bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of Limch1 alternative splicing in skeletal muscle function
Authors: Penna Matthew S. , Rodney George G. , Hu Rong-Chi , Cooper Thomas A.
Published: October 2022

Postnatal skeletal muscle development is a highly dynamic period associated with extensive transcriptome remodeling. A significant aspect of postnatal development is widespread alternative splicing changes, required for the adaptation of tissues to adult function. These splicing events have significant implications since the reversion of adult mRNA isoforms to fetal isoforms is observed in forms of muscular dystrophy. LIM and Calponin Homology Domains 1 (LIMCH1) is a stress fiber associated protein that is alternative spliced to generate uLIMCH1, a ubiquitously expressed isoform, and mLIMCH1, a skeletal muscle-specific isoform. mLIMCH1 contains 454 in-frame amino acids which are encoded by six contiguous exons simultaneously included after birth in mouse. The developmental regulation and tissue specificity of this splicing transition is conserved in mice and humans. To determine the physiologically relevant functions of mLIMCH1 and uLIMCH1, CRISPR-Cas9 was used to delete the genomic segment containing the six alternatively spliced exons of LIMCH1 in mice, thereby forcing the constitutive expression of the predominantly fetal isoform, uLIMCH1 in adult skeletal muscle. mLIMCH1 knockout mice had significant grip strength weakness in vivo and maximum force generated was decreased ex vivo. Calcium handling deficits were observed during myofiber stimulation that could explain the mechanism by which mLIMCH1 knockout leads to muscle weakness. Additionally, LIMCH1 is mis-spliced in myotonic dystrophy type 1 with the muscle blind-like (MBNL) family of proteins acting as the likely major regulator of Limch1 alternative splicing in skeletal muscle.
A novel antiviral formulation inhibits SARS-CoV-2 infection of human bronchial epithelium
Authors: Purves Kevin , Haverty Ruth , O’Neill Tiina , Folan David , O’Reilly Sophie , Baird Alan W. , Scholz Dimitri , Mallon Patrick W , Gautier Virginie , Folan Michael , Fletcher Nicola F
Published: October 2022

A novel proprietary formulation, ViruSAL, has previously been demonstrated to inhibit diverse enveloped viral infections in vitro and in vivo. We evaluated the ability of ViruSAL to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity, using physiologically relevant models of the human bronchial epithelium, to model early infection of the upper respiratory tract. ViruSAL potently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection of human bronchial epithelial cells cultured as an air-liquid interface (ALI) model, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Viral infection was completely inhibited when ViruSAL was added to bronchial airway models prior to infection. Importantly, ViruSAL also inhibited viral infection when added to ALI models post-infection. No evidence of in vitro cellular toxicity was detected in ViruSAL treated cells at concentrations that completely abrogated viral infectivity. Moreover, intranasal instillation of ViruSAL to a rat model did not result in any toxicity or pathological changes. Together these findings highlight the potential for ViruSAL as a novel and potent antiviral for use within clinical and prophylactic settings.
SEC62 and TMX4 control asymmetric autophagy of the nuclear envelope upon LINC complex disassembly
Authors: Kucińska Marika K. , Fedry Juliette , Galli Carmela , Morone Diego , Raimondi Andrea , Soldà Tatiana , Förster Friedrich , Molinari Maurizio
Published: October 2022

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a dynamic organelle of nucleated cells that produces proteins, lipids and oligosaccharides. The volume and the activities of the ER are adapted to cellular needs. They are increased upon induction of unfolded protein responses (UPR 1) and are reduced upon activation of ER-phagy programs 2. A specialized domain of the ER, the nuclear envelope (NE), protects the cell genome with two juxtaposed lipid bilayers, the inner and outer nuclear membranes (INM and ONM). SUN proteins in the INM form disulfide-bonded Linker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton (LINC) complexes with NESPRIN proteins in the ONM. These complexes set and maintain the width of the periplasmic space (PS), a continuum of the ER lumen, below the 50 nm 3-5 and in yeast prevent transmission of ER volume variations to the PS 6,7. Here we report that expansion of the mammalian ER upon homeostatic perturbations is transmitted to the NE, where the ONM forms large bulges. The process is reverted on recovery of ER homeostasis, by asymmetric vesiculation and autophagic clearance of ONM portions. Remodeling of the mammalian NE requires TMX4-driven reduction of the intermolecular disulfide bond stabilizing LINC complexes, the LC3 lipidation machinery, and the autophagy receptor SEC62, identified here as the first mammalian nucleo-phagy receptor.
Revealing Pentose Catabolism in Pseudomonas putida
Authors: Park Mee-Rye , Gauttam Rahul , Fong Bonnie , Chen Yan , Lim Hyun Gyu , Feist Adam M. , Mukhopadhay Aindrila , Petzold Christopher J. , Simmons Blake A. , Singer Steven W.
Published: October 2022

The Pseudomonas putida group in the Gammaproteobacteria has been intensively studied for bioremediation and plant growth promotion. Members of this group have recently emerged as promising hosts to convert intermediates derived from plant biomass to biofuels and biochemicals. However, most strains of P. putida cannot metabolize pentose sugars derived from hemicellulose. Here we describe three isolates that provide a broader view of the pentose sugar catabolism in the P. putida group. One of these isolates clusters with the well-characterized P. alloputida KT2440 (strain BP6); the second isolate clustered with plant growth-promoting strain P. putida W619 (strain M2), while the third isolate represents a new species in the group (strain BP8). Each of these isolates possessed homologous genes for oxidative xylose catabolism (xylDXA) and a potential xylonate transporter. Strain M2 grew on arabinose and had genes for oxidative arabinose catabolism (araDXA). A CRISPRi system was developed for strain M2 and identified conditionally essential genes for xylose growth. A glucose dehydrogenase was found to be responsible for initial oxidation of xylose and arabinose in strain M2. These isolates have illuminated inherent diversity in pentose catabolism in the P. putida group and may provide alternative hosts for biomass conversion.

Originality-Significance Statement

Members of the Pseudomonas putida group are intensively studied for their role in plant growth promotion and biomass conversion. Despite this interest, the scope of pentose oxidation, key sugars in plant biomass, in this group is not known. Here, we report targeted isolation of members of the P. putida group that grow by xylose and arabinose oxidation. Using a combined genomic and proteomic approach, we identify gene products involved in pentose oxidation and identify conditionally essential genes for xylose oxidation using a CRISPRi gene repression approach. This work describes a targeted isolation and analysis strategy that may applied for many microbial groups of industrial and agricultural interest.
Differential Boric Acid and Water Transport in Type I and Type II Pores of Arabidopsis Nodulin 26-Intrinsic Proteins
Authors: Beamer Zachary G. , Routray Pratyush , Agrawal Rupesh , Li Tian , Gibson Katey M. , Ostrouchov Katherine E. , Smith Jeremy C. , Roberts Daniel M.
Published: October 2022

Nodulin-26 intrinsic proteins (NIPs) are plant-specific multifunctional aquaporin-like channels that are phylogenetically and structurally segregated into three subfamilies: NIP I, II, and III. Each subfamily has a characteristic selectivity filter sequence (the “aromatic-arginine” region, or ar/R) that controls substrate transport specificity based on steric constraints, hydrophobicity, and the spatial orientation of hydrogen bonding moieties. All three NIP subfamilies transport metalloid hydroxides, both beneficial as well as toxic, but with different selectivities. Here we investigated the B, As, and water selectivity of representative Arabidopsis thaliana NIP I and II proteins as well as their ar/R mutants in transport assays as well as through B complementation analysis in the B sensitive nip5;1 mutant background. All NIP proteins, and their ar/R mutants, showed equal permeability to arsenite, but showed differences in boric acid and aquaporin activities that was linked to the amino acid at the helix 2 (H2) position of the ar/R filter (Ala for NIP II and Trp for NIP I). The presence of an alanine at this position in NIP II proteins enhances boric acid permeability and drastically reduces the aquaporin/water permeability of the channel. A NIP II structural model generated from the AlphaFold2 resource and evaluated by MD simulation shows that the alanine results in a wider ar/R pore that accommodates the trigonal boric acid molecule and may allow gating of the pore in a manner that affects water permeability. In contrast, NIP I proteins adopt a more classical aquaporin/glyceroporin arrangement in the ar/R that allows metalloid permeability, although with greater selectivity, as well as permeation by water.
Foxg1 regulates translation of neocortical neuronal genes, including the main NMDA receptor subunit gene,Grin1
Authors: Artimagnella Osvaldo , Esposito Mauro , Maftei Elena Sabina , Sanges Remo , Mallamaci Antonello
Published: October 2022

Mainly known as a transcription factor patterning the rostral brain and governing its histogenesis, Foxg1 has been also detected outside the nucleus, however biological meaning of that has been only partially clarified. Here, moving from Foxg1 expression in cytoplasm of neocortical neurons, we investigated its implication in translational control. We documented an impact of Foxg1 on ribosomal recruitment ofGrin1-mRNA, encoding for the main subunit of NMDA receptor. Next, we showed that Foxg1 increases Grin1 protein level by enhancing translation of its mRNA, while not increasing its stability. Such enhancement was associated to augmented translational initiation and, possibly, polypeptide elongation. Molecular mechanisms at the basis of this activity included Foxg1 interaction with Eif4e and Eef1d as well as withGrin1-mRNA. Besides, we found that, within murine neocortical cultures, Grin1de novosynthesis undergoes a prominent and reversible, homeostatic regulation and Foxg1 is instrumental to that. Finally, through TRAP-seq, we discovered that Foxg1 is implicated in the translation of hundreds of neuronal genes at the level of ribosome engagement and progression. All that points to Foxg1 as a key effector, crucial to multi-scale temporal tuning of neocortical pyramid activity, an issue with profound physiological and neuropathological implications.
Dynamic subcellular localization of sodium-bicarbonate cotransporter NBCn1/SLC4A7 to plasma membrane, centrosomes, spindle, and primary cilia
Authors: Severin Marc , Pedersen Emma Lind , Borre Magnus Thane , Axholm Ida , Christiansen Frederik Bendix , Ponniah Muthulakshmi , Czaplinska Dominika , Larsen Tanja , Pardo Luis Angel , Pedersen Stine Falsig
Published: October 2022

Finely tuned regulation of transport protein localization is vital for epithelial function. Sodium-bicarbonate co-transporter NBCn1 (SLC4A7) is a key contributor to epithelial pH homeostasis, yet the regulation of its subcellular localization is not understood. Here, we show that a predicted N-terminal β-sheet and short C-terminal α-helical motif are essential for NBCn1 plasma membrane localization in epithelial cells. This localization was abolished by cell-cell contact disruption, and co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) and proximity ligation (PLA) revealed NBCn1 interaction with E-cadherin and DLG1, linking the transporter to adherens junctions and the Scribble complex. NBCn1 also interacted with RhoA and localized to lamellipodia and filopodia in migrating cells. Finally, analysis of localization of native and GFP-tagged NBCn1, subcellular fractionation, co-IP of NBCn1 with Arl13B and CEP164, and PLA of NBCn1 and tubulin in mitotic spindles led to the surprising conclusion that NBCn1 additionally localizes to the centrosome and primary cilium in non-dividing, polarized epithelial cells, and to spindle, centrosome and midbodies during mitosis. We propose that NBCn1 traffics between lateral junctions, leading edge, and cell division machinery in Rab11 endosomes, adding new insight to the role of NBCn1 in cell cycle progression.

Summary statement

We unravel molecular determinants of plasma membrane localization of the Na+,HCO3− cotransporter NBCn1 and discover that NBCn1 also localizes to centrosomes, spindle, midbody and primary cilia, likely cycling between these compartments.
Discovery and biosynthesis of imidazolium antibiotics from a probiotic Bacillus licheniformis
Authors: Ham Song Lim , Lee Tae Hyun , Kim Kyung Jun , Kim Jung Ha , Hwang Su Jung , Lee Sun Ho , Lee Wonsik , Lee Hyo Jong , Kim Chung Sub
Published: October 2022

Antibiotic resistance is one of the world’s most urgent public health problems and therefore novel antibiotics to kill drug-resistant bacteria are desperately needed. So far, natural product-derived small molecules have been the major sources for new antibiotics. Here we describe a family of antibacterial metabolites isolated from a probiotic bacterium Bacillus licheniformis. Cross-streaking assay followed by activity-guided isolation yielded a novel antibacterial metabolite bacillimidazole G, which possesses a rare imidazolium ring in the structure, showing MIC values of 0.7–2.6 μg/mL against human pathogenic Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and a lipopolysaccharide(LPS)-lacking Acinetobacter baumannii ΔlpxC. Bacillimidazole G also lowered MICs of colistin, a Gram-negative antibiotic, up to 8-fold against wild-type E. coli MG1655 and Acinetobacter baumannii. We propose biosynthetic pathway of the characterized metabolites based on the precursor-feeding studies, chemical biological approach, biomimetic total synthesis, and biosynthetic genes knockout method.

TOC/Abstract Graphic
Chromatin architecture and cis-regulatory landscape of the DACT2-SMOC2 locus in the developing synovial joint
Authors: Nowosad Karol , Hordyjewska-Kowalczyk Ewa , Malesa Aneta , Odrzywolski Adrian , Brouwer Rutger W. W. , Kolovos Petros , Boltsis Ilias , Birkhoff Judith C. , van IJcken Wilfred F. J. , Grosveld Frank G. , Conidi Andrea , Huylebroeck Danny , Tylzanowski Przemko
Published: October 2022

Background

Synovial joints form in several steps, starting with the formation of an interzone, a condensation of mesenchymal cells at the sites of prospective joints. Despite the identification of multiple factors essential for formation of interzone, little is known about the regulation of their spatio-temporal gene expression during that process in limb development. Here, we investigated the cis- regulatory landscape of the Wnt-modulator encoding genes DACT2 and SMOC2, both expressed in the forming joint interzone.

Results

Mechanically collected interzone and phalange samples, respectively, from chick embryos were found to express acknowledged marker genes (GDF5 and MATN1), as well as DACT2 and SMOC2. Using Targeted Chromatin Capture (T2C) we characterized the 3D chromatin structure of a ~3.45 Mb-long region encompassing DACT2 and SMOC2, which revealed differences at sub-TAD level between interzones and phalange. We identified candidate enhancers (CEs) based on H3-histone marks (H3K427ac and H3K4me1) located in close proximity to the promoters of DACT2 and SMOC2, and further documented these CEs in a zebrafish enhancer assay.

Conclusions

Our approach yields new insight into the regulation, in dynamic chromatin context, of two Wnt-signaling modulatory genes during synovial joint induction.
Inventive redesign for automatic assembly in the household appliances industry
Authors: Bianchini Augusto , Ceruti Alessandro , D’Anniballe Andrea , Rossi Jessica , Zompi Giorgio
Published: October 2022

Purpose

In the redesign process of assembly components that need adaptation to robotic assembly, designers can find support from structured methodologies for innovation, such as the theory of inventive problem solving (TRIZ). This paper aims to illustrate the authors’ methodology for redesigning gas hobs components for adaptation to robotic assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

A designer approaching a redesign task of an assembly component of any kind for adaptation to robotic assembly must consider, first of all, the features and limitations of existing robotic assembly systems; the generation of new design ideas that best fit the requirements may result to be a very challenging task. Here, the TRIZ methodology has proven useful for generating design ideas and finding the best solution.

Findings

The authors’ methodology approaches the challenges of redesign tasks for robotic assembly adaptation, which exploits knowledge of automatic and robotic assembly systems and the TRIZ method for innovation; it has proven useful in the redesign, checks and prototyping of gas hobs components.

Originality/value

This paper shows how the TRIZ methodology can be integrated into the redesign process and its impact on an industrial environment. The work’s main value is to provide a set of steps to help the designers change their design components approach that is necessary but not still implemented to optimize the use of the automation.
A knowledge-based real-time scheduling system for steam turbine assembly under CPS environment
Authors: Wang Teng , Hu Xiaofeng , Zhang Yahui
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Steam turbine final assembly is a dynamic process, in which various interference events occur frequently. Currently, data transmission relies on oral presentation, while scheduling depends on the manual experience of managers. This mode has low information transmission efficiency and is difficult to timely respond to emergencies. Besides, it is difficult to consider various factors when manually adjusting the plan, which reduces assembly efficiency. The purpose of this paper is to propose a knowledge-based real-time scheduling system under cyber-physical system (CPS) environment which can improve the assembly efficiency of steam turbines.

Design/methodology/approach

First, an Internet of Things based CPS framework is proposed to achieve real-time monitoring of turbine assembly and improve the efficiency of information transmission. Second, a knowledge-based real-time scheduling system consisting of three modules is designed to replace manual experience for steam turbine assembly scheduling.

Findings

Experiments show that the scheduling results of the knowledge-based scheduling system outperform heuristic algorithms based on priority rules. Compared with manual scheduling, the delay time is reduced by 43.9%.

Originality/value

A knowledge-based real-time scheduling system under CPS environment is proposed to improve the assembly efficiency of steam turbines. This paper provides a reference paradigm for the application of the knowledge-based system and CPS in the assembly control of labor-intensive engineering-to-order products.
Foreign direct investment and stock market development in Nepal
Authors: Khatri Chettri Keshab , Bhattarai Jeevan Kumar , Gautam Ramji
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of foreign direct investment (FDI) on the stock market development in Nepal.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used Johansen cointegration approach to determine long-run relationship and VEC Granger causality test to check the causal relations between the variables. The sample covered annual time-series data for the period 1996–2020.

Findings

The results suggest that FDI plays significant positive role in the stock market development in the long-run but inversely affect in the short-run. Unidirectional causality running from FDI to stock market development is observed in the long-run and bidirectional in the short-run. There is an insignificant positive relationship between exchange rate and FDI in the short-run. Banking sector development complements stock market development in the short-run but act as a substitute in the long-run. The statistically negative coefficient of exchange rate imply that the appreciation of the home currency encourage the development of the stock market in the long-run.

Originality/value

The positive and statistical coefficients of cointegration results indicate that FDI complements the development of stock market in Nepal in the long-run. Furthermore, the depreciation of the domestic currency may potentially contribute to the foreign direct investments in Nepal.
Education skills for digital age toward sustainable development – analysis and future directions
Authors: AlDhaen Esra
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study provides an insight on education skills for digital age that could be considered by higher education institutions (HEIs) toward sustainable development. This study summarizes academic literature and provides a proposal for integrating a set of educational skills toward United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that are aligned with competencies mapped with international practices delivered by qualification frameworks. This paper will act as guiding tool for academics while revising or developing academic curricular for Business Education Sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a combination of academic literature, published practices of HEIs and policy/regulatory standards as well as academic frameworks used as drivers for implementing educational skills for sustainable development.

Findings

HEIs need to rethink its curricular design and revisit the graduate attributes in sync with set of evaluation mechanisms to assess key educational skills for digital age and sustainable development to create a societal impact particularly in Business Education Sector with the focus on interdisciplinary for digital age including technology and management skills.

Research limitations/implications

The method used is exploratory. Future research could be developed with a structured approach to validate the findings.

Practical implications

HEIs could use the proposed set of educational skills for digital age to be inculcated within the curricular of business education sector, at policymaking level HEIs may revisit their current strategies and include different policies and procedures to assess the impact of integrating key educational skills for digital age skills toward sustainable development.

Social implications

Student, parents, employers will have better understanding of expected education skills for digital age toward sustainable development which will support learning progression and career pathways.

Originality/value

Little research has been conducted on the impact of education skills for digital age toward sustainable development in line with competencies related to national framework, the outcome of this study provides original contribution to support HEIs adaptation.
Leveraging coaching as an instrument for training transfer: a case of learners in a Fintech Firm
Authors: Dixit Ramnath , Sinha Vinita
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this case study is to emphasize the effectiveness of coaching as an instrument to drive transfer of training of behavioral skills disseminated during training programs back at the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

Insights were collected through qualitative semi-structured in-depth interviews with learners, followed by a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed promising results with the use of coaching as a medium to facilitate workplace training transfer for learners. The learners also informed a positive experience on account of “personalized touch” experienced during the course of coaching sessions for posttraining application of skills and knowledge.

Practical implications

This study offers incisive information in the domain of training transfer through the effective use of workplace coaching in a posttraining environment.

Social implications

Coaching as a training transfer tool has the ability to provide the necessary impetus to application of behavioral trainings across organizations and institutions, thus encouraging learners to implement what they learn during trainings.

Originality/value

This study is novel on account of its applicability in ensuring successful learning transfer through coaching. The insights from this study have replicability in diverse industries and have the potential to deliver superior results in organizational training transfer.
Learning from collective lived experience: a case study of an experts by experience group
Authors: Pawson Chris , Bolden Richard , Isaac Beth , Fisher Joseph , Mahoney Hannah , Saprai Sandeep
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study tracking the development and engagement of a group of experts by experience (The Independent Futures (IF) Group) who provided a lived experience voice to the Bristol Golden Key (GK) partnership within the Fulfilling Lives programme. The case study reports the genesis and impact of the group, as well as the facilitators of impact and experiences of the group members and those they worked in partnership with.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted an iterative approach drawing on multiple data sources over an eight-year period. An inductive ethnographic analysis of stakeholder and partnership meetings was combined with documentary analysis and thematic analysis of interviews with experts by experience and service providers.

Findings

The voice of lived experience provided by the IF group contributed to the GK partnership through various channels. Evidence of this contribution and its impact was found at programme, city-wide and national levels of the service ecosystem. Furthermore, IF members recognised the value of the group in contributing to systems change and service improvement, but also for themselves.

Practical implications

This case study serves to illustrate the impact of the lived experience voice on services and systems change, specifically the provision of that voice from a formalised advisory group. The successes and challenges of the group and the experiences of its members are reported with a view to sharing learning that may influence future co-production initiatives with experts by experience and service provision for those experiencing multiple disadvantage.

Originality/value

The insights provided by the longitudinal observation of the group as it was formed and evolved, coupled with insights provided by the experts by experience, have important implications for facilitating and supporting sustainable lived experience input.
Improving operational performance of manufacturing SMEs: the interactive effect of technical and human lean practices
Authors: Al-Hakimi Mohammed A. , Goaill Majid M. , Al-Hattami Hamood Mohammed , Murshid Mohsen Ali , Saleh Moad Hamod , Moghalles Sami Abdulkareem Mohammed
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Although understanding how different resources are interconnected within firms is important, there are few studies that have focused on this area. This study aims to explore the unique and interactive effects of technical lean practices (TLPs) and human lean practices (TLPs) on the operational performance (OP) of manufacturing SMEs in Yemen, a less developed country (LDC).

Design/methodology/approach

Depending on data collected from 318 manufacturing SMEs in Yemen, the relationships in the proposed model were tested using hierarchical regression analysis via PROCESS Macro V. 3.5 in SPSS.

Findings

The results show that both TLPs and HLPs have unique effects on OP of SMEs. More importantly, both TLPs and HLPs have synergistic effects on OP.

Practical implications

The study would be of interest to Lean practitioners, as the results of this study can be used in firms to put a focus on how TLPs and HLPs have to interact when it comes to the successful implementation of lean manufacturing (LM).

Originality/value

Although research interest in LM is increasing, the interactive effects of TLPs and HLPs remain to be understood. This study provides an initial empirical evidence for performance outcomes from the interaction between TLPs and HLPs of SMEs in LDCs such as Yemen. Most of the previous studies on lean practices have focused on SMEs in developed countries, which may not fully apply to LDCs such as Yemen. This is helpful for SMEs' managers in the context of LDCs to understand how TLPs can further improve OP when interacting with HLPs.
Cruising through advertising: cruise ship brochure advertising in the late twentieth century
Authors: Cardow Andrew
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is an archival study of images taken from cruise brochures available in New Zealand from the late twentieth century and early twenty-first century. The investigation adds to previous work undertaken on cruise ship posters and to the discussion surrounding how cruise lines motivated customers to purchase a cruise.

Design/methodology/approach

An archival approach was taken. The aim of the research is to explain how images used in the brochures have their origin in the mid-twentieth century concept of motivational research. In doing so, the work of Veblen (1899), Lazarsfeld (1935) and Packard (1957, 1959) are used as a foundation to illustrate how more recent commentators, such as Gad (2016) and Jamieson (1983), can be evoked.

Findings

Analysis of the images presented builds upon previous work done on cruise ship posters. Previous examinations used mid-twentieth century posters to show how the ship was slowly being eroded. The current work illustrates how the brochure evolved to entice consumers to purchase. Analysis of the images suggests that motivational theory is alive and well within the cruise industry.

Research limitations/implications

This study is constructed around the archival holding of the National Maritime Museum of New Zealand. As such, the study does not include information that does not form part of this holding.

Practical implications

New Zealand underwent large structural, economic and social change between 1984 and 2000. During that time, there was growth of income inequity. This provided some with greater disposable income for leisure and travel. While the following survey concerns cruise ship brochures, an examination of airline, resort and hotel advertising may be worthy of a companion study.

Originality/value

The cruise ship brochure available to New Zealand customers in the last quarter of the twentieth century demonstrated the ship is not centre stage. In this regard, the following work adds to previous work conducted using posters and an understanding of the evolution of cruise ship advertising in emergent modern markets.
Ecological layout and competition characteristics of large internet platform enterprises
Authors: Jing Wenjun , Liu Xuan , Wang Linlin , He Yi
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Aiming at the lack of explanatory power of traditional industrial organization theory in cross-border competition, by introducing the idea of ecological niche, the authors aim to explore the competitive situation of platform-based enterprises when they operate in multiple fields.

Design/methodology/approach

With the help of ecological niche theory, construct the niche width and niche overlap index of typical enterprises in the platform economy, and find out the advantages and the intensity of competition through comparative analysis.

Findings

In an environment of cross-border competition, large enterprises have significant competitive advantages, and the fierce competition is concentrated among medium-sized enterprises.

Originality/value

The conclusions of this paper not only provide new insights for explaining the phenomenon of cross-border competition in the platform economy, but also provide theoretical reference for the anti-trust enforcement practice in the platform economy.
Nitrogen repression of deoxynivalenol biosynthesis is mediated by Mep2 ammonium permease in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Hu Yuting , Hou Rui , Wang Zeyi , Zhang Weiwei , Xu Jin‐Rong
Published: October 2022

Fusarium graminearum is an important wheat pathogen and a producer of deoxynivalenol (DON). Biosynthesis of DON is suppressed by ammonium and induced by arginine and polyamines. To better understand ammonium repression of DON biosynthesis, in this study, we functionally characterized three ammonium permease (MEP) genes in F. graminearum. All the mep deletion mutants were normal in growth on V8 agar. Whereas deletion of MEP1 had no detectable phenotypes, the mep2 and mep3 mutants had defects in hyphal growth under ammonium limiting conditions and infection of wheat heads, with the latter having less severe defects. Deletion of MEP2 but not MEP3 affected nitrogen repression of DON biosynthesis and genes involved in nitrate metabolism. The mep2 mep3 double mutant had more severe defects in nitrogen repression than the mep2 mutant and was defective in ascospore releasing. Mutant alleles of MEP2 with truncated C‐terminal cytoplasmic tail (CT) failed to complement the mep2 mutant. Expression of a dominant active allele of RAS2 partially rescued the defects of mep2 in nitrogen repression. Taken together, these results suggest that Mep2 acts as the major sensor of ammonium availability in F. graminearum and its CT region functions in nitrogen repression via RAS2 and downstream signalling pathways.
Bigger or better? The effect of public spending on happiness in Africa
Authors: Fambeu Ariel Herbert , Mbondo Georges Dieudonné , Yomi Patricia Tchawa
Published: October 2022

The aim of this paper is to assess the effect of government spending on happiness in 39 African countries from 2006 to 2018. The neoclassical view predicts a positive effect, while public choice theory predicts the opposite. The results obtained using the Generalized Method of Moment reveal that public spending has no direct effect on happiness in Africa. However, public spending positively affects happiness in the poorest countries of Africa. Furthermore, governments can improve the happiness of African populations through public spending coupled with democratic regimes and the control of inflation.
‘Truly a three‐dimensional job’: The feminisation of clerical work in Cape Town, 1900–1960
Authors: Rommelspacher Amy
Published: October 2022

This article investigates whether in Cape Town and South Africa, clerical work went from being a male occupation to one dominated by women a few decades later, as it did in other places in the early twentieth century. It explores women's involvement in clerical and office employment from 1900 to 1960. In the USA and Canada, clerical work remained a ‘white' occupation until the 1960s and was linked to notions of middle‐class respectability. This work expects this trend to be more pronounced in South Africa and finds that while clerical work feminised amongst white workers, it defeminised for other races.
Pulsed electric field‐assisted drying: A review of its underlying mechanisms, applications, and role in fresh produce plant‐based food preservation
Authors: Punthi Fuangfah , Yudhistira Bara , Gavahian Mohsen , Chang Chao‐Kai , Cheng Kuan‐Chen , Hou Chih‐Yao , Hsieh Chang‐Wei
Published: October 2022

Drying is a key processing step for plant‐based foods. The quality of dried products, including the physical, nutritional, microbiological, and sensory attributes, is influenced by the drying method used. Conventional drying technologies have low efficiency and can negatively affect product quality. Recently, pulsed electric field (PEF)‐assisted techniques are being explored as a novel pretreatment for drying. This review focuses on the application of PEF as pretreatment for drying plant‐based products, the preservation effects of this pretreatment, and its underlying mechanisms. A literature search revealed that PEF‐assisted drying is beneficial for maintaining the physicochemical properties of the dried products and preserving their color and constituent chemical compounds. PEF‐assisted drying promotes rehydration and improves the kinetics of drying. Unlike conventional technologies, PEF‐assisted drying enables selective cell disintegration while maintaining product quality. Before the drying process, PEF pretreatment inactivates microbes and enzymes and controls respiratory activity, which may further contribute to preservation. Despite numerous advantages, the efficiency and applicably of PEF‐assisted drying can be improved in the future.
SIRT3 deficiency decreases oxidative metabolism capacity but increases lifespan in male mice under caloric restriction
Authors: Dhillon Rashpal S. , Qin Yiming (Amy) , van Ginkel Paul R. , Fu Vivian X. , Vann James M. , Lawton Alexis J. , Green Cara L. , Manchado‐Gobatto Fúlvia B. , Gobatto Claudio A. , Lamming Dudley W. , Prolla Tomas A. , Denu John M.
Published: October 2022

Mitochondrial NAD+‐dependent protein deacetylase Sirtuin3 (SIRT3) has been proposed to mediate calorie restriction (CR)‐dependent metabolic regulation and lifespan extension. Here, we investigated the role of SIRT3 in CR‐mediated longevity, mitochondrial function, and aerobic fitness. We report that SIRT3 is required for whole‐body aerobic capacity but is dispensable for CR‐dependent lifespan extension. Under CR, loss of SIRT3 (Sirt3−/−) yielded a longer overall and maximum lifespan as compared to Sirt3+/+ mice. This unexpected lifespan extension was associated with altered mitochondrial protein acetylation in oxidative metabolic pathways, reduced mitochondrial respiration, and reduced aerobic exercise capacity. Also, Sirt3−/−CR mice exhibit lower spontaneous activity and a trend favoring fatty acid oxidation during the postprandial period. This study shows the uncoupling of lifespan and healthspan parameters (aerobic fitness and spontaneous activity) and provides new insights into SIRT3 function in CR adaptation, fuel utilization, and aging.
Pioneer palm tree as an ecosystem engineer: Effects on ant community structure
Authors: Dantas Anderson , Dantas Thais A. Vitoriano , Ribeiro‐Neto José Domingos
Published: October 2022

Ecosystem engineer species can affect the assembly and maintenance of biological communities by altering local environmental conditions. Several palm tree species play this role in changing the surrounding environment mainly through the fall of entire rachis and the formation of a thick and homogeneous leaf litter layer beneath the canopy. However, their impact on soil animal communities remains unclear. In particular, soil organisms (e.g. ants) can be negatively affected by palm‐driven local changes, since they are especially susceptible to leaf litter changes. Our objective was to test if the presence of palm trees reduces alpha and beta diversities of ant communities at taxonomic and morphometric levels. We also tested if palm tree understory mound (debris pile just below the canopy) area and population density reduce ant community alpha and beta diversities (at the taxonomic and morphometric levels) in tropical rainforests. To do so, we described taxonomic and morphometric diversity patterns of ant communities in a relictual landscape of the Atlantic Rainforest (northeastern Brazil) using Hill's numbers approach in two habitats: understory mounds surrounding the palm tree species Acrocomia intumescens, and forest understory without A. intumescens (non‐palm understory). Our main findings were: (1) Taxonomic and morphometric alpha diversity were similar between A. intumescens understory mound and non‐palm understory; (2) Ant communities in non‐palm understory presented higher beta diversity than communities from A. intumescens understory mounds considering both rare species and morphometric traits; (3) A. intumescens understory mound area negatively affected common and dominant ant species; and (4) the interaction between understory mound area and the population density of A. intumescens affected dominant ant species in complex ways and the outcomes depend on the balance between both predictors. Our findings point to an important role of palm trees as ecosystem engineers in reducing ant biodiversity and changing the functional signature of human‐modified tropical rainforests.
The impact of family history of type 2 diabetes on clinical heterogeneity in idiopathic type 1 diabetes
Authors: Chen Yan , Wang Qianrong , Xie Zhiguo , Huang Gan , Fan Li , Li Xia , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: October 2022

Aim

To investigate the impact of family history of type 2 diabetes (T2D) on the clinical phenotypes of patients with idiopathic type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods

In clinically diagnosed T1D cases, a total of 335 idopathic T1D patients were included in the study, after excluding autoimmune T1D using islet autoantibody testing and monogenic diabetes using a custom monogenic diabetes gene panel obtained from clinically diagnosed T1D cases. A semi‐structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the presence of T2D in first‐degree relatives. The demographic and metabolic markers of idiopathic T1D patients were analysed. Subgroup analysis was performed to investigate potential interactions between T2D family history and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes.

Results

A total of 18.2% of individuals with idiopathic T1D had a T2D family history, and these individuals were more likely to have features associated with T2D, such as older age of onset, higher body mass index at diagnosis, lower insulin dosage and better beta‐cell function, as indicated by higher levels of fasting C‐peptide and 2‐hour postprandial C‐peptide (all P < 0.05). Additionally, regardless of HLA susceptible genotypes, the impact of family history of T2D was consistently observed in idiopathic T1D patients. Multivariable analyses showed that T2D family history was negatively correlated with the risk of beta‐cell function failure in idiopathic T1D patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Family history of T2D may be implicated in the heterogeneity of idiopathic T1D patients.
Impact of iron supplementation on gestational diabetes mellitus: A literature review
Authors: Liu Lulu , Yan Feng , Yan Hongyuan , Wang Zhiqiang
Published: October 2022

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common complication of pregnancy, affecting 14% of pregnancies worldwide, and the prevention of pathological hyperglycaemia during pregnancy is meaningful for global public health. The role of iron supplementation in the progression of GDM has been of significant interest in recent years. Iron is a micronutrient that is vital during pregnancy; however, given the toxic properties of excess iron, it is probable that prophylactic iron supplementation will increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including GDM. It is critical to clarify the effect of iron supplementation on the risk of GDM. Therefore, in this review, we comprehensively assess the role of iron in pregnancy. This review aimed to analyse the necessity of iron supplementation and maintenance of iron homeostasis during pregnancy, particularly reviewing the role and function of iron in beta cells and examining the mechanisms of excess iron contributing to the pathogenesis of GDM. Moreover, we aimed to discuss the association of haemoglobin and ferritin with GDM and identify priority areas for research.
Cardiovascular risk and lifetime benefit from preventive treatment in type 2 diabetes: A post hoc analysis of the CAPTURE study
Authors: Østergaard Helena Bleken , Humphreys Valerie , Hengeveld Ellen Margo , Honoré Julie Broe , Mach François , Visseren Frank L. J. , Westerink Jan , Yadav Gourav , Mosenzon Ofri ,   the CAPTURE investigators
Published: October 2022

Aim

To assess the potential gain in the number of life‐years free of a (recurrent) cardiovascular disease (CVD) event with optimal cardiovascular risk management (CVRM) and initiation of glucose‐lowering agents with proven cardiovascular benefit in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Materials and Methods

9,416 individuals with T2D from the CAPTURE study, a non‐interventional, cross‐sectional, multinational study, were included. The diabetes lifetime‐perspective prediction model was used for calculating individual 10‐year and lifetime CVD risk. The distribution of preventive medication use was assessed according to predicted CVD risk and stratified for history of CVD. For the estimation of absolute individual benefit from lifelong preventive treatment, including optimal CVRM and the addition of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) and sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is), the model was combined with treatment effects from current evidence.

Results

GLP‐1 RA or SGLT‐2i use did not greatly differ between patients with and without CVD history, while use of blood pressure‐lowering medication, statins and aspirin was more frequent in patients with CVD. Mean (standard deviation [SD]) lifetime benefit from optimal CVRM was 3.9 (3.0) and 1.3 (1.9) years in patients with and without established CVD, respectively. Further addition of a GLP‐1 RA and an SGLT‐2i in patients with CVD gave an added mean (SD) lifetime benefit of 1.2 (0.6) years.

Conclusions

Life‐years gained free of (recurrent) CVD by optimal CVRM and the addition of a GLP‐1 RA or aSGLT‐2i is dependent on baseline CVD status. These results aid individualizing prevention and promote shared decision‐making in patients with T2D.
Risk attitude assessment using roulette and a supply chain simulation
Authors: Atkins Ryan , Drake Matthew
Published: October 2022

Many topics that are taught in supply chain management (SCM) programs include elements of variability and risk. With quantitative tools in particular, it is assumed that the decision makers using the tools are risk neutral, which is typically not the case in real‐life decision situations. The topic of an individual's attitude toward risk has received limited attention in SCM literature and is not a high‐profile topic in SCM textbooks. The teaching exercise presented in this paper uses two games—roulette and a SCM simulation—to provide students with an assessment of their own attitude toward risk, and in doing so, facilitates a classroom discussion of risk and risk attitude. These games were developed by the authors and can be played either within Excel or a web application.
Improving consultation to ensure the European Union's democratic legitimacy: From traditional procedural requirements to behavioural insights
Authors: Rangone Nicoletta
Published: October 2022

Consultation is a crucial tool for better regulation, as well as being essential for the accountability and legitimacy of decision‐makers. The European minimum requirements for consultation are fundamental conditions in order to attain these goals. However, they may not be enough, and consultation should also be designed to neutralise or reveal cognitive limitations, both of decision‐makers as well as of stakeholders. This paper claims that enriching the better regulation approach with cognitive insights can in fact increase consultation effectiveness and thus become a critical piece in the puzzle to improve the legitimacy of the European Commission. Moreover, it suggests some techniques to tackle this complexity, which need to be further assessed by ad hoc experiments.