bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral CD19+CD27+ Memory B Cells Are Associated with Protection from Recurrent Asymptomatic Ocular Herpes Infection
Authors: Dhanushkodi Nisha R. , Prakash Swayam , Srivastava Ruchi , Coulon Pierre-Gregoire A. , Arellano Danielle , Kapadia Rayomand V. , Fahim Raian , Suzer Berfin , Jamal Leila , BenMohamed Lbachir
Published: October 2021

Reactivation of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) from latently infected neurons of the trigeminal ganglia (TG) leads to blinding recurrent herpetic disease in symptomatic (SYMP) individuals. Although the role of T cells in herpes immunity seen in asymptomatic (ASYMP) individuals is heavily explored, the role of B cells is less investigated. In the present study, we evaluated whether B cells are associated with protective immunity against recurrent ocular herpes. The frequencies of circulating HSV-specific memory B cells and of memory follicular helper T cells (CD4+ Tfh cells), that help B cells produce antibodies, were compared between HSV-1 infected SYMP and ASYMP individuals. The levels of IgG/IgA and neutralizing antibodies were compared in SYMP and ASYMP individuals. We found that: (i) the ASYMP individuals had increased frequencies of HSV-specific CD19+CD27+ memory B cells; and (ii) high frequencies of HSV-specific switched IgG+CD19+CD27+ memory B cells detected in ASYMP individuals were directly proportional to high frequencies of CD45R0+CXCR5+CD4+ memory Tfh cells. However, no differences were detected in the level of HSV-specific IgG/IgA antibodies in SYMP and ASYMP individuals. Using the UV-B-induced HSV-1 reactivation mouse model, we found increased frequencies of HSV-specific antibody-secreting plasma HSV-1 gD+CD138+ B cells within the TG and circulation of ASYMP mice compared to SYMP mice. In contrast, no significant differences in the frequencies of B cells were found in the cornea, spleen, and bone-marrow. Our findings suggest that circulating antibody-producing HSV-specific memory B cells recruited locally to the TG may contribute to protection from symptomatic recurrent ocular herpes.

IMPORTANCE

Reactivation of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) from latently infected neurons of the trigeminal ganglia (TG) leads to blinding recurrent herpetic disease in symptomatic (SYMP) individuals. Although the role of T cells in herpes immunity against blinding recurrent herpetic disease is heavily explored, the role of B cells is less investigated. In the present study, we found that in both asymptomatic (ASYMP) individuals and ASYMP mice there was increased frequencies of HSV-specific memory B cells that were directly proportional to high frequencies of memory Tfh cells. Moreover, following UV-B induce reactivation, we found increased frequencies of HSV-specific antibody-secreting plasma B cells within the TG and circulation of ASYMP mice, compared to SYMP mice. Our findings suggest that circulating antibody-producing HSV-specific memory B cells recruited locally to the TG may contribute to protection from recurrent ocular herpes.
Regulation of Sox8 through lncRNA Mrhl mediated chromatin looping in mouse spermatogonia
Authors: Kayyar Bhavana , Ravikkumar Anjhana C. , Bhaduri Utsa , Rao M.R.S
Published: October 2021

Sox8 is a developmentally important transcription factor that plays an important role in sex maintenance and fertility of adult mice. In the B-type spermatogonial cells, Sox8 is regulated by the lncRNA Mrhl in a p68-dependant manner under the control of the Wnt signalling pathway. The downregulation of Mrhl leads to the meiotic commitment of the spermatogonial cells in a Sox8-dependant manner. While the molecular players involved in the regulation of transcription at the Sox8 promoter have been worked out, our current study points to the involvement of the architectural proteins CTCF and cohesin in mediating a chromatin loop that brings the Sox8 promoter in contact with a silencer element present within the gene body in the presence of lncRNA Mrhl concomitant with transcriptional repression. Further, lncRNA Mrhl interacts with the Sox8 locus through the formation of a DNA:DNA:RNA triplex which is necessary for the recruitment of PRC2 to the locus. The downregulation of lncRNA Mrhl results in the promoter-silencer loop giving way to a promoter-enhancer loop. This active transcription associated chromatin loop is mediated by YY1 and brings the promoter in contact with the enhancer present downstream of the gene.
Detecting respiratory chain deficiency in osteoblasts of older patients
Authors: Hipps Daniel , Dobson Philip , Warren Charlotte , McDonald David , Fuller Andrew , Filby Andrew , Bulmer David , Laude Alex , Russell Oliver , Turnbull Doug M , Deehan David , Lawless Conor
Published: October 2021

Mitochondria contain their own genome which encodes 13 essential mitochondrial proteins and accumulates somatic variants at up to 10 times the rate of the nuclear genome. These mitochondrial genome variants lead to respiratory chain deficiency and cellular dysfunction. Work with the PolgAmut/PolgAmut mouse model, which has a high mitochondrial DNA mutation rate, showed enhanced levels of age related osteoporosis in affected mice along with respiratory chain deficiency in osteoblasts. To explore whether respiratory chain deficiency is also seen in human osteoblasts with age, we developed a protocol and analysis framework for imaging mass cytometry (IMC) in bone tissue sections to analyse osteoblasts in situ. We have demonstrated significant increases in complex I deficiency with age in human osteoblasts. This work is consistent with findings from the PolgAmut/PolgAmut mouse model and suggests that respiratory chain deficiency, as a consequence of the accumulation of age related mitochondrial DNA mutations, may have a significant role to play in the pathogenesis of human age related osteoporosis.
Red cell folate status among a subset of Canadian children with Down Syndrome post-fortification
Authors: Jory Joan
Published: October 2021

Background

Trisomy 21 or Down Syndrome (DS) is associated with altered methylation pathways. Children with DS may therefore represent a population subgroup with vulnerability to increased exposures to folic acid, which is involved in one-carbon metabolism. Folic acid (FA) fortification of flour and maternal FA supplementation are intended to reduce neural tube defects related to folate deficiency. The interventions have been widely successful in Canada. Emerging evidence suggests that higher FA exposures may also have potential negative consequences, including implications for DNA methylation. This retrospective chart review provides insight on the RBC folate status of a subset of Canadian children and infants with DS, post-fortification.

Method

Children with DS in 2 Canadian provinces were assessed in the community. Access to RBC folate testing was variable, limiting sample size to 39 (n=27 for children ≤ 6 years; n=12 for children 6-18 years). All children with DS and an RBC folate result were included. Use of FA-containing supplements and formula was documented.

Results

Among children 6-18 years, 100% had RBC folates > 1000 nmol/L, 50% were > 2000 nmol/L and 25% had levels above the reporting limit. Among the younger children (< 6 years), 52 % had RBC folates >2000 nmol and 2 children exceeded 3000 nmol/L. Among exclusively breast-fed infants (<12 months), 100% had RBC folates > 1000 nmol/L and 50% had levels > 2000 nmol/L, suggestive of in-utero or maternal exposures. RBC folate status among this subset of Canadian children with DS is higher than documented for the larger Canadian population, and higher than among US children with DS.

Conclusions

Young Canadian children with DS demonstrated high post-fortification RBC folate status. RBC folate status was higher than reported for the larger Canadian population, and higher than for US children with Down Syndrome. Consumption of folic acid-containing formula and/or supplements was relatively low among these Canadian children with DS, suggesting maternal FA supplements and/or FA-fortified foods may be important etiological factors. A larger, prospective study is needed to validate these results, and to explore potential health implications among this vulnerable population.
Variation in influenza vaccine assessment, receipt, and refusal by the concentration of Medicare Advantage enrollees in U.S. nursing homes
Authors: Moyo Patience , Bosco Elliott , Bardenheier Barbara H. , Rivera-Hernandez Maricruz , van Aalst Robertus , Chit Ayman , Gravenstein Stefan , Zullo Andrew R.
Published: October 2021

Background

More older adults enrolled in Medicare Advantage (MA) are entering nursing homes (NHs), and MA concentration could affect vaccination rates through shifts in resident characteristics and/or payer related influences on preventive services use. We investigated whether rates of influenza vaccination and refusal differ across NHs with varying concentrations of MA-enrolled residents.

Methods

We analyzed 2014-2015 Medicare enrollment data and Minimum Data Set clinical assessments linked to NH-level characteristics, star ratings, and county-level MA penetration rates. The independent variable was the percentage of residents enrolled in MA at admission and categorized into three groups. We examined three NH-level outcomes: percentage of residents assessed and appropriately provided the influenza vaccine, receiving influenza vaccine, and refusing influenza vaccine.

Results

There were 936,513 long-stay residents in 12,384 NHs. Categories for the prevalence of MA enrollment in NHs were low (0% to 3.3%; n=4131 NHs), moderate (3.4% to 18.6%; n=4127 NHs) and high (>18.6%; n=4126 NHs). Adjusting for covariates, influenza vaccination rates among long-stay residents were higher in NHs with moderate (1.7%,P<0.0001), or high (3.1%,P<0.0001) MA versus the lowest prevalence of MA. Influenza vaccine refusal was lower in NHs with moderate (−3.1%,P<0.0001), or high (−4.6%P<0.0001) MA compared with NHs with the lowest prevalence of MA. Among 753,616 short-stay residents in 12,205 NHs, there was no association between MA concentration and influenza vaccination receipt but vaccine refusal was greater in NHs with higher MA prevalence (high or moderate vs. low MA: 5.2%,P<0.0001).

Conclusion

The relationship between MA concentration and influenza vaccination measures varied among post-acute and long-term NH residents. As MA takes a larger role in the Medicare program, and more MA beneficiaries enter NHs, there is need to consider how managed care can be leveraged to improve the delivery of preventive services such as influenza vaccinations in NH settings.
Information, Involvement, Self-care and Support - The Needs of Caregivers of People with Stroke: A Grounded Theory Approach
Authors: Lobo Elton H. , Frølich Anne , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Rasmussen Lene J. , Grundy John , Livingston Patricia M. , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Kensing Finn
Published: October 2021

Background

Globally, stroke is a leading cause of death and disability, with most care undertaken by caregivers who are generally family and friends without prior experience of care. The lack of experience or unpreparedness results in feelings of uncertainty, burnout, anxiety, burden, etc. Hence, it is necessary to identify the needs of caregivers to support them in their caregiving journey better and improve the quality of care delivered.

Methods

The study employed a grounded theory methodology that utilizes information gathered from literature reviews and social media to represent the needs and create a storyline visually. The storyline is further refined and evaluated using an online survey of 72 participants recruited through online stroke caregiving communities.

Results

The study identified four core categories of needs, i.e., information, involvement, self-care and support that need to be delivered at appropriate times to ensure the caregivers feel prepared to assume their role of care and are supported throughout the care trajectory.

Conclusions

There is a need to create a caregiver-centered approach in stroke recovery to ensure limited obstruction to care and reduced uncertainty in recovery. Moreover, through the inclusion of caregivers in the recovery process, it may be possible to reduce the burden of care to the caregiver and ensure the satisfaction of the healthcare system throughout recovery.
Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 immune responses in nursing home residents following full dose of the Comirnaty® COVID-19 vaccine
Authors: Giménez Estela , Alberola Juan , Torres Ignacio , Albert Eliseo , Alcaraz María Jesús , Botija Pilar , Amat Paula , Remigia María José , Beltrán María José , Rodado Celia , Huntley Dixie , Olea Beatriz , Navarro David
Published: October 2021

Objectives

There is scarce information as to the durability of immune responses elicited by the Comirnaty® COVID-19 vaccine in nursing home residents. Here, we assessed SARS-CoV-2-Spike (S)-targeted antibody and functional T cell responses at around 6 months after complete vaccination.

Methods

The sample comprised 46 residents (34 females; age, 60-100 years), of whom 10 had COVID-19 prior to vaccination. Baseline (median of 17.5 days after vaccination) and follow-up (median, 195 days) plasma specimens were available for quantitation of SARS-CoV-2-S antibodies and enumeration of SARS-CoV-2-S-reactive IFN-γ CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by flow cytometry.

Results

In total, 44/45 participants had detectable SARS-CoV-2-S antibodies at follow-up. Overall, antibody levels were found to decrease (median, 4.8 fold). Antibodies waning was more frequent (P<0.001) in SARS-CoV-2 naïve (29/35) than in recovered (1/10) residents. SARS-CoV-2-S IFN-γ CD8+ T cells were detected in 33/46 and 24/46 at baseline and follow-up, respectively. The figures for CD4+ T cell counterparts were 12/46 and 30/46. Detectable SARS-CoV-2 IFN-γ CD8+ and CD4+ T cell responses at follow-up were more common in recovered (8/10 and 7/10, respectively) than in naïve residents (9/36 and 25/36, respectively). For those with detectable responses at both time points, SARS-CoV-2-S IFN-γ CD8+ T cell frequencies decreased significantly (P=0.001) over time whereas the opposite (P=0.01) was observed in CD4+ T cells.

Conclusion

Almost all residents displayed detectable SARS-CoV-2-S-reactive antibodies and T cell responses, respectively, by around 6 months after complete vaccination with Comirnaty® COVID-19 vaccine, albeit generally waning in magnitude over time.
A joint hierarchical model for the number of cases and deaths due to COVID-19 across the boroughs of Montreal
Authors: Michal Victoire , Vanciu Leo , Schmidt Alexandra M.
Published: October 2021

Montreal is the epicentre of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada with highest number of deaths. The cumulative numbers of cases and deaths in the 33 areas of Montreal are modelled through bivariate hierarchical Bayesian models using Poisson distributions. The Poisson means are decomposed in the log scale as the sums of fixed effects and latent effects. The areal median age, the educational level, and the number of beds in long-term care homes are included in the fixed effects. To explore the correlation between cases and deaths inside and across areas, three bivariate models are considered for the latent effects, namely an independent one, a conditional autoregressive model, and one that allows for both spatially structured and unstructured sources of variability. As the inclusion of spatial effects change some of the fixed effects, we extend the Spatial+ approach to a Bayesian areal set up to investigate the presence of spatial confounding.
Impact of Essential Genes on the Success of Genome Editing Experiments Generating 3,313 New Genetically Engineered Mouse Lines
Authors: Elrick Hillary , Peterson Kevin A. , Willis Brandon J. , Lanza Denise G. , Acar Elif F. , Ryder Edward J. , Teboul Lydia , Kasparek Petr , Birling Marie-Christine , Adams David J. , Bradley Allan , Braun Robert E. , Brown Steve D. , Caulder Adam , Codner Gemma F. , DeMayo Francesco J. , Dickinson Mary E. , Doe Brendan , Duddy Graham , Gertsenstein Marina , Goodwin Leslie O. , Hérault Yann , Lintott Lauri G. , Lloyd K. C. Kent , Lorenzo Isabel , Mackenzie Matthew , Mallon Ann-Marie , McKerlie Colin , Parkinson Helen , Ramirez-Solis Ramiro , Seavitt John R. , Sedlacek Radislav , Skarnes William C. , Smedley Damien , Wells Sara , White Jacqueline K. , Wood Joshua A. ,   International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium, Murray Stephen A. , Heaney Jason D. , Nutter Lauryl M. J.
Published: October 2021

The International Mouse Phenotyping Consortium (IMPC) systematically produces and phenotypes mouse lines with presumptive null mutations to provide insight into gene function. The IMPC now uses the programmable RNA-guided nuclease Cas9 for its increased capacity and flexibility to efficiently generate null alleles in the C57BL/6N strain. In addition to being a valuable novel and accessible research resource, the production of 3,313 knockout mouse lines using comparable protocols provides a rich dataset to analyze experimental and biological variables affectingin vivogene engineering with Cas9. Mouse line production has two critical steps – generation of founders with the desired allele and germline transmission (GLT) of that allele from founders to offspring. A systematic evaluation of the variables impacting success rates identified gene essentiality as the primary factor influencing successful production of null alleles. Collectively, our findings provide best practice recommendations for using Cas9 to generate alleles in mouse essential genes, many of which are orthologs of genes linked to human disease.
Imbalance between IL-36 receptor agonist and antagonist drives neutrophilic inflammation in COPD
Authors: Baker Jonathan R , Fenwick Peter S , Koss Carolin K , Owles Harriet B , Elkin Sarah L , Thomas Matthew , Fine Jay , Kasmi Karim C El , Barnes Peter J , Donnelly Louise E
Published: October 2021

Current treatments fail to modify the underlying pathophysiology and disease progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), necessitating novel therapies. Here, we show that COPD patients have increased IL-36γ and decreased IL-36 receptor antagonist (IL-36Ra) in bronchoalveolar and nasal fluid compared to control subjects. IL-36γ is derived mainly from small airway epithelial cells (SAEC) and further induced by a viral mimetic, whereas IL-36RA is derived from macrophages. IL-36γ stimulates release of the neutrophil chemoattractants CXCL1 and CXCL8, as well as elastolytic matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) from small airway fibroblasts (SAF). Proteases released from COPD neutrophils cleave and activate IL-36γ thereby perpetuating IL-36 inflammation. Transfer of culture media from SAEC to SAF stimulated release of CXCL1, that was inhibited by exogenous IL-36RA. The use of a therapeutic antibody that inhibits binding to the IL-36 receptor (IL-36R) attenuated IL-36γ driven inflammation and cellular cross talk. We have demonstrated a novel mechanism for the amplification and propagation of neutrophilic inflammation in COPD and that blocking this cytokine family via a IL-36R neutralising antibody could be a promising new therapeutic strategy in the treatment of COPD.
Post translational modification of duplicated ribosomal protein paralogs promotes alternative translation and drug resistance
Authors: Malik-Ghulam Mustafa , Catala Mathieu , Scott Michelle S. , Elela Sherif Abou
Published: October 2021

Ribosomes are often seen as monolithic machines produced from uniformly regulated genes. However, in yeast most ribosomal proteins are produced from duplicated genes. Here, we demonstrate that gene duplications may serve as a stress response mechanism that modulates the global proteome through differential post-translational modification of ribosomal proteins paralogs. Our data indicate that the yeast paralog pair of the ribosomal protein L7/uL30 produces two differentially acetylated proteins. Under normal conditions most ribosomes incorporate the hypo-acetylated ‘major’ form favoring the translation of genes with short open reading frames. Exposure to drugs, on the other hand, increases the production of ribosomes carrying the hyper-acetylated minor paralog that increases translation of long reading frames. Many of these genes encode cell wall proteins that increase drug resistance in a programed change in translation equilibrium. Together the data reveal a mechanism of translation control through the differential fates of near-identical ribosomal protein isoforms.
Dramatic consequences of reducing erythrocyte membrane cholesterol on Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Ahiya Avantika I. , Bhatnagar Suyash , Morrisey Joanne , Beck Josh R. , Vaidya Akhil B.
Published: October 2021

Cholesterol is the most abundant lipid in the erythrocyte. During its blood stage development, the malaria parasite establishes an active cholesterol gradient across the various membrane systems within the infected erythrocyte. Interestingly, some antimalarial compounds have recently been shown to disrupt cholesterol homeostasis in intraerythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum. These studies point to the importance of cholesterol for parasite growth. Previously, reduction of cholesterol from the erythrocyte membrane by treatment with methyl-ß-cyclodextrin (MßCD) was shown to inhibit parasite invasion and growth. In addition, MßCD treatment of trophozoite stage P. falciparum was shown to result in parasite expulsion from the host cell. We have revisited these phenomena by using live video microscopy, ultrastructural analysis, and response to antimalarial compounds. By using time-lapse video microscopy of fluorescently tagged parasites, we show that MßCD treatment for just 30 min causes dramatic expulsion of the trophozoite stage parasites. This forceful expulsion occurs within 10 sec. Remarkably, the plasma membrane of the host cell from which the parasite has been expelled does not appear to be compromised. The parasitophorous vacuolar membrane (PVM) continued to surround the extruded parasite, but the PVM appeared damaged. Treatment with antimalarial compounds targeting PfATP4 or PfNCR1 prevented MßCD-mediated extrusion of the parasites, pointing to a potential role of cholesterol dynamics underlying the expulsion phenomena. We also confirmed the essential role of erythrocyte plasma membrane cholesterol for invasion and growth of P. falciparum. This defect can be partially complemented by cholesterol and desmosterol but not with epicholesterol, revealing stereospecificity underlying cholesterol function. Overall, our studies advance previous observations and reveal unusual cell biological features underlying cholesterol depletion of infected erythrocyte plasma membrane.

Importance

Malaria remains a major challenge in much of the world. Symptoms of malaria are caused by the growth of parasites belonging to Plasmodium spp. inside the red blood cells (RBC), leading to their destruction. The parasite depends upon its host for much of its nutritional need. Cholesterol is a major lipid in the RBC plasma membrane, which is the only source of this lipid for malarial parasites. We have previously shown that certain new antimalarial compounds disrupt cholesterol homeostasis in P. falciparum. Here we use live time-lapse video microscopy to show dramatic expulsion of the parasite from the host RBC when the cholesterol content of the RBC is reduced. Remarkably, this expulsion is inhibited by the antimalarials that disrupt lipid homeostasis. We also show stereospecificity of cholesterol in supporting parasite growth inside RBC. Overall, these results point to a critical role of cholesterol in physiology of malaria parasites.
The protein folding rate and the geometry and topology of the native state
Authors: Wang Jason , Panagiotou Eleni
Published: October 2021

Proteins fold in 3-dimensional conformations which are important for their function. Characterizing the global conformation of proteins rigorously and separating secondary structure effects from topological effects is a challenge. New developments in Applied Knot Theory allow to characterize the topological characteristics of proteins (knotted or not). By analyzing a small set of two-state and multi-state proteins with no knots or slipknots, our results show that 95.4% of the analyzed proteins have non-trivial topological characteristics, as reflected by the second Vassiliev measure, and that the logarithm of the experimental protein folding rate depends on both the local geometry and the topology of the protein’s native state.
Severity of thermal burn injury is associated with systemic neutrophil activation
Authors: Laggner Maria , Lingitz Marie-Therese , Copic Dragan , Direder Martin , Klas Katharina , Bormann Daniel , Gugerell Alfred , Moser Bernhard , Radtke Christine , Hacker Stefan , Mildner Michael , Ankersmit Hendrik Jan , Haider Thomas
Published: October 2021

Objectives

Burn injuries elicit a unique and dynamic stress response which can lead to burn injury progression. Though neutrophils represent crucial players in the burn-induced immunological events, the dynamic secretion pattern and systemic levels of neutrophil-derived factors have not been investigated in detail so far.

Methods

Serum levels of neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO), citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3), and complement factor C3a were quantified in burn victims over 4 weeks post injury. Furthermore, the potential association with mortality, degree of burn injury, and inhalation trauma was evaluated. In addition, leukocyte, platelet, neutrophil, and lymphocyte counts were assessed. Lastly, we analyzed the association of neutrophil-derived factors with clinical severity scoring systems.

Results

Serum levels of NE, MPO, CitH3, and C3a were remarkably elevated in burn victims compared to healthy controls. Leukocyte and neutrophil counts were significantly increased on admission day and day 1, while relative lymphocytes were decreased in the first 7 days post burn trauma. Though neutrophil-derived factors did not predict mortality, patients suffering from 3rd degree burn injuries displayed increased CitH3 and NE levels. Accordingly, CitH3 and NE were elevated in cases with higher abbreviated burn severity indices (ABSI).

Conclusions

Taken together, our data suggest a role for neutrophil activation and NETosis in burn injuries and burn injury progression. Targeting exacerbated neutrophil activation might represent a new therapeutic option for severe cases of burn injury.
Differential geometry methods for constructing manifold-targeted recurrent neural networks
Authors: Claudi Federico , Branco Tiago
Published: October 2021

Neural computations can be framed as dynamical processes, whereby the structure of the dynamics within a neural network are a direct reflection of the computations that the network performs. A key step in generating mechanistic interpretations within thiscomputation through dynamicsframework is to establish the link between network connectivity, dynamics and computation. This link is only partly understood. Recent work has focused on producing algorithms for engineering artificial recurrent neural networks (RNN) with dynamics targeted to a specific goal manifold. Some of these algorithms only require a set of vectors tangent to the target manifold to be computed, and thus provide a general method that can be applied to a diverse set of problems. Nevertheless, computing such vectors for an arbitrary manifold in a high dimensional state space remains highly challenging, which in practice limits the applicability of this approach. Here we demonstrate how topology and differential geometry can be leveraged to simplify this task, by first computing tangent vectors on a low-dimensional topological manifold and then embedding these in state space. The simplicity of this procedure greatly facilitates the creation of manifold-targeted RNNs, as well as the process of designing task-solving on-manifold dynamics. This new method should enable the application of network engineering-based approaches to a wide set of problems in neuroscience and machine learning. Furthermore, our description of how fundamental concepts from differential geometry can be mapped onto different aspects of neural dynamics is a further demonstration of how the language of differential geometry can enrich the conceptual framework for describing neural dynamics and computation.
Fluorescence exclusion: a rapid, accurate and powerful method for measuring yeast cell volume
Authors: García-Ruano Daniel , Jain Akanksha , Ryan Joseph C. , Balasubramaniam Vasanthakrishnan Radhakrishnan , Venkova Larisa , Piel Matthieu , Coudreuse Damien
Published: October 2021

Cells exist in an astonishing range of volumes across and within species. However, our understanding of cell size control remains limited, due in large part to the challenges associated with accurate determination of cell volume. Much of our comprehension of size regulation derives from models such as budding and fission yeast, but even for these morphologically stereotypical cells, assessment of cell volume has relied on proxies and extrapolations from two-dimensional measurements. Recently, the fluorescence exclusion method (FXm) was developed to evaluate the size of mammalian cells, but whether it could be applied to smaller cells remained unknown. Using specifically designed microfluidic chips and an improved data analysis pipeline, we show here that FXm reliably detects subtle difference in the volume of fission yeast cells, even for those with altered shapes. Moreover, it allows for the monitoring of dynamic volume changes at the single-cell level with high time resolution. Collectively, our work reveals how coupling FXm with yeast genetics will bring new insights into the complex biology of cell growth.

SUMMARY STATEMENT

Fluorescence exclusion provides a unique method to accurately measure the volume of yeast cells at both the population and single-cell levels.
Laser heating system at the Extreme Conditions Beamline, P02.2, PETRA III
Authors: Konôpková Zuzana , Morgenroth Wolfgang , Husband Rachel , Giordano Nico , Pakhomova Anna , Gutowski Olof , Wendt Mario , Glazyrin Konstantin , Ehnes Anita , Delitz Jan Torben , Goncharov Alexander F. , Prakapenka Vitali B. , Liermann Hanns-Peter
Published: October 2021

A laser heating system for samples confined in diamond anvil cells paired with in situ X-ray diffraction measurements at the Extreme Conditions Beamline of PETRA III is presented. The system features two independent laser configurations (on-axis and off-axis of the X-ray path) allowing for a broad range of experiments using different designs of diamond anvil cells. The power of the continuous laser source can be modulated for use in various pulsed laser heating or flash heating applications. An example of such an application is illustrated here on the melting curve of iron at megabar pressures. The optical path of the spectroradiometry measurements is simulated with ray-tracing methods in order to assess the level of present aberrations in the system and the results are compared with other systems, that are using simpler lens optics. Based on the ray-tracing the choice of the first achromatic lens and other aspects for accurate temperature measurements are evaluated.
Towards better library services: an investigation of factors affecting tourists’ satisfaction with “library + cultural tourism”
Authors: Pan Ying , Sun Lia H. , Yang Heqing , Zheng Jianming
Published: October 2021

Purpose

“Library + cultural tourism” (LCT) is a new direction for the sustainable development of libraries, but few scholars have researched it from a tourist perspective. The purpose of this paper is to identify what factors affect tourist satisfaction (TS) with LCT, reveal the interaction among these factors and provide strategies for better library services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected 5,308 comments on Tianjin Binhai Library from three popular online travel communities. Grounded theory was adopted to identify what factors affect TS with LCT and reveal the interaction among these factors.

Findings

The results indicated that TS with LCT was affected by complex factors related to tour plans, tour expectations, cultural characteristics, environment, support services and emotions. Cultural characteristics, environment and support services were impacted by tour plans and tour expectations, which directly or indirectly affected TS mediated by emotions. TS further influenced their expectation of their next tour.

Originality/value

This paper uncovered critical problems with LCT using a case study of Tianjin Binhai Library. The results provide a reference for library practitioners to develop better library services for tourists and regular users/readers.
The relevance of relational capabilities in collaborative decisions
Authors: Della Corte Valentina , Aria Massimo , Del Gaudio Giovanna , Barney Jay Brian , Cobanoglu Cihan , Sepe Fabiana
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to focus on inter-firm collaboration, exploring the main capabilities that can make a business more or less open to collaboration; it also considers the role of both firm-specific and relationship-specific capabilities. The paper proposes a model that can be used to study how the combination of the two categories of capabilities determines a firm’s approach to collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a survey of high-end hotels in tourist destinations in Italy and the USA, this paper tests variable connected with firm-specific and relationship-specific aspects, using confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

Firms with greater capabilities are less open to cooperation; weaker firms with fewer resources appear to be more inclined to cooperate, probably to gain access to resources and competencies they do not possess.

Research limitations/implications

From a scientific perspective, this paper suggests an analysis based on both individual and relational capabilities when deciding whether to collaborate, while most studies based on a relational view just consider relational capabilities. The study could be enlarged to other countries and contexts.

Practical implications

From a practical perspective, it indicates the importance of accounting for different and sometimes diverging aspects when deciding to cooperate.

Social implications

In terms of social implications, it shows that, apart from the relational capabilities they have, potential partners can decide not to collaborate.

Originality/value

The paper suggests a method of analyzing both individual and relational capabilities when deciding whether to engage in a collaboration. It shows that firms’ behavior does not necessarily depend on the firm’s relational capabilities.
Can human resource flexibility disentangle innovative work behavior among hospitality employees? The roles of harmonious passion and regulatory foci
Authors: Luu Tuan Trong
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The ongoing improvement of hospitality services stems from innovative behavior among employees. This study aims to investigate how and when human resource (HR) flexibility promotes hospitality employees’ innovative work behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were garnered from 438 employees and 67 managers from 19 hotels operating in Vietnam. Multilevel structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The positive association was observed between HR flexibility and innovative work behavior. Harmonious passion functioned as a mediator for such a relationship. While promotion focus was found to positively interact with HR flexibility to predict employee harmonious passion, prevention focus demonstrated an attenuating effect on the association between HR flexibility and harmonious passion.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that hospitality organizations can promote innovative work behavior among employees through building skill and behavioral flexibility, as well as flexibility in HR practices. Hospitality organizations should also realize the role of harmonious passion as a mechanism that can channel HR flexibility into innovative work behavior and the interactive effect of promotion focus and HR flexibility on fostering harmonious passion and, in turn, innovative work behavior.

Originality/value

This inquiry advances the strand of research on the HR management-innovative behavior linkage by offering insights into how and when HR flexibility promotes innovative work behavior among hotel employees.
Family supportive supervisor behavior and promotive voice: When and why are there gender differences in work–family?
Authors: Li Shuwen , Jia Ruiqian , Sun Rui
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the differential association of family supportive supervisor behavior on promotive voice under different gender. Further, while employees’ self-concept factors have received considerable attention in the research on the triggering mechanism of employee voice, the authors’ knowledge about how and when family factors affect employee voice remains underdeveloped.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the resource conservation theory and gender role theory, the authors constructed a research model to investigate the influence and boundary of family supportive supervisor behavior on employee promotive voice and tested their research model using a paired data of 332 married employees and their direct supervisors of enterprises in China.

Findings

The findings suggest that family supportive supervisor behavior has a positive effect on employee promotive voice. Family supportive supervisor behavior can strengthen employee promotive voice by improving work-to-family enrichment and reducing work–family conflict, yet no significant mediation effect was found regarding family-to-work enrichment and conflict. Furthermore, family supportive supervisor behavior is more likely to improve female employee work–family enrichment and assuage male employee work–family conflict and thus enhance employee promotive voice.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the different influential paths of family supportive supervisor behavior on promotive voice of employees of different genders and provides references for enterprises to motivate employees’ promotive voice.
Implications of the UK Equality Law for tele-homeworking: COVID-19 and beyond
Authors: Nath Vandana , Lockwood Graeme
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the practical and legal complexities associated with tele-homeworking in the context of the UK Equality Law. First, the paper provides a background to the recent growth of tele-homeworking as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, outlining the tenets of the UK Equality Act 2010 and referring to additional legislation pertinent to the ensuing discussion. Second, illustrative case law relevant to the UK Equality Law is put forward to demonstrate the potential challenges that employers and employees might encounter with continued and longer-term tele-homeworking arrangements. Third, the paper outlines implications for employers and human resource managers in terms of policies and practices that might shape the nature of the employment relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a review of the literature and an examination of UK case law applicable to tele-homeworking, taking into consideration equality, diversity and inclusion concerns in the workplace.

Findings

Remote working can be beneficial to both employers and employees. However, there are a number of significant concerns surrounding the management of tele-homeworkers in the aftermath of the pandemic that can act as a stimulus for legal disputes around discrimination, infringement of human rights and breach of contract claims. Several policy implications surface from the analysis that relate to equality and fair treatment associated with both current and future work arrangements.

Originality/value

The paper is significant in offering legal insights into how the UK Equality Law relates to the complexities associated with the management of tele-homeworkers. The study also highlights how return-to-office undertakings might need to consider wider legal issues. COVID-19 and its repercussions have demanded the reorganisation of work, which can give rise to a greater possibility of legal challenges and the study highlights the importance of employers undertaking an evaluation of their equality practices and complying with the legal framework.
Innovation for organizational sustainability: the role of HR practices and theories
Authors: Dwivedi Preeti , Chaturvedi Vijit , Vashist Jugal Kishore
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to estimate the influence of HR practices and theories on organizational sustainability. The research also examines the role of innovation as a mediator among the relationship of HR practices and theories and organizational sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on the survey conducted among 386 employees of logistics firms across India. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) approaches were used for analysis. Approach proposed by Baron and Kenny (1986) was used to test the mediating effect.

Findings

The study finds that HR practices and theories have positive and significant influence on organizational sustainability. The research also reveals that after introducing innovation as a construct, it partially mediated the association of HR practices and theories and organizational sustainability.

Originality/value

The study inspects the extent to which innovation can acts as a mediator between the relationship of HR practices and theories and organizational sustainability in logistics sector in India, which has not been established in past studies.
Education for sustainable development in Spanish higher education: an assessment of sustainability competencies in engineering and education degrees
Authors: Sánchez-Carracedo Fermín , Romero-Portillo Daniel , Sureda Carbonell Bàrbara , Moreno-Pino Francisco Manuel
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present a methodology for analysing the extent to which students of a university degree perceive that they have received a good education for sustainable development (ESD). The methodology enables us to quantify this perception, which, in turn, allows us to determine: to what extent the objectives related to ESD are achieved in the degree, and to compare the learning in ESD perceived by students of different degrees. The methodology is applied to nine engineering degrees and nine education degrees in the Spanish university system.

Design/methodology/approach

ESD is analysed from the students’ learning perception. This perception is measured by comparing the responses of first- and fourth-year students to a questionnaire about their sustainability competencies. Two indicators have been designed to analyse the results. The first indicator, learning increase, measures the declared learning difference between fourth- and first-year students. The second indicator, learning percentage, measure the amount of learning as reported by fourth-year students compared to how much they could have learned.

Findings

The results show that the average learning percentage perceived by students is higher in engineering degrees (33%) than in education degrees (27%), despite the fact that the average learning increase declared by students at the end of their studies in both areas of knowledge is similar (66%). Engineering students report having achieved higher learning than education students in all sustainability competencies, with the exception of ethics.

Originality/value

This paper analyses ESD from the student’s perspective. Furthermore, to the knowledge of the authors, this is the first study that compares the perception of ESD between engineering and education students. This comparison allows us to determine the different approaches that university Professors take to ESD according to the discipline they teach.
Proactive and reactive responses to pregnancies resulting from sexual exploitation and abuse: an ecological model based on Haitian survivors’ experiences
Authors: Vahedi Luissa , Lee Sabine , A. Bartels Susan
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the lived experience of seeking justice and reparations related to conceiving a peacekeeper-fathered child.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on 18 semi-structured qualitative interviews conducted across Haiti in 2017, the authors mapped the experiences of Haitian mothers of peacekeeper-fathered children onto the ecological framework, proposing prevention/response strategies at the micro, meso and macro levels.

Findings

The findings mainly focus on reporting and access to support. Reporting was sometimes discouraged by the peacekeeper fathers due to the fear of being reprimanded. Among women who did report, some were told that nothing could be done, as the peacekeeper returned to his home country. Disclosure fatigue was common among participants who formally reported their pregnancies/peacekeeper-fathered children, particularly when promises of employment or child support failed to materialize. Overall, there was widespread distrust and disillusionment with the UN’s reporting and support system.

Originality/value

To improve the UN’s sexual abuse and exploitation prevention/response system at the micro level, the authors propose addressing personal knowledge/attitudes/beliefs through scenario-based and contextually relevant peacekeeper training and addressing the sexual/reproductive health needs of women and girls in proximity to peacekeeping bases. At the meso level, the UN should improve trust in reporting. Efforts to do so should include mandatory third-party deoxyribonucleic acid testing and banking, streamlined reporting mechanisms and removing the practice of automatically repatriating implicated peacekeepers. At the macro level, the authors recommend investments to improve educational and economic opportunities for women and girls, as well as revamping policies that contribute to impunity and absolve peacekeepers and troop-contributing countries of their responsibilities to provide child support.
Organizing sports events: the promoters’ perspective
Authors: Brochado Ana , Dionísio Pedro , Leal Maria do Carmo , Bouchet Adrien , Conceição Henrique
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to develop a battery of items that assess the factors affecting sports events’ success from the promoters’ perspective and a measurement tool that identifies these stakeholders’ main priorities based on the importance-performance analysis (IPA) framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted using mixed methods. In the first qualitative step, sports event management’s main dimensions were identified based on the existing literature and a comprehensive battery of corresponding items were developed via content analysis of interviews with experts. The second quantitative step focused on Lisbon, the 2021 European City of Sport. Promoters of 21 different medium or large sports events (number = 41 respondents) were asked to fill out a survey ranking each dimension’s items by performance and room for improvement. The IPA’s results are presented both for the overall sample and by promoter type (i.e. events with or without sports facilities).

Findings

The 46 items identified fall into the following three categories: sports infrastructure, city image and hospitality and event management (i.e. pre-event, event and post-event). Pre-event includes stakeholder management, organigram and responsibilities, business plan, marketing mix, risk assessment and sponsorship management. Sponsorship management stands out among the areas considered a priority by event promotors.

Originality/value

This study adds to the literature by offering a comprehensive approach to assessing empirically all stages of the event management process.