bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic stability in the GalápagosScalesiaadaptive radiation: Consistent transposable element accumulation despite hybridization and ecological niche shifts
Authors: Cerca José , Díaz Patricia Jaramillo , Goubert Clément , Yang Heidi , Bieker Vanessa C. , Fernández-Mazuecos Mario , Vargas Pablo , Schley Rowan , Li Siyu , Guevara-Andino Juan Ernesto , Petersen Bent , Petersen Gitte , Sinha Neelima R. , Nielsen Lene R. , Leebens-Mack James H. , Rivas-Torres Gonzalo , Rieseberg Loren H. , Martin Michael D.
Published: October 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) have been hypothesized to play a pivotal role in driving diversification by facilitating the emergence of novel phenotypes and the accumulation of divergence between species. Hybridization and adaptation to novel niches are hypothesized to influence TE accumulation in genomes by disrupting genomic regulation, including the suppression of TE replication. The rapid speciation and ecological diversification characteristic of adaptive radiations offer a unique opportunity to examine the link between TE accumulation and speciation, diversification, hybridization and adaptation. Here, focusing on all 15 species of the genusScalesia(Asteraceae), a radiation endemic to the Galápagos Islands, we test whether hybridization or shifts in ecological niche are associated with changes in TE accumulation in genomes. Our analyses reveal little to no variation in TE accumulation amongScalesiaspecies nor its hybrid populations. Shifts in ecological niches, linked to climatic variation, did not result in discernible changes in TE accumulation, a surprising finding given the anticipated selective pressure imposed by aridity, a factor often linked to genome size reduction. We found no distinct patterns in the temporal accumulation of TEs, and no effects at the class or superfamily level. Our findings challenge the assertion that TEs have directly driven diversification, speciation and local adaptation. Instead, we suggest that TEs may simply be ‘along for the ride,’ rather than actively contributing to plant diversification.
Directed Evolution of a Plant Immune Receptor for Broad Spectrum Effector Recognition
Authors: Rim Ellen Y. , Garrett Oscar D. , Howard Alexander J. , Shim Yejin , Li Yuanyuan , Van Dyke Jonathan E. , Packer Ryan C. , Ho Nguyen , Jain Rashmi , Stewart Valley , Dinesh-Kumar Savithramma P. , Notwell James H. , Ronald Pamela C.
Published: October 2024

Rapid development of immune receptors that protect crops from emerging pathogens is a critical challenge1,2. While novel immune receptors that recognize previously undetected pathogen effectors could provide protection against a wider range of pathogens, engineering such receptors has been constrained by the low throughput and speed ofin plantatesting. We established yeast surface display as a high throughput platform to recapitulate plant immune receptor-ligand interactions and evolve new binding capabilities. Using this directed evolution platform, we engineered the ligand binding domain of the rice immune receptor Pik-1 to recognize diverse effectors from the fast-evolving fungal pathogenMagnaporthe oryzae.Our approach yielded Pik-1 ligand binding domains with affinity for variants of theM. oryzaeeffector Avr-Pik that previously escaped detection by known rice alleles of Pik-1, within plantaassays confirming functional recognition of these effectors. Additional rounds of mutagenesis and selection led to a Pik-1 domain that binds all tested Avr-Pik variants as well as the evolutionarily divergent effector AvrPiz-t. These results demonstrate the potential of directed evolution to engineer immune receptors with new-to-nature recognition of a wide range of pathogen-derived ligands and accelerate development of broad spectrum resistance in crops.
An aneuploidy epistasis map reveals metabolic vulnerabilities associated with supernumerary chromosomes in cancer
Authors: Magesh R. Y. , Kaur A. N. , Keller F. N. , Frederick A. , Tseyang T. , Haley J. A. , Rivera-Nieves A. M. , Liang A. C. , Guertin D. A. , Spinelli J. B. , Elledge S. J. , Watson E. V.
Published: October 2024

Despite the general detriment of aneuploidy to cellular fitness, >90% of solid tumors carry an imbalanced karyotype. Regardless of this existing paradox, our understanding of the molecular responses to aneuploidy remains limited. Here, we explore these cellular stresses and unique vulnerabilities in aneuploid human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) enriched for breast cancer-associated copy number alterations (CNAs). To uncover the genetic dependencies specific to aneuploid cells, we conducted a comprehensive, genome-wide CRISPR knockout screen targeting isogenic diploid and aneuploid HMEC lines. Our study reveals that aneuploid HMECs exhibit an increased reliance on pyrimidine biosynthesis and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation genes, and demonstrate heightened fitness advantages upon loss of tumor suppressor genes. Using an integrative multi-omic analysis, we confirm nucleotide pool insufficiency as a key contributor to widespread cellular dysfunction in aneuploid HMECs with net copy number gain. While diploid cells can switch seamlessly between pyrimidine synthesis and salvage, cells with increased chromosomal content exhibit p53 activation and S-phase arrest when relying on salvage alone, and exhibit increased sensitivity to DNA-damaging chemotherapeutics. This work advances our understanding of the consequences of aneuploidy and uncovers potential avenues for patient stratification and therapeutic intervention based on tumor ploidy.
AnALPK3truncation variant causing autosomal dominant hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is partially rescued by mavacamten
Authors: Leinhos Lisa , Robinson Paul , Poloni Giulia , Broadway-Stringer Sophie , Beglov Julia , Lokman Adam B. , Douglas Gillian , Nuthay Sajjad , Fonseka Oveena , Schmid Manuel , Singer Evie , Hooper Charlotte , Thomson Kate , Bagnall Richard D. , Ingles Jodie , Semsarian Christopher , Ormondroyd Elizabeth , Toepfer Christopher N. , Davies Benjamin , Redwood Charles , Watkins Hugh , Gehmlich Katja
Published: October 2024

TheALPK3gene encodes alpha-protein kinase 3, a cardiac pseudo-kinase of unknown function. Heterozygous truncating variants (ALPK3tv)can cause dominant adult-onset Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Here we confirm an excess ofALPK3tvin sarcomere-gene negative HCM patients.

Moreover, we generated a novel knock-in mouse model carrying anALPK3tv(K201X). Homozygous animals displayed hypertrophy and systolic dysfunction. Heterozygous animals demonstrated no obvious baseline; however, they had an aggravated hypertrophic response upon chronic adrenergic challenge.

Isolated cardiomyocytes from heterozygous and homozygous mice showed reduced basal sarcomere length with prolonged relaxation, whilst calcium transients showed increased diastolic calcium levels and prolonged re-uptake. We also observed reduced fractional shortening. Protein kinase A-mediated phosphorylation, including that of cardiac troponin I, was significantly decreased. In agreement with the cellular HCM phenotype, reduced ratios of myosin heads in the super-relaxed state were measured. Contractile and calcium handling defects were partly corrected by treatment with mavacamten, a novel myosin inhibitor.

For the first time with a non-sarcomere HCM variant, we have demonstrated hallmark changes in cardiac contractility and calcium handling, some resembling sarcomere-positive HCM, while others are distinct and DCM-like. Mavacamten is able to partially rescue the cellular phenotype, hence could be beneficial to HCM patients withALPK3tv.
Diterpenoid phytoalexins shape rice root microbiomes and their associations with root parasitic nematodes
Authors: Kudjordjie Enoch Narh , Desmedt Willem , Kyndt Tina , Nicolaisen Mogens , Peters Reuben J. , Vestergård Mette
Published: October 2024

Rice synthesizes diterpenoid phytoalexins (DPs) are known to operate in defense against foliar microbial pathogens and root-knot nematodeMeloidogyne graminicola. Here, we examined the role of DPs in shaping rice⍰associated root microbiomes in nematode-infested rice paddy soils. Further, we assessed how DPs affect interactions between the root microbiomes and nematode communities, particularly rice root-knot nematodes from theMeloidogynegenus. We used 16S and ITS2 rRNA gene amplicon analysis to characterize the rice root-and rhizosphere-associated microbiomes of DP knock-out mutants and their wild-type parental line, at an early (17 days) and late (28 days) stage of plant development in field soil. Disruption of DP synthesis resulted in distinct composition and structure of microbial communities both relative to the parental/wild-type line but also between individual mutants, indicating specificity in DP-microbe interactions. Moreover, nematode-suppressive microbial taxa, includingStreptomyces,Stenotrophomonas,Enterobacter,Massilia, andAcidibacter, negatively correlated withMeloidogyne. Comparative analysis revealed differential enrichment of microbial taxa in the roots of rice diterpenoid phytoalexin (DP) knock-out mutants versus wild-type, suggesting that DPs modulate specific taxa in the rice root microbiome. These findings indicate DPs role in plant-microbiome assembly and nematode interactions, further underscoring the potential of leveraging phytoalexins for sustainable management of crop diseases.
Clostridioides difficilein Equidae necropsied in Normandie, France, in 2019-2021: common carriage of toxigenic strains and virulence of emerging ribotype 017
Authors: Petry Sandrine , Tapprest Jackie , Maillard Karine , Barbut Frédéric , Duquesne Fabien , Kozak Sofia , Foucher Nathalie , Bernez-Romand Maud , Bridoux Ludovic , Poquet Isabelle
Published: October 2024

Background

Clostridioides difficileis an anaerobic, spore-forming entero-pathogen, causing diarrhea in humans and animals. We aimed to evaluateC. difficileoccurrence, diversity, virulence and putative circulation among French Equidae.

Methods

We took advantage of necropsies of Equidae in Normandie, France, from 2019 to 2021 (n=100), to systematically recover the caecal content and, if watery and possibly diarrheal, any intestinal content. We searched forC. difficileand characterized isolates for their toxin gene profile and PCR-ribotype according to the WEBRIBO database. We performed free toxin detection to reach a high-standard diagnosis of infection.

Results

Twenty-seven Equidae were positive forC. difficileand twenty had a toxigenic strain, including one animal also colonized by a non-toxigenic strain. Toxigenic isolates belonged to eight ribotypes: 078, 126 (three-toxin profile), 005, 012, 020, 181, AI-53 (two-toxin profile), 017 (one-toxin profile), and non-toxigenic isolates to ribotypes 009, 035 and 439. 017 and 009 were the predominant ribotypes (n=5). In two premises, few Equidae shared the same ribotype, either 020 or 009, suggesting two potential transmission clusters. Free toxin detection demonstratedC. difficileinfection in four animals displayingpost-mortemsigns of diarrhea and toxigenic isolates of ribotype 126 (n=1) or 017 (n=3), which were the least susceptible to vancomycin. The infection by ribotype 017 caused animal death in two cases.

Conclusions

French Equidae represented an underestimated reservoir ofC. difficileand ribotype 017 was highly virulent in these animals, both preoccupying findings in a One Health perspective.
A Metagenomic Study of Antibiotic Resistance Across Diverse Soil Types and Geographical Locations
Authors: Pillay Stephanie , Tepeli Yasin , van Lent Paul , Abeel Thomas
Published: October 2024

Background

Soil naturally harbours antibiotic resistant bacteria and is considered to be a reservoir for antibiotic resistance. The overuse of antibiotics across human, animal, and environmental sectors has intensified this issue leading to an increased acquisition of antibiotic resistant genes by bacteria in soil. Various biogeographical factors, such as soil pH, temperature, and pollutants, play a role in the spread and emergence of antibiotic resistance in soil. In this study, we utilised publicly available metagenomic datasets from four different soil types (rhizosphere, urban, natural, and rural areas) sampled from nine distinct geographic locations to explore the patterns of antibiotic resistance in soils from different regions.

Results

Bradyrhizobiumwas predominant in vegetation soil types regardless of soil pH and temperature. ESKAPE pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosawas prevalent in rural soil samples. Antibiotic resistance gene families such as 16s rRNA with mutations conferring resistance to aminoglycoside antibiotics, OXA β-lactamase, ANT(3’’), and the RND and MFS efflux pump gene were identified in all soil types, with their abundances influenced by anthropogenic activities, vegetation, and climate in different geographical locations. Plasmids were more abundant in rural soils and were linked to aminoglycoside resistance. Integrons and integrative elements identified were associated with commonly used and naturally occurring antibiotics, showing similar abundances across different soil types and geographical locations.

Conclusion

Antimicrobial resistance in soil may be driven by anthropogenic activities and biogeographical factors, increasing the risk of bacteria developing resistance and leading to higher morbidity and mortality rates in humans and animals.
Ribozyme-based biosensor for imaging gene expression in plants
Authors: Liu Yang , Rajput Ruchika , Islam Torikul , Del Valle Ilenne , Yao Tao , Agarwal Rekha , Boone Brandon A. , Eckert Carrie , Abraham Paul E. , Chen Jin-Gui , Tuskan Gerald A. , Yang Xiaohan
Published: October 2024

Detection of gene expression in plants is critical for understanding the molecular basis of complex plant biosystems and plant responses to environmental stresses. Here, we report the development of a split ribozyme-based biosensor that enablesin vivovisualization of gene expression in plants. We demonstrated the utility of this biosensor in transient expression experiments (i.e., leaf infiltration inNicotiana benthamiana) to detect RNAs derived from transgenes and tobacco rattle virus, respectively. Furthermore, we successfully engineered a split ribozyme-based biosensor inArabidopsis thalianaforin vivovisualization of endogenous gene expression at the cellular level. In addition, we developed a platform for easy incorporation of different reporters into the RNA biosensor.
Identification and determination of the urinary metabolite of iodotyrosinein vivo
Authors: Ji Cindy Xinyu , Zonias Danae , Djumaeva Nafisa , Cheng Ranchu , Salim Kawther , Alikhani Pouya , Oyelade Tope , Moore Kevin P. , Moreno José C. , Mani Ali R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Congenital hypothyroidism screening traditionally relies on detecting elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone levels, yet this approach may not detect a specific type of congenital hypothyroidism caused by iodotyrosine dehalogenase-1 (Dehal1) deficiency. The deficiency of this enzyme prevents the deiodination of mono-iodotyrosine (MIT) and di-iodotyrosine (DIT) in the process of iodine recycling. This underscores the potential use of iodotyrosine or its metabolites as non-invasive urinary biomarkers for early diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism. However, the urinary metabolites of MIT/DIT have not yet been discovered. Thus, this study aimed to identify the urinary metabolites of iodotyrosine in experimental models.

Method

Gas chromatography mass spectrometry was used to identify the urinary metabolites of iodotyrosine following intraperitoneal injection of MIT in rats. An isotope dilution mass spectrometric assay was developed for assessment of identified metabolites. Urine samples fromDehal1knockout mice were used to confirm the results.

Results

We identified novel iodotyrosine metabolites, 3-iodo-4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (IHPA), and 3,5-diiodo-4-hydroxyphenylacetic acid (Di-IHPA) as the primary urinary metabolites of MIT and DIT respectively. The concentrations of urinary IHPA and Di-IHPA were significantly higher inDehal1knockout mice.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that IHPA is detected in larger quantities and may hold more clinical significance than previously identified biomarkers like MIT and DIT, making it a promising candidate for diagnosing congenital hypothyroidism or other conditions associated with iodine recycling inhibition.
Two transmembrane transcriptional regulators coordinate to activate chitin-induced natural transformation inVibrio cholerae
Authors: Hullinger Allison C. , Green Virginia E. , Klancher Catherine A. , Dalia Triana N. , Dalia Ankur B.
Published: October 2024

Transcriptional regulators are a broad class of proteins that alter gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. Transmembrane transcriptional regulators (TTRs) are a subset of transcriptional regulators in bacteria that can directly regulate gene expression while remaining anchored in the membrane. Whether this constraint impacts the ability of TTRs to bind their DNA targets remains unclear.Vibrio choleraeuses two TTRs, ChiS and TfoS, to activate horizontal gene transfer by natural transformation in response to chitin by inducing thetfoRpromoter (PtfoR). While TfoS was previously shown to bind and regulate PtfoRdirectly, the role of ChiS in PtfoRactivation remains unclear. Here, we show that ChiS directly binds PtfoRupstream of TfoS, and that ChiS directly interacts with TfoS. By independently disrupting ChiS-PtfoRand ChiS-TfoS interactions, we show that ChiS-PtfoRinteractions play the dominant role in PtfoRactivation. Correspondingly, we show that in the absence of ChiS, recruitment of the PtfoRlocus to the membrane is sufficient for PtfoRactivation when TfoS is expressed at native levels. Finally, we show that the overexpression of TfoS can bypass the need for ChiS for PtfoRactivation. All together, these data suggest a model whereby ChiS both (1) recruits the PtfoRDNA locus to the membrane for TfoS and (2) directly interacts with TfoS, thereby recruiting it to the membrane-proximal promoter. This work furthers our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that drive chitin-induced responses inV. choleraeand more broadly highlights how the membrane-embedded localization of TTRs can impact their activity.

AUTHOR SUMMARY

Living organisms inhabit diverse environments where they encounter a wide range of stressors. To survive, they must rapidly sense and respond to their surroundings. One universally conserved mechanism to respond to stimuli is via the action of DNA-binding transcriptional regulators. In bacterial species, these regulators are canonically cytoplasmic proteins that freely diffuse within the cytoplasm. In contrast, an emerging class of transmembrane transcriptional regulators (TTRs) directly regulate gene expression from the cell membrane. Prior work shows that two TTRs, TfoS and ChiS, cooperate to activate horizontal gene transfer by natural transformation in response to chitin in the facultative pathogenVibrio cholerae. However, how these TTRs coordinate to activate this response has remained unclear. Here, we show that ChiS likely promotes TfoS-dependent activation of natural transformation by (1) relocalizing its target promoter to the membrane and (2) recruiting TfoS to the membrane proximal promoter through a direct interaction. Together, these results inform our understanding of both theV. choleraechitin response and how TTR function can be impacted by their membrane localization.
Lorentz-covariant spinor wave packet
Authors: Oda Kin-ya , Wada Juntaro
Published: October 2024

We propose a novel formulation for a manifestly Lorentz-covariant spinor wave-packet basis. The traditional definition of the spinor wave packet is problematic due to its unavoidable mixing with other wave packets under Lorentz transformations. Our approach resolves this inherent mixing issue. The wave packet we develop constitutes a complete set, enabling the expansion of a free spinor field while maintaining Lorentz covariance. Additionally, we present a Lorentz-invariant expression for zero-point energy.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Numerical analysis of resonant axion-photon mixing
Authors: Ginés Estanis Utrilla , Noordhuis Dion , Weniger Christoph , Witte Samuel J.
Published: October 2024

Many present-day axion searches attempt to probe the mixing of axions and photons, which occurs in the presence of an external magnetic field. While this process is well understood in a number of simple and idealized contexts, a strongly varying or highly inhomogeneous background can impact the efficiency and evolution of the mixing in a nontrivial manner. In an effort to develop a generalized framework for analyzing axion-photon mixing in arbitrary systems, we focus in this work on directly solving the axion-modified form of Maxwell’s equations across a simulation domain with a spatially varying background. We concentrate specifically on understanding resonantly enhanced axion-photon mixing in a highly magnetized plasma, which is a key ingredient for developing precision predictions of radio signals emanating from the magnetospheres of neutron stars. After illustrating the success and accuracy of our approach for simplified limiting cases, we compare our results with a number of analytic solutions recently derived to describe mixing in these systems. We find that our numerical method demonstrates a high level of agreement with one, but only one, of the published results. Interestingly, our method also recovers the mixing between the axion and magnetosonic-t and Alfvén modes; these modes cannot escape from the regions of dense plasma but could nontrivially alter the dynamics in certain environments. Future work will focus on extending our calculations to study resonant mixing in strongly variable backgrounds, mixing in generalized media (beyond the strong magnetic field limit), and the mixing of photons with other light bosonic fields, such as dark photons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Azimuthal geodesics in closed FLRW cosmological models
Authors: Böhmer Christian G. , d’Alfonso del Sordo Antonio , Hartmann Betti , Münch Linus Elias
Published: October 2024

We study geodesics in Friedmann-Lemaître-Robertson-Walker (FLRW) cosmological models and give the full set of solutions. For azimuthal geodesics, in a closed universe, we give the angular distance traveled by a test particle moving along such a geodesic during one cycle of expansion and recollapse of the universe. We extend previous results regarding the path followed by light rays to the two-fluid case, also including a cosmological constant, as well as to massive test particles. Our work contains various new results and explicit formulas, often using special functions which naturally appear in this setting.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Model for random internalization of nanoparticles by cells
Authors: Fedotov Sergei , Alexandrov Dmitri V.
Published: October 2024

We propose a stochastic model for the internalization of nanoparticles by cells formulating cellular uptake as a compound Poisson process with a random probability of success. This is an alternative approach to the one presented by Rees [] who explained overdispersion in nanoparticle uptake and associated negative binomial distribution by considering a Poisson distribution for particle arrival and a gamma-distributed cell area. In our stochastic model, the formation of new pits is represented by the Poisson process, whereas the capturing process and the population heterogeneity are described by a random Bernoulli process with a beta-distributed probability of success. The random probability of success generates ensemble-averaged conditional transition probabilities that increase with the number of newly formed pits (self-reinforcement). As a result, an ensemble-averaged nanoparticle uptake can be represented as a Polya process. We derive an explicit formula for the distribution of the random number of pits containing nanoparticles. In the limit of the fast nucleation and low probability of nanoparticle capture, we find the negative binomial distribution.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The crystal structures determination and Hirshfeld surface analysis of N-(4-bromo-3-methoxyphenyl)- and N-{[3-bromo-1-(phenylsulfonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl]methyl}- derivatives of N-{[3-bromo-1-(phenylsulfonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl]methyl}benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Madhan S. , NizamMohideen M. , Pavunkumar Vinayagam , MohanaKrishnan Arasambattu K.
Published: October 2024

Two new phenylsulfonylindole derivatives, namely, N-{[3-bromo-1-(phenylsulfonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl]methyl}-N-(4-bromo-3-methoxyphenyl)benzenesulfonamide, C28H22Br2N2O5S2, (I), and N,N-bis{[3-bromo-1-(phenylsulfonyl)-1H-indol-2-yl]methyl}benzenesulfonamide, C36H27Br2N3O6S3, (II), reveal the impact of intramolecular π–π interactions of the indole moieties as a factor not only governing the conformation of N,N-bis(1H-indol-2-yl)methyl)amines, but also significantly influencing the crystal patterns. For I, the crystal packing is dominated by C—H...π and π–π bonding, with a particular significance of mutual indole–indole interactions. In the case of II, the molecules adopt short intramolecular π–π interactions between two nearly parallel indole ring systems [with the centroids of their pyrrole rings separated by 3.267 (2) Å] accompanied by a set of forced Br...O contacts. This provides suppression of similar interactions between the molecules, while the importance of weak C—H...O hydrogen bonding to the packing naturally increases. Short contacts of the latter type [C...O = 3.389 (6) Å] assemble pairs of molecules into centrosymmetric dimers with a cyclic R
2
2(13) ring motif. These findings are consistent with the results of a Hirshfeld surface analysis and together they suggest a tool for modulating the supramolecular behavior of phenylsulfonylated indoles.
Sunfuel Electric: charting a differentiated go-to-market-strategy in the EV charging space
Authors: Pereira Mundkur Jacqueline , Desai Riva
Published: October 2024

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, students will be able to understand the service offerings within the nascent electric vehicle (EV) sector and end-consumer needs of EV charging services, understand the reasoning behind Sunfuel Electrics (SFEs) prioritisation of destination charging for their first go-to-market (GTM) strategy and appreciate SFE’s use of community marketing and alliance partners to execute its various strategies. Connect game-theory with the proposed strategies.

Case overview/synopsis

SFE was an early start-up in EV charging space. The co-founders believed that any success would hinge on their ability to play a differentiated game and carve a distinct yet profitable niche in the EV charging arena. SFE deliberately focussed on “destination charging” and identified a segment that they were confident of making a difference: the discerning high-end consumer. Soon, SFE’s success caught the eye of its deep-pocketed competitors who also entered the same space. As a single service company, the co-founders set in motion a back-up plan and identified three new strategic thrust areas to maintain SFE’s competitive edge. The first involved entering the city charging segment, and the second was a pioneering concept branded “E-Trails” targeted at a community of EV owners who were motor enthusiasts. Thirdly, SFE conceptualised an EV-Roadhouse concept, promising a full-bouquet of select premium services at a pit-stops along the highway. The co-founders needed to test which and to what extent would these initiatives would translate into real gains and if returns were commensurate with investments and SFE’s ability to deliver a scalable consistent experience. Specifically, if these proposed asset-light avenues added the required heft to their GTM strategy.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for post-graduate students in marketing, strategy, entrepreneurship and sustainability courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.
Three–dimensional matrices for enhanced coral settlement through design for additive manufacturing
Authors: Vieira Miguel Ângelo , M.O. Tavares Sérgio , Félix Silvina L.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The effects of climate change have been contributing to coral reef degradation. Artificial reefs are one method being used to counteract this destruction. However, the most common artificial approaches, such as sunken vehicles and prefabricated cement reefs, do not allow adequate coral development. This paper aims to demonstrate how designers, using additive manufacturing and computational design techniques, can create artificial reefs that better mimic natural reef structures.

Design/methodology/approach

This research focuses on developing three-dimensional matrices through computational design using additive manufacturing to achieve better coral settlement. A “Nature Centered Design” approach was followed, with the corals at the center of the design project. Samples with different geometries and roughness, produced using paste-based extrusion with porcelain and porcelain with oyster shell, were tested in a controlled environment to investigate the settlement preference of soft corals.

Findings

The rapid prototyping of samples confirmed the preference of corals to settle to complex surfaces compared to smooth surfaces. Porcelain showed comparable results to Portland cement, suggesting further testing potential. A closer resemblance to the natural and intricate forms found in coral reefs was achieved through computational design.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new approach combining rapid prototyping with coral’s biological responses to enhance the understanding of their surface settlement preference. The Nature Centered Design approach, with additive manufacturing and computational design, made it possible to create an innovative working model that could be customized depending on the implementation area or intended coral species, validating the design approach as a method to support environmental conservation.
A mollifier approach to seismic data representation
Authors: Strijbos F. P. L.
Published: October 2024

The extension of the seismic bandwidth to lower frequencies enhances impedance contrasts that can be poorly represented by the broadband acquisition wavelet. Furthermore, long filters that are used to shape the wavelet of processed data can cause issues with noise, phase and interference between seismic events. In this paper, we use a mathematical technique known as mollification to resolve impedance variations with the highest detail allowed by the bandwidth of the data. The mollifier is integrated and windowed to match the low‐frequency content of the data to yield a convenient conversion to relative impedance. Synthetic data created from wedge models show that the windowed mollifier provides an improved representation of the impedance profile. This is replicated by application to an acoustic well log and a regular seismic dataset recorded in the Southern North Sea as well as a broadband dataset recorded in the North Sea.
Higher abundance of disturbance‐favoured trees and shrubs in European temperate woodlands prior to the late‐Quaternary extinction of megafauna
Authors: Pearce Elena A. , Mazier Florence , Fyfe Ralph , Davison Charles W. , Normand Signe , Serge Maria‐Antonia , Scussolini Paolo , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: October 2024

Large herbivorous mammals strongly influence vegetation structure by creating and maintaining open areas and causing disturbance within closed woody habitats. The herbivores alive today in Europe are only a small remnant of the large species that existed in high diversity and abundance before modern humans. The extinction of so many large herbivores during the last 50,000 years, and the loss of megaherbivores (body weight ≥1000 kg) from most of the continent before the Pleistocene–Holocene transition, is likely to have had cascading effects on vegetation structure and composition.

To evaluate these effects within the European temperate forest biome, we examine the abundance change of three important European woody taxa (deciduous oaks, Quercus spp.; hazel, Corylus [mainly C. avellana]; and yew, Taxus baccata) before and after the late‐Quaternary downgrading of the region's large herbivore fauna. These taxa are disturbance‐favoured, depend on canopy openings for regeneration, and tend to decline in closed dense forests. Quercus and Corylus may thrive in systems affected by megafauna herbivory or fire, whilst Taxus is fire‐sensitive but can thrive in grazed systems. Using pollen‐based reconstructions (REVEALS), we investigated the proportional cover of these three focal taxa in the Last Interglacial (129,000–116,000 before present [BP]) and early–mid‐Holocene (8700–5700 BP).

We found that woodlands in the Last Interglacial exhibited higher cover of Corylus and Taxus relative to the Holocene, with the former reaching very high percentage cover; meanwhile, Quercus had a consistent, moderately high percentage cover in both periods. Furthermore, we found that the cover of Corylus and Taxus appeared to be influenced more by unmeasured, non‐climatic factors than Quercus.

Synthesis: The abundance of Taxus suggests a limited role of fire; whilst the observed levels of Taxus, Corylus and Quercus align with the potential influence of megafauna herbivory; however, a direct quantitative link remains to be established. Our results suggest that vegetation was structurally and compositionally affected by differences in disturbance regimes between the Last Interglacial and early–mid‐Holocene, with the loss of diverse disturbance regimes likely contributing to the divergence of Holocene vegetation from long‐term ecological baselines.
‘Skateboarding is not a sport’: Creativity at the margins of capitalism
Authors: Marlovits John
Published: October 2024

One might expect skateboarders to be jubilant that the Olympics recognized theirs as an Olympic sport, but their response is ambivalent. Alexis Sablone, a women's street competition participant, does not consider skateboarding ‘a sport’. What is it if not a sport? This article argues that it is a fugitive, non‐teleological, open‐source practice for creating new ‘existential territories’ – new forms of personhood, public space and social relationships. Skateboarders’ resistance to centralization and their emphasis on DIY creativity suggests skateboarding involves challenging culturally specific and local norms. It rests on creative remakings of derelict and unevenly developed urban spaces and the construction of new forms of identity and social purpose. The argument is based on fieldwork with the Osaka Daggers.
Family planning policy and gender in Nigeria: A thematic analysis of the government's health policy perspective
Authors: Amiesimaka Obreniokibo Ibifubara , Payam Shahin
Published: October 2024

Family Planning (FP) lets people control the number and timing of child‐births through using contraceptives and/or restoring fertility. Nigeria has several FP policies for managing its population, yet contraceptives usage remains suboptimal despite high FP awareness, suggesting that several factors might be inhibiting FP uptake. The literature spotlights gender as factoring into FP use due to Nigeria’s patriarchal society, with men positioned as gatekeepers to women’s sexual/reproductive health/expression. Therefore, we investigate if/how gender is considered in Nigeria’s FP policies. We thematically analysed the ‘National Reproductive Health Policy’, ‘National Family Planning Communication Plan’ and ‘Nigeria Family Planning Blueprint (Scale‐Up Plan)’, from a critical realist viewpoint. Our analysis generated an overarching theme—‘A Gendered Human Right’, with three further themes: Women’s Right—Women’s Issue’, ‘Adolescent Girls—not left out’ and ‘Men’s Right as Supporters’. FP was portrayed as the right of women, adolescents (particularly girls ≥ 10 yrs) and men. It was highly feminised, with women, not men, majorly shouldering the FP responsibility and women’s FP access was presented as hindered by men. Moreover, we advance recommendations for optimising Nigeria’s policies to address gender imbalances hampering women’s FP access and uphold the rights of all people, women/girls especially.
Recurrence of Severe Maternal Morbidity and Transfusion During Delivery Hospitalisations: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: van Wingerden Anne‐Sophie , Huang Yongmei , Booker Whitney , Nwaba Kaitlyn G. , D'Alton Mary E. , Friedman Alexander
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine risks for non‐transfusion severe maternal morbidity and transfusion during a second delivery hospitalisation based on clinical risk factors and obstetric complications from an index, first delivery hospitalisation.

Design

Retrospective cohort.

Population

Delivery hospitalisations in the 2010–2017 New York State Inpatient Database.

Methods

Patients with a first index delivery hospitalisation followed by a second delivery hospitalisation during the study period were included. Clinical risk factors and obstetric complications were obtained from the first index delivery hospitalisation. Adjusted logistic regression models for non‐transfusion severe maternal morbidity during the second delivery were performed with adjusted (aORs) odds ratios as measures of effect. These analyses were then repeated for the outcome of transfusion.

Results

Of 624 500 paired delivery hospitalisations to 312 250 women, severe maternal morbidity occurred among 0.85% of second deliveries (n = 2672). When adjusted analysis was performed, several clinical factors were associated with severe maternal morbidity in a subsequent pregnancy, including severe maternal morbidity during the index pregnancy (aOR 8.4, 95% CI 7.0, 9.9), transfusion (aOR 2.0, 95% CI 1.6, 2.4) and pregestational diabetes (aOR 2.2, 95% 1.6, 2.9). When analyses were repeated for transfusion, several factors were associated with increased risk, including severe maternal morbidity (aOR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2, 1.8), index transfusion (aOR 6.3, 95% CI 5.6, 7.0), chronic heart disease (aOR 1.6, 95% 1.4, 1.9) and pregestational diabetes (aOR 1.7, 95% 1.3, 2.2).

Conclusion

Many obstetric complications and chronic conditions identified during an index delivery hospitalisation are associated with severe morbidity during a second, subsequent delivery. Index severe maternal morbidity is associated with the highest odds. These findings may be of use in patient counselling and risk stratification.
Farmer Protests in Europe 2023–2024
Authors: Finger Robert , Fabry Anna , Kammer Marie , Candel Jeroen , Dalhaus Tobias , Meemken Eva Marie
Published: October 2024

In 2023–2024, farmer protests swept across Europe, with tractors blocking roads and supermarkets, drawing significant media attention. Unlike previous protests, these events spread continent‐wide, suggesting a contagion effect. This paper documents the surge in farmer protests, explores their triggers and underlying causes, and emphasizes the need for a just transition to sustainable food systems. The protests were sparked by proposed policy changes, tighter environmental regulations, perceived pressures on farm incomes and increased trade competition. However, the root causes varied by country. Swift policy responses at both national and EU levels included retracting controversial measures like the Sustainable Use of Pesticides Regulation, but these actions also hindered key initiatives for transitioning to more sustainable agri‐food systems. Moving forward, a comprehensive public debate on the future of Europe's agri‐food systems is crucial, focusing on balancing environmental sustainability with the economic viability of agriculture. A major political challenge will be moving beyond simplistic dichotomies to develop a vision for a food system that fosters synergies between farmer interests as well as environmental and social objectives.
Deep learning detects subtle facial expressions in a multilevel society primate
Authors: FANG Gu , PENG Xianlin , XIE Penglin , REN Jun , PENG Shenglin , FENG Xiaoyi , TIAN Xin , ZHOU Mingzhu , LI Zhibo , PENG Jinye , MATSUZAWA Tetsuro , XIA Zhaoqiang , LI Baoguo
Published: October 2024

Facial expressions in nonhuman primates are complex processes involving psychological, emotional, and physiological factors, and may use subtle signals to communicate significant information. However, uncertainty surrounds the functional significance of subtle facial expressions in animals. Using artificial intelligence (AI), this study found that nonhuman primates exhibit subtle facial expressions that are undetectable by human observers. We focused on the golden snub‐nosed monkeys (Rhinopithecus roxellana), a primate species with a multilevel society. We collected 3427 front‐facing images of monkeys from 275 video clips captured in both wild and laboratory settings. Three deep learning models, EfficientNet, RepMLP, and Tokens‐To‐Token ViT, were utilized for AI recognition. To compare the accuracy of human performance, two groups were recruited: one with prior animal observation experience and one without any such experience. The results showed human observers to correctly detect facial expressions (32.1% for inexperienced humans and 45.0% for experienced humans on average with a chance level of 33%). In contrast, the AI deep learning models achieved significantly higher accuracy rates. The best‐performing model achieved an accuracy of 94.5%. Our results provide evidence that golden snub‐nosed monkeys exhibit subtle facial expressions. The results further our understanding of animal facial expressions and also how such modes of communication may contribute to the origin of complex primate social systems.
Empirical framework for Cournot oligopoly with private information
Authors: Aryal Gaurab , Zincenko Federico
Published: October 2024

We propose an empirical framework for asymmetric Cournot oligopoly with private information about variable costs. First, considering a linear demand for a homogeneous product with a random intercept, we characterize the Bayesian Cournot–Nash equilibrium. Then we establish the identification of the joint distribution of demand and firm‐specific cost distributions. Following the identification steps, we propose a likelihood‐based estimation method and apply it to the global market for crude oil and quantify the welfare effect of private information. We also consider extensions of the model to include product differentiation, conduct parameters, nonlinear demand, or selective entry.
Penile curvature severity in patients with Peyronie's disease does not correlate with dynamic color doppler duplex ultrasound parameters: findings from a real‐life cross‐sectional study
Authors: Bertini Alessandro , Pozzi Edoardo , Belladelli Federico , Raffo Massimiliano , Corsini Christian , Negri Fausto , Musso Giacomo , Cattafi Francesco , Ramadani Riccardo , Candela Luigi , Arma Alessia d’ , Montorsi Francesco , Salonia Andrea
Published: October 2024

Introduction

There is inconsistent data regarding the possible inaccuracies in dynamic penile color Doppler duplex ultrasound (CDDU) measurements in men with penile curvature because of Peyronie's disease (PD). We sought to explore the relationship between the degree of penile curvature and CDDU parameters in men with PD.

Materials and methods

Comprehensive data from 154 consecutive men presenting with PD as their primary complaint at a single academic center were prospectively collected and analyzed. All men underwent CDDU. Penile curvature was measured using a goniometer at time of maximum erection during CDDU. Patients were grouped based on CDDU parameters into—normal (average peak systolic velocity [PSV] ≥ 35 cm/s and resistance index [RI] ≥ 0.85) and pathological CDDU (average PSV < 35 cm/s and/or RI < 0.85). Descriptive statistics was used to compare the two subcohorts. Linear regression models were fitted to explore the association between the degree of penile curvature and dynamic CDDU parameters.

Results

Overall, the median interquartile range (IQR) age was 56 (48−63) years. The median (IQR) PSV and degree of penile curvature were 48.8 cm/s (37.9−58.5) and 40 degrees (30‐60), respectively. At CDDU, the degrees of penile curvature were as follows: 10–30 degrees in 63 (40.9%) men, 30–70 degrees in 70 (45.5%) men, and 70–90 degrees in 21 (13.6%) men, respectively. Of all, 116 (75.3%) patients showed a PSV > 35 cm/s and RI ≥ 0.85. Patients with pathologic vs. normal CDDU parameters did not differ in median (IQR) curvature (32.5° [30°−58.7°] vs. 40° [30°−65°], p = 0.5) or in the distribution across curvature range groups. Linear regression analysis revealed that the degree of penile curvature did not significantly correlate with PSV at CDDU (coefficient: 0.06, p = 0.3).

Conclusions

Our study confirms the lack of a significant correlation between the severity of penile curvature and CDDU parameters in men presenting with PD. These findings emerge to be relevant in terms of a more accurate management work‐up for PD patients and hold insightful medicolegal implications and in the real‐life setting.
Fostering collaboration: an exploration of knowledge exchange between Rongoā Māori practitioners and surgical clinicians
Authors: Thompson Nasya , Glyn Tamara , Kerridge Donna , Koea Jonathan
Published: October 2024

Background

This research investigates the potential for collaboration of Rongoā Māori, the Indigenous healing practices of Māori, with New Zealand's contemporary healthcare system. It aims to bridge the gap between Rongoā Māori and Western medicine by exploring the perspectives of practitioners from both fields, identifying barriers to integration, and highlighting potential areas for collaboration.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were conducted with both Rongoā practitioners and Western surgeons. The data collected were subjected to thematic analysis to extract key themes related to the integration process, challenges faced, and the potential for mutual recognition and respect between the two healing paradigms.

Results

The study reveals a deep respect for Rongoā Māori among Western surgeons but identifies significant systemic barriers that impede its integration. These include bureaucratic challenges and the absence of clear referral pathways. Rongoā practitioners express concerns over being overlooked within the healthcare system and highlight a lack of awareness among healthcare professionals about their practices. Despite these challenges, there is a shared interest in collaborative approaches to healthcare that respect and incorporate Rongoā Māori.

Conclusions

The findings underscore the need for systemic changes to facilitate the integration of Rongoā Māori into mainstream healthcare, including the development of clear referral pathways and initiatives to raise awareness among healthcare professionals. The study highlights the need for a more collaborative healthcare approach that values the contributions of Rongoā Māori, aiming to improve patient care through holistic practices.
Discovering the true nature of chronic pelvic pain: Are we asking the right questions?
Authors: Amundsen Kristine , Tiller Heidi
Published: October 2024

Chronic pelvic pain is a debilitating complex condition affecting men and women, but the knowledge gaps are salient. The condition impacts somatic, sexual, and mental health, as well as social, family, and work life. The complexity of the condition demands for a giant step away from traditional dualistic clinical approach. This commentary underpins the need to interweave multidisciplinary research within a biopsychosocial framework, as well as enhanced inclusion of the user perspective.