bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simple method for mapping the location of cross-β forming regions within protein domains of low sequence complexity
Authors: Gu Jinge , Zhou Xiaoming , Sutherland Lillian , Liszczak Glen , McKnight Steven L.
Published: February 2025

Protein domains of low sequence complexity are unable to fold into stable, three-dimensional structures. In test tube studies, these unusual polypeptide regions can self-associate in a manner causing phase separation from aqueous solution. This form of protein:protein interaction has been implicated in numerous examples of dynamic morphological organization within eukaryotic cells. In several cases, the basis for low complexity domain (LCD) self-association and phase separation has been traced to the formation of labile cross-β structures. The primary energetic force favoring formation of these transient and reversible structures is enabled by polypeptide backbone interactions. Short, contiguous networks of peptide backbone amino groups and carbonyl oxygens are zippered together intermolecularly by hydrogen bonding as described by Linus Pauling seven decades ago. Here we describe a simple, molecular biological method useful for the identification of localized, self-associating regions within larger protein domains of low sequence complexity.

Significance

This study describes a molecular biological method for analyzing protein domains of low sequence complexity in search of segments that mediate self-association and consequent phase separation bothin vitroandin vivo. Small regions allowing for self-association correspond to sequences that specify the formation of labile cross-β structural order. When juxtaposed to the C-terminus of GFP, cross-β prone regions suppress fluorescence. A tiled scan of overlapping fragments of the low complexity domain (LCD) of the TDP-43 RNA binding protein pinpointed an evolutionarily conserved sequence of twenty amino acids essential for self-association, phase separation and the formation of nuclear speckles. The screening method described herein should be useful for the analysis of any LCD believed to function via homotypic self-association.
Global Reporting Patterns of Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions and Their Relationship with a Country’s Socioeconomic Status- Insights from VigiBase Data- Study Protocol
Authors: Dhakal Nisha , Sartori Daniele , Holmström Anna-Riia
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Pharmacovigilance is vital for detecting Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs), with Individual Case Safety Reports (ICSRs) serving as the primary source, despite growing interest in other data sources like electronic health records and social media. However, ICSR reporting rates remain low in low- and middle-income countries due to weak pharmacovigilance systems. Furthermore, the impact of socioeconomic factors such as health, education, and income on reporting rates has not been studied on a global scale previously.

Aims

To compare global ICSR reporting patterns and quantify potential differences in their characteristics across pre-defined socioeconomic strata.

Methods

In this observational descriptive quantitative study, numbers of ICSRs will be obtained from VigiBase for members of the World Health Organization Programme for International Drug Monitoring, from 01/01/2010 to 31/12/2022. Yearly total population data and Inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (IHDI) values will be obtained from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for all countries, for the same interval. Yearly ICSR reporting rates for each country will be calculated by dividing the total ICSRs submitted to VigiBase each year, and median reporting rates computed across the study period. Similarly, the median IHDI and its dimensional indices (Health, Education, and Income) will be calculated for each country. Countries will be categorized into four human development groups based on the UNDP classification: low, medium, high, and very high. To assess the relationship between IHDI (and its dimensions) and reporting rates, a linear regression model will be applied, with adjustments made as needed based on the data characteristics. VigiPoint will also be used to compare the relative frequency of covariates between reports of low, medium, and high IHDI, against those submitted to VigiBase by very high IHDI countries. VigiPoint identifies key features for review using shrunk log odds ratios, highlighting the overrepresented characteristics of ICSRs. We will present descriptive and statistical analyses in tables and scatter plots will be used to examine the relationship between ICSR reporting rates and IHDI (and its dimensions), using the calculated median values for IHDI (and its dimensions). Trendlines will highlight temporal changes in population, IHDI, and dimensional indices.

Discussion

The findings will offer insights into how socioeconomic factors affect reporting practices and may guide targeted interventions to enhance global drug safety monitoring.
Neighborhood level factors and use of cigarettes, cannabis and e-cigarettes: a population-based study among Canadian adults
Authors: Fraser Wood Truman , Dummer Trevor JB , Peters Cheryl E , Murphy Rachel A
Published: February 2025

Despite public health efforts, use of legal substances such as cigarettes, cannabis and e-cigarettes are common in Canada. Most policies focus on individual level factors, which do not account for possible influences of the environments to which people belong (i.e. neighborhoods). This study aimed to identify neighborhood-level risk factors for use of cigarettes, cannabis and e-cigarettes in the Canadian Partnership for Tomorrow’s Health cohort. Participants completed questionnaires on demographics and health behaviors including recent (30-d) use of cigarettes, cannabis and e-cigarettes. Geospatial neighborhood-level measures: deprivation, gentrification, household security, labor force participation, immigration and visible minority proportion were linked via postal codes. Regression models were built to understand associations between substance use and neighborhood factors. Neighborhood material deprivation, social deprivation, and household insecurity were positively associated with odds of using cigarettes, cannabis, and e-cigarettes. Odds of using these substances was higher for participants living in gentrified neighborhoods. Lower odds of cigarette, cannabis, and e-cigarette use were found for participants living in neighborhoods with a high proportion of recent immigrants and/or visible minorities. Evidence from this study suggests interventions aimed at reducing or preventing substance use should be multidimensional, encompassing strategies directed at both individuals and neighborhoods.
Additive interactions between genetic susceptibility and physical activity account for nearly one third of excess T2D risk
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Carrasquilla Germán D. , Christiansen Malene R. , Smit Roelof A.J. , Ängquist Lars , Hansen Torben , Loos Ruth J.F. , Grarup Niels , Linneberg Allan , Kilpeläinen Tuomas O. , Merino Jordi
Published: February 2025

Regular physical activity is a well-established protective factor against type 2 diabetes (T2D), yet large variability exists in its metabolic benefits. Genetic factors could partially explain this variability, but studies examining gene-by-physical activity interactions in incident T2D are limited. Here, we used data from 10,627 participants from two population-based cohorts in the United States (All of UsResearch Program) and Denmark (Inter99) to investigate how genetic risk and physical activity jointly influence T2D risk. Genetic risk was characterized using a polygenic score for T2D. Physical activity was measured using wearable devices inAll of Usand self-reported questionnaires in Inter99. InAll of Us, T2D incidence rates per 1,000 person-years were 2.1 (95% CI: 0.3, 3.9) for individuals with high physical activity and low genetic risk and 18.3 (95% CI: 13.4, 23.3) for those with low physical activity and high genetic risk (multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio of 6.9 (95% CI: 3.3, 14.4)). The interaction between physical activity and genetic risk deviated from additivity, with a relative excess risk due to interaction of 0.40 (95% CI: 0.11, 0.69; p = 0.003), accounting for 27% (95% CI: 5, 50) of excess T2D risk. These results were replicated in Inter99, where 44% (95% CI: 22, 67) of excess T2D risk was attributed to the interaction. These findings provide consistent evidence of interactions between genetic risk and physical activity on T2D risk, indicating that increasing physical activity among those with high genetic risk may represent an effective strategy for precision T2D prevention.
Determinants of hand hygiene behaviours in internally displaced persons camps in flood-affected areas of South Sudan: a mixed-methods formative research study
Authors: Bak Chol , Hotopf India , Wol Zack , Majorin Fiona
Published: February 2025

In addition to longstanding conflicts, South Sudan has experienced devastating flooding in recent years, resulting in an ongoing humanitarian crisis. In early 2024, it was estimated that there were two million internally displaced persons (IDPs) in South Sudan, with camp residents amongst those most vulnerable to infectious disease outbreaks. Our aim was to understand determinants of hand hygiene behaviours and explore existing hygiene programs in IDP camps in flood-affected areas of South Sudan. A mixed method approach was used to collect data in four IDP camps in Bentiu county, Unity State, in May to June 2023. Methods included: key informant interviews (n=5) with water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) implementing organizations, tours of WASH infrastructure in camps, focus group discussions (n=12) with camp residents disaggregated by age, gender, and disability status. Lastly, 50 camp residents were asked to participate in a brief survey and to demonstrate their handwashing behaviour in their current situation and in a hypothetical scenario if less water was available. We found that camp residents mostly washed hands with water only, with some using soap when available. Women were perceived as more likely to wash their hands. Residents commonly washed their hands after visiting the toilet, and before and after eating. Drivers of handwashing included visibly dirty appearance, smell, or a desire to feel fresh and clean. The main barriers to handwashing included a lack of soap, water, buckets, and other handwashing materials. Flooding affects handwashing behaviours in multiple ways, such as increased pressure on limited facilities due to IDP influxes and submerged water points. Handwashing using potentially contaminated flood water was also reported. Extreme weather events such as floods are predicted to increase in frequency and intensity with climate change - thus finding ways to sustainably improve handwashing in these changing contexts is essential.
Incorporating continuous mammographic density into the BOADICEA breast cancer risk prediction model
Authors: Ficorella Lorenzo , Eriksson Mikael , Czene Kamila , Leslie Goska , Yang Xin , Carver Tim , Stokes Adam E. , Easton Douglas F. , Hall Per , Antoniou Antonis C.
Published: February 2025

Background

BOADICEA (v7) predicts future breast cancer (BC) risk using data on cancer family history, genetic markers, questionnaire-based risk factors and mammographic density (MD) measured using the 4-category BI-RADS classification. However, BI-RADS requires manual reading, which is impractical on a large scale and may cause information loss.

Methods

We extended BOADICEA to incorporate continuous MD measurements, calculated using the automated Volpara and STRATUS software. We used data from the KARMA cohort (60,276 participants; 1,167 incident BC). Associations between MD measurements and BC risk were estimated in a randomly selected training subset (two-thirds of the dataset). Percent MD residuals were calculated after regressing on age at mammography and BMI. Hazard ratios (HRs) were estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model, adjusting for family history and BOADICEA risk factors, and were incorporated into BOADICEA. The remaining one-third of the cohort was used to assess the performance of the extended BOADICEA (v 7.2) in predicting 5-year risks.

Results

The BC HRs per SD of residual STRATUS density were estimated to be 1.48 (95%CI: 1.33-1.64) and 1.41 (95%CI: 1.27-1.56) for pre- and post-menopausal women, respectively. The corresponding estimates for Volpara density were 1.27 (95%CI: 1.15-1.40) and 1.38 (95%CI: 1.25-1.54). The extended BOADICEA showed improved discrimination in the testing dataset over using BIRADS, with a 1-4% increase in AUC across different combinations of risk factors. Based on 5-year BC risk with MD as the sole input, approximately 11% of the women were reclassified into lower risk categories and 18% into higher risk categories using the extended model.

Conclusion

Incorporating continuous MD measurements into BOADICEA enhances breast cancer risk stratification and facilitates the use of automated MD measures for risk prediction.
Recurrent evolution of cryptic triploids in cultivated enset increases yield
Authors: Dussert Yann , Borrell James S. , Stocks Jonathan , Hunt Harriet V. , White Oliver W. , Wilkin Paul , Buggs Richard , Büchi Lucie , Demissew Sebsebe , Woldeyes Feleke , Leitch Ilia J. , Abebe Wendawek M. , Nichols Richard A.
Published: February 2025

Enset is a staple crop for over 20 million people in southwestern Ethiopia. We generated a new chromosome-level genome assembly, and sequenced 65 wild and 658 cultivated individuals. We unexpectedly find that 214 cultivated individuals are triploid, from multiple origins. Landrace names consistently differentiate diploids from the triploids, which have higher pseudostem volumes and are disproportionately planted. Scientifically directed breeding of triploids could improve food security in sub-saharan Africa.
Signals from the bone marrow B cell niches shape pre-leukemic fate in murine B cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Delahaye Marjorie C , Léonard Simon , Pelletier Jeoffrey , Destin Jérôme , Bardin Florence , Ounis Mourad , Monvoisin Céline , Prade Naïs , Gil Laurine , Dauba Audrey , Milpied Pierre , Khamlichi Ahmed Amine , Delabesse Eric , Marchand Tony , Broccardo Cyril , Aurrand-Lions Michel , Gerby Bastien , Mancini Stéphane JC
Published: February 2025

The bone marrow (BM) microenvironment plays a key role in supporting B cell development. In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), the acquisition of oncogenic driver mutations blocks B cell differentiation at specific stages. When these pre-leukemic cells acquire secondary mutations, B-ALL develops. However, the role of the BM microenvironment in pre-leukemic cell fate remains unknown. Here, using a murine model of spontaneous B-ALL development, we show that disrupted pre-BCR signaling in pre-leukemic cells modifies their fate. Blocking expression of the pre-BCR ligand Galectin-1 by the microenvironment impaired pre-leukemic cell proliferation and leukemia-initiating capacity. Consequently, B-ALL development was delayed, and B-ALL had a more mature phenotype, with cells expressing a BCR. Secondary mutations were also altered by changes to Galectin-1 expression, in its absence mutations almost exclusively affected IL-7R signaling rather than both pre-BCR and IL-7R signaling. These results show that signals from BM niches can directly influence pre-leukemic B cell fate.
Genomic epidemiology of enteropathogenicEscherichia coli(EPEC) in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Akinlabi Olabisi C. , Dada Rotimi A. , Olayinka Ademola A. , Oginni-Falajiki Ibukunoluwa O. , Bejide Oyeniyi S. , Adewole Pelumi D. , Thomson Nicholas R. , Aboderin Aaron O. , Okeke Iruka N.
Published: February 2025

Background

EnteropathogenicEscherichia coli(EPEC) are etiological agents of diarrhea. We studied the genetic diversity and virulence factors of EPEC in southwestern Nigeria, where this pathotype is rarely characterized.

Methodology/ Principal findings

EPEC isolates (n=96) recovered from recent southwestern Nigeria diarrhea case-control studies were whole genome-sequenced using Illumina technology. Genomes were assembled using SPAdes and quality was evaluated using QUAST. Virulencefinder, SeroTypefinder, and Resfinder were used to identify virulence genes, serotypes, and resistance genes, while multilocus sequence typing was done by STtyping. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were called out of whole genome alignment using SNP-sites and a phylogenetic tree was constructed using IQtree. Thirty-nine of the 96 (40.6%) EPEC isolates were from cases of diarrhea. Nine isolates from diarrhea patients and four from healthy controls were typical EPEC, harboring bundle-forming pilus (bfp) genes whilst the rest were atypical EPEC. Fifteen isolates were EPEC-EAEC hybrids. Atypical serotypes O71:H19 (16, 16.6%), O108:H21 (6, 6.3%), O157:H39 (5, 5.2%), and O165:H9 (4, 4.2%) were most prevalent; only 8(8.3%) isolates belonged to classical EPEC serovars. The largest clade comprised ST517 isolates, of O71:H19 and O165:H9 serovars harboring multiple siderophore and serine protease autotransporter genes. An O71:H19 subclade comprised isolates <10 SNPs apart, representing a likely outbreak involving 15 children, four presenting with diarrhea.

Conclusion/ Significance

Likely outbreaks, of typical O119:H6(ST28) and atypical O127:H29(ST7798) were additionally identified. EPEC circulating in southwestern Nigeria are diverse and differ substantially from well-characterized lineages seen previously elsewhere. EPEC carriage and outbreaks could be commonplace but are largely undetected, hence, unreported, and require genomic surveillance for identification.
Discovery of first-in-class inhibitors of the TRF1-TIN2 protein-protein interaction by fragment screening
Authors: Casale Giacomo , Liu Manjuan , Le Bihan Yann-Vaï , Inian Oviya , Stammers Ellie , Caldwell John , van Montfort Rob L. M. , Collins Ian , Guettler Sebastian
Published: February 2025

TRF1 is a subunit of the shelterin complex that binds to and protects the linear ends of chromosomes known as telomeres. Both genetic deletion and chemical inhibition of TRF1 have been shown to block the growth of lung carcinoma, glioblastoma, and renal cell carcinoma in mice without affecting mouse survival or tissue function, making TRF1 a potential therapeutic target in cancer1–3. Here, we report the discovery of a series of fragment hits that bind at the interface between the TRFH domain of TRF1 (TRF1TRFH) and a peptide of TIN2 (TIN2TBM), an interaction essential for the recruitment of TRF1 to shelterin, using X-ray crystallography (XChem) and ligand-observed NMR (LO-NMR) fragment screening. We discovered a first-in-class inhibitor of the TRF1-TIN2 interaction (compound40) that binds to TRF1TRFHwith a KDof 29 μM (95% CI: 20 – 41 μM), displaces a TIN2 probe with an IC50of 67 ± 28 μM, and expels TRF1 from purified shelterin. Aided by a novel crystal system of TRF1TRFH, we characterised fragments binding in a hotspot at the TRF1-TIN2 interface which will serve as a starting point for the structure-guided development of potent inhibitors of TRF1 protein-protein interactions to disrupt shelterin complex assembly.
Ligand Discrimination in Immune Cells: Signal Processing Insights into Immune Dysfunction in ER+ Breast Cancer
Authors: Matache Adina , Lima Joao Rodrigues , Kuznetsov Maxim , Urbaniak Konstancja , Branciamore Sergio , Rodin Andrei S. , Lee Peter P. , Rockne Russell C.
Published: February 2025

Prior studies have shown that approximately 40% of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer (BC) patients harbor immune signaling defects in their blood at diagnosis, and the presence of these defects predicts overall survival. Therefore, it is of interest to quantitatively characterize and measure signaling errors in immune signaling systems in these patients. Here we propose a novel approach combining communication theory and signal processing concepts to model ligand discrimination in immune cells in the peripheral blood. We use the model to measure the specificity of ligand discrimination in the presence of molecular noise by estimating the probability of error, which is the probability of making a wrong ligand identification. We apply our model to the JAK/STAT signaling pathway using high dimensional spectral flow cytometry measurements of transcription factors, including phosphorylated STATs and SMADs, in immune cells stimulated with several cytokines (IFNγ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-4, and IL-10) from 19 ER+ breast cancer patients and 32 healthy controls. In addition, we apply our model to 10 healthy donor samples treated with a clinically approved JAK1/2 inhibitor. Our results show reduced ligand identification accuracy and higher levels of molecular noise in BC patients as compared to healthy controls, which may indicate altered immune signaling and the potential for immune cell dysfunction in these patients. Moreover, the inhibition of JAK1/2 produces ligand misidentification and molecular noise rates similar to, or even greater than, those observed in breast cancer. These results suggest a means to improve the use of signaling kinase inhibitor therapies by identifying patients with favorable ligand discrimination specificity profiles in their immune cells.

One Sentence Summary

We use a communication model to measure ligand discrimination errors in immune cells and molecular noise in cytokine signaling in ER+ breast cancer patients as compared to healthy controls.
AMPK- and cGAS-Mediated Dual Sensing of Glucose and dsDNA Synergizes to Enhance Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Zhou Ruyuan , Pei Jingyan , Chen Shasha , Shen Qin , Wu Qirou , Liu Shengduo , Chen Chen , Feng Xin-Hua , Zou Jian , Liang Tingbo , Zhang Y. Jessie , Lin Sheng-Cai , Song Penghong , Zhang Chen-Song , Zhang Qian , Xu Pinglong
Published: February 2025

Intratumoral glucose availability is linked considerably to tumor growth, immune evasion, and metastasis. However, the precise molecular mechanisms by which glucose levels govern cellular and immune responses against tumors remain incompletely understood. Here, we explored the context of tumors of intersections between AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and cGAS-STING signaling, a key pathway initiating antitumor immunity. We unexpectedly found that AMPK activation robustly enhances cGAS-STING signaling within cancer and immune cells, which potently impacts melanoma and colorectal cell senescence, organoid apoptosis, and the infiltration of CD4+and CD8+T lymphocytes. Using classic or newly developed AMPK agonist Aldometanib, TBK1S511E/S511Eknock-in (KI) mice, glucose metabolic modulator, as well as AMPKα1/α2 dKO melanoma, we demonstrated that dual sensing of intratumoral glucose and dsDNA integrated by the AMPK-TBK1 cascade is essential for initiating antitumor immunity and suppressing cancer progressions. Notably, novel AMPK agonists or intervening in glucose glycolysis by Lonidamine synergized effectively with STING agonists, substantially inhibiting melanoma growth. Therefore, these findings unravel a concise mechanism integrating glucose metabolism and innate DNA sensing into cancer cell fate and propose an effective therapeutic strategy to enhance antitumor immunity.

HIGHLIGHTS

Dual and synergistic sensing of glucose and dsDNA facilitates antitumor immunity in melanoma and colorectal cancer;

AMPK substitutes intratumoral cGAS-STING-IRF3 signaling through TBK1 phosphorylation at S511;

Glucose deficiency induces cancer cell senescence, apoptosis, and T lymphocyte infiltration via the AMPK-TBK1 cascade;

Newly developed AMPK agonists synergize with STING agonists to retrieve striking tumor suppression.
Parietal alpha frequency shapes own-body perception by modulating the temporal integration of bodily signals
Authors: D’Angelo Mariano , Lanfranco Renzo C. , Chancel Marie , Ehrsson H. Henrik
Published: February 2025

An influential proposal in the field of cognitive neuroscience suggests that alpha-frequency brain oscillations constrain the temporal sampling of external sensory signals, shaping the temporal binding window (TBW)—the interval during which sensory signals are integrated. However, whether alpha frequency modulates the integration of self-related sensory signals and the perception of the body as one’s own (body ownership) remains unknown. Here, we demonstrate that individual alpha frequency (IAF) from the parietal cortex predicted TBWs and perceptual sensitivities in body ownership and visuotactile simultaneity judgment tasks, with faster frequencies narrowing TBWs and increasing sensitivities, and vice versa. Modulating IAF through brain stimulation altered TBWs and sensitivities, establishing a causal relationship. Computational modeling linked IAF to uncertainty in asynchrony information within the causal inference process, providing a mechanism. These findings demonstrate that parietal alpha frequency shapes the sense of body ownership by modulating the temporal integration of bodily sensory signals.
Hybrid female sterility due to cohesin protection errors in oocytes
Authors: El Yakoubi Warif , Pan Bo , Akera Takashi
Published: February 2025

Hybrid incompatibility can lead to lethality and sterility of F1 hybrids, contributing to speciation. Here we found that female hybrids betweenMus musculus domesticusandMus spicilegusmice are sterile due to the failure of homologous chromosome separation in oocyte meiosis I, producing aneuploid eggs. This non-separation phenotype was driven by the mis- localization of the cohesin protector, SGO2, along the chromosome arms instead of its typical centromeric enrichment, resulting in cohesin over-protection. The upstream kinase, BUB1, showed a significantly higher activity in hybrid oocytes, explaining SGO2 mis-targeting along the chromosome arm. Higher BUB1 activity was not observed in mitosis, consistent with viable hybrid mice. Cohesion defects were also evident in hybrid mice from another genus,Peromyscus, wherein cohesin protection is weakened. Defective cohesion in oocytes is a leading cause of reduced fertility especially with advanced maternal age. Our work provides evidence that a major cause of human infertility may play a positive role in promoting mammalian speciation.
CRISPR-based shuttle cloning of 1,397 human genes into UAS vectors
Authors: Liu Xuelian , Xi Hanqing , Dai Miao , Li Xiaoxue , Xue Wen , Chen Guang , Yan Jialong , Xu Si , Ou Guifang , Luo Si , Tang Yonghong , Wei Ping , Wang Jiwu
Published: February 2025

The construction of genome-wide DNA libraries from publicly available resources is essential for leveraging functional genomics to investigate complex biological systems. However, all existing high-throughput cloning methods for transferring DNA fragments between vectors require PCR amplification of the DNA fragments, rendering the construction of genome-wide DNA libraries labor-intensive and time-consuming. By introducing a concept of CRISPRshuttle cassette, we herein present a method named CRISPR-based shuttle cloning (CRISPRshuttle cloning). This method enables the high-throughput transfer of numerous DNA fragments from original plasmids with identical backbones to a different vector background without the need for PCR amplification of the DNA fragments. The procedure comprises two-step test tube reactions followed by bacterial transformation. Using CRISPRshuttle we successfully generated a library of GAL4/UAS-based UAS-ORF plasmids covering 1,397 human genes conserved inDrosophila. This library may serve as a valuable resource for gain-of-function screening in cultured cells and for the creation of a transgenic UAS-ORF library inDrosophila.
A theoretical exploration of protocols for treating prosthetic joint infections with combinations of antibiotics and bacteriophage
Authors: Levin Bruce R. , Gil-Gil Teresa , Berryhill Brandon A. , Woodworth Michael H.
Published: February 2025

With the increase in the placement of prosthetic joints and other hardware in the body has come an increase in associated infections. These infections are particularly difficult to treat due to the underlying bacteria generating matrices which resist clearance by immune system effectors or antibiotics. These matrices, biofilms, have two primary ways of being eradicated, either by physical removal by debridement or by killing the underlying bacteria. The viruses which kill bacteria, bacteriophage, are readily capable of entering into biofilms and eradicating the bacteria therein. Therefore, bacteriophage have therapeutic potential as a supplement to antibiotics for the treatment of prosthetic joint infections. In this investigation, we generate a mathematical-computer simulation model to explore the contributions of the innate immune system with antibiotics, bacteriophage, and the joint action thereof in the control of biofilm-associated infections. Our results question the proposition that bacteriophage are an effective addition in the treatment of prosthetic joint infections.
Spatial and single-nucleus transcriptomic profile of a chimpanzee frontal pole
Authors: Alagöz Gökberk , Wong Maggie , Gräßle Tobias , Jäger Carsten , Morawski Markus , Kolleck Jakob , Francks Clyde , Wittig Roman M. , Crockford Catherine , Gunz Philipp , Fisher Simon E.
Published: February 2025

Chimpanzees, our closest living relatives, share a vast amount of our genetic code, with the majority of differences found in non-coding regions of the genome. Functional and gene regulatory differences drive phenotypic divergence, including the distinctive brain anatomy of humans compared to chimpanzees and other apes. However, little is known about species differences in gene expression, and how they relate to the evolution of neuroanatomy and cognition. This is primarily due to the limited availability of great ape brain samples and challenges in comparative spatial transcriptomic studies. Here, we present the first spatial transcriptomic data from a chimpanzee brain based onpost mortemtissue from an adult female, who was euthanised due to poor health. We focus on the frontal pole, a brain region that has undergone significant evolutionary changes in size and organisation since the last common ancestor of humans and chimpanzees, and is considered critical for cognitive evolution. We examined the gene expression profiles and cell-type composition of the frontal pole on the left hemisphere, including both neuronal and non-neuronal cell types across cortical layers and white matter. By integrating our spatial transcriptomic data with a publicly available single-nucleus transcriptomic dataset of the chimpanzee dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, we mapped the spatial distribution of 29 chimpanzee brain cell types. This study represents a first step towards characterisation of spatial gene regulatory differences between the brains of non-human great apes and humans.
Enhancing high-energy powder X-ray diffraction applications using a PILATUS4 CdTe detector
Authors: Donath Tilman , Trampari Sofia , Wagner Lucas , Jørgensen Mads R. V. , Gjørup Frederik H. , Checchia Stefano , Di Michiel Marco , Papillon Emmanuel , Vaughan Gavin
Published: February 2025

Hybrid photon counting detectors have significantly advanced synchrotron research. In particular, the introduction of large cadmium telluride-based detectors in 2015 enabled a whole new range of high-energy X-ray measurements. This article describes the specifications of the new PILATUS4 cadmium telluride detector and presents results from prototype testing for high-energy powder X-ray diffraction studies conducted at two synchrotrons. The experiments concern time-resolved in situ solid-state reactions at MAX IV (Sweden) and fast-scanning X-ray diffraction computed tomography of a battery cell at the ESRF (France). The detector's high quantum efficiency up to 100 keV, combined with a maximum frame rate of 4000 Hz, enables fast data collection. This study demonstrates how these capabilities contribute to improved time and spatial resolution in high-energy powder X-ray diffraction studies, facilitating advancements in materials, chemical and energy research.
Is e-commerce widening or narrowing the income distribution gap among Chinese households?
Authors: Mei Yan , Lin Nuoyan , Hu Bangqi , Zhang Xihua
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Although many researchers have studied the benefits of the applications of e-commerce, few have examined the relationship between e-commerce and its effects on household income distribution. This study explores the effects of e-commerce development on household income distribution in different regions of China.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a two-way fixed effect model for empirical analysis based on matched data from the E-commerce Development Index and the China Family Panel Studies database. The instrumental variables method is used for robustness testing.

Findings

The research findings indicate the following: (1) The development of e-commerce significantly reduces income inequality among Chinese households. For every 10% increase in e-commerce development, the income gap in China shrinks by 2.38%, with a reduction of 2.97 and 0.47% in urban and rural areas, respectively. (2) The reduction in income inequality due to e-commerce development is more pronounced in economically advanced regions. (3) The development of e-commerce in the eastern and western regions has a greater impact on reducing income inequality in urban than rural areas. In contrast, the opposite effect is observed in the central region.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing research by examining the effects of e-commerce development on household income distribution. It has important theoretical and practical implications for issues such as narrowing the urban–rural gap.
Enhancing relationships through 60-sec videos: an analysis of relationship cultivation strategies on TikTok
Authors: Oh Jeyoung , Zhou Ziyuan , Kang Da-young , Ki Eyun-Jung
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To understand how retail companies are using TikTok, a short-form video social media platform, this study investigates the use of relationship cultivation strategies and message appeals in TikTok videos posted by the top 100 retail companies. The study also examines the extent to which these strategies influence public engagement on TikTok.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative content analysis was conducted to analyze the use of relationship cultivation strategies and message appeals by the top 100 retail companies on TikTok. The study also applied negative binomial regression to assess the impact of these strategies on public engagement.

Findings

The findings show that the positivity strategy was the most frequently used relationship cultivation strategy, followed by networking and assurance. The analysis also revealed that about half of the videos employed at least one message appeal. The use of relationship cultivation strategies and message appeals had significant effects on public engagement.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to examine the role of relationship cultivation strategies and message appeals in enhancing social media engagement for companies on TikTok.
Show a smiley face: the persuasive role of emoji on customers’ recycling experiences
Authors: Lee Seonjeong Ally , Lee Kiwon , Jung Shinyong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of emoji and the moderating effects of recycling messages in encouraging customers’ attitudes toward recycling and their recycling intentions via processing fluency.

Design/methodology/approach

Two 2 × 2 between-subject experiments are conducted to investigate the role of emojis, the moderating role of recycling messages and the mediating role of processing fluency on customers’ recycling experiences.

Findings

Study 1 identifies that customers’ attitudes toward recycling are enhanced when a positive emoji is used with a promotion-focused message, compared to a prevention-focused message. Study 2 finds that customers’ attitudes and recycling intentions are enhanced when a positive emoji is used with an upcycling message, compared to a recycling message. Both Study 1 and Study 2 identify the mediating role of processing fluency.

Practical implications

Results suggest strategically using emojis and various recycling messages to enhance customers’ recycling experience.

Originality/value

This study investigates the role of emojis as an effective recycling communication strategy.
High-performance workplace system: a literature review
Authors: Bhardwaj Seema , Choudhary Pooja , Chopra Ritika , Chakraborty Dipanwita
Published: February 2025

Purpose

 High-performance workplace systems (HPWS) have evolved from being mere buzzwords to essential pillars for organisational success. This calls for in – depth examination by both academic scholars and industry professionals. The study aims to offer a comprehensive academic assessment of the significance of HPWS in enhancing human resource management.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors conducted a literature review (bibliometric and content analysis) of 152 peer-reviewed scholarly articles published from 2003 to 2024. This study used Vosviewer software and the bibliometrics package in R software to investigate publishing patterns, influential contributors, themes and topics underpinning HPWS.

Findings

The work offers a thorough and insightful examination of the ideas, components and effects of HPWS on businesses and workers. It presents three research fronts that collectively contribute to the understanding of HPWS.

Practical implications

This work emphasises the significance of incorporating high-performance workplace processes to cultivate a culture of excellence and enhance employee engagement. Organisations can use evidence-based strategies identified in the literature to boost performance, promote job satisfaction and retain high-performing employees.

Originality/value

The study applies HPWSs to inform organisational policy development by acknowledging firms’ inherent capabilities and competencies to integrate HPWS effectively. The results serve as compelling evidence for recognising the capacity of HPWS to impact various facets of an organisation.
Transforming business-to-business marketing from tradition to digitalization: a taxonomic review of current trends, methodologies and future paths
Authors: Shashi Shashi , Ertz Myriam , Cerchione Roberto , Kumar Vikas
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Despite the numerous benefits of digitalization, many business-to-business (B2B) firms have yet to rely on data-driven decision-making, wavering the decision to adopt digital marketing practices. Topical scholarship is scattered across disciplines, schools of thought and methodological approaches, leading to an inability to suggest better management practices. This study aims to review the extant B2B marketing digitalization literature and addresses these concerns.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducted a systematic literature review of 96 high-quality articles extracted from the Web of Science database. Thereafter, this paper carried out descriptive statistical and content analyses of these articles.

Findings

Six primary research streams have been identified, and 16 research propositions have been formulated to comprehensively overview the B2B marketing digitalization landscape. The study delves into the factors and barriers influencing the pace of B2B marketing digitalization, sales lead generation and sales performance. Additionally, it introduces B2B digital value creation frameworks, emphasizing the crucial role of marketing analytics and decision tools in effective B2B marketing. The research also underscores various digitalization strategies aimed at bridging the digitalization gap in B2B companies at both strategic and tactical levels. Finally, the study presents an agenda to stimulate future research on theoretical and managerial topics critical to enriching the field.

Originality/value

This research outlines 16 research propositions that could be further tested to get more detailed insights into the digitalization of B2B marketing. Additionally, practitioners, authorities and researchers in the field may find this review valuable as it provides a comprehensive overview of current research in the domain.
The nonlinear relationship between managerial ability and bank liquidity creation in the MENA region: Does institutional quality matter?
Authors: Zaiane Sedki
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the nonlinear relationship between managerial ability and bank liquidity creation and to investigate the role of institutional quality in shaping the managerial ability–liquidity creation nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a sample of 126 MENA region banks for the period extending from 2006 to 2020. We apply a dynamic panel threshold method to examine the nonlinearity.

Findings

The results reveal that the relationship between managerial ability and liquidity creation is nonlinear and depends on the level of managerial ability. Moreover, using different indicators of institutional quality, the results reveal that the impact of the managerial ability on liquidity creation depends on the institutional quality. More specifically, we find that the impact of managerial ability depends on the level and type of the institution quality indicator.

Research limitations/implications

The nonlinearity between managerial ability and bank liquidity creation shows that the level of managerial ability as well as institutional quality can be a major determinant of the bank liquidity creation.

Originality/value

This paper gives a more complete and detailed image on the relationship between institutional quality, managerial ability and bank liquidity creation using a nonlinear methodology, which extends to the current literature’s insight.
Readiness for artificial intelligence adoption by auditors in emerging countries – a PLS-SEM analysis of Moroccan firms
Authors: Benhayoun Issam , Bougrine Salma , Sassioui Aimad
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the factors that influence the readiness to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) tools within Moroccan auditing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research design was used, using survey data to examine the influence of perceived usefulness (PU), ease of use (EU) and top management commitment (TMC) on AI adoption readiness (AIAR) in auditing. A conceptual model, drawing from the technology acceptance model (TAM) and supported by findings from previous literature, was proposed. The model was tested using partial least squares – structural equation modelling on data collected from 116 Moroccan respondents.

Findings

The study confirmed that PU and TMC do not significantly influence the AIAR in auditing in Morocco, whereas EU is positively and significantly associated to the AIAR.

Research limitations/implications

The study presents findings based on data from a single country, which may limit the broader applicability of the results to other contexts or regions with different regulatory, cultural or economic environments.

Practical implications

The results suggest that TAM is not necessarily adapted to AI adoption within an emerging context like Morocco. The significant role of EU in AIAR suggests that Moroccan firms should prioritize the development and integration of AI tools that are intuitive and user-friendly. AI should be presented not only as a tool for enhancing audit quality but also as a means of reducing workload and improving efficiency. Furthermore, rather than relying solely on top-down mandates, a more decentralized approach to AI adoption could be effective, where individual auditors are empowered to experiment with AI tools and integrate them into their practices. This approach could foster a culture of innovation and gradual adoption, increasing the likelihood of successful AI integration within Moroccan auditing firms.

Social implications

AI adoption in auditing can promote societal benefits by enhancing transparency, accountability and trust in both public and private sectors. In countries like Morocco, where financial transparency is lacking but vital for stability, AI can help reduce corruption, improve decision-making and foster public trust, ultimately supporting investment and social equity.

Originality/value

This paper offers an original contribution by examining AIAR in Morocco’s auditing sector, focusing on an emerging market and African context. Unlike studies in developed countries, it highlights the unique challenges and opportunities faced by Moroccan auditors, considering factors like PU, EU and TMC. It challenges organizations to assess their readiness and the ability of their employees to effectively integrate AI into their workflows.
The exploration of natural capital on the balance sheet: a case study of a water utility company
Authors: Pelletier Marie-Chantale , Horner Claire , Vickers Mathew , Gul Aliya , Turak Eren , Turner Christine
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the feasibility of natural capital accounting for the purpose of strengthening sustainability claims by reporting entities. The study showed how riparian land improvement influenced ecosystem services which could be measured in the context of financial reporting. The authors tested options for incorporating natural capital concepts into financial accounting practices under existing accounting standards specifically: on the balance sheet.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was used with an Australian water utility that has accountabilities to protect the environment, including maintaining and enhancing riparian land assets. The authors examined internal data sources, stakeholder engagement outcomes, physical assets, monetary valuation processes and financial recognition of natural capital income and assets. Natural capital income was estimated by process-based ecological modelling and ecosystem services were valued in relation to stormwater filtration and carbon storage using data from both internal and external sources.

Findings

The authors demonstrated how an environmental agency can disclose natural capital as a class of assets on the balance sheet. The authors also found that current accounting standards allow the recognition of some types of environmental assets where ecosystem services were associated with cost savings. The proof-of-concept used for asset measurement through ecosystem service modelling proved useful to strengthen sustainability claims or report financial returns on natural capital investment.

Originality/value

While many studies have examined environmental disclosures in voluntary reports, this study established that natural assets can be included on the balance sheet of financial statements, offering a robust approach to measuring and reporting on natural capital. It did so by applying financial accounting processes and principles to a real-world natural capital management scenario with direct participation and cooperation between the asset manager, academic researchers and a government environment agency, bridging the gap between theory and practice.