bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Saposin B Ligand Binding and Presentation to α-Galactosidase A
Authors: Sawyer Thomas K. , Aral Efecan , Staros James V. , Bobst Cedric E. , Garman Scott C.
Published: April 2024

Sphingolipid activator protein B (saposin B; SapB) is an essential activator of globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) catabolism by α-galactosidase A. However, the manner by which SapB stimulates α-galactosidase A activity remains unknown. To uncover the molecular mechanism of SapB presenting Gb3 to α-galactosidase A, we subjected the fluorescent substrate globotriaosylceramide-nitrobenzoxidazole (Gb3-NBD) to a series of biochemical and structural assays involving SapB. First, we showed that SapB stably binds Gb3-NBD using a fluorescence equilibrium binding assay, isolates Gb3-NBD from micelles, and facilitates α-galactosidase A cleavage of Gb3-NBDin vitro. Second, we crystallized SapB in the presence of Gb3-NBD and validated the ligand-bound assembly. Third, we captured transient interactions between SapB and α-galactosidase A by chemical cross-linking. Finally, we determined the crystal structure of SapB bound to α-galactosidase A. These findings establish general principles for molecular recognition in saposin:hydrolase complexes and highlight the utility of NBD reporter lipids in saposin biochemistry and structural biology.
Ais: streamlining segmentation of cryo-electron tomography datasets
Authors: Last Mart G.F. , Abendstein Leoni , Voortman Lenard M. , Sharp Thomas H.
Published: April 2024

Segmentation is a critical data processing step in many applications of cryo-electron tomography. Downstream analyses, such as subtomogram averaging, are often based on segmentation results, and are thus critically dependent on the availability of open-source software for accurate as well as high-throughput tomogram segmentation. There is a need for more user-friendly, flexible and comprehensive segmentation software that offers an insightful overview of all steps involved in preparing automated segmentations. Here, we present Ais: a dedicated tomogram segmentation package that is geared towards both high performance and accessibility, available atgithub.com/bionanopatterning/Ais. In this report, we demonstrate two common processing steps that can be greatly accelerated with Ais: particle picking for subtomogram averaging, and generating many-feature segmentations of cellular architecture based onin situtomography data. Featuring comprehensive annotation, segmentation, and rendering functionality, as well as an open repository for trained models at aiscryoet.org, we hope that Ais will help accelerate research and dissemination of data involving cryoET.
Functional screening identifies novel miRNAs inhibiting Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell proliferation
Authors: Rodor Julie , Klimi Eftychia , Braga Luca , Ring Nadja A.R. , Ballantyne Margaret D. , Miscianinov Vladislav , Vacante Francesca , Miteva Katarina , Kesidou Despoina , Bennett Matthew , Beqqali Abdelaziz , Giacca Mauro , Zacchigna Serena , Baker Andrew H.
Published: April 2024

Proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) following injury is a crucial contributor to pathological vascular remodelling. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are powerful gene regulators and attractive therapeutic agents. Here, we aim to systematically identify and characterise miRNAs with therapeutic potential in targeting aberrant vSMC proliferation. We performed a high-throughputin vitroscreen using a library of 2042 human miRNA-mimics for their impact on vSMC proliferation and identified seven novel antiproliferative miRNAs i.e miR-323a-3p, miR449b-5p, miR-491-3p, miR-892b, miR-1827, miR-4774-3p, miR-5681b. Overexpression of these seven miRNAs affects proliferation of vSMCs from different vascular beds. Focusing on vein graft failure, a condition in which miRNA-based therapeutics can be applied to the graft ex-vivo, we showed that these miRNAs reduced human saphenous vein SMC (HSVSMC) proliferation without inducing apoptosis or senescence, and five of them also significantly decreased migration. HSVSMC transcriptomic analysis showed that each miRNA overexpression affects a core cell cycle gene network. However, this effect is mediated by distinct miRNA targets. In contrast to HSVSMC, miRNA overexpression in saphenous vein endothelial cells (ECs) led to no decrease or a less pronounced reduction in proliferation for the seven miRNAs. Transcriptomics analysis confirmed a distinct and limited response of ECs to the miRNA overexpression.
New gamma interferon (IFN-γ) algorithm for tuberculosis diagnosis in cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Warit Saradee , Meesawat Suthirote , Cheawchanlertfa Pattsarun , Makhoa Nampueng , Srilohasin Prapaporn , Kaewparuehaschai Machamon , Noradechanon Kirana , Pomcoke Areeya , Kemthong Taratorn , Prammananan Therdsak , Kanitpun Reka , Palaga Tanapat , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Chaiprasert Angkana
Published: April 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) is the first infectious disease to be screened-out from specified pathogen-free cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis; Mf) using in human pharmaceutical testing. Being either latent or active stage after exposure to theMycobacterium tuberculosiscomplex (MTBC), the monkey gamma-interferon release assay (mIGRA) was previously introduced for early TB detection in Mf. However, a high number of indeterminate cases were unexpectedly encountered. The main reasons were a mitogen positive control and an interpretation algorithm. A cohort of 316 Mf exposed to MTBC was tested of two positive mitogen controls [QFT-PHA and a mixture of ConcanavalinA and Pokeweed (ConA+PWM)], and 100 of 316 animals were selected and 26-month followed-up for the establishment of a new mIGRA algorithm for interpretation. As such, the number of indeterminate cases was drastically reduced (80-100%) when the ConA + PWM mixture was used as a positive mitogen control along with a new mIGRA algorithm for interpretation.
Life with only 28 tRNAs: Reduced translation accuracy compensates for the lack of twelve tRNAs inSalmonella enterica
Authors: Näsvall Joakim
Published: April 2024

Despite the link between codon usage bias and the composition of the tRNA pool, the evolutionary forces shaping codon usage and tRNA pools remain largely untested by experiment. This study investigates the relationship between tRNA pool composition and synonymous codon usage (SCU) by deleting twelve nonessential tRNAs inSalmonella enterica, generating an organism (ΔT12) with 28 essential tRNAs left, and a severe imbalance between its tRNA pool and SCU. Mutations selected during the construction of ΔT12 and in subsequent evolution experiments, suggest two key mechanisms for compensating the fitness effects of this imbalance: (i) Near-cognate tRNA adaptation: mutations or gene copy number variations allowed remaining tRNAs to better read codons originally assigned to missing tRNAs. (ii) Reduced translation accuracy: mutations in ribosomal proteins (S3, S4, S5, L7/L12) and EF-Tu likely increased the rate of near-cognate decoding, prioritizing translation speed over accuracy. These findings suggest that translation rate may be a stronger evolutionary pressure than maintaining perfect accuracy when there is a mismatch between the tRNA pool and SCU. The ΔT12 strain provides a valuable tool for further exploring the co-evolution of the tRNA pool and SCU.
Modulation of input to the spinal cord; contribution of GABA released by interneurons and glial cells by polarization at the entry of sensory information
Authors: Hammar Ingela , Jankowska Elzbieta
Published: April 2024

Modulation of input from primary afferent fibres has long been examined at the level of the first relay neurons of these fibres. However, recent studies reveal that input to the spinal cord may also be modulated before action potentials in intraspinal collaterals of afferent fibres reach their target neurons, even at the level of the very entry of afferent fibres to the spinal grey matter. Such modulation greatly depends on the actions of GABA via extrasynaptic membrane receptors. In the reported study we hypothesized that the increase in excitability of afferent fibres following epidural polarization close to the site where collaterals of afferent fibres leave the dorsal columns is due to the release of GABA from two sources: not only terminals of GABAergic interneurons but also glial cells. We present evidence, primo, that GABA from both these sources contributes to a long-lasting increase in the excitability and a shortening of the refractory period of epidurally stimulated afferents fibres and, secondo, that effects of epidural polarization on GABA-containing terminals of GABAergic interneurons and on glial cells are more critical for these changes than direct effects on the stimulated fibres. The experiments were carried out in deeply anaesthetized rats in which changes in compound action potentials evoked in hindlimb peripheral nerves by dorsal column stimulation were used as a measure of the excitability of afferent fibres. The study throws new light on the modulation of input to spinal networks but also on mechanisms underlying the restoration of spinal functions.
The effect of a short oxygen exposure period on algal biomass degradation and methane formation in eutrophic and oligotrophic lake sediments
Authors: van Grinsven Sigrid , Maeda Natsumi , Glombitza Clemens , Lever Mark A. , Schubert Carsten J.
Published: April 2024

Eutrophication is suggested to enhance lacustrine methane emissions, due to enhanced sedimentary decomposition rates of algal biomass, and more frequent occurrence of water column anoxia. We investigated methane emissions from sediments originating from both a eutrophic and oligotrophic lake, and tested the effect of additional algal C inputs. Additionally, we investigated the effect of a pulse supply of oxygen, a mediating measure that is currently being used in the investigated eutrophic lake. Our results show a large legacy effect of eutrophication, but the methane release from new algal biomass additions was the same, although the process proceeded more rapidly in the eutrophic sediments. A short, 3-week pulse of oxygen lowered the emitted methane from both types of sediments by 50%, not only reducing the emissions of algal biomass additions, but also reducing methane emissions from the experiments without fresh organic matter inputs. This effect was relatively long-lasting: its effects were visible for several weeks after anoxic conditions were re-established, making it a potentially interesting measure to lower methane emissions over a longer period. Volatile fatty acid concentrations in the sediments were lowered due to oxygen exposure. Both the methanogenic and methanotrophic community composition showed surprisingly little response to the oxygen or algal biomass pulses. Overall, our results show that providing sediments with a brief pulse of oxygen following an algal bloom event, could strongly mediate the methane emissions following such an event. Such measures could be considered by policy makers to limit greenhouse gas emissions from managed lakes.
European Farmhouse Brewing Yeasts Form a Distinct Genetic Group
Authors: Preiss Richard , Fletcher Eugene , Garshol Lars Marius , Foster Barret , Ozsahin Emine , Lubberts Mark , van der Merwe George , Krogerus Kristoffer
Published: April 2024

The brewing industry is constantly evolving, driven by the quest for novel flavors and fermentation characteristics that cater to evolving consumer preferences. This study explores the genetic and phenotypic diversity of European farmhouse yeasts, traditionally used in rural brewing practices and maintained outside of pure culture industrial yeast selection. We isolated landrace brewing yeast strains from diverse geographical locations across Europe, including Norway, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, and also included African farmhouse brewing strains from Ghana. Our genomic analysis using long-read and short-read whole genome sequencing uncovered a genetically distinct group that diverges from industrial brewing yeasts. This group, which is closely related to ale brewing strains, is preliminarily named the “European Farmhouse” group and shows greater predicted admixture from Asian fermentation strains. Through genomic and phenotypic analyses, including flavor metabolite analysis via HS-GC-MS, sugar metabolite analysis via HPLC, and wort fermentation analysis, we found a broad spectrum of fermentation capabilities, from rapid and efficient fermentation to unique aroma and flavor compound profiles, potentially offering novel traits for brewing applications. This study highlights the importance of preservation of brewing cultural heritage knowledge and resources including yeast cultures.

Key Points

A large set of geographically diverse farmhouse brewing strains were characterized

Norwegian and Baltic farmhouse brewing strains form a distinct genetic group

Farmhouse strains show considerable diversity in fermentation and flavour formation
Biosynthesis of oxyresveratrol in mulberry (Morus albaL.) is mediated by a group of p-coumaroyl-CoA 2’-hydroxylases acting upstream of stilbene synthases
Authors: Santiago Antonio , Romero Pablo , Martínez Ascensión , Martínez María José , Echeverría Jone , Selles Susana , Alvarez-Urdiola Raquel , Zhang Chen , Navarro-Payá David , Pizzio Gastón A. , Micó Estel·la , Samper Antonio , Morante Jaime , Cigliano Riccardo Aiese , Manzano David , Bru Roque , Matus José Tomás
Published: April 2024

Mulberry (Morus albaL.) is considered a millenary medicinal plant and a food source for silkworms. DifferentM. albaextracts offer a variety of biological and pharmacological properties that are in part attributed to stilbenoids, a small group of phenylpropanoids that include resveratrol and oxyresveratrol. These are naturally present in non-renewable parts of mulberry trees, impeding their efficient extraction. As a way to bypass this spatiotemporal restriction, we generated cell suspensions from mulberry twigs and demonstrated that the combined use of methyl jasmonate and methyl- or hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrins elicited a high production of resveratrol and oxyresveratrol, both intra and extracellularly. To identify oxyresveratrol-producing enzymes (unknown to date), we first improved the structural and functional annotation of the mulberry genome by integrating short and long-read sequencing data. We further combined this data with transcriptome, metabolite and proteome time-series evidence to identify a complete set of elicited phenylpropanoid- and stilbenoid-related genes. These included 22 stilbene synthase (STS) genes and a group of sixp-coumaroyl-CoA 2’-hydroxylases (C2’Hs) that were highly co-expressed with resveratrol and oxyresveratrol accumulation. We transiently transformedNicotiana benthamianaplants and grapevine (Vitis viniferaL.) cell suspensions to functionally validate the role of C2’Hs as the first committed step of oxyresveratrol synthesis, providing an alternative substrate for STSs by hydroxylatingp-coumaroyl-coA into 2’4’-dihydroxycinnamoyl-CoA. We offer tools for genomic and transcriptomic exploration in the context of jasmonate elicitation aiding in the characterization of novel stilbenoid-modifying and regulatory genes in theMorusgenus.
Vibrio choleraepathogenicity island 2 encodes two distinct types of restriction systems
Authors: Vizzarro Grazia , Lemopoulos Alexandre , Adams David William , Blokesch Melanie
Published: April 2024

In response to predation by bacteriophages and invasion by other mobile genetic elements such as plasmids, bacteria have evolved specialised defence systems that are often clustered together on genomic islands. The O1 El Tor strains ofVibrio choleraeresponsible for the ongoing seventh cholera pandemic (7PET) contain a characteristic set of genomic islands involved in host colonisation and disease, many of which contain defence systems. Notably,Vibriopathogenicity island 2 contains several characterised defence systems as well as a putative Type I restriction-modification system (T1RM), which, interestingly, is interrupted by two genes of unknown function. Here, we demonstrate that the T1RM system is active, methylates the host genomes of a representative set of 7PET strains, and identify a specific recognition sequence that targets non-methylated plasmids for restriction. We go on to show that the two genes embedded within the T1RM system encode a novel two-protein modification-dependent restriction system related to the GmrSD family of Type IV restriction enzymes. Indeed, we show that this system has potent anti-phage activity against diverse members of theTevenvirinae, a subfamily of bacteriophages with hypermodified genomes. Taken together these results expand our understanding of how this highly conserved genomic island contributes to the defence of pandemicV. choleraeagainst foreign DNA.
LiaR-dependent gene expression contributes to antimicrobial responses in group AStreptococcus
Authors: Vega Luis Alberto , Sansón-Iglesias Misu , Mukherjee Piyali , Buchan Kyle , Morrison Gretchen , Hohlt Anne E. , Flores Anthony R.
Published: April 2024

The ability to sense and respond to host defenses is essential for pathogen survival. Some mechanisms involve two-component systems (TCS) that respond to host molecules, such as antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and activate specific gene regulatory pathways to aid in survival. Alongside TCSs, bacteria coordinate cell division proteins, chaperones, cell wall sortases and secretory translocons at discrete locations within the cytoplasmic membrane, referred to as functional membrane microdomains (FMMs). In Group AStreptococcus(GAS), the FMM or “ExPortal” coordinates protein secretion, cell wall synthesis and sensing of AMP-mediated cell envelope stress via the LiaFSR three-component system. Previously we showed GAS exposure to a subset of AMPs (α-defensins) activates the LiaFSR system by disrupting LiaF and LiaS co-localization in the ExPortal, leading to increased LiaR phosphorylation, expression of the transcriptional regulator SpxA2, and altered GAS virulence gene expression. The mechanisms by which LiaFSR integrates cell envelope stress with responses to AMP activity and virulence are not fully elucidated. Here, we show the LiaFSR regulon is comprised of genes encoding SpxA2 and three membrane-associated proteins: a PspC domain-containing protein (PCP), the lipoteichoic acid-modifying protein LafB and the membrane protein insertase YidC2. Our data show phosphorylated LiaR induces transcription of these genes via a conserved operator, whose disruption attenuates GAS virulence and increases susceptibility to AMPs in a manner primarily dependent on differential expression of SpxA2. Our work expands understanding of the LiaFSR regulatory network in GAS and identifies targets for further investigation of mechanisms of cell envelope stress tolerance contributing to GAS pathogenesis.
CFAP47 is a novel causative gene implicated in X-linked polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Mori Takayasu , Fujimaru Takuya , Liu Chunyu , Patterson Karynne , Yamamoto Kouhei , Suzuki Takefumi , Chiga Motoko , Sekine Akinari , Ubara Yoshifumi , Miller Danny E , Galey Miranda , Mandai Shintaro , Ando Fumiaki , Mori Yutaro , Kikuchi Hiroaki , Susa Koichiro ,   UW-CRDR, Chong Jessica X , Bamshad Michael J , Tan Yue-Qiu , Zhang Feng , Uchida Shinichi , Sohara Eisei
Published: April 2024

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a well-described condition in which ~80% of cases have a genetic explanation, while the genetic basis of sporadic cystic kidney disease in adults remains unclear in ~30% of cases. This study aimed to identify novel genes associated with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in patients with sporadic cystic kidney disease in which a clear genetic change was not identified in established genes. A next-generation sequencing panel analyzed known genes related to renal cysts in 118 sporadic cases, followed by whole-genome sequencing on 47 unrelated individuals without identified candidate variants. Three male patients were found to have rare missense variants in the X-linked gene Cilia And Flagella Associated Protein 47 (CFAP47). CFAP47 was expressed in primary cilia of human renal tubules, and knockout mice exhibited vacuolation of tubular cells and tubular dilation, providing evidence that CFAP47 is a causative gene involved in cyst formation. This discovery of CFAP47 as a newly identified gene associated with PKD, displaying X-linked inheritance, emphasizes the need for further cases to understand the role of CFAP47 in PKD.
Systematic mapping of TF-mediated cell fate changes by a pooled induction coupled with scRNA-seq and multi-omics approaches
Authors: Lee Muyoung , Guo Qingqing , Kim Mijeong , Choi Joonhyuk , Segura Alia , Genceroglu Alper , LeBlanc Lucy , Ramirez Nereida , Jang Yu Jin , Jang Yeejin , Lee Bum-Kyu , Marcotte Edward M. , Kim Jonghwan
Published: April 2024

Transcriptional regulation controls cellular functions through interactions between transcription factors (TFs) and their chromosomal targets. However, understanding the fate conversion potential of multiple TFs in an inducible manner remains limited. Here, we introduce iTF-seq as a method for identifying individual TFs that can alter cell fate toward specific lineages at a single-cell level. iTF-seq enables time course monitoring of transcriptome changes, and with biotinylated individual TFs, it provides a multi-omics approach to understanding the mechanisms behind TF-mediated cell fate changes. Our iTF-seq study in mouse embryonic stem cells identified multiple TFs that trigger rapid transcriptome changes indicative of differentiation within a day of induction. Moreover, cells expressing these potent TFs often show a slower cell cycle and increased cell death. Further analysis using bioChIP-seq revealed that GCM1 and OTX2 act as pioneer factors and activators by increasing gene accessibility and activating the expression of lineage specification genes during cell fate conversion. iTF-seq has utility in both mapping cell fate conversion and understanding cell fate conversion mechanisms.
Superscaling variable and neutrino energy reconstruction from theoretical predictions to experimental limitations
Authors: Douqa D. , Bordoni S. , Giannessi L. , Sánchez F. , Schloesser C. , Nikolakopoulos A.
Published: April 2024

We introduce the novel approach of using the superscaling variable as an observable and an analysis tool in the context of charged current neutrino-nucleus interactions. We study the relation between the superscaling variable and the removal energy, in addition to other fundamental parameters of the neutrino-nucleus interaction models. In the second half of the paper, we discuss the experimental viability of this measurement following a study of neutrino energy and missing momentum reconstruction. We show that the superscaling variable is measurable in neutrino interaction experiments provided that the proton is detected in the final state. We discuss the resolution of this measurement, and the limitation imposed by the proton’s detection threshold.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Higgs portal interpretation of the Belle II
B+→K+νν
measurement
Authors: McKeen David , Ng John N. , Tuckler Douglas
Published: April 2024

The Belle II experiment recently observed the decay B+→K+νν for the first time, with a measured value for the branching ratio of (2.3±0.7)×10−5. This result exhibits a ∼3σ deviation from the Standard Model (SM) prediction. The observed enhancement with respect to the Standard Model could indicate the presence of invisible light new physics. In this paper, we investigate whether this result can be accommodated in a minimal Higgs portal model, where the SM is extended by a singlet Higgs scalar that decays invisibly to dark sector states. We find that current and future bounds on invisible decays of the 125 GeV Higgs boson completely exclude a new scalar with a mass ≳10  GeV. On the other hand, the Belle II results can be successfully accommodated if the new scalar is lighter than B mesons but heavier than kaons. We also investigate the cosmological implications of the new states and explore the possibility that they are part of an Abelian Higgs extension of the SM. Future Higgs factories are expected to place stringent bounds on the invisible branching ratio of the 125 GeV Higgs boson, and will be able to definitively test the region of parameter space favored by the Belle II results.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Light mass window of inert doublet dark matter with lepton portal interaction
Authors: Higuchi Ryo , Iguro Syuhei , Okawa Shohei , Omura Yuji
Published: April 2024

We study phenomenology of a light scalar dark matter (DM). In the model, there is an inert doublet scalar and a singlet Dirac fermion ψ, both charged under a global Z2 symmetry. The mass of the lightest inert scalar H can be lighter than 10 GeV by imposing appropriate relations between three scalar quartic couplings. The lightest Z2 odd particle is stable and DM. In this paper, focusing on the parameter space where H is lighter than ψ and is DM, we discuss DM physics related to relic density, direct detection, indirect detection, collider searches, and other cosmological observations. We clarify differences from the case where ψ is instead DM, which has been focused on in previous works.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Further remarks on de Sitter space, extremal surfaces, and time entanglement
Authors: Narayan K.
Published: April 2024

We develop further the investigations by Narayan [de Sitter space, extremal surfaces, and time entanglement, ] on de Sitter space, extremal surfaces, and time entanglement. We discuss the no-boundary de Sitter extremal surface areas as certain analytic continuations from AdS while also amounting to space-time rotations. The structure of the extremal surfaces suggests a geometric picture of the time-entanglement or pseudo-entanglement wedge. We also study some entropy relations for multiple subregions. The analytic continuation suggests a heuristic Lewkowycz-Maldacena formulation of the extremal surface areas. In the bulk, this is now a replica formulation on the Wavefunction, which suggests interpretation as pseudo-entropy. Finally, we also discuss aspects of future-past entangled states and time evolution.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Metastable patterns in one- and two-component dipolar Bose-Einstein condensates
Authors: Zhang Yong-Chang , Pohl Thomas , Maucher Fabian
Published: April 2024

In this paper we study metastable states in single- and two-component dipolar Bose-Einstein condensates. We show that this system supports a rich variety of states that are remarkably stable despite not being ground states. In a parameter region where striped phases are ground states, we find such metastable states that are energetically favorable compared to triangular and honeycomb lattices. Among these metastable states we report a peculiar ring-lattice state, which is led by the competition between triangular and honeycomb symmetries and rarely seen in other systems. In the case of dipolar mixtures we show that via tuning the miscibility these states can be stabilized in a broader domain by utilizing interspecies interactions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
How sustainability assurance work gets done: assurors’ sensemaking, socialization and interactions with clients
Authors: Bouten Lies , Hoozée Sophie
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examines how assurors make sense of sustainability assurance (SA) work and how interactions with assurance team members and clients shape assurors’ sensemaking and their actual SA work.

Design/methodology/approach

To obtain detailed accounts of how SA work occurs on the ground, this study explores three SA engagements by interviewing the main actors involved, both at the client firms and at their Big Four assurance providers.

Findings

Individual assurors’ (i.e. partners and other team members) sensemaking of SA work results in the crafting of their logics of action (LoAs), that is, their meanings about the objectives of SA work and how to conduct it. Without organizational socialization, team members may not arrive at shared meanings and deviate from the team-wide assurance approach. To fulfill their objectives for SA work, assurors may engage in socialization with clients or assume a temporary role. Yet, the role negotiations taking place in the shadows of the scope negotiations determine their default role during the engagement.

Practical implications

Two options are available to help SA statement users gauge the relevance of SA work: either displaying the SA work performed or making it more uniform.

Originality/value

This study theoretically grounds how assurors make sense of SA work and documents how (the lack of) professional socialization, organizational socialization and socialization of frequent interaction partners at the client shape actual SA work. Thereby, it unravels the SA work concealed behind SA statements.
Employee perceptions of hotel CSR initiatives and job satisfaction: exploring organizational identification, psychological contract fulfillment and attachment styles
Authors: Dang Toan Thi Phuoc , Do Vinh Thi Thanh
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study offers an empirical framework for how hotel employees CSR perceptions affect their job satisfaction by incorporating the parallel mediating roles of organizational identification and psychological contract fulfillment. In addition, it examines the moderator effects of employees' CSR-induced attributions on the constructed mediated model, providing a powerful lens through which to evaluate when and how employees' CSR perceptions influence organizational identification and psychological contract fulfillment.

Design/methodology/approach

The study use PLS-SEM techniques to analyze a sample of 520 employees from 49 luxury hotels with 4–5 stars in Khanh Hoa province, Vietnam.

Findings

The results show that CSR positively influences job satisfaction through the mediating role of psychological contract fulfillment and organizational identification. Besides, attachment styles also play moderator role in the relationship between CSR and psychological contract fulfillment/organizational identification.

Practical implications

The discoveries elucidated within this research endeavor proffer actionable discernments to be earnestly contemplated by professionals entrenched in the hotel industry, earnestly aspiring to ameliorate the contentment of their workforce and, concomitantly, augment the overarching efficacy of their organizational operations.

Originality/value

This study provides human resource departments with insights and suggestions for maximizing the efficacy of CSR implementation in the hotel industry.
Towards the environment of legitimacy: Do the institutional quality and policy uncertainty matter for the performance of stock markets of South Asian countries?
Authors: Khan Ather Azim , Ramzan Muhammad , Mehmood Shafaqat , Wong Wing-Keung
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper assesses the environment of legitimacy by determining the role of institutional quality and policy uncertainty on the performance of five major South Asian stock markets (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal) using 21 years data from 2000 to 2020. The focus of this study is to approach the issue of the environment of legitimacy that leads to sustained market returns.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel cointegration tests of Kao and Pedroni are applied, and the Dynamic Panel Vector Autoregressive (PVAR) model is used to determine the estimates.

Findings

ADF P-Values of both Kao and Pedroni tests show that the panels are cointegrated; the statistical significance of the results of the Kao and Pedroni panel cointegration test confirms cointegration among the variables. After determining the most appropriate lag, the analysis is done using PVAR. The results indicate that institutional quality, policy uncertainty, and GDP positively affect stock market return. Meanwhile, government actions and inflation negatively affect stock market returns. On the other hand, stock market return positively affects institutional quality, government action, policy uncertainty, and GDP. While stock market return negatively affects inflation.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is taken only from a limited number of South Asian countries, and the period is also limited to 21 years.

Practical implications

Based on our research findings, we have identified several policy implications recommended to enhance and sustain the performance of stock markets.

Originality/value

This paper uses a unique analytical tool, which gives a better insight into the problem. The value of this work lies in its findings, which also have practical implications and theoretical significance.
Sustainable community development through peer-to-peer learning in the online and in-person classroom
Authors: Campbell Joe , Shaul Kylienne , Slagle Kristina M. , Sovic David
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Prior research suggests that collaboration is key to sustainable community development and environmental management, and peer-to-peer learning (P2PL) may facilitate community building and collaborative learning skills. This study aims to examine the effect of P2PL on the enhancement of environmental management and sustainable development skills, community building and social capital (i.e. connectedness) and understanding of course learning objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative longitudinal survey data was collected in a sustainable development focused course offered at a large American public university that uses P2PL to explicitly facilitate community building and collaborative skills. Safety precautions and changing locational course offerings due to the COVID-19 pandemic in years 2020, 2021 and 2022 provided an opportunity to evaluate the impact of P2PL on these skills during both virtual and in-person formats. Additionally, this study compared in-course student evaluations with students taking other sustainable development-related courses with collaborative learning aspects to understand the wider effectiveness of this course structure.

Findings

This study finds that course format (virtual vs in-person) overall made no difference in either connectedness or conceptual understandings, and that students in both formats felt more connected to others than students taking other courses with P2PL. Scaffolding P2PL and supplemental peer support can yield improved connectedness and learning among students taking environmental coursework.

Originality/value

Sustainable development requires group collaboration and partnership building skills. Issues are consistently raised about the challenges to teaching these skills in higher education. The students and instructors in this research study identify P2PL strategies to address these challenges for in-person and virtual classroom settings.
An investigation into factors affecting the willingness to disclose personal health information when using AI-enabled caregiver robots
Authors: Amin M A Shariful , Johnson Vess L. , Prybutok Victor , Koh Chang E.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to propose and empirically validate a theoretical framework to investigate the willingness of the elderly to disclose personal health information (PHI) to improve the operational efficiency of AI-integrated caregiver robots.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon Privacy Calculus Theory (PCT) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), 274 usable responses were collected through an online survey.

Findings

Empirical results reveal that trust, privacy concerns, and social isolation have a direct impact on the willingness to disclose PHI. Perceived ease of use (PEOU), perceived usefulness (PU), social isolation, and recognized benefits significantly influence user trust. Conversely, elderly individuals with pronounced privacy concerns are less inclined to disclose PHI when using AI-enabled caregiver robots.

Practical implications

Given the pressing need for AI-enabled caregiver robots due to the aging population and a decrease in professional human caregivers, understanding factors that influence the elderly's disclosure of PHI can guide design considerations and policymaking.

Originality/value

Considering the increased demand for accurate and comprehensive elder services, this is the first time that information disclosure and AI-enabled caregiver robot technologies have been combined in the field of healthcare management. This study bridges the gap between the necessity for technological improvement in caregiver robots and the importance of transparent operational information by disclosing the elderly's willingness to share PHI.
Consumer-company identification: a review and empirical contribution
Authors: White Christopher , Yu Ting
Published: April 2024

Purpose

For decades, consumer identification and motivation, either alone or jointly, have been essential constructs for behavioral researchers. The resultant output is significant in terms of both quality and quantity. However, at a deeper level, a lack of conceptual clarity in the relationship between these constructs has led to theoretical and practical irregularities, which this study aims to address.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire was distributed to sport consumers aged over 18 participating in an online panel, prompted 293 completed responses. Structural equations modeling was used to examine the data.

Findings

Findings show that identification mediates the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation on sport supporters’ loyalty and explain 90% of the variance in that construct. In addition, identification mediates the adverse effects of extrinsic motivation on loyalty and strengthens loyalty when levels of satisfaction decline.

Originality/value

This study extends previous work by providing a theoretical perspective that clarifies the relationship between motivation and consumer identification; deepens theory by empirically observing the relationship at different levels of consumer satisfaction; and presents a parsimonious, valid and reliable method that managers can leverage to strengthen sport supporters’ loyalty.
Optimizing ground improvement with encased stone columns: a 3D numerical analysis in very soft clay
Authors: Bahi Selma , Houhou Mohamed Nabil
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the behavior of different types of stone columns, including the short and floating columns, as well as the ordinary and the geosynthetic encased stone columns (OSC and GESC). The effectiveness of the geosynthetic encasement and the impact of the installation using the lateral expansion method on the column performance is evaluated through a three-dimensional (3D) unit cell numerical analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

A full 3D numerical analysis is carried out using the explicit finite element code PLAXIS 3D to examine the installation influence on settlement reduction (ß), lateral displacement (Ux) and vertical displacement (Uz) relative to different values of lateral expansion of the column (0% to 15%).

Findings

The findings demonstrate the superior performance of GESC, particularly short columns outperforming floating counterparts. This enhanced performance is attributed to the combined effects of geosynthetic encasement and increased lateral expansion. Notably, these strategies contribute significantly to decreasing lateral displacement (Ux) at the column’s edge and reducing vertical displacement (Uz) under the rigid footing.

Originality/value

In contrast to previous studies that examined the installation effect of OSC contexts, this paper presents a comprehensive investigation into the effect of geosynthetic encasement and the installation effects using the lateral expansion method in very soft soil, using 3D numerical simulation. The study emphasizes the significance of the consideration of geosynthetic encasement and lateral expansion of the column during the design process to enhance column performance.
Whey protein hydrolysates and infant formulas: Effects on physicochemical and biological properties
Authors: Li Jiecheng , Zhu Fan
Published: April 2024

Whey protein hydrolysates are recognized for their substantial functional and biological properties. Their high digestibility and amino acid composition make them a valuable ingredient to hydrolyzed whey infant formulas, enhancing both product functionality and nutritional values for infant growth. It is important to understand the functional and biological properties of whey protein hydrolysates for their applications in infant formula systems. This review explored preparation methods of whey protein hydrolysates for infant formula‐based applications. The effects of whey protein hydrolysate on the physicochemical and biological properties of hydrolyzed whey infant formulas were summarized. The influences of whey protein hydrolysates on the functional and nutritional properties of formulas from manufacturing to infant consumption were discussed. Whey protein hydrolysates are crucial components in the preparation of infant formula, tailored to meet the functional and nutritional demands of the product. The selection of enzyme types and hydrolysis parameters is decisive for obtaining “optimal” whey protein hydrolysates that match the intended characteristics. “Optimal” whey protein hydrolysates offer diverse functionalities, including solubility, emulsification and production stability to hydrolyzed whey infant formulas during manufacturing processes and formulations. They simultaneously promote protein digestibility, infant growth and other potential health benefits, including reduced allergenic potential, as supported by in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials. Overall, the precise selection of enzymes and hydrolysis parameters in the production of whey protein hydrolysates is crucial in achieving the desired characteristics and functional benefits for hydrolyzed whey infant formulas, making them critical in the development of infant nutrition products.
Can increasing preventive patrol in large geographic areas reduce crime? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Weisburd David , Petersen Kevin , Telep Cody W. , Fay Sydney A.
Published: April 2024

Research summary

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis examining whether increasing preventive patrol in large areas reduces crime. Our review included experimental and quasi‐experimental studies that focused on areas such as beats, precincts, or entire jurisdictions and that measured a crime outcome either through official data or surveys. We identified 17 studies to include in our review. We used two methods for assessing study impacts: an approach which identified a primary/general outcome measure and a second approach which used robust variance estimation (RVE) and included all effect sizes across each study. Both approaches showed small crime prevention benefits (RVE: 9% decline; primary/general: 6% decline), but only the RVE model was significant at conventional levels (p < 0.05). There was no significant evidence of displacement. Moderator analyses suggest that as dosage increases so do the crime prevention impacts. In RVE models, preventive patrol was associated with significant reductions in property and violent crime, but nonsignificant increases in drug and disorder offenses.

Policy implications

Increasing preventive patrol activities has the potential to reduce crime in large administrative areas. At the same time, existing studies offer little guidance as to how such preventive patrol should be carried out. Deterrence theory, as well as evidence from studies of hot spots policing, suggests that the greatest benefits will be gained from informing patrol efforts about where and when crime occurs. Although more research is needed regarding patrol allocations in large areas, present knowledge suggests that the more such patrols can be targeted at specific places at specific times, the greater will be the crime control benefits. In this context, we argue that police agencies may want to apply a hybrid approach to police patrol, which would include a combination of hot spots policing units and general patrol units informed by data on where crime is concentrated.
Effects of 2′‐fucosyllactose on the viability of starter cultures and Bifidobacterium strains of human origin in yogurt during refrigerated storage
Authors: Xie Zifan , Kim Chanwoo , Miller Michael J. , Jin Yong‐Su
Published: April 2024

2′‐Fucosyllactose (2′‐FL) is postulated to provide health benefits and promote the growth of probiotics. This work was undertaken to study the effects of 2′‐FL on the viability of starter cultures and Bifidobacterium strains of human origin in yogurt during refrigerated storage. Yogurts were produced containing 2′‐FL (0 or 2 g/L) and Bifidobacterium strains of human origin (Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum BB536 or Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis ATCC 15697) at a concentration of at least 109 CFU/mL. All yogurts were stored at 4°C for 5 weeks. Results showed that 2′‐FL was stable in yogurts for at least 5 weeks of cold storage, and the addition of 2′‐FL did not significantly alter yogurt fermentation parameters, associated metabolites, and the viability of mixed yogurt starter cultures and Bifidobacterium strains (p > 0.05). The addition of bifidobacteria had a negative impact (p < 0.05) on the survival rate of starter cultures, Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbureckii subsp. bulgaricus. Meanwhile, it is difficult to maintain a high survival rate of bifidobacteria in final yogurt products, and the addition of 2′‐FL could not enhance the viability of bifidobacteria. B. longum BB536 survived at a level higher than 106 CFU/g for 28 days, while B. infantis ATCC15697 maintained this level for only 7 days. In summary, this study has shown the impact of 2′‐FL and bifidobacterial species on yogurt properties, and results suggest that it is promising to use 2′‐FL in yogurt products as a prebiotic.

Practical Application

Yogurt is known for its beneficial effects on human health and nutrition. This study reported the production of symbiotic yogurt containing bifidobacteria and 2′‐fucosyllactose (2′‐FL) as a functional food for specified health uses. The viability of yogurt starter cultures and probiotic bifidobacterial strains was analyzed in this study. Moreover, this research demonstrated that 2′‐FL could be added to yogurt without affecting the characteristics of yogurt significantly.
Validation of rubric‐based evaluation for bachelor's theses in a food science and technology degree
Authors: Andrés Ana I. , Timón María L. , Morillo Juan , Marín Concepción , Tejeda Juan Florencio , Ayuso Concepción
Published: April 2024

An effective evaluation of a bachelor's thesis (BT) needs the use of valid tools such as rubrics. There are few studies providing a validation of rubrics for these theses and even fewer in the academic field of food science and technology; hence the aim of this study was to validate a rubric for the assessment of relevant competencies in the BT. Ninety‐seven students presented their thesis and 56 teachers participated as members of the committees. The degree of relevance, suitability, and clarity of the rubrics were assessed as well as the relationship between student perception and academic performance and the congruence between the teacher's and students’ evaluations. The content validity index and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated. Students had a moderate level of knowledge about rubrics, but they mostly agreed with the premise that the rubrics are an accurate tool to assess the quality of BTs. Teacher's and student's marks mostly aligned. No significant relationship was found between the positive perception of rubric's validity and the final grades. Regarding clarity, suitability, and relevance as perceived by teachers, the used rubrics were highly valued. The ICC of criteria indicated that the rubrics were valid in the studied terms. Hence, the validation of a food science and technology degree BT assessment system based on a rubric has been achieved.

Practical Application

The conclusions drawn from this research could enable teachers at other universities to use this methodology for validating their rubrics for bachelor's theses. Furthermore, they could use this validated rubric to evaluate projects presented at their respective institutions.