analysis of neural correlates of skillful manipulation.
Age-related increases in IGFBP2 increase melanoma cell invasion and lipid synthesis
Authors: Alicea Gretchen M. , Portuallo Marie E. , Patel Payal , Fane Mitchell E. , Carey Alexis E. , Speicher David , Tang Hsin-Yao , Kossenkov Andrew V. , Rebecca Vito W. , Wirtz Denis G. , Weeraratna Ashani T.
Published: May 2023

Aged melanoma patients (>65 years old) have more aggressive disease relative to young patients (<55 years old) for reasons that are not completely understood. Analysis of the young and aged secretome from human dermal fibroblasts identified >5-fold levels of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) in the aged fibroblast secretome. IGFBP2 functionally triggers upregulation of the PI3K-dependent fatty acid biosynthesis program in melanoma cells through increases in FASN. Melanoma cells co-cultured with aged dermal fibroblasts have higher levels of lipids relative to young dermal fibroblasts, which can be lowered by silencing IGFBP2 expression in fibroblasts, prior to treating with conditioned media. Conversely, ectopically treating melanoma cells with recombinant IGFBP2 in the presence of conditioned media from young fibroblasts, promoted lipid synthesis and accumulation in the melanoma cells. Neutralizing IGFBP2in vitroreduces migration and invasion in melanoma cells, and invivostudies demonstrate that neutralizing IGFBP2 in syngeneic aged mice, ablates tumor growth as well as metastasis. Conversely, ectopic treatment of young mice with IGFBP2 in young mice increases tumor growth and metastasis. Our data reveal that aged dermal fibroblasts increase melanoma cell aggressiveness through increased secretion of IGFBP2, stressing the importance of considering age when designing studies and treatment.

Significance

The aged microenvironment drives metastasis in melanoma cells. This study reports that IGFBP2 secretion by aged fibroblasts induces FASN in melanoma cells and drives metastasis. Neutralizing IGFBP2 decreases melanoma tumor growth and metastasis.
Autonomous development and regeneration of isolated rice egg cells in a fertilization-independent manner
Authors: Rattanawong Kasidit , Totsuka Kaori , Koshimizu Shizuka , Yano Kentaro , Okamoto Takashi
Published: May 2023

Parthenogenesis is suppressed in rice egg cells to avoid precocious development before fertilization. We found that cold treatment released cell cycle arrest in egg cells and triggered mitosis. Egg cells isolated fromjaponica(Nipponbare; NB) andaus(Kasalath; KS) subspecies divided and regenerated into mature plants after cold treatment. The egg-derived plants showed variety of ploidy levels, including haploid (n), diploid (2n), and tetraploid (4n). Nuclear DNA quantification showed that genome duplication occurred during early parthenogenetic development. Owing to the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between NB and KS, inter-subspecific hybrid plants (NB-KS hybrids) were created via electrofusion. Egg cells from the NB-KS hybrid developed parthenogenetically into polyploid plants. 2n and 4n plants originating from the same NB-KS egg cell displayed the same homozygous SNP patterns throughout the genome, indicating that these plants were doubled and quadrupled haploids. Transcriptome analyses of cold-treated egg cells demonstrated that parthenogenesis-related candidate genes, includingOsBBML1, were upregulated.
Density Assay for Body Fat Determination inDrosophilaLarvae
Authors: Reis Tânia
Published: May 2023

Many experimental approaches are available to quantify fat content inDrosophila, but, for the purposes of efficient screening of large numbers of animals and focusing on the stage of development concerned with food consumption and energy storage—the wandering third-instar larva—a density-based approach maximizes time and cost effectiveness and allows for downstream analysis by other methods. Solutions of varying concentrations of sucrose are used to reveal differences in the density of individual larvae, which correlate with body fat content across a wide range of genetic backgrounds. When coupled with appropriate attention to developmental timing and the use of appropriate controls for the effects of genetic background, analysis of body fat by this method is rapid, robust, reproducible, and noninvasive.
Noninvasive Ejaculate Collection from the African Turquoise KillifishNothobranchius furzeri
Authors: Cattelan Silvia , Valenzano Dario Riccardo
Published: May 2023

Ejaculate collection from live animals is a fundamental technique used to perform repeated measures on the same individual—for instance, to test the effect of different treatments/conditions on the same animal or to conduct longitudinal studies. Moreover, collecting the ejaculate allows one to perform in vitro fertilizations (IVFs) or sperm cryopreservation from valuable individuals (e.g., mutant, transgenic animals) without the need to kill the animals. We developed a noninvasive protocol based on a stripping procedure for collecting the ejaculate from live males of the African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri). The proposed procedure allows the retrieval of mature sperm along with the seminal fluid. The ejaculate can be used within 1 h of the collection to perform in vitro fertilizations and/or sperm quality measurements. Contamination by mucus, water, urine, or feces can activate the sperm and/or negatively affect sperm quality, so special care is needed to avoid contamination and thus prolong sperm viability. Since in small fish the amount of ejaculate collected is limited to a few microliters, in the present protocol we also provide recommendations on housing conditions to maximize the probability to obtain ejaculate samples.
A systematic review on homo Islamicus: classification and critique
Authors: Sholihin Muhammad , Sugiyanto Catur , Susamto Akhmad Akbar
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically review the concept of homo Islamicus discussed in the existing literature. The second objective is to offer a set of criticisms of the descriptions of homo Islamicus.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper prespecified eligibility criteria are applied to select articles that are indexed in Scopus and ProQuest, or published by two major publishers, ScienceDirect and Emerald, or appear on ResearchGate. A set of books related to homo Islamicus was also used as secondary sources to support the selected articles. As a result, this paper systematically reviews 53 articles and four books to synthesize the homo Islamicus.

Findings

There are four notions of homo Islamicus: Firstly, homo Islamicus as the kind of economic agent that is required to achieve Islamic economic objectives. Secondly, homo Islamicus as a defining factor that makes the difference between Islamic and conventional economics. Thirdly, homo Islamicus as an economic agent whose characteristics are something Islamic economics aims to realize. Lastly, homo Islamicus as an economic agent representing the fundamental assumption in Islamic economics.

Practical implications

Mapping homo Islamicus can be helpful for future researchers to conduct analyses related to homo Islamicus, especially in the context of empirical studies of the existence of homo Islamicus in economic reality. This literature review can help other researchers to understand the development of literature related to homo Islamicus.

Originality/value

This paper seems to be the first to systematically identify, select and synthesize the description of homo Islamicus in the literature.
Don’t we have a right to get angry? Integrating emotions into international mediation studies
Authors: Nathan Laurie , Devonshire Joel M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to critique the rationalist theoretical framework of international mediation, which ignores emotions in analyzing the decision by conflict parties to pursue a negotiated settlement or continue fighting, and to present an alternative framework that integrates emotions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on psychology research on emotions and conflict to develop an emotionally informed framework for analyzing conflict parties’ decision-making regarding a settlement. It demonstrates the framework’s validity and value through a case study of the 2000 Camp David mediation to resolve the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

Findings

A rationalist approach to mediation does not have adequate explanatory and predictive power theoretically. In practice, it can reduce the prospect of success.

Research limitations/implications

The paper highlights the necessity for mediation researchers to study the effects of emotion, draw on psychology studies on conflict and explore the emotional implications of different mediation strategies and tactics.

Practical implications

The framework highlights the challenge of designing and conducting mediation in a way that cultivates emotions favorable to a settlement and lessens emotions unfavorable to a settlement.

Originality/value

This is the first study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to critique the rationalist framework of international mediation studies and develop an alternative framework that integrates emotions.
Revising a performance measurement and control system of an organization
Authors: Globerson Shlomo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the changes that an organizational performance and control system should perform to adapt to the current dynamic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first presents the features of a typical organizational control system. It identifies current technological developments that affect the control process and evaluates the changes that should be introduced in order for the organization to function effectively.

Findings

Although the components of organizational performance and control systems remain the same, most of them have changed their features, such as strategy should be visited more frequently, processes are digitized and therefore customers are more involved in the process, and actual performance can and should be monitored automatically.

Originality/value

This paper presents a comprehensive model of a control system that can be implemented by every organization, as well as points out control features that should be continuously reviewed and updated.
Doing good right: building resilience through donations during the pandemic
Authors: Han Zhaojun , Jiang Shenyang , Zheng Zhanzhi , Jin Yong
Published: May 2023

Purpose

While researchers recognize the significance of philanthropic donations in disaster relief and recovery, the benefits that firms derive from such donations remain unclear, particularly when firms are adversely impacted by the disaster. To address this gap, this study seeks to elucidate the impact of various donation strategies on firm resilience in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the hand-collected data on donations, the authors employ ordinary least squares regressions to investigate the effectiveness of various donation strategies – including type, timing and location – in enhancing firm resilience in terms of the severity of stock price losses during the pandemic. To address potential endogeneity concerns, the authors use a two-stage least squares regression with instrumental variables.

Findings

This study finds robust evidence that certain donation strategies are more effective at mitigating stock price losses during the pandemic. Specifically, the authors find that in-kind donations (compared to monetary ones), earlier donations (compared to later ones) and donations targeting severely impacted areas (Hubei province vs. other places) are more effective methods to reduce the severity of stock price losses.

Originality/value

This study points out an alternative mechanism through which donations influence firm resilience during a crisis context and provides important managerial implications for firms to better engage in disaster donations.
More than two decades of research on IoT in agriculture: a systematic literature review
Authors: Bulut Cevdet , Wu Philip Fei
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Agriculture is one sector where the Internet of things (IoT) is expected to make a major impact. Yet, its adoption in the sector falls behind expectations. The purpose of this paper is to present the state-of-the-art of IoT in agriculture and investigate its slow adoption in the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have undertaken a systematic review and a synthesis of 1355 relevant publications over the last decade.

Findings

This literature review reveals that the “big three” barriers for the overall sector are cost, skills and standardization. The lack of connectivity and data governance are two key reasons why most of the proposed IoT solutions are standalone systems of limited scope, while the majority of commercial IoT efforts focus on practices in the protected indoor environment. Lastly, the analysis of past research along the five layers of the IoT system architecture reveals limited attention to barriers and solutions at the business layer, which represents a research opportunity for information systems scholars.

Research limitations/implications

It is possible that some of relevant publications were missed in the literature search, although the search queries were kept as broad as possible to avoid the exclusion of any relevant work. Any publication written in any other language other than English was excluded from the review. Given the geographical distribution of the reviewed English publications (see section 4.1), it is highly likely that important works written by Chinese and European scholars in their native language were overlooked.

Practical implications

This study provides practical insights into the technical and organisational challenges on the ground. It is the hope that this literature review lays the groundwork for IS researchers who are well positioned to investigate technology adoption challenges in the relatively understudied agriculture sector.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review of adoption barriers and solutions across all five layers of the IoT system architecture.
Examining the effects of disinformation and trust on social media users' COVID-19 vaccine decision-making
Authors: Westney Zulma Valedon , Hur Inkyoung , Wang Ling , Sun Junping
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Disinformation on social media is a serious issue. This study examines the effects of disinformation on COVID-19 vaccination decision-making to understand how social media users make healthcare decisions when disinformation is presented in their social media feeds. It examines trust in post owners as a moderator on the relationship between information types (i.e. disinformation and factual information) and vaccination decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducts a scenario-based web survey experiment to collect extensive survey data from social media users.

Findings

This study reveals that information types differently affect social media users' COVID-19 vaccination decision-making and finds a moderating effect of trust in post owners on the relationship between information types and vaccination decision-making. For those who have a high degree of trust in post owners, the effect of information types on vaccination decision-making becomes large. In contrast, information types do not affect the decision-making of those who have a very low degree of trust in post owners. Besides, identification and compliance are found to affect trust in post owners.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on online disinformation and individual healthcare decision-making by demonstrating the effect of disinformation on vaccination decision-making and providing empirical evidence on how trust in post owners impacts the effects of information types on vaccination decision-making. This study focuses on trust in post owners, unlike prior studies that focus on trust in information or social media platforms.
Understanding consumer adoption of mobile payment in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Salman , Khan Safeer Ullah , Khan Ikram Ullah , Khan Sher Zaman , Khan Rafi Ullah
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the consumers’ choices of mobile payments (m-payments) using a comprehensive unified model. The financial technology for digital m-payment has been increasingly introduced in the market, yet their acceptance has remained low.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) with additional constructs of social influence, trust, anxiety, personal innovativeness and grievance redressal (GR). Structural equation modeling is used to evaluate the predictive model of attitudes toward m-payment. Individuals’ responses to questions regarding their attitude and intention to accept m-payment were gathered and examined through the lens of extended UTAUT model.

Findings

While the model supports TAM classical role, empirical examination of the model revealed that users’ attitudes and intentions are influenced by trust, personal innovativeness and social influence. Moreover, intention to use and GR are significant positive predictors of m-payment usage behavior.

Originality/value

M-payment provides customers with new digital payment platforms while providing businesses and marketing agents with more alternatives for online marketing. However, there is not much reported about m-payment adoption in Pakistan. This research introduces and evaluates new constructs that were not included in the original model. In Pakistan, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a first of its kind of research which is purely based on the customers’ perspective of m-payment adoption.
Strategic HRM practices, learning orientation and learning competence: study from retail industry
Authors: P. Arunprasad , Dey Chitra , Santhanam Nivethitha , Bin Ahmad Kamarul Zaman
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of strategic human resource management (SHRM) practices on two learning outcomes, learning orientation and learning competence, which past research has seldom examined in the UAE context. SHRM practices consisted of four factors, namely, talent acquisition, learning and development, performance appraisal and developmental pay.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data was collected from 285 employees from retail outlets operating in Dubai. Partial least squares regression analysis using the tool, SmartPLS, was used to empirically validate the measurement model and test the structural model.

Findings

Findings reveal that SHRM practices talent acquisition, learning and development and developmental pay have a positive association with learning orientation, and learning and development and performance appraisal have a positive association with learning competence of employees. The path coefficient and total effects signify that learning orientation acts as a conduit to pass on the effect of the SHRM practices to learning competence.

Research limitations/implications

The sample considered for the study was from the retail industry. Furthermore, to generalize the findings of this research, cross-national studies should be conducted across various sectors and organizations.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research study is the first of its kind in retail firms in Dubai (UAE) to empirically test the association of SHRM practices with learning outcomes. Retail outlets can implement SHRM practices to improve learning orientation and learning competence in a highly dynamic operating environment such as retail industry.
Maintenance of biodiversity in multitrophic metacommunities: Dispersal mode matters
Authors: Ye Xiaozhou , Wang Shaopeng
Published: May 2023

Although metacommunity models generally formulate dispersal as a random, passive process, mounting evidence suggests that dispersal can be an active process depending on species fitness over the landscape, particularly in multitrophic communities. How different dispersal modes (i.e. from random to increasingly fitness‐dependent dispersal) modulate the effect of dispersal on biodiversity remains unclear. Here, we used a metacommunity model of food webs to investigate the effects of dispersal and habitat heterogeneity on biodiversity and how these effects may be dependent on dispersal mode.

Our results showed that compared to isolated systems, random dispersal increased local food web diversity ( diversity) but decreased across‐community dissimilarity ( diversity) and regional food web diversity ( diversity), consistent with findings from competitive metacommunity models. However, fitness‐dependency could alter the effects of dispersal on biodiversity. Both and diversity increased with the strength of fitness‐dependency of dispersal, while diversity peaked at intermediate fitness‐dependency. Notably, strong fitness‐dependent dispersal maintained levels of and diversity similar to those observed in isolated systems. Thus, random dispersal and isolation (i.e. no dispersal) can be considered as two extremes along the continuum of fitness‐dependent dispersal, in terms of their effects on biodiversity.

Moreover, both biodiversity‐habitat heterogeneity and biodiversity‐habitat connectivity relationships depended on the dispersal mode. Strikingly, under random dispersal, diversity decreased with habitat heterogeneity and connectivity, but under strong fitness‐dependent dispersal, it increased with habitat heterogeneity and remained unchanged as habitat connectivity increased.

Our study highlights the context dependence of dispersal effects on biodiversity in heterogeneous landscapes. Our findings have useful implications for biodiversity conservation and landscape management, where management strategies should account for different modes of dispersal across taxa, thus different responses of biodiversity to habitat heterogeneity and connectivity.
BEYOND THE TRIAGING OF NEGLECTED THINGS: Connecting Place and Participation Across an Urban System
Authors: Vlahos Nick
Published: May 2023

What is the relationship between top‐down governance reform and place‐based participatory and deliberative spaces? In this article I argue that in Toronto, an urban system of public participation and deliberation is intimately interwoven into partisan scalar restructuring processes, as well as enduring tensions over the ways and means by which the public can have authoritative input on solving local issues. Regardless of top‐down political manoeuvring, the public mobilizes in various spaces across the city, but the urban system remains disconnected and geared towards triaging. This means that the public must work autonomously across the city and within the crevices of city processes, prioritizing how to make gains on issues that they feel are important. I discuss how to move beyond this by building on deliberative systems theory and findings from interviews with local city staff and residents, and through an analysis of public deputations at the official Special Committee on Governance. Ultimately, there is a need for spatially integrated opportunities for more people to come together and assemble in different ways. Some of these will align with autonomous activities, some are liminal and woven within institutional partners, and others are more about geographical bridge building.
The Yield and Market Function Effects of the Reserve Bank of Australia's Bond Purchases*
Authors: Finlay Richard , Titkov Dmitry , Xiang Michelle
Published: May 2023

We examine the effect on government bond yields of three policy measures by the Reserve Bank of Australia implemented following the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. We also assess their impact on bond market functioning. The measures were purchases to support government bond market function over early 2020, the yield target on 3‐year Australian government bonds, and the bond purchase programme to lower longer‐term yields from late 2020 through early 2022. For purchases to support market function, we find that the announcement lowered short‐dated Australian Government Securities (AGS) yields but did not lower longer‐dated AGS yields. We also find that purchases led to lower yields as and when they were implemented and that they supported market function by lowering bid–offer spreads. For the yield target, we find a substantial announcement effect and moderate implementation effects on yields. Conversely, the yield target appears to have detrimentally affected some aspects of the bond market function. For the bond purchase programme, we find an announcement effect of approximately 30 basis points for longer‐term AGS yields; however, any implementation effects were small and temporary.
Death by compaction in a robotic dumpster
Authors: Karakasi Maria‐Valeria , Nikolaidis Ioannis , Pavlidis Pavlos
Published: May 2023

Robotic waste management automation systems are increasingly utilized around the globe as a user‐friendly, ecological and hygienic alternative to waste disposal, simultaneously reducing the volume and frequency of waste collection. The present paper aims to report a case of death by compaction in an automated robotic waste management system and review relevant literature on compactor‐related fatalities. The unusual fatal accident involved a 37‐year‐old male citizen who deliberately entered the robotic dumpster to retrieve his accidentally discarded medication. Upon entering the robotic chamber, the compaction system was automatically activated, although all safety measures were in full operation. This paper highlights the lack of standardized reporting on compactor‐related mortality, which however is of importance both in terms of its social impact and public safety. These deaths occur rarely, in scattered areas of the globe, associated with various situations (e.g., occupational fatalities, homeless people, infanticide) and trash compactors of different types, technology, age, maintenance quality, warning signage and safety interlocks. In all previously reported fatalities, the technology involved was considerably older (as in conventional waste containers, garbage compaction trucks, chute‐fed compactors in buildings, etc.). The case described in the present report is a rare event in both literature and international news coverage as it encompasses a fully automated technology intended for unsupervised, direct use by the public being located in public spaces where all citizens can interact with it. The aim of this report is to raise awareness and improve knowledge about safety parameters so that similar incidents can be avoided in the future.
Planning for the next pandemic: Reflections on lessons from the uncontained transmission phases of the COVID‐19 pandemic and their impacts on emergency departments in Australia
Authors: Hsiao Kai Hsun , Foong Lai Heng , Govindasamy Laksmi Sakura , Judkins Simon
Published: May 2023

Australia was a world leader in managing the earlier waves of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Subsequently, three major turning points changed the trajectory of the pandemic: mass vaccinations, emergence of more transmissible variants and re‐opening of Australia's borders. However, there were also concomitant missteps and premature shifts in pandemic response policy that led to mixed messaging, slow initial vaccination uptake and minimal mitigation measures in response to the Omicron variant. The latter marked Australia's entry into a new phase of (or approach to) the pandemic: widespread transmission. This led to an exponential increase in cases and significant impacts on the health system, particularly, EDs. This paper reflects on this phase of the pandemic to urge for system‐level changes that instal better safeguards for ED capacity, safety and staff well‐being for future pandemics. This is essential to strengthening our health system's resilience and to better protecting our communities against such emergencies.
Apatite Geochemical and Nd Isotopic Insights into Trachyte Petrogenesis in the Tianchi Volcanic Area of Changbai Mountain, NE China
Authors: XU Zhitao , SUN Liying , LI Mengmeng , LI Zhongwei , WU Chengzhi , QI Wei , LIU Hongyan
Published: May 2023

We report the oxide, element geochemistry and Nd isotopic geochemical data of apatite in the middle Pleistocene medium‐ and fine‐grained trachyte in the Tianchi volcanic area (TVA) of Changbai Mountain, discussing the relationship between apatite and the composition of the whole rock. The purpose is to use the apatite geochemical data to constrain the evolutionary process of trachytic magma and the petrogenesis of trachyte in the cone‐forming period of the Tianchi volcano. Apatite (Ca5(PO4)3(OH, F, Cl)) is a common accessory mineral that occurs widely in volcanic rocks in the TVA. The apatites in the trachyte are mainly subhedral–anhedral, having the characteristics of magmatic apatite. In terms of oxide and element geochemistry, they have homogeneous Al2O3, SiO2, MgO, P2O5, K2O, CaO and heterogeneous TiO2, with high F content. They are generally enriched in Th, U and LREEs, depleted in Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf and HFSEs, showing negative Ba, Sr and Ti anomalies, similar to those of the whole‐rock host trachytes. The ratios of high (La/Yb)N, low δEu (Eu/Eu*), Sr/Y value and ΣREE content in apatite, and the F, Sr, Y, Th/U, La/Sm, and Nd/Tb with ΣREE and δEu anomalies showed a linear correlation, all of those indicating that the host magma has the characteristic of high differentiation. The apatite grains generally having 147Sm/144Nd, 143Nd/144Nd ratios and εNd(t) values of 0.1072–0.1195, 0.5123–0.5126 and –3.49 to –0.10, respectively, are similiar to those of the host rock. The Nd model ages TDM1 are 949–803 Ma in apatite. Combined with the εNd(t) value of the apatite core (–7.06 to –3.49), we conclude that the initial magma of the host trachyte was derived from the partial melting of Proterozoic crustal material and there was an assimilation of wall rocks during its evolution.
Short‐term outcomes of robotic lobectomy versus video‐assisted lobectomy in patients with pulmonary neoplasms
Authors: Sun Tian‐Yu , Xie Chu‐Long , Tan Zihui , Li Ji‐Bin , Yang Mu‐Zi , Yang Hao‐Xian
Published: May 2023

Background

To explore whether robotic lobectomy (RL) is superior to video‐assisted lobectomy (VAL) in terms of short‐term outcomes in patients with pulmonary neoplasms.

Methods

From January 30, 2019 to February 28, 2022, a series of consecutive minimally invasive lobectomies were performed for patients with pulmonary neoplasms. Perioperative outcomes such as operation time, blood loss, dissected lymph nodes (LNs), surgical complications, postoperative pain control, length of postoperative stay in hospital, and total cost of hospitalization were compared.

Results

A total of 336 cases including 173 RLs and 163 VALs were enrolled. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. RLs were associated with shorter operation time (median [interquadrant range, IQR], 107 min [90–130] vs. 120 min [100–149], p < 0.001), less blood loss (median [IQR], 50 mL [30–60] vs. 50 mL [50–80], p = 0.02), and lower blood transfusion rate (3.5% vs. 9.8%, p = 0.02) compared with VALs. More LNs were harvested by the robotic approach (median [IQR], 29 [20–41] vs. 22 [15–45], p = 0.04). The incidences of conversion, major postoperative complications, extra analgesic usage, and postoperative length of stay were all comparable between the RL and VAL groups. As predicted, the total cost of hospitalization was greater in the RL group (median [IQR], $16728.35 [15682.16–17872.15] vs. $10713.47 [9662.13–11742.15], p < 0.001).

Conclusion

RL improved surgical efficacy with shortened operative time, less blood loss, and more thorough LN dissection compared with VAL, compromised by higher cost.
Age‐related telomere attrition in the human putamen
Authors: Schreglmann Sebastian R. , Goncalves Tomas , Grant‐Peters Melissa , Kia Demis A. , Soreq Lilach , Ryten Mina , Wood Nicholas W. , Bhatia Kailash P. , Tomita Kazunori
Published: May 2023

Age is a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Shortening of leucocyte telomeres with advancing age, arguably a measure of “biological” age, is a known phenomenon and epidemiologically correlated with age‐related disease. The main mechanism of telomere shortening is cell division, rendering telomere length in post‐mitotic cells presumably stable. Longitudinal measurement of human brain telomere length is not feasible, and cross‐sectional cortical brain samples so far indicated no attrition with age. Hence, age‐related changes in telomere length in the brain and the association between telomere length and neurodegenerative diseases remain unknown. Here, we demonstrate that mean telomere length in the putamen, a part of the basal ganglia, physiologically shortens with age, like leukocyte telomeres. This was achieved by using matched brain and leukocyte‐rich spleen samples from 98 post‐mortem healthy human donors. Using spleen telomeres as a reference, we further found that mean telomere length was brain region‐specific, as telomeres in the putamen were significantly shorter than in the cerebellum. Expression analyses of genes involved in telomere length regulation and oxidative phosphorylation revealed that both region‐ and age‐dependent expression pattern corresponded with region‐dependent telomere length dynamics. Collectively, our results indicate that mean telomere length in the human putamen physiologically shortens with advancing age and that both local and temporal gene expression dynamics correlate with this, pointing at a potential mechanism for the selective, age‐related vulnerability of the nigro‐striatal network.
Direct and indirect effects of alcohol and its toxic metabolite acetaldehyde on human esophageal myofibroblasts and epithelial cells
Authors: Khalatbari Atousa , Castle Joshua D. , Li Tao , Shaker Anisa
Published: May 2023

Background

Mechanisms by which alcohol increases the risk of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma remain undefined. Human esophageal myofibroblasts (HEMFs) subjacent to the squamous epithelium are exposed directly to these agents via epithelial barrier defects and indirectly via factors derived from the exposed epithelium. Our aim was to investigate the cellular biology of HEMFs and HEMF‐esophageal epithelial cell interactions in response to alcohol and its toxic metabolite acetaldehyde.

Methods

An immortalized HEMF and a human esophageal epithelial cell line (Epi) were treated with alcohol (0 to 200 mM) or acetaldehyde (0 to 100 μM) in a cyclic fashion or incubated with supernatants collected from treated cells. Healthy cell %, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and proliferation were assessed via flow cytometry, luminescence, scratch wound, and colorimetric assays, respectively. A 15‐plex multiplex assay was performed on cell supernatants, followed by IL‐6 and IL‐8 qRT–PCR and ELISA.

Results

Healthy HEMF decreased to less than 80% at 30 mM alcohol and 70 μM acetaldehyde, with microscopic changes at 40 μM acetaldehyde. HEMF ROS was detected at 100 mM alcohol and 80 μM acetaldehyde. Supernatants from 30 mM alcohol‐ or 40 μM acetaldehyde‐treated HEMFs increased Epi proliferation more than two‐fold that of lower doses. In the complementary studies, healthy Epi cells decreased to less than 80% at 50 mM and 70 μM acetaldehyde, with microscopic changes at 40 μM. Supernatants from Epi treated with 50 mM alcohol or 40 μM acetaldehyde increased HEMF proliferation more than two‐fold that of lower doses. A multiplex assay of supernatants showed the greatest increase in concentrations of IL‐6 and IL‐8 in HEMFs and in Epi treated with higher doses of alcohol or acetaldehyde. Neutralization of IL‐6 and IL‐8 in supernatants of HEMFS and esophageal epithelial cells inhibited the proliferation of Epi and HEMFs, respectively.

Conclusions

Alcohol and acetaldehyde doses in which the majority of HEMFs and epithelial cells are healthy, elicit the production of paracrine mediators with pro‐proliferative effects on neighboring cells. Understanding the effect of alcohol and acetaldehyde on HEMFs and HEMF‐epithelial interactions could help to identify the molecular basis by which alcohol increases the risk for esophageal cancer.