bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nance-Horan Syndrome-like 1 protein negatively regulates Scar/WAVE-Arp2/3 activity and inhibits lamellipodia stability and cell migration
Authors: Law Ah-Lai , Jalal Shamsinar , Pallett Tommy , Mosis Fuad , Guni Ahmad , Brayford Simon , Yolland Lawrence , Marcotti Stefania , Levitt James A. , Poland Simon P. , Rowe-Sampson Maia , Jandke Anett , Köchl Robert , Pula Giordano , Ameer-Beg Simon M. , Stramer Brian Marc , Krause Matthias
Published: May 2020

Cell migration is important for development and its aberrant regulation contributes to many diseases. The Scar/WAVE complex is essential for Arp2/3 mediated lamellipodia formation during mesenchymal cell migration and several coinciding signals activate it. However, so far, no direct negative regulators are known. We have identified Nance-Horan Syndrome-like 1 protein (NHSL1) as a novel, direct binding partner of the Scar/WAVE complex, which co-localise at protruding lamellipodia. This interaction is mediated by the Abi SH3 domain and two binding sites in NHSL1. Furthermore, active Rac binds to NHSL1 at two regions that mediate leading edge targeting of NHSL1. Surprisingly, NHSL1 inhibits cell migration through its interaction with the Scar/WAVE complex. Mechanistically, NHSL1 may reduce cell migration efficiency by impeding Arp2/3 activity, as measured in cells using a novel Arp2/3 FRET-FLIM biosensor, resulting in reduced F-actin density of lamellipodia, and consequently impairing the stability of lamellipodia protrusions.
The RNase J-based RNA degradosome is compartmentalized in the gastric pathogenHelicobacter pylori
Authors: Tejada-Arranz Alejandro , Galtier Eloïse , Mortaji Lamya El , Turlin Evelyne , Ershov Dmitry , De Reuse Hilde
Published: May 2020

Post-transcriptional regulation is a major level of gene expression control in any cell. In bacteria, multiprotein machines called RNA degradosomes are central for RNA processing and degradation and some were reported to be compartmentalized inside these organelle-less cells. The minimal RNA degradosome of the important gastric pathogenHelicobacter pyloriis composed of the essential ribonuclease RNase J and RhpA, its sole DEAD-box RNA helicase, and plays a major role in the regulation of mRNA decay and adaptation to gastric colonization. Here, the subcellular localization of theH. pyloriRNA degradosome was investigated using cellular fractionation and both confocal and super-resolution microscopy. We established that RNase J and RhpA are peripheral inner membrane proteins and that this association was mediated neither by ribosomes, by RNA nor by the RNase Y membrane protein. In liveH. pyloricells, we observed that fluorescent RNase J and RhpA protein fusions assemble into non-polar foci. We identified factors that regulate the formation of these foci without affecting the degradosome membrane association. Flotillin, a bacterial membrane scaffolding protein, and free RNA promote foci formation inH. pylori. Finally, RNase J-GFP molecules and foci in cells were quantified by 3D-single-molecule fluorescence localization microscopy. The number and size of the RNase J foci were found to be scaled with growth phase and cell volume as was previously reported for eukaryotic ribonucleoprotein granules. In conclusion, we propose that membrane compartmentalization and the regulated clustering of RNase J-based degradosome hubs represent important levels of control of their activity and specificity.

Importance

Helicobacter pyloriis a bacterial pathogen that chronically colonizes the stomach of half of the human population worldwide. Infection byH. pylorican lead to the development of gastric pathologies such as ulcers and adenocarcinoma, that causes up to 800.000 deaths in the world each year. Persistent colonization byH. pylorirelies on regulation of the expression of adaptation-related genes. One major level of such control is post-transcriptional regulation that, inH. pylori, largely relies on a multi-protein molecular machine, an RNA-degradosome, that we previously discovered. In this study, we established that the two protein partners of this machine are associated to the membrane ofH. pylori. Using cutting-edge microscopy, we showed that these complexes assemble into hubs whose formation is regulated by free RNA and scaled with bacterial size and growth phase. Cellular compartmentalization of molecular machines into hubs emerges as an important regulatory level in the organelle-less bacteria.
Longitudinal profiles of dietary and microbial metabolites in formula- and breastfed infants
Authors: Sillner Nina , Walker Alesia , Lucio Marianna , Maier Tanja V , Bazanella Monika , Rychlik Michael , Haller Dirk , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe
Published: May 2020

The early-life metabolome of the intestinal tract is dynamically influenced by colonization of gut microbiota which in turn is affected by nutrition, i.e. breast milk or formula. A detailed examination of fecal metabolites was performed to investigate the effect of probiotics in formula compared to control formula and breast milk within the first months of life in healthy neonates. A broad metabolomics approach was conceptualized to describe fecal polar and semi-polar metabolites affected by diet within the first year of life. Fecal metabolomes were clearly distinct between formula- and breastfed infants, mainly originating from diet and microbial metabolism. Unsaturated fatty acids and human milk oligosaccharides were increased in breastfed, whereas Maillard products were found in feces of formula-fed children. Altered microbial metabolism was represented by bile acids and aromatic amino acid metabolites. Elevated levels of sulfated bile acids were detected in stool samples of breastfed infants, whereas secondary bile acids were increased in formula-fed infants. Co-microbial metabolism was supported by significant correlation between chenodeoxycholic or lithocholic acid and members of Clostridia. Fecal metabolites showed strong inter- and intra-individual behavior with features uniquely present in certain infants and at specific time points. Nevertheless, metabolite profiles converged at the end of the first year, coincided with solid food introduction.
Evidence for strong mutation bias towards, and selection against, T/U content in SARS-CoV2: implications for attenuated vaccine design
Authors: Rice Alan M. , Morales Atahualpa Castillo , Ho Alexander T. , Mordstein Christine , Mühlhausen Stefanie , Watson Samir , Cano Laura , Young Bethan , Kudla Grzegorz , Hurst Laurence D.
Published: May 2020

Large-scale re-engineering of synonymous sites is a promising strategy to generate attenuated viruses for vaccines. Attenuation typically relies on de-optimisation of codon pairs and maximization of CpG dinculeotide frequencies. So as to formulate evolutionarily-informed attenuation strategies, that aim to force nucleotide usage against the estimated direction favoured by selection, here we examine available whole-genome sequences of SARS-CoV2 to infer patterns of mutation and selection on synonymous sites. Analysis of mutational profiles indicates a strong mutation bias towards T with concomitant selection against T. Accounting for dinucleotide effects reinforces this conclusion, observed TT content being a quarter of that expected under neutrality. A significantly different mutational profile at CDS sites that are not 4-fold degenerate is consistent with contemporaneous selection against T mutations more widely. Although selection against CpG dinucleotides is expected to drive synonymous site G+C content below mutational equilibrium, observed G+C content is slightly above equilibrium, possibly because of selection for higher expression. Consistent with gene-specific selection against CpG dinucleotides, we observe systematic differences of CpG content between SARS-CoV2 genes. We propose an evolutionarily informed gene-bespoke approach to attenuation that, unusually, seeks to increase usage of the already most common synonymous codons. Comparable analysis of H1N1 and Ebola finds that GC3 deviated from neutral equilibrium is not a universal feature, cautioning against generalization of results.
Development and optimization of a novel T7 polymerase-independent Marburg virus minigenome system
Authors: Vanmechelen Bert , Stroobants Joren , Vermeire Kurt , Maes Piet
Published: May 2020

Marburg virus (MARV) is the only known pathogenic filovirus not belonging to the genusEbolavirus. Minigenomes have proven a useful tool to study MARV, but all existing MARV minigenomes are dependent on the addition of an exogenous T7 RNA polymerase to drive minigenome expression. However, exogenous expression of a T7 polymerase is not always feasible and acts as a confounding factor in compound screening assays. We have developed an alternative minigenome that is controlled by the natively expressed RNA polymerase II. We demonstrate here the characteristics of this new system and its applicability in a wide range of cell types. Our system shows a clear concentration-dependent activity and outperforms the existing T7 polymerase-based system at higher concentrations, especially in difficult-to-transfect cell lines. In addition, we show that our system can be used for high-throughput compound screening in a 96-well format, thereby providing an attractive alternative to previously developed MARV minigenomes.
HIV-1 and HIV-2 differentially regulate NF-κB activity during the late stages of the replication cycle through BST-2/tetherin antagonism
Authors: Dufrasne François E. , Dessilly Géraldine , Lucchetti Mara , Soumillion Kate , Ngyuvula Eléonore , Ruelle Jean , Tafforeau Lionel , Sanou Mahamoudou , Kabamba-Mukadi Benoit
Published: May 2020

HIV-2 is the second causative agent of AIDS and is commonly considered as an attenuated form of retroviral infection. Most of HIV-2-infected individuals display a slow-progressing disease, lower viral loads and a stronger immunological control of viral infection as compared with HIV-1-infected patients. The main hypothesis that could explain the difference of disease progression between HIV-1 and HIV-2 implies a more efficient T cell–mediated immunity in the control of HIV-2 infection. Herein, we investigate the effects of the HIV-2 envelope glycoprotein (Env) and its antitetherin function in the NF-κB signaling pathway during single-round infection of CD4+T cells. First, we report an essential role of the Env cytoplasmic tail (CT) in the activation of this signaling pathway and we also demonstrate that the HIV-2 Env CT activates NF-κB in a TRAF6-dependent but TAK1-independent manner. Further, we show that HIV-2 reference strains and clinical isolates are unable to completely inhibit NF-κB mainly via the Env-mediated BST-2/tetherin antagonism in the late stages of the viral replication cycle in CD4+T cells, in striking contrast to the HIV-1 Vpu-mediated counteraction of tetherin. We observe that this inability of HIV-2 to suppress NF-κB signaling pathway promotes stimulation of numerous genes involved in the antiviral immune response, such asil-6, il-21andifn-βgenes. Therefore, HIV-1 and HIV-2 differentially regulate the NF-κB-induced antiviral immune response mainly through the BST-2/tetherin antagonism. These new insights highlight molecular mechanisms determining, at least partly, the distinct immune control and disease outcomes of HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections.

IMPORTANCE

This study explores how HIV-1 and HIV-2 diverge in their regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway. We revealed that HIV-2 fails to completely inhibit NF-κB activity, thereby inducing a stronger antiviral response than HIV-1. We demonstrated that the ability to antagonize the cellular restriction factor BST-2/tetherin largely governs the regulation of the NF-κB pathway: at the late stages of the viral replication cycle, HIV-1 Vpu blocks this pathway whereas HIV-2 Env does not. We also demonstrated that several NF-κB-targeted genes are upregulated in CD4+T cells infected with HIV-2, but not with HIV-1. This stronger NF-κB-induced antiviral response may explain the better immune control of HIV-2 infection and the differences between HIV-1 and HIV-2 pathogenesis. Moreover, we observed in this study that non-pathogenic isolates of HIV-2 have an impaired NF-κB inhibitory capacity compared to pathogenic ones.
Evolution of resistance to fluoroquinolones by dengue virus serotype 4 provides insight into mechanism of action and consequences for viral fitness
Authors: Scroggs Stacey L. P. , Gass Jordan T. , Chinnasamy Ramesh , Widen Steven G. , Azar Sasha R. , Rossi Shannan L. , Arterburn Jeffrey B. , Vasilakis Nikos , Hanley Kathryn A.
Published: May 2020

Drugs against flaviviruses such as dengue (DENV) and Zika (ZIKV) virus are urgently needed. We previously demonstrated that three fluoroquinolones, ciprofloxacin, enoxacin, and difloxacin, suppress replication of six flaviviruses. To investigate the barrier to resistance and mechanism(s) of action of these drugs, DENV-4 was passaged in triplicate in HEK-293 cells in the presence or absence of each drug. Resistance to ciprofloxacin was detected by the seventh passage and to difloxacin by the tenth, whereas resistance to enoxacin did not occur within ten passages. Two putative resistance-conferring mutations were detected in the envelope gene of ciprofloxacin and difloxacin-resistant DENV-4. In the absence of ciprofloxacin, ciprofloxacin-resistant viruses sustained a significantly higher viral titer than control viruses in HEK-293 and HuH-7 cells and resistant viruses were more stable than control viruses at 37°C. These results suggest that the mechanism of action of ciprofloxacin and difloxacin involves interference with virus binding or entry.
Structural insight into the putative role of novel SARS CoV-2 E protein in viral infection: a potential target for LAV development and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Sarkar Manish , Saha Soham
Published: May 2020

The outbreak of COVID-19 across the world has posed unprecedented and global challenges on multiple fronts. Most of the vaccine and drug development has focused on the spike proteins and viral RNA-polymerases. Using the bioinformatics and structural modeling approach, we modeled the structure of the envelope (E)-protein of novel SARS-CoV-2. The E-protein of this virus shares sequence similarity with that of SARS-CoV-1, and is highly conserved in the N-terminal regions. Incidentally, compared to spike proteins, E proteins demonstrate lower disparity and mutability among the isolated sequences. Using homology modeling, we found that the most favorable structure could function as a gated proton channel. Combining pocket estimation and docking with water, we determined that GLU 8 and ASN 15 in the N-terminal region were in close proximity to form H-bonds. Additionally, two distinct “core” structures were visible, the hydrophobic core and the central core, which may regulate the opening/closing of the channel. We propose this as a mechanism of viral proton channeling activity which may play a critical role in viral infection. In addition, it provides a structural basis and additional avenues for LAV development and generating therapeutic interventions against the virus.

Significance Statement

Structural modeling of the novel SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein (E-protein) demonstrating its possible proton channeling activity
Nicotinamide mononucleotide redox cofactor system enables aldehyde accumulation inEscherichia coli
Authors: Richardson Kelly N. , Black William B. , Li Han
Published: May 2020

It is challenging to biosynthesize industrially important aldehydes, which are readily consumed by the numerous alcohol dehydrogenases (ADHs) in cells. In this work, we demonstrate that a nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN+)-dependent redox cofactor cycling system enables aldehyde accumulation inEscherichia colicrude lysates and whole cells. By specifically delivering reducing power to a recombinant enoate reductase, but not to endogenous ADHs, we convert citral to citronellal with minimal byproduct formation (98% and 83% product purity in crude lysate- and whole cell-based biotransformation, respectively). We envision the system’s universal application to lower the noise in biomanufacturing by silencing the host’s metabolic background.
Piggybacking on the Cholera Toxin: Identification of a Toxoid-binding Protein as an Approach for Targeted Delivery of Proteins to Motor Neurons
Authors: Balmforth Matthew R. , Haigh Jessica , Tiede Christian , Tomlinson Darren C. , Deuchars Jim , Webb Michael E. , Turnbull W. Bruce
Published: May 2020

A significant unmet need exists for the delivery of biologic drugs such as polypeptides or nucleic acids, to the central nervous system (CNS) for the treatment and understanding of neurodegenerative diseases. Naturally occurring toxoids have been considered as tools to meet this need. However, due to the complexity of tethering macromolecular drugs to toxins, and the inherent dangers of working with large quantities of recombinant toxin, no such route has been successfully exploited. Developing a method where toxoid and drug can be assembled immediately prior toin vivoadministration has the potential to circumvent some of these issues. Using a phage-display screen, we identified two antibody mimetics, Anti-Cholera Toxoid Affimer (ACTA) -A2 and ACTA-C6 that non-covalently associate with the non-binding face of the cholera toxin B-subunit. In a first step toward the development of a non-viral motor neuron drug-delivery vehicle, we show that Affimers can be selectively delivered to motor neuronsin vivo.
Cluster role in industry 4.0 – a pilot study from Germany
Authors: Götz Marta
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the nature of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) cluster, to establish and empirically verify in the pilot study the role of clusters in developing the fourth industrial revolution. It aims to find out if the cluster can provide a conducive knowledge environment fostering the advancement of I4.0; simplify the implementation of I4.0 by making it faster, easier, and cheaper and finally be applied as policy tool organising the development of I4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the narrative literature review mapping the cluster’s nature with I4.0 features. It adopts the case study approach and uses simple statistical analysis to explore the basic characteristics of I4.0 clusters combined with a survey technique – short questionnaire organised in three major blocks.

Findings

Drawing on German pilot study it can be confirmed that clusters offer conducive environment facilitating the emergence, testing and development of I4.0 specific solutions. They provide favourable knowledge environment, simplify and increase the efficiency of the business processes and organise the policymaking in this area.

Originality/value

The results of presented pilot study rooted in Germany – a country seen as the front-runner in implementing the solutions of the fourth industrial revolution – can add a certain value to the emerging research on unearthed linkages between clusters and I4.0. This paper might be seen as a contribution to the emerging literature on the spatial dimension of I4.0. It expands previous research on cluster channels’ likely impact on I4.0.
A tipping point analysis of service-learning hours and student outcomes
Authors: Garger John , Vracheva Veselina P. , Jacques Paul
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Although extant literature links overstimulation to various job outcomes, most studies do not consider a service-learning context, and they suggest a linear association between stimuli and outcomes. This paper examines the link between the number of service-learning hours students work and three educational outcomes – student satisfaction with the service-learning project, class relevancy to the service-learning project and expected community involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying activation theory and Yerkes–Dodson law, we test curvilinear relationships between service-learning hours and student outcomes.

Findings

Results suggest that students benefit from service learning up to a certain duration of a service-learning project.

Originality/value

This study identifies the tipping point of the number of service-learning hours beyond which students perceive decrements to three outcomes.
Georgian higher education from the perspective of the international literature from 2003 to 2019
Authors: Lanahan Brian
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Higher education in the Republic of Georgia has experienced a massive isomorphic transformation since the Rose Revolution of 2003 and continues to transform with aspirations toward Euro-Atlantic integration, compliance with the Bologna Process and as a reflection of the Europeanization of its higher education sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This literature review documents and analyzes literature published between 1991 and 2019 on the development of higher education in the Republic of Georgia from 2003 to 2019.

Findings

The findings reflect the evolving political landscape and aspiration for Euro-Atlantic integration against the backdrop of one of the most impoverished education systems in the world, as measured by percentage of gross domestic product spending. More explicitly, what findings have been reported in the international literature on Georgian higher education from 2003 to 2019?

Research limitations/implications

The choice to review only English publications was deliberate and done after consultation with a leading Georgian scholar, who noted that the Georgian language publishing market is small and of varied quality; leading Georgian scholars most often seek to publish in English journals and books, and all technical and policy reports produced by the Minister of Education, NGOs and large international organizations (e.g. World Bank) are available in English.

Originality/value

This literature review documents and analyzes literature on the development of higher education in the Republic of Georgia from 2003 to 2019 as a reflection of the evolving political landscape and aspiration for Euro-Atlantic integration against the backdrop of one of the most impoverished education systems in the world, as measured by percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) spending. This unique political and economic history makes higher education in Georgia worthy of review.
When is transparent packaging beneficial?
Authors: Sabri Ouidade , Doan Hai Van , Malek Faten , Bachouche Hager
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the positive effect of packaging transparency on purchase intention is moderated by product quality risk (PQR) associated with the product category.

Design/methodology/approach

Two separate experiments were conducted. Study 1 was designed to test the mediating role of perceived quality to account for the positive effect of transparency on purchase intention. Two types of packaging (opaque vs transparent) for a product associated with a high level of PQR were examined. Study 2 extended the findings by introducing the moderating role of PQR. A 2 (type of packaging: opaque vs transparent)*2 (PQR: low vs high) between subjects design was used.

Findings

The moderating role of the product PQR level is established: transparent packaging improves the product perceived quality and brand purchase intention when the product is associated with a high PQR, whereas there is no such preference for transparent packaging when the product is associated with a low PQR.

Practical implications

The results offer insights to better understand the potential gains from adopting transparent packaging. If a brand manager's main goals are to develop sales, costly investments in research and development of transparent packaging appear to be fruitful only for products associated with high PQR.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to packaging, cue utilisation and perceived risk literatures by evidencing the moderating role of PQR to explain the positive effect of transparency on purchase intention.
Hybrid calibration and detection approach for mobile robotic manufacturing systems
Authors: Bai Jing , Zhang Yuchang , Qin Xiansheng , Wang Zhanxi , Zheng Chen
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a visual detection approach to predict the poses of target objects placed in arbitrary positions before completing the corresponding tasks in mobile robotic manufacturing systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A hybrid visual detection approach that combines monocular vision and laser ranging is proposed based on an eye-in-hand vision system. The laser displacement sensor is adopted to achieve normal alignment for an arbitrary plane and obtain depth information. The monocular camera measures the two-dimensional image information. In addition, a robot hand-eye relationship calibration method is presented in this paper.

Findings

First, a hybrid visual detection approach for mobile robotic manufacturing systems is proposed. This detection approach is based on an eye-in-hand vision system consisting of one monocular camera and three laser displacement sensors and it can achieve normal alignment for an arbitrary plane and spatial positioning of the workpiece. Second, based on this vision system, a robot hand-eye relationship calibration method is presented and it was successfully applied to a mobile robotic manufacturing system designed by the authors’ team. As a result, the relationship between the workpiece coordinate system and the end-effector coordinate system could be established accurately.

Practical implications

This approach can quickly and accurately establish the relationship between the coordinate system of the workpiece and that of the end-effector. The normal alignment accuracy of the hand-eye vision system was less than 0.5° and the spatial positioning accuracy could reach 0.5 mm.

Originality/value

This approach can achieve normal alignment for arbitrary planes and spatial positioning of the workpiece and it can quickly establish the pose relationship between the workpiece and end-effector coordinate systems. Moreover, the proposed approach can significantly improve the work efficiency, flexibility and intelligence of mobile robotic manufacturing systems.
Understanding regional variation in fish prices: evidence from a developing economy
Authors: Rajeev Meenakshi , Nagendran Pranav
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper examines the prices of fishery products (an important source of protein for the poor) and drivers of their inter-regional variations in India, where fishery is a critical sector. By explaining regional price differences, we make an attempt to derive policy implications as to how fish price inflation can be controlled.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is primarily based on secondary data provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. In the absence of data on inter-regional trade, appropriate indicators are constructed using the gravity model to capture supply side factors that may influence regional price differences. Pooled regressions are carried out for a representative marine and an aquaculture fish variety separately for the period 2011 to 2017.

Findings

After controlling for income levels, it is found that marine fish prices can be reduced by improving intra-state transport infrastructure. For reducing the price of aquacultures, it is shown that it is imperative to reduce the distance between producers and consumers.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by the availability of data on interstate trade and consumption of fish and has only used prices of representative fish varieties instead of average marine and aquaculture fish prices.

Originality/value

This paper considers trade and value chain based business theories to explain regional price differences. It analyzes the drivers of relative price differences and suggests measures to control them using a gravity model of trade.
Co-morbid psychological distress groups among incarcerated men
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Caravaca Sánchez Francisco
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the behavioral health disorders and trauma exposure are disproportionately represented among incarcerated men. Historically, prisons have been inadequately equipped to respond to the behavioral health needs of incarcerated people. Given the abundance of behavioral health need and the relatively limited availability of prison-based treatment resources, population health management strategies, particularly need stratification, are vital.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 943 male inmates from three Spanish prisons completed a structured questionnaire. Need groups are based on current depression, anxiety and stress symptoms assessed by the DASS-21 and were validated using adverse childhood experiences (ACE), prison-based abuse, prison-based substance use, social support and resilience.

Findings

Three need groups were identified, namely, minimal, mild/moderate and severe, each representing about one-third of the sample. The severe group had the highest level of all three types of psychological distress, ACE and prison-based adversity and substance use. No statistical differences in social support and resilience were found among the groups. These findings provide a platform for future research to explore how the complexity of behavioral health care need can be identified and stratified for strategic and rational treatment matching. Proving whether a population health management approach improves behavioral health and personal safety outcomes within funding-constrained carceral environments is the next research priority.

Originality/value

This study is the first to group co-morbid psychological distress into need categories using a social determinants of health framework for validation.
Manufacturing network integration and culture: an institution-based view
Authors: Arellano Maricela C. , Sancha Cristina , Netland Torbjørn , Gimenez Thomsen Cristina
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In pursuit of increased competitiveness, global manufacturers often seek tighter integration among the plants in their production networks. However, this is a challenging task because plants are dispersed across multiple institutional environments. Although the literature provides abundant evidence of how formal institutional environments affect the integration among plants, little is known about the role of the informal institutional environment – such as culture. In this study, the authors investigate the relationship between different dimensions of culture and manufacturing network integration.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors combine survey data from the most recent International Manufacturing Strategy Survey with secondary data that capture cultural dimensions. They then analyze the responses from 581 assembly plants in 21 countries obtained from the survey using a multilevel regression model.

Findings

The study results show that plants located in masculine and long-term-oriented national cultures are associated with lower levels of integration with other plants. The results for the other four Hofstede dimensions of national culture were not statistically significant. At the level of organizational culture, the authors found that a collaborative plant environment positively relates to higher levels of network integration. They did not find statistically significant evidence for the relationship between cultural or geographical distance and network integration.

Practical implications

This research provides managers with practical insights into the types and combinations of cultural environments that affect the integration of plants in a global network. This knowledge is useful for informing effective integration strategies and tactics.

Originality

The authors provide new, empirical evidence of the relation between the informal institutional environments of a plant and its integration in a manufacturing network. Drawing on an institution-based view, they contribute to the literature on manufacturing networks by discussing and testing empirically the role of national and organizational culture in network integration.
Risk of robbery in a tourist destination: a monthly examination of Atlantic City, New Jersey
Authors: Drawve Grant , Kennedy Leslie W. , Caplan Joel M. , Sarkos James
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify potential changes in crime generators and attractors based on monthly models in a high-tourist destination.

Design/methodology/approach

A risk terrain modeling approach was used to assess spatial relationships between 27 crime generator and attractor types in Atlantic City, New Jersey with robbery occurrence for the 2015 calendar year. In total, 12 separate monthly models were run to identify changes in risk factors based on the month of the year.

Findings

Results indicated unique significant risk factors based on the month of the year. Over the warmer and summer months, there was a shift in environmental risk factors that falls in line with more of a change in routine activities for residents and tourists and related situational contexts for the crime.

Practical implications

The analytical approach used in the current study could be used by police departments and jurisdictions to understand types of crime generators and attractors influencing local crime occurrence. Subsequent analyses were used by Atlantic City Police Department to direct place-based policing efforts.

Originality/value

With growing crime and place research that accounts for temporal scales, the authors advance these endeavors by focusing on a tourist destination, Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The effect of nepotism on tolerance to workplace incivility: mediating role of psychological contract violation and moderating role of authentic leadership
Authors: arici Hasan Evrim , Arasli Huseyin , Cakmakoglu Arici Nagihan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This multilevel study investigates the effect of employees' perception of nepotism on tolerance to workplace incivility through the mediating role of psychological contract violation and the moderating role of authentic leadership in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using time-lagged data from 547 frontline employees working in four- and five-star hotels, this study's hypotheses were analyzed by conducting hierarchical regression analysis and hierarchical linear modelling.

Findings

The findings indicate that non-family members' perception of nepotism triggered perceived tolerance to the uncivil behavior of family members by the management and that this relationship between nepotism perception and tolerance to workplace incivility was mediated by psychological contract violation. In line with expectations, authentic leadership moderated the effect of nepotism perception on tolerance to workplace incivility.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to examine the effects of nepotism perception on tolerance to workplace incivility by focusing on the mediator role of psychological contract violation at the individual level and the moderator role of authentic leadership at the group level.
Why export competitiveness differs within Indian textile industry? Determinants and empirical evidence
Authors: Dhiman Rahul , Kumar Vinod , Rana Sudhir
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether export competitiveness (EC) in the two groups of the Indian textile industry i.e. “textiles” and “textile products” group differ.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines how exchange rate (ER), real effective exchange rate (REER) and EC of both the groups are related in the long run over the period 1991-1992 to 2018-2019 using Granger causality test and Johansen and Juselius co-integration test.

Findings

The study confirms that EC is a challenge that needs to be addressed to sustain in the international market, as the volatile trend can be found for EC in both groups. The econometric framework shedding light on both groups of the textile industry suggest that select determinants have different relationships with the EC for two groups. The findings of the Granger causality test reveal that the presence of unidirectional causality running from ER to EC in the case of both the groups. Also, the select variables are found to be co-integrated in the long run. However, in the case of REER, no causality is found running from REER to EC.

Originality/value

ER is a vital determinant of EC and exporters can sustain competitiveness in global markets by reducing their profit mark-up in the face of an appreciating currency.
What do we learn from dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, nails only? Idiopathic nail dystrophy may harbor a COL7A1 mutation as the underlying cause
Authors: Yang Rui , Duan Yuanyuan , Kong Qingtao , Li Weiwei , Xu Jie , Xia Xinyi , Sang Hong
Published: May 2020

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is a genodermatosis caused by mutations in the COL7A1 gene. DEB, nails only (DEB‐na), is a rare type of DEB. Patients with DEB‐na can be overlooked, and genetic testing is helpful to determine the correct diagnosis. We collected two families with DEB‐na. Clinical information was analyzed. Ultrastructural analysis of the skin tissue was performed. Blood samples were obtained. Next‐generation sequencing was performed and the results were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. A genetic study revealed two novel heterozygous mutations: COL7A1:c.6742G>A (p.G2248R) in patient 1 and c.7181C>G (p.P2394R) in patient 2. Precise diagnosis was made for every patient based on clinical findings and genetic studies. We summarized the phenotype and COL7A1 mutations related to DEB‐na. We report a new phenotype of DEB‐na and two novel mutations in COL7A1. In addition, we emphasize the importance of careful clinical examination and genetic testing in the diagnosis of DEB‐na.
Likelihood Ratios for Deep Neural Networks in Face Comparison
Authors: Macarulla Rodriguez Andrea , Geradts Zeno , Worring Marcel
Published: May 2020

In this study, we aim to compare the performance of systems and forensic facial comparison experts in terms of likelihood ratio computation to assess the potential of the machine to support the human expert in the courtroom. In forensics, transparency in the methods is essential. Consequently, state‐of‐the‐art free software was preferred over commercial software. Three different open‐source automated systems chosen for their availability and clarity were as follows: OpenFace, SeetaFace, and FaceNet; all three based on convolutional neural networks that return a distance (OpenFace, FaceNet) or similarity (SeetaFace). The returned distance or similarity is converted to a likelihood ratio using three different distribution fits: parametric fit Weibull distribution, nonparametric fit kernel density estimation, and isotonic regression with pool adjacent violators algorithm. The results show that with low‐quality frontal images, automated systems have better performance to detect nonmatches than investigators: 100% of precision and specificity in confusion matrix against 89% and 86% obtained by investigators, but with good quality images forensic experts have better results. The rank correlation between investigators and software is around 80%. We conclude that the software can assist in reporting officers as it can do faster and more reliable comparisons with full‐frontal images, which can help the forensic expert in casework.
COVID‐19 and comorbidities: A role for dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) in disease severity?
Authors: Bassendine Margaret F. , Bridge Simon H. , McCaughan Geoffrey W. , Gorrell Mark D.
Published: May 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic is caused by a novel betacoronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), similar to SARS‐CoV and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS‐CoV), which cause acute respiratory distress syndrome and case fatalities. COVID‐19 disease severity is worse in older obese patients with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and chronic lung disease. Cell binding and entry of betacoronaviruses is via their surface spike glycoprotein; SARS‐CoV binds to the metalloprotease angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), MERS‐CoV utilizes dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4), and recent modeling of the structure of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike glycoprotein predicts that it can interact with human DPP4 in addition to ACE2. DPP4 is a ubiquitous membrane‐bound aminopeptidase that circulates in plasma; it is multifunctional with roles in nutrition, metabolism, and immune and endocrine systems. DPP4 activity differentially regulates glucose homeostasis and inflammation via its enzymatic activity and nonenzymatic immunomodulatory effects. The importance of DPP4 for the medical community has been highlighted by the approval of DPP4 inhibitors, or gliptins, for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. This review discusses the dysregulation of DPP4 in COVID‐19 comorbid conditions; DPP4 activity is higher in older individuals and increased plasma DPP4 is a predictor of the onset of metabolic syndrome. DPP4 upregulation may be a determinant of COVID‐19 disease severity, which creates interest regarding the use of gliptins in management of COVID‐19. Also, knowledge of the chemistry and biology of DPP4 could be utilized to develop novel therapies to block viral entry of some betacoronaviruses, potentially including SARS‐CoV‐2.
Rapid and accurate species identification for ecological studies and monitoring using CRISPR‐based SHERLOCK
Authors: Baerwald Melinda R. , Goodbla Alisha M. , Nagarajan Raman P. , Gootenberg Jonathan S. , Abudayyeh Omar O. , Zhang Feng , Schreier Andrea D.
Published: May 2020

One of the most fundamental aspects of ecological research and monitoring is accurate species identification, but cryptic speciation and observer error can confound phenotype‐based identification. The CRISPR‐Cas toolkit has facilitated remarkable advances in many scientific disciplines, but the fields of ecology and conservation biology have yet to fully embrace this powerful technology. The recently developed CRISPR‐Cas13a platform SHERLOCK (Specific High‐sensitivity Enzymatic Reporter unLOCKing) enables highly accurate taxonomic identification and has all the characteristics needed to transition to ecological and environmental disciplines. Here we conducted a series of “proof of principle” experiments to characterize SHERLOCK’s ability to accurately, sensitively and rapidly distinguish three fish species of management interest co‐occurring in the San Francisco Estuary that are easily misidentified in the field. We improved SHERLOCK’s ease of field deployment by combining the previously demonstrated rapid isothermal amplification and CRISPR genetic identification with a minimally invasive and extraction‐free DNA collection protocol, as well as the option of instrument‐free lateral flow detection. This approach opens the door for redefining how, where and by whom genetic identifications occur in the future.
Role of endothelin receptor type B (EDNRB) in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wei Feiran , Ge You , Li Wei , Wang Xuerong , Chen Baoan
Published: May 2020

Background

The five‐year survival rate of lung adenocarcinoma patients (LUAD) is very low,and the methods of predicting survival are a great obstacle for LUAD therapies. Endothelin receptor type B (EDNRB) gene is associated with tumorigenesis. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the predictive value of EDNRB on LUAD.

Methods

Survival analyses was performed to assess the correlation between EDNRB expression and survival of LUAD patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) datasets. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was conducted to illustrate possible biological functions of EDNRB. Laboratory methods were used to verify the function of EDNRB in LUAD.

Results

The TCGA results showed that a low expression of EDNRB was found in LUAD patients which led to poor outcome and worse survival, compared with the high expression in GSEA results which suggested that expression of EDNRB might be associated with regulation of the ERK pathway. Laboratory results suggested that EDNRB could inhibit the proliferation and migration of LUAD H1299 cells.

Conclusions

EDNRB is a potential prognostic marker for LUAD patients and might exert its functions by regulating the ERK pathway in LUAD.
Novel reverse radioisotope labelling experiment reveals carbon assimilation of marine calcifiers under ocean acidification conditions
Authors: Nishida Kozue , Chew Yue Chin , Miyairi Yosuke , Hirabayashi Shoko , Suzuki Atsushi , Hayashi Masahiro , Yamamoto Yuzo , Sato Mizuho , Nojiri Yukihiro , Yokoyama Yusuke
Published: May 2020

Ocean acidification by anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions is projected to depress metabolic and physiological activity in marine calcifiers. To evaluate the sensitivity of marine organisms against ocean acidification, the assimilation of nutrients into carbonate shells and soft tissues must be examined.

We designed a novel experimental protocol, reverse radioisotope labelling, to trace partitioning of nutrients within a single bivalve species under ocean acidification conditions. Injecting CO2 gas, free from radiocarbon, can provide a large contrast between carbon dissolved in the water and the one assimilated from atmosphere. By culturing modern aquifer organisms in acidified seawater, we were able to determine differences in the relative contributions of the end members, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in seawater and metabolic CO2, to shell carbonate and soft tissues.

Under all pCO2 conditions (463, 653, 872, 1,137 and 1,337 μatm), radiocarbon (Δ14C) values of the bivalve Scapharca broughtonii shell were significantly correlated with seawater DIC values; therefore, shell carbonate was derived principally from seawater DIC. The Δ14C results together with stable carbon isotope (δ13C) data suggest that in S. broughtonii shell δ13C may reflect the kinetics of isotopic equilibration as well as end‐member contributions; thus, care must be taken when analysing end‐member contributions by a previous method using δ13C. The insensitivity of S. broughtonii to perturbations in pCO2 up to at least 1,337 µatm indicates that this species can withstand ocean acidification.

Usage of radioisotope to dope for tracer experiments requires strict rules to conduct any operations. Yet, reverse radioisotope labelling proposing in this study has a large advantage and is a powerful tool to understanding physiology of aquifer organisms that can be applicable to various organisms and culture experiments, such as temperature, salinity and acidification experiments, to improve understanding of the proportions of nutrients taken in by marine organisms under changing environments.
Prevalence and geographical variation of dementia in New Zealand from 2012 to 2015: Brief report utilising routinely collected data within the Integrated Data Infrastructure
Authors: Walesby Katherine Elizabeth , Exeter Daniel John , Gibb Sheree , Wood Philip Clive , Starr John Michael , Russ Tom Charles
Published: May 2020

Objectives

There are no national dementia epidemiological studies using New Zealand (NZ) data. NZ routinely collects health‐care data within the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI). The study objectives were to 1) investigate late‐onset dementia estimates using the IDI between 2012‐2015 and compare these with 2) published estimates, and 3) variations between North and South Islands and ethnicity.

Methods

A population‐based, retrospective cohort design was applied to routinely collected de‐identified health/administrative IDI data. Dementia was defined by ICD‐10‐AM dementia codes or anti‐dementia drugs.

Results

Approximately 2% of those aged ≥60 years had dementia, lower than published estimates. Dementia was higher in North Island; in 80‐ to 89‐year‐olds; among the Māori population when age‐standardised, and 9% of all dementia cases had >1 dementia sub‐type.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study ascertaining dementia estimates using NZ’s whole‐of‐population IDI data. Estimates were lower than existing NZ estimates, for several reasons. Further work is required, including expanding IDI data sets, to develop future estimates that better reflect NZ’s diverse population.