bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emergence of multiple spontaneous coherent subnetworks from a single configuration of human connectome-coupled oscillators model
Authors: Torres Felipe A. , Otero Mónica , Lea-Carnall Caroline , Cabral Joana , Weinstein Alejandro , El-Deredy Wael
Published: January 2024

Large-scale brain models with biophysical or biophysically inspired parameters generate brain-like dynamics with multi-state metastability. Multi-state metastability reflects the capacity of the brain to transition between different network configurations and cognitive states in response to changing environments or tasks, thus relating to cognitive flexibility. To study this phenomenon, we used a Kuramoto network of oscillators corresponding to a human brain atlas of 90 nodes, each with an intrinsic frequency of 40 Hz. The network’s nodes were interconnected based on the structural connectivity strengths and delays found in the human brain. We identified global coupling and delay scale parameters corresponding to maximum spectral entropy, a proxy for maximal multi-state metastability. At this point, we show that multiple coherent (functional) sub-networks spontaneously emerge across multiple oscillatory modes, and persist in time for periods between 140 and 4389 ms. Most nodes in the network exhibit broad frequency spectra away from their intrinsic frequency, and switch between modes, in a manner similar to that reported in empirical resting-state neuroimaging data. We suggest that the obtained dynamics at maximum metastability is a suitable model of the awake brain. Further, we show that global coupling and delay scale parameters away from maximum metastability yield dynamical features similar to other brain states such as sleep and anesthesia. Therefore, spectral entropy also correlates with wakefulness and the synchrony of functional networks.
The INO80 chromatin remodeling complex regulates histone H2A.Z mobility and the G1-S transition in oligodendrocyte precursors
Authors: Wright Jordan L , Jiang Yi , Nayar Stuart , Rajeeve Vinothini , Cutillas Pedro R , Li Huiliang , Richardson William D
Published: January 2024

Chromatin remodelling complexes (CRCs) participate in oligodendrocyte (OL) differentiation, survival and maintenance. We asked whether CRCs also control proliferation of OL precursors (OPs) – focusing on the INO80 complex, which is known to regulate proliferation of a variety of other cell types during development and disease. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated inactivation ofIno80in vitro, or Cre-mediated deletion in vivo, slowed the OP cell cycle substantially by prolonging G1, without inducing OL differentiation. RNAseq analysis revealed that E2F target genes were dysregulated in OPs from INO80-deficient mice, but correlated RNAseq and ATAC-seq uncovered no general correlation beween gene expression and altered nucleosome positioning at transcription start sites. Fluorescence photobleaching experiments in cultured OPs demonstrated that histone H2A.Z mobility increased following loss of INO80, suggesting that INO80 regulates the cell cycle machinery in OPs through H2A.Z/ H2A exchange. We also present evidence that INO80 associates with OLIG2, a master regulator of OL development.
Production of biologically active human basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (hFGFb) usingNicotiana tabacumtransplastomic plants
Authors: Müller Carolina , Budnik Nicolás , Mirkin Federico Gabriel , Vater Catalina Francisca , Bravo-Almonacid Fernando Félix , Perez-Castro Carolina , Wirth Sonia Alejandra , Segretin María Eugenia
Published: January 2024

The use of plants as biofactories presents as an attractive technology with the potential to efficiently produce high-value human recombinant proteins in a cost-effective manner. Plastid genome transformation stands out for its possibility to accumulate recombinant proteins at elevated levels. Of particular interest are recombinant growth factors, given their applications in animal cell culture and regenerative medicine. In this study we produced recombinant human Fibroblast Growth Factor (rhFGFb), a crucial protein required for animal cell culture, in tobacco chloroplasts. We successfully generated two independent transplastomic lines that are homoplasmic and accumulate rhFGFb in their leaves. Furthermore, the produced rhFGFb demonstrated its biological activity by inducing proliferation in HEK293T cell lines. These results collectively underscore plastid genome transformation as a promising plant-based bioreactor for rhFGFb production.

Main conclusion

We generated transplastomic tobacco lines that stably express a human Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor (hFGFb) in their chloroplasts stroma and purified a biologically active recombinant hFGFb.
EF-Hand Calcium Sensor, EfhP, Controls Transcriptional Regulation of Iron Uptake by Calcium inPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Burch-Konda Jacob , Kayastha Biraj B. , Kubo Aya , Achour Myriam , Hull Mackenzie , Braga Reygan , Winton Lorelei , Rogers Rendi R. , McCoy Jacee , Lutter Erika I. , Patrauchan Marianna A.
Published: January 2024

The human pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosaposes a major risk for a range of severe infections, particularly lung infections in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). As previously reported, the virulent behavior of this pathogen is enhanced by elevated levels of Ca2+that are commonly present in CF nasal and lung fluids. In addition, a Ca2+-binding EF-hand protein, EfhP (PA4107), was partially characterized and shown to be critical for the Ca2+-regulated virulence inP. aeruginosa. Here we describe the rapid (10 min, 60 min), and adaptive (12 h) transcriptional responses of PAO1 to elevated Ca2+detected by genome-wide RNA sequencing and show thatefhPdeletion significantly hindered both rapid and adaptive Ca2+regulation. The most differentially regulated genes included multiple Fe sequestering mechanisms, a large number of extracytoplasmic function sigma factors (ECFσ) and several virulence factors, such as production of pyocins. The Ca2+regulation of Fe uptake was also observed in CF clinical isolates and appeared to involve the global regulator Fur. In addition, we showed that theefhPtranscription is controlled by Ca2+and Fe, and this regulation required Ca2+-dependent two-component regulatory system CarSR. Furthermore, theefhPexpression is significantly increased in CF clinical isolates and upon pathogen internalization into epithelial cells. Overall, the results established for the first time that Ca2+controls Fe sequestering mechanisms inP. aeruginosaand that EfhP plays a key role in the regulatory interconnectedness between Ca2+and Fe signaling pathways, the two distinct and important signaling pathways that guide the pathogen’s adaptation to host.

IMPORTANCE

Pseudomonas aeruginosa(Pa) poses a major risk for severe infections, particularly in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis (CF). For the first time, kinetic RNA sequencing analysis identifiedParapid and adaptive transcriptional responses to Ca2+levels consistent with those present in CF respiratory fluids. The most highly upregulated processes include iron sequestering, iron starvation sigma factors, and self-lysis factors pyocins. An EF-hand Ca2+sensor, EfhP, is required for at least 1/3 of the Ca2+response, including all the iron uptake mechanisms and production of pyocins. Transcription ofefhPitself is regulated by Ca2+, Fe, and increases during interactions with host epithelial cells, suggesting the protein’s important role inPainfections. The findings establish the regulatory interconnectedness between Ca2+and iron signaling pathways that shapePatranscriptional responses. Therefore, understanding Pa’s transcriptional response to Ca2+and associated regulatory mechanisms will serve the development of future therapeutics targetingPadangerous infections.
Microbial communities associated with marine sponges from diverse geographic locations harbour biosynthetic novelty
Authors: Nowak Vincent V , Hou Peng , Owen Jeremy G
Published: January 2024

Marine sponges are a prolific source of biologically active small molecules, many of which originate from sponge-associated microbes. Identifying the producing microbes is a key challenge in developing sustainable routes for production and isolation of sponge-associated metabolites, and requires application of several computational tools. To facilitate these analyses, we developed MetaSing, a reproducible singularity-based pipeline for assembly, identification of high quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs), and analysis biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs) from metagenomic short read data. We apply this pipeline to metagenome datasets from 16 marine sponges collected from New Zealand, Tonga and the Mediterranean Sea. Our analysis yielded 643 MAGs representing 510 species. Of the 2,670 BGCs identified across all samples, 70.8% were linked to a MAG, enabling taxonomic characterisation. Further comparison of BGCs to those identified from previously sequenced microbes revealed high biosynthetic novelty in variety of underexplored phyla including Poribacteria, Acidobacteriota and Dadabacteria. Alongside the observation that each sample contains unique biosynthetic potential, this holds great promise for natural product discovery and for furthering the understanding of different sponge holobionts.
A Genetic Screen inDrosophilauncovers a role forsenseless-2in surface glia in the peripheral nervous system to regulate CNS morphology
Authors: Lacin Haluk , Zhu Yuqing , DiPaola Jose T. , Wilson Beth A. , Zhu Yi , Skeath James B.
Published: January 2024

Despite increasing in mass approximately 100-fold during larval life, theDrosophilaCNS maintains its characteristic form during this rapid growth phase. Dynamic interactions between the overlying basement membrane and underlying surface glia are known to regulate CNS structure inDrosophila, but the genes and pathways that establish and maintain CNS morphology during development remain poorly characterized. To identify genes that regulate CNS shape inDrosophila, we conducted an EMS-based, forward genetic screen of the second chromosome, uncovered 50 mutations that disrupt CNS structure, and mapped these alleles to 17 genes. Whole genome sequencing revealed the affected gene for all but one mutation. Identified genes include well characterized regulators of tissue shape, likeLanB1, viking, and Collagen type IV alpha1, as well as previously characterized genes, such asToll-2andRme-8, with no known role in regulating CNS structure. We also uncovered thatpapilinandC1GalTAlikely act in the same pathway to regulate CNS structure and found that the fly homolog of a glucuronosyltransferase, B4GAT1/LARGE1, that regulates Dystroglycan function in mammals is required to maintain CNS shape inDrosophila. Finally, we show that thesenseless-2transcription factor is expressed and functions specifically in surface glia found on peripheral nerves but not those on the CNS proper to govern CNS structure, identifying a gene that functionally subdivides a glial subtype along the peripheral-central axis. Future work on these genes should clarify the genetic mechanisms that ensure the homeostasis of CNS shape and form during development.
Distinct effects of phyllosphere and rhizosphere microbes on invaderAgeratina adenophoraduring its early life stages
Authors: Zeng Zhao-Ying , Huang Jun-Rong , Liu Zi-Qing , Yang Ai-Ling , Li Yu-Xuan , Wang Yong-Lan , Zhang Han-Bo
Published: January 2024

Microbes strongly affect invasive plant growth. However, how the phyllosphere and rhizosphere soil microbes distinctively affect seedling mortality and the growth of invasive plants across ontogeny under varying soil nutrient levels remains unclear. In this study, we used the invaderAgeratina adenophorato evaluate these effects in plant growth chambers. We found that leaf litter harboured more potential pathogens and thus had more adverse effects on seed germination and seedling survival than soil inoculation. Microbial inoculation at different growth stages altered the microbial community and microbial functions of seedlings, and earlier inoculation had a more adverse effect on seedling survival and growth. In most cases, the soil nutrient level did not affect microbe-mediated seedling growth and the relative abundance of the microbial community and functions involved in seedling growth. The effects of some microbial genera on seedling survival are distinct from those on growth. Moreover, theA. adenophoraseedling-killing effects of fungal strains isolated from dead seedlings by nonsterile leaf inoculation litter exhibited significant phylogenetic signals, by which strains ofAllophomaandAlternariagenerally caused high seedling mortality. Our study stresses the essential role ofA. adenophoralitter microbes in population establishment by regulating seedling density and growth.
Common clonal origin of three distinct hematopoietic neoplasms in a single patient: B-cell lymphoma, T-cell lymphoma, and polycythemia vera
Authors: Nkosi Dingani , Allbee Andrew W. , Rothberg Paul G. , Friedberg Jonathan W. , Evans Andrew G.
Published: January 2024

The potential for more than one distinct hematolymphoid neoplasm to arise from a common mutated stem or precursor cell has been proposed based on findings in primary human malignancies. Particularly, angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL), which shares a somatic mutation profile in common with other hematopoietic malignancies, has been reported to occur alongside myeloid neoplasms or clonal B-cell proliferations, with identical mutations occurring in more than one cell lineage. Here we report such a case of an elderly woman who was diagnosed over a period of 8 years with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, polycythemia vera, and AITL, each harboring identical somatic mutations in multiple genes. Overall, at least five identical nucleotide mutations were shared across multiple specimens, with two identical mutations co-occurring at variable variant allele frequencies in all three specimen types. These findings lend credence to the theory that a common mutated stem cell could give rise to multiple neoplasms through parallel hematopoietic differentiation pathways.
Hyperfine structure and isotope shifts of the
(4s2)S01→(4s4p)P11
transition in atomic zinc
Authors: Röser David , Padilla-Castillo J. Eduardo , Ohayon Ben , Thomas Russell , Truppe Stefan , Meijer Gerard , Stellmer Simon , Wright Sid C.
Published: January 2024

We report absolute frequency, isotope shift, radiative lifetime, and hyperfine structure measurements of the (4s2)S01→(4s4p)P11 (213.8 nm) transition in Zn I using a cryogenic buffer gas beam. Laser-induced fluorescence is collected with two orthogonally oriented detectors to take advantage of differences in the emission pattern of the isotopes. This enables a clear distinction between isotopes whose resonances are otherwise unresolved, and a measurement of the Zn67 hyperfine structure parameters, A(Zn67)=20(2)MHz and B(Zn67)=10(5)MHz. We reference our frequency measurements to an ultralow expansion cavity and achieve an uncertainty at the level of 1 MHz, about 1 percent of the natural linewidth of the transition.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Probing factorization violation with vector angularities
Authors: Bijl Pim , Niedenzu Steven , Waalewijn Wouter J.
Published: January 2024

Factorization underlies all predictions at the Large Hadron Collider, but has only been rigorously proven in a few cases. One of these cases is the Drell-Yan process, pp→Z/γ+X, in the limit of small-boson transverse momentum. We introduce a one-parameter family of observables, that we call vector angularities, of which the transverse momentum is a special case. This enables the study of factorization violation, with a smooth transition to the limit for which factorization has been established. Like the angularity event shapes, vector angularities are a sum of transverse momenta weighted by rapidity, but crucially this is a vector sum rather than a sum of the magnitude of transverse momenta. We study these observables in , using the effect of multiparton interactions (MPI) as a proxy factorization violation, finding a negligible effect in the case where factorization is established but sizable effects away from it. We also present a factorization formula for the cross section, that does not include factorization violating contributions from Glauber gluons, and thus offers a baseline for studying factorization violation experimentally using vector angularities. Our predictions at next-to-leading logarithmic accuracy are in good in agreement with (not including MPI), and can be extended to higher order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Full one-loop radiative corrections to
e+e−→H+H−
in the inert doublet model
Authors: Abouabid Hamza , Arhrib Abdesslam , El Falaki Jaouad , Gong Bin , Xie Wenhai , Yan Qi-Shu
Published: January 2024

We compute the full one-loop radiative corrections for charged scalar pair production e+e−→H+H− in the inert doublet model. The on-shell renormalization scheme has been used. We take into account both the weak contributions as well as the soft and hard QED corrections. We compute both the real emission and the one-loop virtual corrections using the Feynman diagrammatic method. The resummed cross section is introduced to cure the Coulomb singularity which occurs in the QED corrections. We have analyzed the parameter space of the inert doublet model in three scenarios after taking into account theoretical constraints, the collider experimental bounds, and dark matter search bounds as well. It is found that the weak interaction dominates the radiative corrections, and its size is determined by the triple Higgs coupling λh0H+H−, which is further connected to the mass of the charged scalar. In the scenario where all the constraints are taken into account, we find that for s=250  GeV and s=500  GeV, the weak corrections are around −6%∼−5% and −10%∼−3%, respectively. While for s=1000  GeV, the weak corrections can reach

−

15

%

∼

+

25

%

. The new feature is that the weak corrections can be positive near the threshold when the charged scalar is heavier than 470 GeV. Six benchmark points for future collider searches have been proposed.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effective field theory for dark matter absorption on single phonons
Authors: Mitridate Andrea , Pardo Kris , Trickle Tanner , Zurek Kathryn M.
Published: January 2024

Single phonon excitations, with energies in the 1–100 meV range, are a powerful probe of light dark matter (DM). Utilizing effective field theory, we derive a framework to compute DM absorption rates into single phonons starting from general DM-electron, proton, and neutron interactions. We apply the framework to a variety of DM models: Yukawa coupled scalars, axionlike particles with derivative interactions, and vector DM coupling via gauge interactions or Standard Model electric and magnetic dipole moments. We find that GaAs or Al2O3 targets can set powerful constraints on a U(1)B−L model, and targets with electronic spin ordering are similarly sensitive to DM coupling to the electron magnetic dipole moment. Lastly, we make the code, (an extension of the existing code which computes general DM–single phonon scattering rates), publicly available.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Ranging sensor fusion in LISA data processing: Treatment of ambiguities, noise, and onboard delays in LISA ranging observables
Authors: Reinhardt Jan Niklas , Staab Martin , Yamamoto Kohei , Bayle Jean-Baptiste , Hees Aurélien , Hartwig Olaf , Wiesner Karsten , Shah Sweta , Heinzel Gerhard
Published: January 2024

Interspacecraft ranging is crucial for the suppression of laser frequency noise via time-delay interferometry (TDI). So far, the effects of onboard delays and ambiguities on the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) ranging observables were neglected in LISA modeling and data processing investigations. In reality, onboard delays cause offsets and timestamping delays in the LISA measurements, and pseudorandom noise (PRN) ranging is ambiguous, as it determines only the range up to an integer multiple of the PRN code length. In this article, we identify the four LISA ranging observables: PRN ranging, the sideband beat notes at the interspacecraft interferometer, TDI ranging, and ground-based observations. We derive their observation equations in the presence of onboard delays, noise, and ambiguities. We then propose a three-stage ranging sensor fusion to combine these observables in order to gain accurate and precise ranging estimates. We propose to calibrate the onboard delays on ground and to compensate the associated offsets and timestamping delays in an initial data treatment (stage 1). We identify the ranging-related routines, which need to run continuously during operation (stage 2) and implement them numerically. Essentially, this involves the reduction of ranging noise, for which we develop a Kalman filter combining the PRN ranging and the sideband beat notes. We further implement cross-checks for the PRN ranging ambiguities and offsets (stage 3). We show that both ground-based observations and TDI ranging can be used to resolve the PRN ranging ambiguities. Moreover, we apply TDI ranging to estimate the PRN ranging offsets.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Fast nanoscale imaging of strain in a multi-segment heterostructured nanowire with 2D Bragg ptychography
Authors: Hammarberg Susanna , Dzhigaev Dmitry , Marçal Lucas A. B. , Dagytė Vilgailė , Björling Alexander , Borgström Magnus T. , Wallentin Jesper
Published: January 2024

Developing semiconductor devices requires a fast and reliable source of strain information with high spatial resolution and strain sensitivity. This work investigates the strain in an axially heterostructured 180 nm-diameter GaInP nanowire with InP segments of varying lengths down to 9 nm, simultaneously probing both materials. Scanning X-ray diffraction (XRD) is compared with Bragg projection ptychography (BPP), a fast single-projection method. BPP offers a sufficient spatial resolution to reveal fine details within the largest segments, unlike scanning XRD. The spatial resolution affects the quantitative accuracy of the strain maps, where BPP shows much-improved agreement with an elastic 3D finite element model compared with scanning XRD. The sensitivity of BPP to small deviations from the Bragg condition is systematically investigated. The experimental confirmation of the model suggests that the large lattice mismatch of 1.52% is accommodated without defects.
Dichlorido(4,7-dimethoxy-1,10-phenanthroline-κ2
N,N′)zinc(II)
Authors: Rose Nalani P. , Arman Hadi D. , Adrian Rafael A.
Published: January 2024

In the title complex, [ZnCl2(C14H12N2O2)], the ZnII atom is located on a twofold rotation axis and is fourfold coordinated by two chlorido ligands and a bidentate 4,7-methoxy-1,10-phenanthroline ligand in a distorted tetrahedral environment. Weak π–π stacking interactions between adjacent 4,7-dimethoxy-1,10-phenanthroline rings [centroid-to-centroid distances = 3.5969 (11) and 3.7738 (11) Å] contribute to the alignment of the complexes in layers parallel to (\overline{2}01).
From passion to profit: unveiling the strengths of proactive mindset, perseverance, excellence and education in the entrepreneurial success of MSMEs
Authors: Biswas Abhijeet
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The study investigates the linkage between personality traits and firm performance. It examines the role of the pursuit of excellence, perseverance, a proactive mindset and formal education in determining the entrepreneurial success of MSMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 432 MSME entrepreneurs using a structured questionnaire from India's two major industrial towns to analyze the impact of personality traits on firm performance. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to assess the direct and indirect relationships with the help of mediation analysis.

Findings

The findings assert that personality traits improve firm performance and determine the success of MSMEs. The results reveal that the need for achievement, a proactive mindset and the pursuit of excellence are crucial to firm performance. In addition, formal education mediates between perseverance and the pursuit of excellence personality attributes on the one side and firm performance on the other.

Research limitations/implications

The research has various theoretical and practical implications for entrepreneurs, financial institutions and policymakers. The results could be productively used to nurture the entrepreneurial ecosystem in India.

Originality/value

Although research on personality traits as a driver of firm performance is growing, the pursuit of excellence, perseverance and proactive mindset attributes as enablers of firm performance have not garnered much attention. The study presents a precise conceptual model by integrating the aforementioned dimensions in the backdrop of an emerging market.
The impact of inflation on local government fiscal health
Authors: Martell Christine R.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Inflation and federal monetary efforts to control it with interest rate hikes have very real and overwhelmingly negative consequences on US local governments following the onset of COVID-19. This study explores the post-pandemic inflationary environment of US local governments; examines the impacts of inflation and high interest rates on local government revenue, operating costs, capital costs, and debt service; reviews local government inflation management strategies, including the use of intergovernmental revenue; and assesses ongoing threats to local government financial health and financial resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses trend and literature analysis to comment on current issues local governments face.

Findings

The study finds that the growth of property values and resulting stability of property tax revenue has been important to local government revenues; that local governments bear very real burdens as operating and capital costs increase; and that the combination of high inflation and interest rates affects local government debt issuance by negatively affecting credit quality and interest costs, leading to municipal market contraction. Local governments have benefitted tremendously from intergovernmental revenue, but would be ill-advised to rely on it.

Practical implications

Vulnerabilities owing from revenue mismatch with the economy; inadequate affordable housing, inequality, and social issues; a changing workforce and tight labor market; climate change; and federal fiscal contraction—all of which are exacerbated by high inflation and interest rates—require local governments to act strategically, boldly and collaboratively to achieve fiscal health and financial resilience, and to realize positive returns of investments in people and capital.

Originality/value

This work is unique in addressing the post-pandemic impact of inflation and interest rates on local governments.
Examining the effect of perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences on consumer intention to use contactless mobile payment services
Authors: Kamboj Shampy , Matharu Manita , Shukla Yupal
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the influence of perceived risk (perceived susceptibility and perceived severity), self-efficacy and individual differences (personal innovativeness and mobile payment knowledge) on consumers’ intention to use contactless mobile payment services (MPS). Additionally, it also empirically tested the moderating effect of hygiene consciousness in the proposed conceptual model.

Design/methodology/approach

The present research developed a conceptual model based on the health belief model (HBM) and diffusion of innovation theory (DOI) to empirically assess whether and how perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences influence consumer intention to use contactless MPS. The data was collected using the survey method from 251 smartphone users and analyzed with structural equation modeling. The moderating role of hygiene consciousness was studied in the relationship that self-efficacy and personal innovativeness shares with consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS.

Findings

The results of this study disclose that among all precursors of consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS, only perceived severity, self-efficacy, personal innovativeness and mobile payment knowledge positively affect consumers’ intention to use contactless MPS. However, the effect of perceived susceptibility on consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS was found to be non-significant. The results further depict that hygiene consciousness acts as a moderator in driving consumers’ intention toward contactless mobile payment services.

Research limitations/implications

The HBM model and DOI, which incorporate perceived risk, self-efficacy, individual differences and hygiene consciousness, give light on the factors influencing consumer intention to use contactless MPS in a pandemic situation such as COVID-19. The study will provide useful insights to marketers on how to frame their strategies in the aftermath of pandemics, as the contactless mobile payment method may be perceived as a defensive behavior during and after pandemics.

Practical implications

The study will provide useful insights to marketers on how to frame their strategies in the aftermath of pandemics, as the contactless mobile payment method may be perceived as a defensive behavior during and after pandemics.

Originality/value

By uniting perceived risk, self-efficacy and individual differences with consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS in a conceptual model, along with examining the moderating role of hygiene consciousness, this work responds to the calls for upcoming research concerning mobile payment systems as means of future payment. Thus, it offers an understanding of particular consumer motivations that may guide consumers’ intention toward contactless MPS through the theoretical lens of HBM and DOI.
Domestic tourism and the effects of behavioral changes, government-media trust and moderation of “maintenance of country image”: theoretical analysis
Authors: Yasir Ammar , Hu Xiaojian , Aktan Murat , Farías Pablo , Rauf Abdul
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Contemporary changes have occurred in country-level policies and tourists’ intentions in recent years. The role of maintaining a country’s image is trendy in crisis control but has not yet been discussed in domestic tourism research. Extending the Stimulus Organism Response model, this study aims to focus on “trustable WOM creation” in China. In addition, it aimed to discover how behavioral changes encourage domestic tourism intention (DTI).

Design/methodology/approach

This study explored the mediating role of DTI and the moderating role of maintenance of country image (MCI) for trustable word of mouth (WOM) creation. Using the snowball sampling technique, a structural equation modeling analysis (Smart PLS-4) was employed to analyze the data of 487 Chinese tourists.

Findings

Findings confirm that behavioral changes positively encourage domestic tourism and discourage international tourism, with significant negative moderation by MCI. MCI has an insignificant positive moderating effect between government-media trust and DTI. Furthermore, DTI positively and directly affects the creation of trustable WOM. In addition, it had a 20% mediation effect (VAF%) between behavioral changes and WOM creation, higher than the rejected mediation effect (12%), in the causal relationship between government-media trust and WOM creation.

Practical implications

WOM creation varies from different behavioral changes, but findings suggest that government-media trust and DTI influenced it significantly. Based on the study findings, the government and media can enhance domestic tourism by maintaining the country’s image. These findings both encourage and control the recovery of tourism.

Originality/value

This study provides a theoretical explanation for tourists' behavioral changes during the pandemic. Moreover, it shows that despite avoiding international tourism due to behavioral changes and government-media trust, MCI moderation with the mediation effect of DTI can create trustable WOM. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to theoretically promote tourism through DTI-induced psychology as a mediator and an organism affect prevailing among Chinese tourists.
Analysis of earthquake resilience factors for buildings: the case of Istanbul high-rise buildings
Authors: İlerisoy Zeynep Yeşim , Gökgöz Berru İzel
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the concept of “earthquake resistance” in high-rise buildings and assess the current level of structural strength in the areas where these structures are situated. The study aims to identify and implement necessary measures to enhance resilience in these areas. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to develop a conceptual framework focusing on earthquake resistance's meanings, stages and physical elements to achieve these goals.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on Istanbul, a city known for its high earthquake risk, specifically targeting the Atasehir district. The research utilizes the DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) method to evaluate urban resilience parameters. Additionally, the Fuzzy TOPSIS (Preference Ranking Technique by Similarity) method is employed to analyze the location of five buildings in Atasehir, using criterion weights derived from this methodology.

Findings

The findings indicate that resilience varies depending on the distance of the buffers. Moreover, the amount and quality of urban equipment in the study areas have a significant impact on the earthquake resistance level of the surrounding areas where high-rise buildings are situated. Building upon this analysis, the study suggests the implementation of measures aimed at augmenting the quantity and quality of urban facilities in the study areas, consequently enhancing urban resilience.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this study lie in its examination of seismic resilience within the context of high-rise buildings and the identification of necessary measures to increase resilience in areas where these structures are prevalent. By focusing on Istanbul, a city with a high earthquake risk, and specifically selecting the Atasehir district as the study area, this research provides a comprehensive conceptual framework for understanding urban resilience and its physical components. Moreover, the study offers a fresh perspective on urban resilience by highlighting the influence of tall buildings on the surrounding areas. Ultimately, it provides practical recommendations for architects, urban planners and other stakeholders to improve regional earthquake resilience.
Correlation between the part quality, strength and surface roughness of material extrusion process
Authors: Rafique Abdul Samad , Munir Adnan , Ghazali Numan , Ahsan Muhammad Naveed , Khurram Aqeel Ahsan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to develop a correlation between the properties of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene parts 3D printed by material extrusion (MEX) process.

Design/methodology/approach

The two MEX parameters and their values have been selected by design of experiment method. Three properties of MEX parts, i.e. strength (tensile and three-point bending), surface roughness and the dimensional accuracy, are studied at different build speeds (35 mm/s, 45 mm/s and 55 mm/s) and the layer heights (0.06 mm, 0.10 mm and 0.15 mm).

Findings

The results show that tensile strength and three-point bending strength both increase with the decrease in build speed and the layer height. The artifact selected for dimensional accuracy test shows higher accuracy of the features when 3D printed with 0.06 mm layer height at 35 mm/s build speed as compared to those of higher layer heights and build speeds. The optical images of the 3D-printed specimen reveal that lower build speed and the layer height promote higher inter-layer diffusion that has the effect of strong bonding between the layers and, as a result, higher strength of the specimen. The surface roughness values also have direct relation with the build speed and the layer height.

Originality/value

The whole experiments demonstrate that the part quality, surface roughness and the mechanical strength are correlated and depend on the build speed and the layer height.
Probing frugal innovation from the quality lens
Authors: Sharma Mohita Gangwar , Kumar Sunil
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Frugal innovation focuses on the core functionalities with the highest stakeholder benefits and directly targets user requirements. It has been widely adopted in developing countries, and extensively researched from both consumer and sustainable perspectives. However, few studies on frugal innovation consider “quality”, a seminal business management concept. This study focuses on this gap and uses a quality lens to understand frugal innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a mixed methodology. The Delphi focus group method is first applied to identify two cases of frugal innovation in the construction industry and a cross-case analysis done. Then, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to examine eight product quality dimensions to draw the final conclusions.

Findings

From Garvin’s concept of quality, frugal innovation focuses on performance and conformance. Furthermore, it prioritises a value-based approach the most.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines frugal innovation from quality perspective. This opens up a new line of research which contributes to both streams. The study is based on construction which is a limitation of the study.

Practical implications

A quality-based frugal innovation understanding can be helpful in the conceptualisation, implementation and acceptance of the frugal innovation business model. It can provide clarity on the innovation's value proposition and also help in operationalisation of the business model.

Social implications

Frugal encourages social entrepreneurs and understanding of the concept from quality perspective shall facilitate the operationalisation will become easier for them.

Originality/value

To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study at the interface of frugal innovation and quality management. Furthermore, the use of AHP to prioritise equality approaches and dimensions is an original contribution.
Effects of a single dose of rocuronium in patients with different body fat percentages: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: An Guanghui , Qiu Yan , Zhou Zheliang , Ding Xueying , Li Cheng
Published: January 2024

The pharmacodynamics in patients with high body fat percentage might be similar to those in obese patients. This randomised controlled clinical trial observed the effects of rocuronium in patients with different percent body fats (PBFs). Fifty‐four patients who underwent elective urological or pelvic surgery under general anaesthesia at Shanghai General Hospital were included in the present study; 51 patients were included for data analysis. Patients with normal PBF (<25%) were given a single dose of rocuronium calculated based on total body weight (N‐TBW, control group). Patients with a higher PBF (≥25%) were given a single dose of rocuronium calculated based on total body weight (H‐TBW). Patients with higher PBF and rocuronium were dosed based on fat‐free mass (H‐FFM). A train of four (TOF)‐Watch acceleromyography monitor was used to measure the effects of the rocuronium. H‐TBW (91.9 ± 28.8 s) had significantly shorter onset time than N‐TBW and H‐FFM (p = 0.003). H‐TBW had significantly longer clinical duration time and pharmacological duration time than the other groups (p = 0.000 and 0.000, respectively); the TOF ratio0.25–0.9 time was significantly different among the three groups (p = 0.005). There were no significant differences in the recovery time (p = 0.103) or recovery index (p = 0.159) among the three groups. The effects of rocuronium dosed based on FFM in patients with high PBFs are similar to those in normal patients. A single dose of rocuronium calculated based on TBW might shorten the onset time, prolong the clinical and pharmacological duration times, and prolong the recovery time.
Persistence of heterologous Flavobacterium psychrophilum genetic variants in microcosms simulating fish farm and hatchery environments
Authors: Knupp Christopher , Soto Esteban , Call Douglas R. , Loch Thomas P.
Published: January 2024

Flavobacterium psychrophilum, the causative agent of bacterial coldwater disease, causes substantial economic losses in salmonid farms and hatcheries. Some multilocus sequence types (ST) of F. psychrophilum are more likely to be associated with fish farms and hatcheries, but it is unclear if these patterns of association represent genetic lineages that are more adapted to aquaculture environments. Towards elucidating the disease ecology of F. psychrophilum, the culturability of 10 distinct F. psychrophilum STs was evaluated for 13 weeks in three microcosms including sterilized well water, sterilized well water with commercial trout feed, or sterilized well water with raceway detritus. All STs remained culturable in each of the microcosms for at least 8 weeks, with bacterial concentrations often highest in the presence of raceway detritus. In addition, most (e.g., 90%) STs remained culturable for at least 13‐weeks. Significant differences in log10 cfus were observed among STs, both within and between microcosms, suggesting potential variability in environmental persistence capacity among specific variants. Collectively, results highlight the ability of F. psychrophilum to not only persist for weeks under nutrient‐limited conditions but also thrive in the presence of organic substrates common in fish farms and hatchery‐rearing units.
Masks and Faces in the Setting at the Time of Coronavirus
Authors: Presciuttini Silvia
Published: January 2024

The “health emergency” forced analysts to seek new ways of continuing with analysis. The article focuses, in particular, on the changes brought about in the setting by the presence of the sanitary mask, following a line that begins with the theme of the “mask” in the collective uses of human cultures, and develops through the Jungian concept of persona, as opposed to the “face” that may convey an authentic image of oneself. A clinical vignette illustrates the issues that the mask raises in the setting by obstructing the communication of emotions. When there is no transformative processing of concrete data, “unmasking” can also lead to an uncanny encounter and to moments of darkness and confusion in analysis, when the analyst experiences the kind of “unconscious identity” between therapist and patient that Jung defined as nigredo. The article is intended as a contribution to the analytic community's current reflections on the new and unforeseen challenges encountered in analysis at the time of the Coronavirus. It is possible to learn from these experiences with a view to integrating new elements and thus modify one's own internal setting, the compass with which each analyst orientates himself.
GeneMiner: A tool for extracting phylogenetic markers from next‐generation sequencing data
Authors: Xie Pulin , Guo Yongling , Teng Yue , Zhou Wenbin , Yu Yan
Published: January 2024

The advancement of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies has been revolutionary for the field of evolutionary biology. This technology has led to an abundance of available genomes and transcriptomes for researchers to mine. Specifically, researchers can mine for various types of molecular markers that are vital for phylogenetic, evolutionary and ecological studies. Numerous tools have been developed to extract these molecular markers from NGS data. However, due to an insufficient number of well‐annotated reference genomes for non‐model organisms, it remains challenging to obtain these markers accurately and efficiently. Here, we present GeneMiner, an improved and expanded version of our previous tool, Easy353. GeneMiner combines the reference‐guided de Bruijn graph assembly with seed self‐discovery and greedy extension. Additionally, it includes a verification step using a parameter‐bootstrap method to reduce the pitfalls associated with using a relatively distant reference. Our results, using both experimental and simulation data, showed GeneMiner can accurately acquire phylogenetic molecular markers for plants using transcriptomic, genomic and other NGS data. GeneMiner is designed to be user‐friendly, fast and memory‐efficient. Further, it is compatible with Linux, Windows and macOS. All source codes are publicly available on GitHub (https://github.com/sculab/GeneMiner) and Gitee (https://gitee.com/sculab/GeneMiner) for easy accessibility and transparency.
Rapid and synchronous chemical induction of replicative‐like senescence via a small molecule inhibitor
Authors: Palikyras Spiros , Sofiadis Konstantinos , Stavropoulou Athanasia , Danieli‐Mackay Adi , Varamogianni‐Mamatsi Vassiliki , Hörl David , Nasiscionyte Simona , Zhu Yajie , Papadionysiou Ioanna , Papadakis Antonis , Josipovic Natasa , Zirkel Anne , O'Connell Aoife , Loughran Gary , Keane James , Michel Audrey , Wagner Wolfgang , Beyer Andreas , Harz Hartmann , Leonhardt Heinrich , Lukinavicius Grazvydas , Nikolaou Christoforos , Papantonis Argyris
Published: January 2024

Cellular senescence is acknowledged as a key contributor to organismal ageing and late‐life disease. Though popular, the study of senescence in vitro can be complicated by the prolonged and asynchronous timing of cells committing to it and by its paracrine effects. To address these issues, we repurposed a small molecule inhibitor, inflachromene (ICM), to induce senescence to human primary cells. Within 6 days of treatment with ICM, senescence hallmarks, including the nuclear eviction of HMGB1 and ‐B2, are uniformly induced across IMR90 cell populations. By generating and comparing various high throughput datasets from ICM‐induced and replicative senescence, we uncovered a high similarity of the two states. Notably though, ICM suppresses the pro‐inflammatory secretome associated with senescence, thus alleviating most paracrine effects. In summary, ICM rapidly and synchronously induces a senescent‐like phenotype thereby allowing the study of its core regulatory program without confounding heterogeneity.