bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-genome analysis reveals heterogeneous association of the Herpes Simplex Virus genome with H3K27me2 and the reader PHF20L1 following infection of human fibroblasts
Authors: Francois Alison K , Rohani Ali , Loftus Matt , Dochnal Sara , Hrit Joel , McFarlane Steven , Whitford Abigail , Lewis Anna , Krakowiak Patryk , Boutell Chris , Rothbart Scott B. , Kashatus David , Cliffe Anna R
Published: December 2023

The fate of herpesvirus genomes following entry into different cell types is thought to regulate the outcome of infection. For the Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), latent infection of neurons is characterized by association with repressive heterochromatin marked with Polycomb silencing-associated lysine 27 methylation on histone H3 (H3K27me). However, whether H3K27 methylation plays a role in repressing lytic gene expression in non-neuronal cells is unclear. To address this gap in knowledge, and with consideration that the fate of the viral genome and outcome of HSV-1 infection could be heterogeneous, we developed an assay to quantify the abundance of histone modifications within single viral genome foci of infected fibroblasts. Using this approach, combined with bulk epigenetic techniques, we were unable to detect any role for H3K27me3 during HSV-1 lytic infection of fibroblasts. In contrast, we could detect the lesser studied H3K27me2 on a subpopulation of viral genomes, which was consistent with a role for H3K27 demethylases in promoting lytic gene expression. This was consistent with a role for H3K27 demethylases in promoting lytic gene expression. In addition, viral genomes co-localized with the H3K27me2 reader protein PHF20L1, and this association was enhanced by inhibition of the H3K27 demethylases UTX and JMJD3. Notably, targeting of H3K27me2 to viral genomes was enhanced following infection with a transcriptionally defective virus in the absence of Promyelocytic leukemia nuclear bodies. Collectively, these studies implicate a role for H3K27me2 in fibroblast-associated HSV genome silencing in a manner dependent on genome sub-nuclear localization and transcriptional activity.

Importance

Investigating the potential mechanisms of gene silencing for DNA viruses in different cell types is important to understand the differential outcomes of infection, particularly for viruses like herpesviruses that can undergo distinct types of infection in different cell types. In addition, investigating chromatin association with viral genomes informs on the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of DNA processes. However, there is growing appreciation for heterogeneity in the outcome of infection at the single cell, and even single viral genome, level. Here we describe a novel assay for quantifying viral genome foci with chromatin proteins and show that a portion of genomes are targeted for silencing by H3K27me2 and associate with the reader protein PHF20L1. This study raises important questions regarding the mechanism of H3K27me2-specific targeting to viral genomes, the contribution of epigenetic heterogeneity to herpesvirus infection, and the role of PHF20L1 in regulating the outcome of DNA virus infection.
Structural Host-Virus Interactome Profiling of Intact Infected Cells
Authors: Bogdanow Boris , Mühlberg Lars , Gruska Iris , Vetter Barbara , Ruta Julia , Elofsson Arne , Wiebusch Lüder , Liu Fan
Published: December 2023

Virus-host protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are fundamental to viral infections, yet high-resolution identification within the native context of intact infected cells has remained an unsolved challenge. Here, we developed structural host-virus interactome profiling (SHVIP) that combinesin situcross-linking mass spectrometry with the enrichment of newly synthesized viral proteins from infected cells. We established SHVIP using herpes simplex virus type 1 and obtained 739 PPIs based on 6,194 cross-links from productively infected cells. SHVIP captures PPIs across intracellular compartments and at the intact host endomembrane system. It resolves PPIs to the protein domain level and seamlessly integrates with AlphaFold-based structural modeling, facilitating detailed predictions of PPI sites within structured and intrinsically disordered regions. We show that SHVIP captures parts of the virus-host PPI space that are elusive to traditional interaction proteomics approaches. By selectively disrupting several newly identified virus-host PPIs, we confirm SHVIP’s ability to uncover genuine virus-host PPIs in the intact complex environment of infected cells.
Multiple HP1 binding motifs in SUV420H2 heterochromatic targeting module
Authors: Nakao Masaru , Sato Yuko , Aizawa Arisa , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: December 2023

Constitutive heterochromatin is transcriptionally repressed and densely packed chromatin, typically harboring histone H3 Lys9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) and heterochromatin protein 1 (HP1). SUV420H2, a histone H4 Lys20 methyltransferase, is recruited to heterochromatin by binding to HP1 through its Heterochromatic Targeting Module (HTM). Here, we have identified three HP1 binding motifs within the HTM. Both the full-length HTM and its N-terminal region (HTM-N), which contains the first and second motifs, stabilized HP1 on heterochromatin. The intervening region between the first and second HP1 binding motifs in HTM-N was also crucial for HP1 binding. In contrast, the C-terminal region of HTM (HTM-C), containing the third motif, destabilized HP1 on chromatin. An HTM V374D mutant, featuring a Val374 to Asp substitution in the second HP1 binding motif, localizes to heterochromatin without affecting HP1 stability. These data suggest that the second HP1 binding motif in the SUV420H2 HTM is critical for locking HP1 on H3K9me3-enriched heterochromatin. HTM V374D, tagged with a fluorescent protein, can serve as a live-cell probe to visualize HP1-bound heterochromatin.
Identification of 4-(6-((2-methoxyphenyl)amino)pyrazin-2-yl)benzoic acids as CSNK2A inhibitors with antiviral activity and improved selectivity over PIM3
Authors: Galal Kareem A. , Krämer Andreas , Strickland Benjamin G. , Smith Jeffery L. , Dickmander Rebekah J. , Moorman Nathaniel J. , Willson Timothy M.
Published: December 2023

We report the synthesis of 2,6-disubstituted pyrazines as potent cell active CSNK2A inhibitors. 4’-Carboxyphenyl was found to be the optimal 2-pyrazine substituent for CSNK2A activity, with little tolerance for additional modification. At the 6-position, modifications of the 6-isopropylaminoindazole substituent were explored to improve selectivity over PIM3 while maintaining potent CSNK2A inhibition. The 6-isopropoxyindole analogue6cwas identified as a nanomolar CSNK2A inhibitor with 30-fold selectivity over PIM3 in cells. Replacement of the 6-isopropoxyindole by isosteric ortho-methoxy anilines, such as7c, generated analogues with selectivity for CSNK2A over PIM3 and improved the kinome-wide selectivity. The optimized 2,6-disubstituted pyrazines showed inhibition of viral replication consistent with their CSNK2A activity.

Graphical Abstract
Transcriptomic correlates of state modulation in GABAergic interneurons: A cross-species analysis
Authors: Keijser Joram , Hertäg Loreen , Sprekeler Henning
Published: December 2023

GABAergic inhibitory interneurons comprise many subtypes that differ in their molecular, anatomical and functional properties. In mouse visual cortex, they also differ in their modulation with an animal’s behavioural state, and this state modulation can be predicted from the first principal component (PC) of the gene expression matrix. Here, we ask whether this link between transcriptome and state-dependent processing generalises across species. To this end, we analysed seven single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing datasets from mouse, human, songbird, and turtle forebrains. Despite homology at the level of cell types, we found clear differences between transcriptomic PCs, with greater dissimilarities between evolutionarily distant species. These dissimilarities arise from two factors: divergence in gene expression within homologous cell types and divergence in cell type abundance. We also compare the expression of cholinergic receptors, which are thought to causally link transcriptome and state modulation. Several cholinergic receptors predictive of state modulation in mouse interneurons are differentially expressed between species. Circuit modelling and mathematical analyses suggest conditions under which these expression differences could translate into functional differences.
Flow control of a vehicle using reverse flow fan
Authors: Raj Mohamed Mohamed Arif , S. Rathiya
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to achieve optimum flow separation control for a road vehicle using a reverse flow fan on rear side.

Design/methodology/approach

A full-length reverse flow fan array (fan’s air speed is 50% of the car’s speed) is attached throughout the width of the vehicle at rear edge corner.

Findings

The reverse flow fan array positioned at rear edge of car pushes the airflow against the car’s rear window. It creates the recirculation region and alters the pressure distribution. This reduces the lift coefficient by 150%, which becomes the downforce and reduces the drag coefficient by 22%. As the car speed increases, fan speed should also be increased for effective flow control.

Research limitations/implications

This active flow control method for 3D Ahmed car body has been studied computationally at low speed (40 m/s).

Practical implications

This design increases the downforce, thus gives better cornering speed and stability, and decreases the drag which improves fuel efficiency. It can be used for effective flow control of cars (hatchback/sedan). The findings can be applied to the bluff bodies, road vehicles, UAV and helicopter fuselage for flow separation control.

Originality/value

The fan array is attached on car’s rear side, which blows air against the car’s rear window. It alters the pressure distribution and aerodynamics forces favorably. But the existing high-speed fan used in a sports cars sucks the air from bottom and pushes it rearward, which increases both the traction force and drag.
Mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers
Authors: Kissi Ernest , Ikuabe Matthew Osivue , Aigbavboa Clinton Ohis , Smith Eugene Danquah , Babon-Ayeng Prosper
Published: December 2023

Purpose

While existing research has explored the association between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers, there is a notable gap in the literature concerning the potential mediating role of work engagement in elucidating this relationship, warranting further investigation. The paper, hence, aims to examine the mediating role of work engagement in the relationship between supervisor support and turnover intention among construction workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the quantitative research method, the hypothesis was tested. The data were collected from 144 construction professionals using a structured questionnaire. Observed variables were tested using confirmatory factor analysis, and the mediating role relationship was validated using hierarchical regression.

Findings

The outcome of this study shows a significant positive impact of work engagement and supervisor support on employee turnover intention. The study further showed that work engagement plays a mediating role in the connection between supervisory support and the intention to turnover and improve project and business performance. Turnover intention, on the other hand, negatively affects project and organizational performance.

Practical implications

By enhancing employee work engagement and perceptions of supervisor support, the findings of this study may aid construction organizations in making better judgments regarding the likelihood of employee turnover. The effectiveness of the project and the organization will likely be greatly impacted.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide supporting evidence and advance efforts at reducing employee turnover intention through work engagement and supervisor support in improving project and organizational performance.
How does the institutional environment influence the scaling process of social initiatives? An empirical exploration in the Dutch public sector
Authors: van Lunenburg Marion
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The scaling of social initiatives is of immense importance for public innovation. A key factor in the scaling process is the institutional environment, which plays a key role in supporting and coordinating the scaling process. This environment can be either homogeneous or heterogeneous, i.e. dominated by a few or a variety of public organizations, norms and practices. Both environments have advantages and challenges. However, the academic understanding of the influence of the institutional environment is limited, and a systematic empirical assessment of the relationship between the type of environment and scaling is lacking. The purpose of this paper is to explore the influence of homogeneous and heterogeneous environments on the scaling process of social initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative qualitative study was conducted in the Dutch social sector, including 48 in-depth interviews with initiators and organizations operating in three different domains – a homogeneous, heterogeneous or mixed environment – in the public sector.

Findings

Homogeneous environments are less supportive of scaling social initiatives than heterogeneous environments, as sharing best practices and collaborating with less-familiar organizations is not common. Heterogeneous environments, however, do not provide coordination of the scaling process, with the risk that public funds are used less efficiently and effectively. Institutional environments with a balance of homogeneity and heterogeneity are best suited for scaling social initiatives.

Originality/value

By combining literature from different research areas and conducting extensive empirical research in different domains of the social sector, the authors' study provides a broad and nuanced picture and brings precision to the authors' understanding of the relationships between the institutional environment and scaling in the public sector.
Reliability assessment of carbon/epoxy micro-fiber subject to compressive stress
Authors: Chebbab Brahim , Ragueb Haroun , Ifrah Walid , Behnous Dounya
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study addresses the reliability of a composite fiber (carbon fibers/epoxy matrix) at microscopic level, with a specific focus on its behavior under compressive stresses. The primary goal is to investigate the factors that influence the reliability of the composite, specifically considering the effects of initial fiber deformation and fiber volume fraction.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis involves a multi-step approach. Initially, micromechanics theory is employed to derive limit state equations that define the stress levels at which the fiber remains within an acceptable range of deformation. To assess the composite's structural reliability, a dedicated code is developed using the Monte Carlo method, incorporating random variables.

Findings

Results highlight the significance of initial fiber deformation and volume fraction on the composite's reliability. They indicate that the level of initial deformation of the fibers plays a crucial role in determining the composite reliability. A fiber with 0.5% initial deformation exhibits the ability to endure up to 28% additional stress compared to a fiber with 1% initial deformation. Conversely, a higher fiber volume fraction contributes positively to the composite's reliability. A composite with 60% fiber content and 0.5% initial deformation can support up to 40% additional stress compared to a composite containing 40% fibers with the same deformation.

Originality/value

The study's originality lies in its comprehensive exploration of the factors affecting the reliability of carbon fiber-epoxy matrix composites under compressive stresses. The integration of micromechanics theory and the Monte Carlo method for structural reliability analysis contributes to a thorough understanding of the composite's behavior. The findings shed light on the critical roles played by initial fiber deformation and fiber volume fraction in determining the overall reliability of the composite. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of careful fiber placement during the manufacturing process and emphasizes the role of volume fraction in ensuring the final product's reliability.
Unpacking dual effects of ambivalence toward technologies in online live streaming learning
Authors: Fu Shixuan , Yu Jianhua Jordan , Gu Huimin , Song Xiaoxiao
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Shifting to OLSL classes during the pandemic can bring learners ambivalent experiences: negative, positive or both appraisals toward the technologies. However, few studies have examined how ambivalent experiences can influence students' learning behaviors, specifically cyberslacking and active participation. Using the challenge-hindrance stressor framework, this study investigates the impact of challenge and hindrance appraisals on these learning behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed methods approach to answer research questions. An interview was conducted to identify the key components of ambivalent appraisals, and a survey was conducted to empirically examine the impact of challenge and hindrance appraisals on learners' behaviors in online live streaming learning (OLSL) contexts. The data of 675 university students were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

This study found that hindrance appraisal leads to cyberslacking while challenge appraisal leads to active participation, but it can also cause cyberslacking. Social presence has a double-edged effect, acting as both a facilitator and inhibitor, strengthening the effect of hindrance appraisal on cyberslacking and the impact of challenge appraisal on active participation.

Originality/value

Prior studies have primarily focused on the negative side (techno-distress) of technology appraisals. This study simultaneously examines the positive side, techno-eustress, on learners' behaviors in OLSL contexts, and explores the moderating effects of social presence. This study contributes to the technostress and technology adaptation literature by revealing how technology-induced ambivalent appraisals impact behavioral responses. It offers important theoretical and practical implications for education tool designers.
A hurting embrace does not last long: toxicity of abusive supervision erodes leader and organizational identification to cause turnover intention
Authors: Yasmeen Atiya , Khan Muhammad Mumtaz , Ahmed Syed Saad
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the mediating roles of leadership identification and organizational identification linking abusive supervision to employees' turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a self-administer survey design, data were collected from 229 nursing workforce employed in hospitals located in Karachi.

Findings

The research findings show that abusive supervision has a considerably positive influence on turnover intention. The findings also show that abusive supervision negatively affects nurses' leadership identification and organizational identification. Leadership identification and organizational identification were found to be negatively related to nurses' turnover intention. Finally, leadership identification and organizational identification were found to parallelly mediate the relationship between abusive supervision and turnover intention.

Originality/value

This study helped uncover the previously unknown parallel mediating mechanism of organizational identification and leadership identification. Additionally, abusive supervision was found to negatively affect employees' leadership identification.
The analysis of brand reputation and willingness to pay price premium with regression analysis and classification algorithms
Authors: Özhan Şeniz , Ozhan Erkan , Habiboglu Ozge
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Brand reputation (BR) is one of the most important factors that affect the consumer–brand relationship and give businesses a competitive advantage. Businesses with a strong BR can increase their market shares and product market prices, in addition to gaining a competitive advantage. In order for businesses to have these advantages, they need to know and analyze their consumers. This study aimed to develop an alternative analysis method by using classification algorithms and regression analysis to measure and evaluate the effect of consumers' BR perceptions on their willingness to pay premium prices (WPP).

Design/methodology/approach

The research data were collected from 483 participants by the online survey method due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were first analyzed with regression analysis, and the effect of BR on WPP was found to be significant. Then, using artificial intelligence (AI) methods that were not used in previous studies, consumers' perceptions of BR and WPP were clustered and classified.

Findings

The results revealed the highest and lowest customer groups with BR and WPP and empirically demonstrated that highly accurate practical classification models can be applied to determine strategies in line with these findings.

Originality/value

The model proposed in this study offers an integrated approach by using AI and regression analysis together and tries to fill the gap in the literature in this field. Therefore, the novelty of this study is to quantitatively reveal and evaluate the relationship between BR and WPP by using AI classification algorithms and regression analysis together.
Intelligibility of communication with stakeholders after accounting system change: an exploratory data analysis of Italian universities
Authors: Fijałkowska Justyna , Hadro Dominika , Supino Enrico , Klimczak Karol M.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the intelligibility of communication with stakeholders as a result of accrual accounting adoption. It focuses on changes in the use of visual forms and the readability of text that occurred immediately after the adoption of accrual accounting in performance reports of Italian public universities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collect the stakeholder section of performance reports published before and after accrual accounting adoption. Then, the authors use manual and computer-assisted textual analysis. Finally, the authors explore the data using principal component analysis and qualitative comparative analysis.

Findings

This study demonstrates that switching from cash to accrual accounting provokes immediate changes in communication patterns. It confirms the significant reduction of readability and increase in visual forms after accruals accounting adoption. The results indicate that smaller universities especially put effort into increasing intelligibility while implementing a more complex accounting system. This study also finds a relation between the change in readability and the change in visual forms that are complementary, with the exception of several very large universities.

Practical implications

The findings underline the possibility of neutralising the adverse effects of accounting reform associated with its complexity and difficulties in understanding by the use of visual forms and attention to the document’s readability.

Originality/value

This paper adds a new dimension to the study of public sector accounting from the external stakeholder perspective. It provides further insight into the link between accrual accounting adoption and readability, together with the use of visual forms by universities.
Fostering UDL-informed library instruction practices developed from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fullmer Niki , Strand Katie
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This case study explores how universal design for learning (UDL)-informed online instruction modules developed during COVID-19 can better support student information literacy outcomes. This study will also examine how hybrid learning lends itself to UDL and may resolve some of the issues within library instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study explores how a team of librarians at Utah State University developed three UDL-informed modules to support library instruction and hybrid learning during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. A survey was sent to composition instructors to understand how they utilized the three new UDL-informed modules and if the modules helped their students reach information literacy outcomes.

Findings

Findings from this case study describe how academic libraries should adopt the UDL framework to support best practices for online learning as well as inclusive pedagogies. The findings indicate that the UDL-informed modules developed for hybrid instruction help students meet information literacy outcomes and goals.

Originality/value

The authors present a case study examining the current climate of information literacy instruction and UDL while providing actionable instructional practices that can be of use to librarians implementing hybrid instruction.
Identifying migration hotspots of the potamodromous fish Opsariichthys uncirostris in Lake Biwa tributaries using environmental DNA and visual counts during its reproductive season
Authors: Mvula Andrew , Sawada Hayato , Yamanaka Hiroki , Maruyama Atsushi
Published: December 2023

Migration is vital for the continuation of a species. In this study, we explored migration hotspots of the vulnerable Hasu fish in Lake Biwa tributaries using two complementary methods: environmental DNA (eDNA) and visual counts. The study encompassed the known range of Hasu around Lake Biwa tributaries during its reproductive season. Monthly water sampling and visual inspection was conducted, from May to September, in 32 Class A tributaries—at the river mouth and within the river channel. Hasu eDNA was extracted from water samples and quantified using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Environmental factors were also assessed on‐site, and their effects on eDNA and visual count trends evaluated using linear models and Akaike information criterion. eDNA was detected at sites where the fish were both observed and not observed. A zero‐hurdle model revealed positive correlation between eDNA copies and visual counts of migrating Hasu, with pH having a reducing effect on the relationship (p < 0.05). Analysis of Hasu eDNA copies and visual count trends, with environmental factors as explanatory variables, indicates that Hasu is likely to be found in rivers that are wide and deep enough to accommodate migrating individuals, have fast‐flowing currents, and sandy‐gravel substrates during reproductive migration. Such rivers are mostly located on the western side of the northern basin and include the Ado, Chinai, and Shiotsuo Rivers. These could be considered as Hasu migration hotspots and require protecting if the population of Hasu in Lake Biwa is to be recovered.
Single‐cell transcriptome characteristics of testicular terminal epithelium lineages during aging in the Drosophila
Authors: Chen Xia , Qi Yujuan , Huang Qiuru , Sun Chi , Zheng Yanli , Ji Li , Shi Yi , Cheng Xinmeng , Li Zhenbei , Zheng Sen , Cao Yijuan , Gu Zhifeng , Yu Jun
Published: December 2023

Aging is a complex biological process leading to impaired functions, with a variety of hallmarks. In the testis of Drosophila, the terminal epithelium region is involved in spermatid release and maturation, while its functional diversity and regulatory mechanism remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed single‐cell RNA‐sequencing analysis (scRNA‐seq) to characterize the transcriptomes of terminal epithelium in Drosophila testes at 2‐, 10 and 40‐Days. Terminal epithelium populations were defined with Metallothionein A (MtnA) and subdivided into six novel sub‐cell clusters (EP0–EP5), and a series of marker genes were identified based on their expressions. The data revealed the functional characteristics of terminal epithelium populations, such as tight junction, focal adhesion, bacterial invasion, oxidative stress, mitochondrial function, proteasome, apoptosis and metabolism. Interestingly, we also found that disrupting genes for several relevant pathways in terminal epithelium led to male fertility disorders. Moreover, we also discovered a series of age‐biased genes and pseudotime trajectory mediated state‐biased genes during terminal epithelium aging. Differentially expressed genes during terminal epithelium aging were mainly participated in the regulation of several common signatures, e.g. mitochondria‐related events, protein synthesis and degradation, and metabolic processes. We further explored the Drosophila divergence and selection in the functional constraints of age‐biased genes during aging, revealing that age‐biased genes in epithelial cells of 2 Days group evolved rapidly and were endowed with greater evolutionary advantages. scRNA‐seq analysis revealed the diversity of testicular terminal epithelium populations, providing a gene target resource for further systematic research of their functions during aging.
Intravenous recombinant cerebellin 1 treatment restores signalling by spinal glutamate delta 1 receptors and mitigates chronic pain
Authors: Sabnis Siddhesh S. , S. Narasimhan Kishore Kumar , Chettiar Poojashree B. , Gakare Sukanya G. , Shelkar Gajanan P. , Asati Devansh G. , Thakur Shriti S. , Dravid Shashank M.
Published: December 2023

Background and Purpose

Chronic pain remains a major clinical problem that needs effective therapeutic agents. Glutamate delta 1 (GluD1) receptors and the protein cerebellin 1 (Cbln1) are down‐regulated in the central amygdala (CeA) in models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. One treatment with Cbln1, intracerebroventricularly (ICV) or in CeA, normalized GluD1 and reduced AMPA receptor expression, resulting in lasting (7–10 days) pain relief. Unlike many CNS‐targeting biological agents, the structure of Cbln1 suggests potential blood–brain barrier penetration. Here, we have tested whether systemic administration of Cbln1 provides analgesic effects via action in the CNS.

Experimental Approach

Analgesic effects of intravenous recombinant Cbln1 was assessed in complete Freund's adjuvant inflammatory pain model in mice. GluD1 knockout and a mutant form of Cbln1 were used.

Key Results

A single intravenous injection of Cbln1 mitigated nocifensive and averse behaviour in both inflammatory and neuropathic pain models. This effect of Cbln1 was dependent on GluD1 receptors and required binding to the amino terminal domain of GluD1. Time course of analgesic effect was similar to previously reported ICV and intra‐CeA injection. GluD1 in both spinal cord and CeA was down –regulated in the inflammatory pain model, whereas GluD1 expression in spinal cord but not in CeA, was partly normalized by intravenous Cbln1. Importantly, recombinant Cbln1 was detected in the synaptoneurosomes in spinal cord but not in the CeA.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results describe a novel mechanism by which systemic Cbln1 induces analgesia potentially by central actions involving normalization of signalling by spinal cord GluD1 receptors.
Spatial optimization of nutrient reduction measures on agricultural land to improve water quality: A coupled modeling approach
Authors: Brouwer Roy , Pinto Rute , Garcia‐Hernandez Jorge , Li Xingtong , Macrae Merrin , Rajsic Predrag , Yang Wanhong , Liu Yongbo , Anderson Mark , Heyming Louise
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study is to identify the optimal spatial distribution of Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce total phosphorus (TP) runoff from agricultural land in the largest Canadian watershed draining into Lake Erie, the Great Lake most vulnerable to eutrophication. BMP measures include reduced fertilizer application, cover crops, buffer strips, and the restoration of wetlands. Environmental SWAT model results feed into a spatial optimization procedure using two separate objective functions to distinguish between public BMP program implementation costs (PIC) on the one hand and farmers’ private pollution abatement costs (PAC) on the other hand. The latter account for the opportunity costs of land retirement and changing land productivity. PAC are initially lower than PIC but exceed the latter after 30% of the annual TP baseline load is eliminated. This suggests that under optimal conditions existing grant and incentive payments cover the economic costs farmers face up to a maximum of 30% of the baseline load reduction. Imposing further reductions of up to 40% results in a cost to farmers of almost $52 million per year. This is 45% higher than the optimal solution based on PIC and therefore not deemed incentive‐compatible under the watershed's existing cost‐sharing scheme.
Meniscal disruption associated with septic arthritis in three neonatal foals
Authors: Johnson Jessica P. , Pompermayer Endrigo , Oikawa Masa‐aki , Vinardell Tatiana , Ali Mohammad , Puchalski Sarah , David Florent
Published: December 2023

The objective of this study was to report clinical characteristics, surgical management and medium‐term (6–12 months) outcomes of three Arabian neonatal foals with meniscal disruption associated with septic arthritis of the lateral femorotibial joint. The three neonatal Arabian foals with septic arthritis of the lateral femorotibial joint (LFTJ), were diagnosed with disruption of the lateral meniscal (LM). Suspicion of meniscal pathology was based on ultrasonography, computed tomography (in 2 foals) and confirmed during arthroscopy. Treatment included arthroscopic debridement and lavage of the joint with debridement of the meniscal disruption. Postoperative care included systemic and intra‐articular antimicrobials, based on culture and sensitivity results. Two of the foals received intra‐articular injections of autologous mesenchymal stem cells. Marked LM disruption was observed in the LFTJ of the affected joints of all foals, involving the meniscal body (n = 3) and caudal horn (n = 1). Purulent material within the torn tissue was debrided with a synovial resector. Foal 1 was lame‐free as a yearling. Foal 2 was lame at walk at 7.5 months and euthanised due to poor prognosis. Foal 3 showed mild lameness at trot in a straight line at 6 months. Disruption of the LM continued to be visible on US in both foals at these timepoints. It was concluded that meniscal disruption and infection should be considered as a differential in neonatal foals with persistent femorotibial septic arthritis. In such cases, the LM could be the primary nidus of infection.
Is the association of sexual quality with relationship satisfaction really stronger when the sexual relationship is functioning poorly?
Authors: Busby Dean M. , Leonhardt Nathan D. , Hanna‐Walker Veronica , Leavitt Chelom E.
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this article is to bring empirical evidence to the oft‐quoted assumption that sexual quality has a stronger association with the overall relationship when sexuality is dysfunctional as compared to when it is optimal. Using three national samples to analyze a structural equation model, the results verified this assumption with some adaptations. There was an interaction between the association of sexual quality and the overall relationship depending on how sexually satisfied couples were in the sexuality area. However, it was when sexuality was only moderately satisfying rather than at high or low levels that it had the strongest associations with relationship satisfaction. Also, female sexual quality had a significant association with both partner's relationship satisfaction whereas male's sexual quality only had actor effects. Additionally, the sexual relationship had a stronger association with relationship satisfaction and dissatisfaction for couples who reported both low levels of sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction.
Controlling biases in targeted plant removal experiments
Authors: Monteux Sylvain , Blume‐Werry Gesche , Gavazov Konstantin , Kirchhoff Leah , Krab Eveline J. , Lett Signe , Pedersen Emily P. , Väisänen Maria
Published: December 2023

Targeted removal experiments are a powerful tool to assess the effects of plant species or (functional) groups on ecosystem functions. However, removing plant biomass in itself can bias the observed responses. This bias is commonly addressed by waiting until ecosystem recovery, but this is inherently based on unverified proxies or anecdotal evidence. Statistical control methods are efficient, but restricted in scope by underlying assumptions.

We propose accounting for such biases within the experimental design, using a gradient of biomass removal controls. We demonstrate the relevance of this design by presenting (1) conceptual examples of suspected biases and (2) how to observe and control for these biases.

Using data from a mycorrhizal association‐based removal experiment, we show that ignoring biomass removal biases (including by assuming ecosystem recovery) can lead to incorrect, or even contrary conclusions (e.g. false positive and false negative). Our gradient design can prevent such incorrect interpretations, regardless of whether aboveground biomass has fully recovered.

Our approach provides more objective and quantitative insights, independently assessed for each variable, than using a proxy to assume ecosystem recovery. Our approach circumvents the strict statistical assumptions of, for example, ANCOVA and thus offers greater flexibility in data analysis.
Concepts and consequences of the hyphosphere core microbiome for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal fitness and function
Authors: Wang Letian , George Timothy S. , Feng Gu
Published: December 2023

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi‐associated hyphosphere microbiomes can be considered as the second genome of the mycorrhizal phosphorus uptake pathway. Their composition can be thought of as a stably recurring component of a holobiont, defined by the hyphosphere core microbiome, which is thought to benefit AM fungal fitness. Here, we review evidence indicating the existence of the hyphosphere core microbiome, highlight its functions linked to those functions lacking in AM fungi, and further explore the mechanisms by which different core members ensure their stable coexistence. We conclude that deciphering and utilizing the hyphosphere core microbiome provides an entry point for understanding the complex interactions among plants, AM fungi, and bacteria.
Granivore abundance shapes mutualism quality in plant–scatterhoarder interactions
Authors: Zwolak Rafał , Clement Dale , Sih Andrew , Schreiber Sebastian J.
Published: December 2023

Conditional mutualisms involve costs and benefits that vary with environmental factors, but mechanisms driving these dynamics remain poorly understood. Scatterhoarder–plant interactions are a prime example of this phenomenon, as scatterhoarders can either increase or reduce plant recruitment depending on the balance between seed dispersal and predation.

We explored factors that drive the magnitude of net benefits for plants in this interaction using a mathematical model, with parameter values based on European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and yellow‐necked mice (Apodemus flavicollis). We measured benefits as the percentage of germinating seeds, and examined how varying rodent survival (reflecting, e.g. changes in predation pressure), the rate of seed loss to other granivores, the abundance of alternative food resources, and changes in masting patterns affect the quality of mutualism.

We found that increasing granivore abundance can degrade the quality of plant–scatterhoarder mutualism due to increased cache pilferage. Scatterhoarders are predicted to respond by increasing immediate consumption of gathered seeds, leading to higher costs and reduced benefits for plants.

Thus, biotic changes that are detrimental to rodent populations can be beneficial for tree recruitment due to adaptive behavior of rodents. When scatterhoarder populations decline too drastically (< 5 individuals ha−1); however, tree recruitment may also suffer.
Early‐responsive molecular signatures associated with halophytic adaptation in Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.)
Authors: Kulkarni Jayant , Sahoo Sripati A. , Herzyk Pawel , Barvkar Vitthal T. , Kumar Sanjukta A. , Ravichandran Janani , Samal Areejit , Amtmann Anna , Borde Mahesh , Suprasanna Penna , Srivastava Ashish K.
Published: December 2023

Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.) is a halophyte, adapted to grow naturally under saline environments. The ability to use Na and K interchangeably indicated its facultative halophyte nature. No significant growth reduction occurs in seedlings up to 250 mM NaCl, except for curling of the youngest leaf. Within 8 h of salt treatment, seedlings accumulate proline, glycine betaine and other amino acids in both root and shoot. Despite a continued increase of tissue Na content, the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) decreases between 8 and 24 h of salt exposure, indicating transcriptional restoration after the initial osmotic challenge. At 8 h, upregulated genes mainly encode transporters and transcription factors, while genes in growth‐related pathways such as photosynthesis and ribosome‐associated biogenesis are suppressed. Overexpression of SpRAB18 (an ABA‐responsive dehydrin), one of the most strongly induced DEGs, in soybean was found to increase biomass in control conditions and the growth benefit was maintained when plants were grown in 100 mM NaCl, indicating conservation of function in halophyte and glycophyte. An open‐access transcriptome database “SesuviumKB” (https://cb.imsc.res.in/sesuviumkb/) was developed to involve the scientific community in wide‐scale functional studies of S. portulacastrum genes, that could pave the way to engineer salt tolerance in crops.
Utilizing high‐resolution ribosome profiling for the global investigation of gene expression in Chlamydomonas
Authors: Gotsmann Vincent Leon , Ting Michael Kien Yin , Haase Nadin , Rudorf Sophia , Zoschke Reimo , Willmund Felix
Published: December 2023

Ribosome profiling (Ribo‐seq) is a powerful method for the deep analysis of translation mechanisms and regulatory circuits during gene expression. Extraction and sequencing of ribosome‐protected fragments (RPFs) and parallel RNA‐seq yields genome‐wide insight into translational dynamics and post‐transcriptional control of gene expression. Here, we provide details on the Ribo‐seq method and the subsequent analysis with the unicellular model alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Chlamydomonas) for generating high‐resolution data covering more than 10 000 different transcripts. Detailed analysis of the ribosomal offsets on transcripts uncovers presumable transition states during translocation of elongating ribosomes within the 5′ and 3′ sections of transcripts and characteristics of eukaryotic translation termination, which are fundamentally distinct for chloroplast translation. In chloroplasts, a heterogeneous RPF size distribution along the coding sequence indicates specific regulatory phases during protein synthesis. For example, local accumulation of small RPFs correlates with local slowdown of psbA translation, possibly uncovering an uncharacterized regulatory step during PsbA/D1 synthesis. Further analyses of RPF distribution along specific cytosolic transcripts revealed characteristic patterns of translation elongation exemplified for the major light‐harvesting complex proteins, LHCs. By providing high‐quality datasets for all subcellular genomes and attaching our data to the Chlamydomonas reference genome, we aim to make ribosome profiles easily accessible for the broad research community. The data can be browsed without advanced bioinformatic background knowledge for translation output levels of specific genes and their splice variants and for monitoring genome annotation.
ZmTDM1 encodes a tetratricopeptide repeat domain protein and is required for meiotic exit in maize
Authors: Zhang Ting , Zhao Shuang‐Hui , He Yan
Published: December 2023

Elaborate cell‐cycle control must be adopted to ensure the continuity of the meiotic second division and termination after that. Despite its importance, however, the genetic controls underlying the meiotic cell cycle have not been reported in maize. Here, we characterized a meiotic cell‐cycle controller ZmTDM1, which is a homolog of Arabidopsis TDM1 and encodes a canonical tetratricopeptide repeat domain protein in maize. The Zmtdm1 homozygous plants exhibited complete male sterility and severe female abortion. In Zmtdm1 mutants, cell‐cycle progression was almost identical to that of wild type from leptotene to anaphase II. However, chromosomes in the tetrad failed meiotic termination at the end of the second division and underwent additional divisions in succession without DNA replication, reducing the ploidy to less than haploid in the product. In addition, two ZmTDM1‐like homologs (ZmTDML1 and ZmTDML2) were not functional in meiotic cell‐cycle control. Moreover, ZmTDM1 interacted with RING‐type E3 ubiquitin ligase, revealing that it acts as a subunit of the APC/C E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. Overall, our results identified a regulator of meiotic cell cycle in maize and demonstrated that ZmTDM1 is essential for meiotic exit after meiosis II.
Fekete-Szegö Inequality for a Subclass of Bi-univalent Functions by Applying Sălăgean q-Differential Operator
Authors: Chang Dayana , Janteng Aini
Published: December 2023

Throughout this study, we propose a new subclass of bi-univalent functions by applying Sălăgean q-differential operator and denoted as LΣ_q^k (λ,ϕ). Further, we acquired the values of the initial coefficients |a_2 | and |a_3 | for functions f∈LΣ_q^k (λ,ϕ) which yield to this study’s preliminary result. Subsequently, the preliminary result was applied to obtain the upper bound of Fekete-Szegö inequality, |a_3-ρa_2^2 |, for functions f∈LΣ_q^k (λ,ϕ).
The Dynamics of Tuberculosis through BSEIR Model with Immigration in Malaysia
Authors: Tamhaji Nur Hazimah , Hamdan Nur 'Izzati
Published: December 2023

Tuberculosis or known as TB is an airborne disease that exists in Malaysia caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis. Despite that, TB infection is curable with early diagnosis and treatment. The disease can be prevented through Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is given among infants at birth. Numerous mathematical models on infectious diseases have been formulated in earlier studies since it is crucial to comprehend infectious disease transmission patterns and predict future outcomes. However, there is minimal study on the dynamics of TB transmission, particularly in Malaysia concerning immigration. Hence, this study aims to formulate a mathematical BCG-vaccinated, susceptible, exposed, infected, and recovered (BSEIR) model for TB infection in Malaysia by considering the immigration parameter. The model parameters are obtained from the literature and some with reported data in 2013 as initial value for the simulation using MAPLE software. The obtained results revealed that the basic reproduction number,  for the model is more than one. The graphical plot shows that the BSEIR model with immigration demonstrates a rise in TB-infected cases. The best strategy to lessen the number of infected individuals in Malaysia is by increasing the transmission rate and recovery rate. Additionally, the local stability analysis on the diseases-free equilibrium point and sensitivity analysis of its parameter is also provided and discussed. To conclude, a proper screening test should be mandated by the authorities before permitting new immigrants and refugees into Malaysia.