bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial ADP-heptose initiates a revival stem cell program in the intestinal epithelium
Authors: Goyal Shawn , Guo Cynthia X. , Ranger Adrienne , Tsang Derek K. , Singh Ojas , Harrigan Caitlin F. , Zaslaver Olga , Rost Hannes L. , Gaisano Herbert Y. , Yuzwa Scott A. , Gao Nan , Wrana Jeffrey L. , Philpott Dana J. , Gray-Owen Scott D. , Girardin Stephen E.
Published: January 2024

The intestinal epithelium has an exceptional capacity to repair following injury, and recent evidence has suggested that YAP-dependent signaling was crucial for the expansion ofClu+revival stem cells (revSCs) with fetal-like characteristics, which are essential for epithelial regeneration. However, neither the mechanism underlying where these revSCs emerge from nor the nature of the physiological cues that induce this revSC program, are clearly identified. Here, we first demonstrate thatAlpk1andTifa, which encode the proteins essential for the detection of the bacterial metabolite ADP-heptose (ADP-Hep), were expressed by the stem cell pool in the intestinal epithelium. Treatment of intestinal organoids with ADP-Hep not only induced acute NF-κB pro-inflammatory signaling but also TNF-dependent apoptosis within the crypt, causing blunted proliferation and acute disruption of the crypt architecture, while also triggering induction of a revSC program. To identify the molecular underpinnings of this process, we performed single-cell RNA-seq analysis of ADP-Hep-treated organoids as well as lineage-tracing experiments. Our data reveal that ADP-Hep induced the specific ablation of the homeostatic intestinal stem cell (ISC) pool. Removal of ADP-Hep resulted in the rapid recovery of ISCs through dedifferentiation of Paneth cells, which transiently acquired revSC features and expressed nuclear YAP. Moreover, lineage tracing fromLyz1+Paneth cells showed that ADP-Hep triggered Paneth cell de-differentiation towards pluripotent and proliferative cells in organoids.In vivo, revSC emergence in response to irradiation-induced injury was severely blunted inTifa-deficient mice, suggesting that efficient epithelial regeneration in this model required detection of microbiota-derived ADP-Hep by the ALPK1-TIFA pathway. Together, our work reveals that Paneth cells can serve as the cell of origin for revSC induction in the physiological context of microbial stimulation, and that the transient loss ofAlpk1-expressing ISCs is the initiating event for this regenerative process.
Biochemical and Structural Characterization of Fapy•dG Replication by Human DNA Polymerase β
Authors: Gao Shijun , Oden Peyton N. , Ryan Benjamin J. , Yang Haozhe , Freudenthal Bret D. , Greenberg Marc M.
Published: January 2024

N6-(2-deoxy-α,β-D-erythro-pentofuranosyl)-2,6-diamino-4-hydroxy-5-formamido-pyrimidine (Fapy•dG) is formed from a common intermediate and in comparable amounts to the well-studied mutagenic DNA lesion 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OxodGuo). Fapy•dG preferentially gives rise to G → T transversions and G → A transitions. However, the molecular basis by which Fapy•dG is processed by DNA polymerases during this mutagenic process remains poorly understood. To address this we investigated how DNA polymerase β (Pol β), a model mammalian polymerase, bypasses a templating Fapy•dG, inserts Fapy•dGTP, and extends from Fapy•dG at the primer terminus. When Fapy•dG is present in the template, Pol β incorporates TMP less efficiently than either dCMP or dAMP. Kinetic analysis revealed that Fapy•dGTP is a poor substrate but is incorporated ∼3-times more efficiently opposite dA than dC. Extension from Fapy•dG at the 3’-terminus of a nascent primer is inefficient due to the primer terminus being poorly positioned for catalysis. Together these data indicate that mutagenic bypass of Fapy•dG is likely to be the source of the mutagenic effects of the lesion and not Fapy•dGTP. These experiments increase our understanding of the promutagenic effects of Fapy•dG.
biobank.cy: The Biobank of Cyprus past, present and future
Authors: Loizidou Eleni M. , Kyratzi Maria , Tsiarli Maria A. , Kakouri Andrea C. , Charalambidou Georgia , Antoniou Stella , Pieri Stylianos , Veloudi Panagiota , Mayrhofer Michaela Th. , Wutte Andrea , Kozera Lukasz , Habermann Jens , Muller Heimo , Zatloukal Kurt , Sargsyan Karine , Michaelides Alexandros , Papaioannou Maria , Schizas Christos , Malatras Apostolos , Papagregoriou Gregory , Deltas Constantinos
Published: January 2024

Background

The Cyprus Biobank collects biosamples, medical and lifestyle information with the aim of reaching 16,500 Cypriots aged ≥18-years, by year 2027, as part of a multitasked EU funded project. Volunteers are both from the general population and from disease cohorts of focused research projects, who amongst others will contribute to canvas the architecture of the Cyprus human genome and study the healthy and morbid anatomy of Cypriots. The Cyprus Biobank is a research infrastructure pillar of the biobank.cy Center of Excellence in Biobanking and Biomedical Research.

Methods

Within 3-years (November 2019-October 2022), 1348 participants of the general population who represent a subset of the Cyprus Biobank recruited individuals, were enrolled in the pilot study. The study did not include individuals from separate disease-specific cohorts. Extensive information was collected from each participant, including biochemistry, complete blood count, physiological, anthropometric, socio-demographic, diet, and lifestyle characteristics. Prevalent health conditions along with medication use and family history were recorded, including 58 biomarkers based on blood and urine samples. With a systematic recruitment campaign, the Biobank is continuously increasing the number of individuals in the general population cohort and is developing separate disease cohorts of the Cypriot population.

Results

The pilot study enrolled 579 men and 769 women, aged between 18-85 years (median 48-years). The enrollment takes 40 minutes on average, including the collection of biological samples and phenotypic information. More than half (n=733, 55%) of the participants are educated to college level or above. Statistically significant differences were found between men and women regarding their education level (p<0.001), marital status (p=0.01) and employment status (p<0.001) but not their age (p=0.29). The most prevalent medical conditions recorded are hypertension (17.2%), osteoporosis (6.9%) and diabetes (6.0%).

Conclusions

The Cyprus biobanking pilot study has successfully collected extensive baseline information from enrolled participants. The Biobank will comprise a rich data resource used to examine the major risk factors leading to public health burdens and develop strategies for disease prevention.
A treasure trove of 1,034 actinomycete genomes
Authors: Jørgensen Tue Sparholt , Mohite Omkar , Sterndorff Eva B , Alvarez-Arevalo Maria , Blin Kai , Booth Thomas J , Charusanti Pep , Faurdal David , Hansen Troels Ø , Nuhamunada Matin , Mourched Anna-Sophie , Palsson Bernhard Ø , Weber Tilmann
Published: January 2024

Filamentous Actinobacteria, previously Actinomycetia, are the most prolific source of microbial bioactive natural products. Studies on biosynthetic gene clusters benefit from or require chromosome-level assemblies. Here, we provide DNA sequences from more than 1,000 isolates: 881 complete genomes and 153 near-complete genomes, representing 28 genera and 389 species, including 244 likely novel species. All genomes are from filamentous isolates of the class Actinomycetia from the NBC culture collection. The largest genus isStreptomyceswith 886 genomes including 742 complete assemblies. We use this data to show that analysis of complete genomes can bring biological understanding not previously derived from more fragmented sequences or less systematic datasets. We document the central and structured location of core genes and distal location of specialized metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters and duplicate core genes on the linearStreptomyceschromosome, and analyze the content and length of the terminal inverted repeats which are characteristic forStreptomyces. We then analyze the diversity of trans-AT polyketide synthase biosynthetic gene clusters, which encodes the machinery of a biotechnologically highly interesting compound class. These insights have both ecological and biotechnological implications in understanding the importance of high quality genomic resources and the complex role synteny plays in Actinomycetia biology.
An intracranial dissection of human escape circuits
Authors: Zhang Haoming , Cheng Jiayu , Hu Keyu , Wang Fengpeng , Qi Song , Liu Quanying , Yao Yi , Mobbs Dean , Wu Haiyan
Published: January 2024

Predators attack at different spatiotemporal scales, spurring prey to elicit escape responses that range from simple motor reactions and strategic planning that involve more complex cognitive processes. Recent work in humans suggests that escape relies on two distinct circuits: the reactive and cognitive fear circuits. However, the specific involvement of these two circuits in different stages of human escaping remains poorly characterized. In this study, we recorded intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) from epilepsy patients while they performed a modified flight initiation distance (FID) task. We found brain regions in the cognitive fear circuit, including the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, encoded the threat level during the information processing stage. The actual escaping stage, especially under rapid attack, prominently activated areas within the reactive fear circuit, including the midcingulate cortex and amygdala. Furthermore, we observed a negative correlation between the high gamma activity (HGA) of the amygdala and the HGA of the vmPFC and HPC under rapid attacks. This indicates that the amygdala may suppress the activity of the cognitive fear circuit under rapid attacks, enabling the organism to react quickly to ensure survival under the imminent threat. These findings highlight the distinct roles of the reactive and cognitive fear circuits in human escaping and provide accounts for the importance of fear in human survival decisions.
Enhanced EEG Forecasting: A Probabilistic Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Pankka Hanna , Lehtinen Jaakko , Ilmoniemi Risto J. , Roine Timo
Published: January 2024

Forecasting electroencephalography (EEG) signals, i.e., estimating future values of the time series based on the past ones, is essential in many real-time EEG-based applications, such as brain–computer interfaces and closed-loop brain stimulation. As these applications are becoming more and more common, the importance of a good prediction model has increased. Previously, the autoregressive model (AR) has been employed for this task — however, its prediction accuracy tends to fade quickly as multiple steps are predicted. We aim to improve on this by applying probabilistic deep learning to make robust longer-range forecasts.

For this, we applied the probabilistic deep neural network model WaveNet to forecast resting-state EEG in theta- (4–7.5 Hz) and alpha-frequency (8–13 Hz) bands and compared it to the AR model.

WaveNet reliably predicted EEG signals in both theta and alpha frequencies over 100 ms ahead, with mean errors of 0.8±0.6 µV (theta) and 0.7±0.5 µV (alpha), and outperformed the AR model in estimating the signal amplitude and phase. Furthermore, we found that the probabilistic approach offers a way of forecasting even more accurately while effectively discarding uncertain predictions.

We demonstrate for the first time that probabilistic deep learning can be utilised to forecast resting-state EEG time series. In the future, the developed model can enhance the real-time estimation of brain states in brain–computer interfaces and brain stimulation protocols. It may also be useful for answering neuroscientific questions and for diagnostic purposes.
Consumers' attitudes on downscale extensions of a luxury automotive brand
Authors: Pedrosa Gabriel , Nobre Helena , Sousa Ana
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand how consumers evaluate downscale vertical line extensions of a prestige/luxury original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in the European automotive market. The authors investigate the moderator effects of innovativeness and the need-for-status traits on the relationships between consumers' extension perceived fit (EPF), extension attitude (EA) and extension perceived value (EPV).

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental design with quantitative analyses based on a sample of 419 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to two treatments: low-fit and high-fit extension simulations.

Findings

The purchase intention of the downscale vertical extension of a luxury OEM brand is directly influenced by EPV and indirectly influenced by consumer EA and EPF with the parent brand. Findings also suggest that parent brand equity is transferable to extensions that present closeness and consistency with the brand’s heritage. Moreover, the need for status strengthens the relationship between the EPF and the extension perceived social value (EPSV).

Originality/value

The authors developed a realistic simulation of a downscale model of a well-known prestige/luxury car brand. The authors test the influence of innovativeness and need-for-status personal traits on consumer extension acceptance.
Understanding influences on entrepreneurship educator role identity
Authors: Brush Candida , Wraae Birgitte , Nikou Shahrokh
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Despite the considerable increase in research on entrepreneurship education, few studies examine the role of entrepreneurship educators. Similarly, most frameworks from entrepreneurship education recognize the educator’s importance in facilitating instruction and assessment, but the factors influencing the educator role are not well understood. According to the identity theory, personal factors including self-efficacy, job satisfaction and personal values influence the perspective of self, significance and anticipations that an individual in this role associates with it, determining their planning and actions. The stronger the role identity the more likely entrepreneurship educators will be in effectively developing their entrepreneurial skills as well as the overall learning experience of their students. The objective of this study is to pinpoint the factors that affect entrepreneurial role identity.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the identity theory, this study developed a theoretical framework and carried out an empirical investigation involving a survey of 289 entrepreneurship educators across the globe. Structural equation modeling (SEM) technique was applied to analyze and explore the factors that impact the identity of the educators in their role as entrepreneurship teachers.

Findings

The findings show that the role identity of entrepreneurship educators is significantly influenced by their self-efficacy, job satisfaction and personal values. Among these factors, self-efficacy and job satisfaction have the most significant impacts on how educators perceive their role. The implications of these results and directions for future research are also discussed.

Originality/value

The novelty of the current study is derived from its conceptualization of the antecedents of role perception among entrepreneurship educators. This study stands out as one of the earliest attempts to investigate the factors that shape an individual’s scene of self and professional identity as an entrepreneurship educator. The significance of comprehending the antecedents of role perception lies in the insights it can offer into how educators undertake and execute their role, and consequently, their effectiveness in teaching entrepreneurship.
The future of access to private archives? Public–private partnership in South African archives
Authors: Netshakhuma Nkholedzeni Sidney
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the role of the National Archives of South Africa (NARSSA) in promoting the preservation and management of private archives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the qualitative method, and data was collected through unstructured questionnaires and interviews. In addition, purposive sampling was used to collect data from the selected archivist.

Findings

The study found that the NARSSA raised awareness on the preservation of private archives and is also in the process of reviewing the National Archives and Records Service Act 43 of 1996 to promote the preservation and management of private archives. The study also revealed that the role of the NARSSA in enforcing compliance with Section 14 of the National Archives and Records Service Act 43 of 1996 for the proper management and coordination of private archives was ineffective because of a lack of coordination, infrastructure, training and development.

Research limitations/implications

The qualitative data was obtained from three participants with the NARSSA and two selected from private archives. The sample is small to generalise results. The public–private cooperation in archives management is limited, and this is proved by the severely limited number of participants in the research. Furthermore, the private archive in this study is limited to the liberation movement archives institutions in South Africa.

Practical implications

This study could work as a stimulus for potential approaches to conduct further research on the possible kinds of cooperation between private–public archival organisations.

Social implications

The study is innovative, in that there are very few research investigations that focused on the cooperation between private and public archives in the African region and especially in South Africa.

Originality/value

The article makes a significant contribution to the area of private–public archival organisations, especially in South Africa. It will expand the knowledge on private–public archive cooperation and management in South Africa and the rest of the African continent.
Leveraging place-based resources for quality education: insights from a forest community outreach project in Japan
Authors: Hakeem Muhammad Mohsin , Goi Hoe Chin , Frendy Frendy
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the participants’ [junior high school students and Master of business administration (MBA) consultants] perceptions and utilizations of the multidimensional place-based resources within the context of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), specifically focusing on its alignment with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) for quality education. While place-based resources have demonstrated the potential for fostering innovative thinking and collaborative efforts, a gap exists in understanding how these resources can be effectively integrated to bolster learning and sustainable outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a single-case research methodology and conducted an in-depth exploration of the integration of place-based resources within the context of ESD using the 2021 Forest Community Outreach (FCO) Project in Ena City, Japan. Questionnaires, daily journals and consultation reports were used for data collection. This study used the coding and qualitative content analysis process to understand the significance of the five dimensions of place-based resources in fostering effective ESD practices.

Findings

The findings show the gap between interest in ESD and utilization of place-based resources as reflected in the perceptions and interests of junior high school participants. MBA consultants acknowledged the relevance of leveraging the five dimensions of place-based resources in the context of ESD. This research enriches the understanding of recognizing and harnessing different resources within the settings, emphasizing the significance of a multidimensional place-based resources approach to effectively incorporate these resources into ESD, thereby fostering learning and practical sustainability outcomes.

Originality/value

This study conducts a novel analysis of diverse dimensions within the realm of place-based resources and their profound influence on the learning experiences and creativity of participants engaged in ESD. The study lays the groundwork for the validation of place-based resource dimensions through collaborative efforts involving stakeholders within the region.
Understanding the challenges of blockchain technology adoption: evidence from China’s developing carbon markets
Authors: Chen Xing , Lloyd Ashley D.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Blockchain is a disruptive technology that has matured to deliver robust, global, IT systems, yet adoption lags predictions. The authors explore barriers to adoption in the context of a global challenge with multiple stakeholders: integration of carbon markets. Going beyond the dominant economic-rationalistic paradigm of information system (IS) innovation adoption, the authors reduce pro-innovation bias and broaden inter-organizational scope by using technological frames theory to capture the cognitive framing of the challenges perceived within the world’s largest carbon emitter: China.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews with 15 key experts representing three communities in China’s carbon markets: IT experts in carbon markets; carbon market experts with conceptual knowledge of blockchain and carbon market experts with practical blockchain experience.

Findings

Perceived technical challenges were found to be the least significant in explaining adoption. Significant challenges in five areas: social, political legal and policy (PLP), data, organizational and managerial (OM) and economic, with PLP and OM given most weight. Mapping to frames developed to encompass these challenges: nature of technology, strategic use of technology and technology readiness resolved frame incongruence that, in the case explored, did not lead to rejection of blockchain, but a decision to defer investment, increase the scope of analysis and delay the adoption decision.

Originality/value

Increases scope and resolution of IS adoption research. Technological frames theory moves from predominant economic-rational models to a social cognitive perspective. Broadens understanding of blockchain adoption in a context combining the world’s most carbon emissions with ownership of most blockchain patents, detailing socio-technical challenges and delivering practical guidance for policymakers and practitioners.
Export performance: a comprehensive bibliometric overview
Authors: Aksoy Beyza , Akpınar Ayhan , Ünüsan Çağatay
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to present a bibliometric overview of the academic research on export performance (EP) in the business and management areas.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric overview of 1,463 papers from 1968 to 2021, including performance analysis, science mapping analysis and graphical mapping, was conducted using the Scopus database. SciMAT software was used for thematic analysis and conceptual evolution mapping of the EP domain, and VOSviewer software was used for graphical visualization.

Findings

This study shows that EP research experienced spectacular growth, especially between 1998 and 2003, and the interest in this field continues to increase. Also, the USA and the UK appear to be the absolute leaders in EP research, with the best indicators of productivity and influence in all dimensions analyzed. The findings from the analysis through SciMAT indicate that “capabilities” and “R&D” are the main Motor themes that have contributed the most to the EP literature, whereas “global value chain” and “start-up” are emerging themes as new areas of interest.

Research limitations/implications

This study develops a baseline for representing certain and exhaustive insights in the EP field and specifies trends over a period. Using a single database and excluding book chapters/conference papers are limitations of this study.

Originality/value

EP is a research field that has gained wide acceptance in the academic community and international marketing literature. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no bibliometric overview has analyzed the EP literature. This study presents the first systematic quantitative analysis of academic research on EP in the business and management areas.
Family firms, management control and digitalization effect
Authors: Amato Stefano , Broccardo Laura , Tenucci Andrea
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the association between family firm status and the maturity level of management control systems (MCSs) by considering the moderating effect of process digitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an empirical analysis on a sample of 106 Italian firms, utilizing both ordinary least squares and ordered logistic regression in this study.

Findings

By resorting to the MCS maturity model proposed by Marx et al. (2012), the empirical findings reveal that family firms do not differ from their nonfamily counterparts regarding MCS maturity. Furthermore, the degree of process digitalization is positively associated with the probability of adopting IT-related technologies in MCSs. Digitalization negatively moderates the relationship between family firm status and MCS maturity, resulting in family firms exhibiting a lower MCS maturity level than their nonfamily counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

Despite similar efforts in the digitalization process, family firms lag behind in the adoption of IT-enabled MCSs, which suggests that reduced agency issues in family firms constrain the MCS maturity level.

Practical implications

This study can assist practitioners in implementing a more mature MCS by considering the interplay between internal digitalization processes and family status of the firm, thereby enhancing the decision-making process.

Originality/value

This study adds novelty to an underexplored area at the intersection of MCSs, family firms and digitalization.
Examining the association between robo-advisory and perceived financial satisfaction
Authors: Bai Zefeng
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Robo-advisory has become an increasingly popular asset management tool in recent decades. This paper studies the association between robo-advisor usage and perceived financial satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data extracted from the National Financial Capability Study 2015 (NFCS2015), the present study carried out a logistic analysis that examines the association between robo-advisory and perceived financial satisfaction. This model also studies the interaction effect of age on this association.

Findings

The present study finds that robo-advisor usage is positively correlated with a person’s perceived financial satisfaction after controlling for covariates related to financial literacy and other demographic factors. Moreover, the present study reveals that age moderates the association between robo-advisory usage and financial satisfaction. The results are robust after regressing financial satisfaction on robo-advisory by different age groups.

Originality/value

This paper extends existing literature on robo-advisory by showing that robo-advisory usage relates to a higher level of financial satisfaction. This finding helps understand the rapidly increasing trend of robo-advisory in the financial industry. Moreover, the present study reveals a moderate effect of age on the association between robo-advisory usage and perceived financial satisfaction.
Belongingness should matter to HR managers: lessons learned from outdoor adventure sport enthusiasts
Authors: Lightner-Laws Carin A. , Norman Mario V. , Lightner Constance A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of cultivating belongingness within an organization. This paper will also indicate ways human resources (HR) practitioners can enhance inclusivity and foster a more diverse workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is written for practitioners who want to create a more inclusive organization. Exploring lessons learned from an environment seemingly disparate from a typical workplace revealed common generalizable themes. HR practitioners can use these themes to better understand the need for an intentionally designed workplace that prioritizes belonging as a means of improving overall organizational efficiency.

Findings

Organizations compete globally for market share and consumers, who are nonhomogeneous. Attracting, retaining and growing a diverse talent pool that is representative of their heterogeneous customers will help organizations better understand and adjust to dynamic market demands. Research shows that promoting diversity, inclusion and belongingness in the workplace oftentimes enhances employee performance, improves organizational culture and increases profitability.

Originality/value

Learnings from outdoor adventure sports are explored to garner insight for HR professionals seeking to enhance diversity and inclusion. This paper proposes three ways HR professionals could foster a more diverse environment where employees will be more engaged, empowered and fulfilled: create safe spaces, open access to opportunities and cultivate belongingness.
Spreading the aroma of spices across India: the brand of JK Masale
Authors: De Tanmoy , S. Nandana , Ghosh Dibyarpita , Dikkatwar Ramkrishna
Published: January 2024

Research methodology

Interviewing the protagonist and collecting information from secondary resources such as company documents, company and competitor websites, industry reports and online databases like Euromonitor International.

Case overview/synopsis

The case explores the metamorphosis of JK Masale from a small-scale family business in India to a regional player. Over a period of six decades, JK Masale (JKM) has emerged against the backdrop of a fiercely competitive spice industry. India, being a confluence of varied regional cultures, poses a diverse consumption pattern. It varies to a great extent with respect to the specific food habits prevalent in each climatic zone of the country. While the brand had successfully captured the Eastern Market and the western market of the country, Mr. Vikash Jain, Managing Director of JK Masale, contemplated to venture in Southern India and introduce new product categories. The case delves into one of the major challenges faced by JKM over the brand architecture and labelling across product categories. Thus, the case provides an excellent opportunity for budding managers to: analyse the company’s performance in the backdrop of a dynamic competitive environment; understand the nature of strategic decision-making and its appropriateness for a small family-owned business; evaluate a brand amongst brands on the architectural framework and select appropriate brand architecture for new products; and understand applicability and risks associated with growth strategies.

Complexity academic level

The case study can be positioned in both undergraduate and postgraduate level programs for courses on marketing strategy and brand management. Primarily, this case would be ideal to discuss brand relationship and brand architecture in the given context. Instructors have an option to cover concepts like market structure, company analysis, growth strategies and emergent and deliberate strategy through the case.
A gentle introduction to computer vision‐based specimen classification in ecological datasets
Authors: Blair Jarrett D. , Gaynor Kaitlyn M. , Palmer Meredith S. , Marshall Katie E.
Published: January 2024

Classifying specimens is a critical component of ecological research, biodiversity monitoring and conservation. However, manual classification can be prohibitively time‐consuming and expensive, limiting how much data a project can afford to process.

Computer vision, a form of machine learning, can help overcome these problems by rapidly, automatically and accurately classifying images of specimens. Given the diversity of animal species and contexts in which images are captured, there is no universal classifier for all species and use cases. As such, ecologists often need to train their own models. While numerous software programs exist to support this process, ecologists need a fundamental understanding of how computer vision works to select appropriate model workflows based on their specific use case, data types, computing resources and desired performance capabilities. Ecologists may also face characteristic quirks of ecological datasets, such as long‐tail distributions, ‘unknown’ species, similarity between species and polymorphism within species, which impact the efficacy of computer vision.

Despite growing interest in computer vision for ecology, there are few resources available to help ecologists face the challenges they are likely to encounter. Here, we present a gentle introduction for species classification using computer vision. In this manuscript and associated GitHub repository, we demonstrate how to prepare training data, basic model training procedures, and methods for model evaluation and selection. Throughout, we explore specific considerations ecologists should make when training classification models, such as data domains, feature extractors and class imbalances.

With these basics, ecologists can adjust their workflows to achieve research goals and/or account for uncertainty in downstream analysis. Our goal is to provide guidance for ecologists for getting started in or improving their use of machine learning for visual classification tasks.
Revisiting the bucket model: Long‐term effects of rainfall variability and nitrogen enrichment on net primary production in a desert grassland
Authors: Brown Renée F. , Collins Scott L.
Published: January 2024

The predicted intensification of the North American Monsoon is expected to alter growing season rainfall patterns in the southwestern United States. These patterns, which have historically been characterized by frequent small rain events, are anticipated to shift towards a more extreme precipitation regime consisting of fewer, but larger rain events. Furthermore, human activities are contributing to increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition throughout this dryland region.

Alterations in rainfall size and frequency, along with changes in nitrogen availability, are likely to have significant consequences for above‐ground net primary production (ANPP) and plant community dynamics in drylands. The conceptual bucket model predicts that a shift towards fewer, but larger rain events could promote greater rates of ANPP in these regions by maintaining soil moisture availability above drought stress thresholds for longer periods during the growing season. However, only a few short‐term studies have tested this hypothesis, and none have explored the interaction between altered rainfall patterns and nitrogen enrichment.

To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a 14‐year rainfall addition and nitrogen fertilization experiment in a northern Chihuahuan Desert grassland to explore the long‐term impacts of changes in monsoon rainfall size and frequency, along with chronic nitrogen enrichment, on ANPP (measured as peak biomass) and plant community dynamics.

Contrary to bucket model predictions, small frequent rain events promoted comparable rates of ANPP to large infrequent rain events in the absence of nitrogen enrichment. It was only when nitrogen limitation was alleviated that large infrequent rain events resulted in the greatest ANPP. Furthermore, we found that nitrogen enrichment had the greatest impact on plant community composition under the small frequent rainfall regime.

Synthesis. Our long‐term field experiment highlights limitations of the bucket model by demonstrating that water and nitrogen availability sequentially limit dryland ecological processes. Specifically, our findings suggest that while water availability is the primary limiting factor for above‐ground net primary production in these ecosystems, nitrogen limitation becomes increasingly important when water is not limiting. Moreover, our findings reveal that small frequent rain events play an important but underappreciated role in driving dryland ecosystem dynamics.
Tracing the longitudinal role of orthographic knowledge in spelling development from primary to upper‐secondary school
Authors: Åsberg Johnels Jakob , Waldmann Christian , Levlin Maria
Published: January 2024

Background

Phonological processing skills have been found to contribute to spelling development across different orthographies; however, less is known about the role of orthographic knowledge. This longitudinal study explores the contribution of phonological and orthographic knowledge to spelling development in a semi‐transparent orthography (Swedish) across a period of 10 years.

Methods

A group of Swedish speaking children were assessed on phonological recoding (phonological choice‐task), orthographic knowledge (choice‐task) and spelling (dictation task) in primary school (grade 2, age 8, total N = 99), secondary school (grade 8, age 14, N = 99) and again in upper secondary school (year 2, age 17, N = 79). Furthermore, spelling in a natural writing assignment was collected in upper secondary school. Spelling scores from grade 8 (dictation) and year 2 in upper secondary school (dictation and text) were included as dependent variables in three sets of hierarchical regression analyses. In the first step spelling performance in grade 2 was included to control for the autoregressive effect. In the second step, orthographic knowledge and phonological recoding from grade 2 were entered into the model in order to test for the longitudinal prediction.

Results

Test scores within and across ages were significantly correlated in bivariate analysis. Regression analysis revealed that orthographic knowledge in grade 2 was a unique longitudinal predictor of spelling performance across time‐points (secondary and upper secondary school) and assessment formats (dictation and text), beyond the contribution of the control variables.

Conclusions

This study confirms the role of early orthographic knowledge in Swedish spelling development throughout the school years assessed in standardized dictation tasks as well as in naturalistic writing assignments.
A comparison of the original major depression inventory with a modified version: A Danish validation study
Authors: Pedersen Henrik Schou , Christensen Karl Bang , Prior Anders , Christensen Kaj Sparle
Published: January 2024

Background

The Major Depression Inventory (MDI) is a patient‐reported outcome measure used by general practitioners to assist with diagnosing and evaluation of the severity of a patient's depression. However, recent studies have questioned the structural validity of the MDI.

Objectives

We proposed a modified version (mMDI) of the MDI with fewer response categories and four rephrased items and aimed to compare the psychometric properties of the changes in a joint cohort of patients from general practice and mental health associations.

Methods

We used Rasch analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and the area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) to assess the validity and reliability of the two versions. Equipercentile linking was used to compute cut‐off points for the mMDI.

Results

For both versions, local dependence was found between the three item pairs (loss of interest, lack of energy), (lack of self‐confidence, feelings of guilt), and (concentration problems, feeling restless/slowed down). The mMDI displayed lower measurement error in the upper end of the scale and better item level fit for three of the four reformulated items compared to the MDI. For the MDI, 5.3% of the respondents gave improbable responses; the corresponding number was 3.4% for the mMDI. The mMDI displayed better fit to a one‐factor model compared to the MDI. When comparing the correlation of the scales with the WHO‐5 instrument, the corresponding AUROC estimates for the mMDI and MDI were found to be 0.93 (0.92; 0.96) and 0.91 (0.87; 0.94), respectively. The cut‐off points for mild, moderate, and severe depression in the mMDI were found to be 17, 20, and 23, respectively.

Conclusion

The proposed changes of the MDI are psychometrically sound upgrades of the original.
Genetic variation reveals complex population structuring of Tomicus piniperda L. (Coleoptera, Scolytidae) in the UK: Implications for management of this important pest
Authors: de Becquevort Sophie , Mckeown Niall J. , Blake Max , Shaw Paul W.
Published: January 2024

Tomicus piniperda is a common pest of pine trees responsible for significant economic damage. Although the impact of T. piniperda on forestry is likely to increase in the future due to climate change, little is known about its dispersal within the United Kingdom (UK) or between continental Europe and the UK.

This study addressed these knowledge gaps using mitochondrial and microsatellite DNA markers.

Mitochondrial DNA revealed high levels of genetic diversity as previously reported for this species across Europe. Nuclear DNA diversity revealed two geographically incoherent groups (Scotland, Wales, Belgium and the Netherlands vs. England and Switzerland). These genetic patterns likely reflect a combination of historical gene flow, anthropogenic introduction and restricted contemporary gene flow between the UK and Europe.

Significant structure was found among UK samples suggesting T. piniperda might not disperse extensively between pine stands. This differs from widespread gene flow across continental Europe and may be due to the low percentage of land covered by forests in the UK in addition to the high fragmentation of its forest cover.

Genetic variation was higher among the Scottish samples compared to those from more southern clines, suggesting the potential proximity of Scotland to a Pleistocene glacial refuge for T. piniperda.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation via the hippocampal brain‐derived neurotrophic factor–tyrosine kinase receptor B pathway to affect sexual behavior and neuroplasticity in rapid ejaculation rats
Authors: Liu Qiushi , Wang Ming , Wang Weinan , Yue Shaoyu , Jannini Tommaso B. , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Jiang Hui , Zhang Xiansheng
Published: January 2024

Background

Premature ejaculation (PE) is the most prevalent sexual dysfunction among men. Eejaculation involves a complex nervous mechanism in which the ejaculatory centers play a key role in modulating sperm emission. Although treatment possibilities span from psychotherapy to pharmacological approaches, results show inconsistent efficacy. In this context, the emergence of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a non‐invasive neuromodulatory approach represents a compelling avenue for potential therapeutic exploration.

Objective

To investigate whether high‐frequency transcranial magnetic stimulation can modulate the ejaculatory behavior of rats with rapid ejaculation by altering neurotransmitter levels and neuroplasticity in the hippocampus.

Methods

Rats have been screened for rapid ejaculation by observing behavioral indices of mating, and subsequently divided into two groups. The intervention group was administered with a 10 Hz rTMS stimulation, whereas the control group received a sham procedure. Upon the delivery of rTMS, we investigated ejaculation latency (EL), the hippocampal 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) concentration, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synaptophysin (SYN), and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD95) expressions, as well as BDNF‐receptor tyrosine kinase receptor B (TrkB) pathway upregulation.

Results

After 14 days, EL was increased in the intervention group compared with the control group. 5‐HT concentration in the hippocampal region was increased, and high‐frequency rTMS activated the BDNF and TrkB pathways, including phosphorylation of cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB), and upregulated the transcription and protein expression of SYN, and PSD95.

Conclusion

RTMS upregulates BDNF, SYN, and PSD95 expression through activation of the BDNF–TrkB pathway and increases brain 5‐hydroxytryptamine thereby regulating neuroplasticity and improving ejaculation.
Trends in the use of testicular prostheses in Germany: a total population analysis from 2006–2021
Authors: Aksoy Cem , Reimold Philipp , Karschuck Philipp , Groeben Christer , Koch Rainer , Eisenmenger Nicole , Thoduka Smita , Zacharis Aristeidis , Schmelz Hans , Huber Johannes , Flegar Luka
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Testicular tumors are the most common malignancies in young adults and their incidence is growing. The implantation of a testicular prosthesis, for example, during orchiectomy is a standard procedure but its frequency in Germany is unknown. This study aims to analyze trends of testicular prosthesis implantation in recent years in Germany.

Material and methods

The nationwide German hospital billing database and the German hospital quality reports from 2006 to 2021 were studied.

Results

A total of 12,753 surgical procedures with implantation of testicular prosthesis and 1,244 procedures with testicular prosthesis explantation were included. Testicular prosthesis implantation increased in total from 699 cases in 2006 to 870 cases in 2020 (+11.4 cases/year; p < 0.001). The share of implantation of testicular prosthesis due to testicular tumor decreased from 72.6% in 2006 to 67.5% in 2020 (p < 0.001). The share of implantation due to gender affirming surgery increased from 6.8% in 2006 to 23.3% in 2020 (p < 0.001). The share of implantation due to testicular atrophy decreased from 11.4% in 2006 to 3.4% in 2020 (p < 0.001). Simultaneous implantation of testicular prosthesis during orchiectomy for testicular cancer increased from 7.8% in 2006 to 11.4% in 2020 (p < 0.001). In 2006, 146 hospitals (85%) performed < 5 testicular prosthesis implantation, while 20 hospitals (12%) performed 5–15 implantation procedures and 6 hospitals (3%) performed > 15 testicular implantation surgeries. In 2021, 115 hospitals (72%) performed < 5 testicular prosthesis implantation, while 39 hospitals (25%) performed 5–15 implantation procedures and 5 hospitals (3%) performed > 15 testicular implantation surgeries.

Conclusion

This study shows that implantation of testicular prostheses is steadily increasing. Explantation rates are low. Besides testicular cancer transgender surgeries were the main driver for increasing case numbers in recent years.
Design and preparation of an artificial vascular scaffold with internal surface modification
Authors: Jin Wenyu , Liu Huanbao , Nie Ping , Li Zihan , Cheng Xiang , Jiao Kunpeng , Zhao Guangxi , Zheng Guangming
Published: January 2024

Background

Advances in regeneration methods have brought us improved vascular scaffolds with small diameters (φ < 6 mm) for enhancing biological suitability that solve their propensity for causing intimal hyperplasia post‐transplantation.

Methods

The correlation between the rehydration ratio of the hydrogel and its material concentration is obtained by adjusting the material ratio of the hydrogel solution. The vascular model with helical structure has been established and analyzed to verify the effect of helical microvascular structure on thrombosis formation by the fluid simulation methods. Then, the helical structure vascular has been fabricated by self‐developed 3D bioprinter, the vascular scaffolds are freeze‐dried and rehydrated in polyethylene glycol (PEG) solution.

Results

The experimental results showed that the hybrid hydrogel had a qualified rehydration ratio when the content of gelatin, sodium alginate, and glycerol was 5, 6, and 3 wt%. The established flow channel model can effectively reduce thrombus deposition and improve long‐term patency ratio. After PEG solution modification, the contact angle of the inner wall of the vascular scaffold was less than 30°, showing better hydrophilic characteristics.

Conclusion

In study, a small‐diameter inner wall vascular scaffold with better long‐term patency was successfully designed and prepared by wrinkling and PEG modification of the inner wall of the vascular scaffold. This study not only creates small‐diameter vascular scaffolds with helical structure that improves the surface hydrophilicity to reduce the risk of thrombosis but also rekindles confidence in the regeneration of small caliber vascular structures.