bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term clinical outcomes following total knee arthroplasty in patients with hemophilic arthropathy: a single-surgeon cohort after a 10- to 17-year follow-up
Authors: Feng Bin , Wang Yingjie , Dong Xiying , Li Zeng , Lin Jin , Weng Xisheng
Published: May 2023

Background:

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can reduce severe joint pain and improve functional disability in hemophilia. However, the long-term outcomes have rarely been reported in China. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes and complications of TKA in Chinese patients with hemophilic arthropathy.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed patients with hemophilia who underwent TKA between 2003 and 2020, with at least 10 years of follow-up. The clinical results, patellar scores, patients' overall satisfaction ratings, and radiological findings were evaluated. Revision surgery for implants during the follow-up period was recorded.

Results:

Twenty-six patients with 36 TKAs were successfully followed up for an average of 12.4 years. Their Hospital for Special Surgery Knee Score improved from an average of 45.8 to 85.9. The average flexion contracture statistically significantly decreased from 18.1° to 4.2°. The range of motion (ROM) improved from 60.6° to 84.8°. All the patients accepted patelloplasty, and the patients' patellar score improved from 7.8 preoperatively to 24.9 at the last follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference in clinical outcomes between the unilateral and bilateral procedures, except for a better ROM at follow-up in the unilateral group. Mild and enduring anterior knee pain was reported in seven knees (19%). The annual bleeding event was 2.7 times/year at the last follow-up. A total of 25 patients with 35 TKAs were satisfied with the procedure (97%). Revision surgery was performed in seven knees, with 10- and 15-year prosthesis survival rates of 85.8% and 75.7%, respectively.

Conclusions:

TKA is an effective procedure for patients with end-stage hemophilic arthropathy, which relieves pain, improves knee functions, decreases flexion contracture, and provides a high rate of satisfaction after more than ten years of follow-up.
A Dynamic Spatial Factor Model to Describe the Opioid Syndemic in Ohio
Authors: Kline David , Waller Lance A. , McKnight Erin , Bonny Andrea , Miller William C. , Hepler Staci A.
Published: May 2023

Background:

The opioid epidemic has been ongoing for over 20 years in the United States. As opioid misuse has shifted increasingly toward injection of illicitly produced opioids, it has been associated with HIV and hepatitis C transmission. These epidemics interact to form the opioid syndemic.

Methods:

We obtain annual county-level counts of opioid overdose deaths, treatment admissions for opioid misuse, and newly diagnosed cases of acute and chronic hepatitis C and newly diagnosed HIV from 2014 to 2019. Aligned with the conceptual framework of syndemics, we develop a dynamic spatial factor model to describe the opioid syndemic for counties in Ohio and estimate the complex synergies between each of the epidemics.

Results:

We estimate three latent factors characterizing variation of the syndemic across space and time. The first factor reflects overall burden and is greatest in southern Ohio. The second factor describes harms and is greatest in urban counties. The third factor highlights counties with higher than expected hepatitis C rates and lower than expected HIV rates, which suggests elevated localized risk for future HIV outbreaks.

Conclusions:

Through the estimation of dynamic spatial factors, we are able to estimate the complex dependencies and characterize the synergy across outcomes that underlie the syndemic. The latent factors summarize shared variation across multiple spatial time series and provide new insights into the relationships between the epidemics within the syndemic. Our framework provides a coherent approach for synthesizing complex interactions and estimating underlying sources of variation that can be applied to other syndemics.
Writing Motivation Profiles and Their Association With Writing Performance
Authors: Camacho Ana , De Smedt Fien , Maio Rui , Cadima Joana , Van Keer Hilde , Alves Rui A.
Published: May 2023

Prior research has consistently shown that motivation is a catalyst for students' writing performance, with important implications for writing instruction. However, this body of research has mainly relied on a variable-centered approach that does not acknowledge the similarities and differences between and within groups of students. In the current study, we sought to address this research gap by examining the association between different motivational profiles and writing performance using a person-centered approach. Accordingly, we aimed to (a) identify different motivational profiles in writing, based on students' implicit theories and achievement goals, and (b) examine whether students in different profiles varied in writing performance. To this end, we sampled 212 Portuguese sixth-grade students (M = 11.11 years, SD = 0.56) and collected motivational and writing performance measures at a single time point. Cluster analyses revealed two distinct writing motivation profiles: one profile reflected students with a growth mindset who were less oriented toward performance-approach and performance-avoidance goals, and another profile represented students with a fixed mindset who were more oriented toward performance-approach and performance-avoidance goals. Subsequent analyses indicated that one profile could be considered as more adaptive than the other. Specifically, students in the growth mindset and less performance-oriented profile wrote opinion texts with better quality and earned higher writing grades than students in the fixed mindset and more performance-oriented profile. Overall, these findings suggest that teachers should add motivation-enhancing practices to writing instruction and tailor their teaching practices according to students' unique motivational profiles.
Serendipitous detection ofAnopheles stephensiin Kisumu, Kenya in June 2022
Authors: Ndenga Bryson Alberto , Wambua Sammy , Owuor Kevin Omondi , Omukuti Rodney , Chemutai Salome , Arabu Daniel , Miringu Irene , Bosire Carren , Mwendwa Kavinya , Winter Christabel Achieng , Mutuku Francis Maluki , Bisanzio Donal , LaBeaud Angelle Desiree , Gerken Keli Nicole
Published: May 2023

In June 2022, a pool of five mosquitoes that were morphologically classified asAnopheles gambiaeand caught in Kisumu (Kenya) were tested for blood-meal analysis. Of the 19.6% (11/56) amplicon sequence variants assigned to mosquito species using basic local alignment search tool (BLAST), one had 15 hits matchingAnopheles stephensi.
Monocyte to Lymphocyte ratio is highly specific in diagnosing latent tuberculosis and declines significantly following tuberculosis preventive therapy:a cross-sectional and nested prospective observational study
Authors: Mayito Jonathan , Meya David B. , Miriam Akia , Dhikusooka Flavia , Rhein Joshua , Sekaggya-Wiltshire Christine
Published: May 2023

Interferon-gamma release assay and tuberculin skin test use is limited by costly sundries and cross-reactivity with non-tuberculous mycobacteria and Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccination respectively. We investigated the Monocyte to Lymphocyte ratio (MLR) as a biomarker to overcome these limitations and for use in monitoring response to tuberculosis preventive therapy (TPT). We conducted a cross-sectional and nested prospective observational study among asymptomatic adults living with Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) in Kampala, Uganda. Complete blood count (CBC) and QuantiFERON-TB® Gold-plus were measured at baseline and CBC repeated at three months. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with a high MLR and decline in MLR. We recruited 110 adults living with HIV and on antiretroviral therapy, of which 82.5% (85/110) had suppressed viral loads, 71.8% (79/110) were female, and 73.6% (81/110) had a BCG scar. The derived MLR diagnostic cut-off was 0.35, based on which the MLR sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were 12.8%, 91.6%, 45.5%, and 65.7% respectively. The average MLR declined from 0.212 (95% CI: 0.190 – 0.235) at baseline to 0.182 (95% CI: 0.166 – 0.198) after three months of TPT. A viral load of >50 copies/ml (aOR, 5.67 [1.12-28.60]) was associated with a high MLR while that of <50 copies/ml (aOR, 0.07 [0.007-0.832]) was associated with a decline in MLR. MLR was highly specific in diagnosing latent TB and declined significantly following three months of TPT. Implications of a high MLR and decline in MLR after TPT need further evaluation in a larger cohort.
The evolution of splice site sequence preference is linked to the U6 snRNA m6A methyltransferase METTL16
Authors: Parker Matthew T , Fica Sebastian M , Barton Geoffrey J , Simpson Gordon G
Published: May 2023

Eukaryotic genes are interrupted by introns that are removed from transcribed RNAs by splicing. The extent of alternative splicing is the best genomic predictor of developmental complexity, yet it is unclear what mediates change in patterns of splicing complexity between species. Here we show that variation in 5’ splice site sequence preferences correlate with the presence of the U6 snRNA methyltransferase METTL16 and the splicing factor SNRNP27K. We used inter-species association mapping with Saccharomycotina species to correlate splicing phenotypes with the presence or absence of splicing factors. The greatest variation in 5’ splice site sequence occurred at the +4 position and involved a preference switch between adenosine and uridine. Loss of METTL16 and SNRNP27K orthologs, or a single SNRNP27K methionine residue, was associated with a preference for +4U. These findings are consistent with splicing analyses of mutants defective in either METTL16 or SNRNP27K orthologs and models derived from spliceosome structures, demonstrating that inter-species association mapping is a powerful orthogonal approach to molecular studies. We conclude that variation in concerted processes of 5’ splice site selection by U6 snRNA is crucial to evolutionary change in splicing complexity.
Increased hyaluronan by naked mole-rat HAS2 extends lifespan in mice
Authors: Zhang Zhihui , Tian Xiao , Lu J. Yuyang , Boit Kathryn , Ablaeva Julia , Zakusilo Frances Tolibzoda , Emmrich Stephan , Firsanov Denis , Rydkina Elena , Biashad Seyed Ali , Lu Quan , Tyshkovskiy Alexander , Gladyshev Vadim N. , Horvath Steve , Seluanov Andrei , Gorbunova Vera
Published: May 2023

Abundant high molecular weight hyaluronic acid (HMW-HA) contributes to cancer resistance and possibly longevity of the longest-lived rodent, the naked mole-rat1, 2. To study whether the benefits of HMW-HA could be transferred to other animal species, we generated a transgenic mouse overexpressing naked mole-rat hyaluronic acid synthase 2 gene (nmrHAS2). nmrHAS2 mice showed increase in hyaluronan levels in several tissues, and lower incidence of spontaneous and induced cancer, extended lifespan and improved healthspan. The transcriptome signature of nmrHAS2 mice shifted towards that of longer-lived species. The most striking change observed in nmrHAS2 mice was attenuated inflammation across multiple tissues. HMW-HA reduced inflammation via several pathways including direct immunoregulatory effect on immune cells, protection from oxidative stress, and improved gut barrier function during aging. These findings demonstrate that the longevity mechanism that evolved in the naked mole-rat can be exported to other species, and open new avenues for using HMW-HA to improve lifespan and healthspan.
Foraging decisions of snowshoe hares in response to experimentally induced coat-colour mismatch
Authors: Kennah Joanie L. , Peers Michael J. L. , Balluffi-Fry Juliana , Richmond Isabella C. , Wal Eric Vander
Published: May 2023

Animals may exhibit various strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of phenological mismatch. In species experiencing coat colour mismatch, the effects of lost camouflage on the susceptibility to predation may be compensated for with other antipredator traits, such as altered foraging decisions, and may further depend on the intensity of risk. We artificially simulated coat colour mismatch and predation risk in wild-caught snowshoe hares and measured their forage intake rate of black spruce browse, intraspecific selection for forage quality, i.e., % nitrogen of browse, and resulting body mass loss across different risk levels, simulated by cover or lack thereof. We found that hares did not adjust their intake rate in response to mismatch, but hares in our high-risk treatment ate significantly more than hares in our low-risk treatment. Mismatched brown hares, however, selected for more nitrogen-rich forage than their matched brown counterparts. Mismatched white hares lost 4.55% more body mass than their matched white counterparts, despite not reducing their intake rate. Hares in our high-risk treatment lost 1.29% more body mass than those in covered enclosures. We suggest that the increased selection for nitrogen-rich forage observed in brown mismatched hares may occur to mitigate the body mass loss consequences of mismatch. Similarly, the increased intake rate of hares in clear roof enclosures relative to those in opaque roof enclosures may be a compensatory behavioural response to increased body mass loss. Our results highlight the potential indirect effects of coat colour mismatch on snowshoe hares, but also the corresponding behavioural mechanisms that may partially mitigate these effects.
Predicting the timing of ecological phenomena across regions using citizen science data
Authors: Capinha César , Ceia-Hasse Ana , de-Miguel Sergio , Vila-Viçosa Carlos , Porto Miguel , Jarić Ivan , Tiago Patricia , Fernandez Nestor , Valdez Jose , McCallum Ian , Pereira Henrique Miguel
Published: May 2023

Spatial predictions of intra-annual ecological variation enhance ecological understanding and inform decision-making. Unfortunately, it is often challenging to use statistical or machine learning techniques to make such predictions, due to the scarcity of systematic, long-term observational data. Conversely, opportunistic time-stamped observation records, supported by highly informative data such as photographs, are increasingly available for diverse ecological phenomena in many regions. However, a general framework for predicting such phenomena using opportunistic data remains elusive. Here, we introduce a novel framework that leverages the concept of relative phenological niche to model observation records as a sample of temporal environmental conditions in which the represented ecological phenomenon occurs. We demonstrate its application using two distinct, management-relevant, ecological events: the emergence of the adult stage of the invasive Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica), and of fruiting bodies of the winter chanterelle mushroom (Craterellus tubaeformis). The framework accounts for spatial and temporal biases in observation data, and it contrasts the temporal environmental conditions (e.g., in temperature, precipitation, wind speed, etc.) associated with the observation of these events to those available in their occurrence locations. To discriminate between the two sets of conditions, we employ machine-learning algorithms (boosted regression trees and random forests). The proposed approach can accurately predict the temporal dynamics of ecological events across large geographical scales. Specifically, it successfully predicted the intra-annual timing of occurrence of adult Japanese beetles and of winter chanterelle mushrooms across Europe and North America. We further validate the approach by successfully predicting the timing of occurrence of adult Japanese beetles in Northern Italy, a recent hotspot of invasion in continental Europe, and the winter chanterelle mushroom in Denmark, a country with a high number of records of this mushroom. These results were also largely insensitive to temporal bias in recording effort. Our results highlight the potential of opportunistic observation data to predict the temporal variation of a wide range of ecological phenomena in near real-time. Furthermore, the conceptual and methodological framework is intuitive and easily applicable for the large number of ecologists already using machine-learning and statistical-based predictive approaches.
SpatialData: an open and universal data framework for spatial omics
Authors: Marconato Luca , Palla Giovanni , Yamauchi Kevin A. , Virshup Isaac , Heidari Elyas , Treis Tim , Toth Marcella , Shrestha Rahul B. , Vöhringer Harald , Huber Wolfgang , Gerstung Moritz , Moore Josh , Theis Fabian J. , Stegle Oliver
Published: May 2023

Spatially resolved omics technologies are transforming our understanding of biological tissues. However, handling uni- and multi-modal spatial omics datasets remains a challenge owing to large volumes of data, heterogeneous data types and the lack of unified spatially-aware data structures. Here, we introduce SpatialData, a framework that establishes a unified and extensible multi-platform file-format, lazy representation of larger-than-memory data, transformations, and alignment to common coordinate systems. SpatialData facilitates spatial annotations and cross-modal aggregation and analysis, the utility of which is illustrated via multiple vignettes, including integrative analysis on a multi-modal Xenium and Visium breast cancer study.
Fake Publications in Biomedical Science: Red-flagging Method Indicates Mass Production
Authors: Sabel Bernhard A. , Knaack Emely , Gigerenzer Gerd , Bilc Mirela
Published: May 2023

Background

Integrity of academic publishing is increasingly undermined by fake science publications massively produced by commercial “editing services” (so-called “paper mills”). They use AI-supported, automated production techniques at scale and sell fake publications to students, scientists, and physicians under pressure to advance their careers. Because the scale of fake publications in biomedicine is unknown, we developed a simple method to red-flag them and estimate their number.

Methods

To identify indicators able to red-flag fake publications (RFPs), we sent questionnaires to authors. Based on author responses, a classification rule was applied initially using the two-indicators “non-institutional email AND no international authors” (“email+NIA”) to sub-samples of 15,120 PubMed®-listed publications regarding publication date, journal, impact factor, country and RFP citations. Using the indicator “hospital affiliation” (“email+hospital”), this classification (tallying) rule was validated by comparing 400 known fakes with 400 matched presumed non-fakes.

Results

Two initial indicators (“email+NIA”) revealed a rapid rise of RFP from 2010 to 2020. Countries with the highest RFP proportion were Russia, Turkey, China, Egypt, India and China (39%-55%). When using the “email+hospital” tallying-rule, sensitivity of RFP identification was 86%, the false alarm rate 44%, and the estimated RFP rate in 2020 was 11.0%. Adding a RFP-citation indicator (“email+hospital+RFP-citations”) increased the sensitivity to 90% and reduced the false alarm rate to 37%. Given 1.3 million biomedical Scimago-listed publications, the estimated annual RFP number in 2020 is about 150,000.

Conclusions

Potential fake publications can be red-flagged using simple-to-use, validated classification rules to earmark them for subsequent scrutiny. RFP rates are increasing, suggesting higher actual fake rates than previously reported. The large scale and proliferation of fake publications in biomedicine can damage trust in science, endanger public health, and impact economic spending and security. Easy-to-apply fake detection methods, as proposed here, or more complex automated methods can enable the retraction of fake publications at scale and help prevent further damage to the permanent scientific record.
EMP3 sustains oncogenic EGFR/CDK2 signaling by restricting receptor degradation in glioblastoma
Authors: Martija Antoni Andreu , Krauß Alexandra , Bächle Natalie , Doth Laura , Christians Arne , Krunic Damir , Schneider Martin , Helm Dominic , Will Rainer , Hartmann Christian , Herold-Mende Christel , von Deimling Andreas , Pusch Stefan
Published: May 2023

Epithelial membrane protein 3 (EMP3) is an N-glycosylated tetraspanin with a putative trafficking function. It is highly expressed in isocitrate dehydrogenase-wild-type glioblastoma (IDH-wt GBM), and its high expression correlates with poor survival. However, the exact trafficking role of EMP3 and how it promotes oncogenic signaling in GBM remain unclear. Here, we show that EMP3 promotes EGFR/CDK2 signaling by regulating the trafficking and enhancing the stability of EGFR. BioID2-based proximity labeling revealed that EMP3 interacts with endocytic proteins involved in the vesicular transport of EGFR. EMP3 knockout (KO) enhances epidermal growth factor (EGF)-induced shuttling of EGFR into RAB7+ late endosomes, thereby promoting EGFR degradation. Increased EGFR degradation is rescued by the RAB7 negative regulator and novel EMP3 interactor TBC1D5. Phosphoproteomic and transcriptomic analyses further showed that EMP3 KO converges into the inhibition of the cyclin-dependent kinase CDK2 and the repression of EGFR-dependent and cell cycle transcriptional programs. Phenotypically, EMP3 KO cells exhibit reduced proliferation rates, blunted mitogenic response to EGF, and increased sensitivity to the pan-kinase inhibitor staurosporine and the EGFR-specific inhibitor osimertinib. Furthermore, EGFR-dependent patient-derived glioblastoma stem cells display increased susceptibility to CDK2 inhibition upon EMP3 knockdown. Lastly, using TCGA data, we showed that GBM tumors with high EMP3 expression have increased total and phosphorylated EGFR levels. Collectively, our findings demonstrate a novel EMP3-dependent mechanism by which EGFR/CDK2 activity is sustained in GBM. Consequently, this stabilizing effect provides an additional layer of tumor cell resistance against targeted kinase inhibition.
Serum iron variation is circadian-regulated and linked to the harmonic circadian oscillations of erythropoiesis and hepaticTfrcexpression in mice
Authors: Bennett Cavan , Pettikiriarachchi Anne , McLean Alistair R.D. , Harding Rebecca , Blewitt Marnie E. , Seillet Cyril , Pasricha Sant-Rayn
Published: May 2023

Serum iron has long been thought to exhibit diurnal variation and is subsequently considered an unreliable biomarker of systemic iron status. Circadian regulation (endogenous ∼24-hour periodic oscillation of a biologic function) governs many critical physiologic processes. It is unknown whether serum iron levels are regulated by circadian machinery; likewise, the circadian nature of key players of iron homeostasis is unstudied. Here we show that serum iron, hepatic transferrin receptor (TFR1) gene (Tfrc) expression and erythropoietic activity exhibit circadian rhythms. Daily oscillations of serum iron, hepaticTfrcexpression and erythropoietic activity are maintained in mice housed in constant darkness, where oscillation reflects an endogenous circadian period. Oscillations of serum iron, hepaticTfrcand erythropoietic activity were ablated when circadian machinery was disrupted inBmal1knockout mice. Interestingly, we find that circadian oscillations of erythropoietic activity and hepaticTfrcexpression are maintained in opposing phase, likely allowing for optimised usage and storage of serum iron whilst maintaining adequate serum levels. This study provides the first confirmatory evidence that serum iron is circadian regulated and uncovers liver-specific circadian regulation of TFR1, a major player in cellular iron uptake.
Conformation-specific synthetic antibodies discriminate multiple functional states of the ion channel CorA
Authors: Erramilli Satchal K. , Dominik Pawel K. , Deneka Dawid , Tokarz Piotr , Kim Sangwoo S. , Reddy Bharat G. , Skrobek Blazej M. , Dalmas Olivier , Perozo Eduardo , Kossiakoff Anthony A.
Published: May 2023

CorA, the primary magnesium ion channel in prokaryotes and archaea, is a prototypical homopentameric ion channel that undergoes ion-dependent conformational transitions. CorA adopts five-fold symmetric non-conductive states in the presence of high concentrations of Mg2+, and highly asymmetric flexible states in its complete absence. However, the latter were of insufficient resolution to be thoroughly characterized. In order to gain additional insights into the relationship between asymmetry and channel activation, we exploited phage display selection strategies to generate conformation-specific synthetic antibodies (sABs) against CorA in the absence of Mg2+. Two sABs from these selections, C12 and C18, showed different degrees of Mg2+-sensitivity. Through structural, biochemical, and biophysical characterization, we found the sABs are both conformation-specific but probe different features of the channel under open-like conditions. C18 is highly specific to the Mg2+-depleted state of CorA and through negative-stain electron microscopy (ns-EM), we show sAB binding reflects the asymmetric arrangement of CorA protomers in Mg2+-depleted conditions. We used X-ray crystallography to determine a structure at 2.0 Å resolution of sAB C12 bound to the soluble N-terminal regulatory domain of CorA. The structure shows C12 is a competitive inhibitor of regulatory magnesium binding through its interaction with the divalent cation sensing site. We subsequently exploited this relationship to capture and visualize asymmetric CorA states in different [Mg2+] using ns-EM. We additionally utilized these sABs to provide insights into the energy landscape that governs the ion-dependent conformational transitions of CorA.
Pantailocins: Phage-derived Bacteriocins fromPantoea ananatisandPantoea stewartiisubsp.indologenes
Authors: Stice Shaun P , Jan Hsiao-Hsuan , Chen Hsiao-Chun , Nwosu Linda , Shin Gi Yoon , Weaver Savannah , Coutinho Teresa , Kvitko Brian H , Baltrus David A.
Published: May 2023

Phage-derived bacteriocins are highly specific and effective antimicrobial molecules which have successfully been used as prophylactic treatments to prevent phytopathogen infections. Given the specificity of tailocins, a necessary step for broadening the tailocin catalog and for extending applicability across systems and diseases is the screening of new clades of phytopathogens for production of molecules with tailocin-like killing activity. Here, we describe production by and sensitivity of strains to tailocins produced byPantoea ananatisandPantoea stewartiisubsp.indologenes. Phylogenetic evidence suggests that these tailocins are derived from Myoviridae family phage like many previously described R type syringacins and R type pyocins, but also suggests that cooption from phage occurred independently of previously described tailocins. Since these tailocin encoding loci are present in the same genomic locations across multiple strains of both species and display a level of divergence that is consistent with other shared regions between the genomes and with vertical inheritance of the locus, we refer to them broadly as ‘pantailocins’.
A riboswitch-controlled manganese exporter (Alx) tunes intracellular Mn2+concentration inE. coliat alkaline pH
Authors: Sharma Ravish , Mishanina Tatiana V.
Published: May 2023

Cells use transition metal ions as structural components of biomolecules and cofactors in enzymatic reactions, making transition metals vital cellular components. The buildup of a particular metal ion in certain stress conditions becomes harmful to the organism due to the misincorporation of the excess ion into biomolecules, resulting in perturbed enzymatic activity or metal-catalyzed formation of reactive oxygen species. Organisms optimize metal concentration by regulating the expression of proteins that import and export that metal, often in a metal concentration-dependent manner. One such regulation mechanism is via riboswitches, which are 5’-untranslated regions (UTR) of an mRNA that undergo conformational changes to promote or inhibit the expression of the downstream gene, commonly in response to a ligand. TheyybP-ykoYfamily of bacterial riboswitches shares a conserved aptamer domain that binds manganese (Mn2+). InE. coli, theyybP-ykoYriboswitch precedes and regulates the expression of two genes:mntP, which based on extensive genetic evidence encodes an Mn2+exporter, andalx, which encodes a putative metal ion transporter whose cognate ligand is currently in question. Expression ofalxis upregulated by both elevated intracellular concentrations of Mn2+and alkaline pH. With metal ion measurements and gene expression studies, we demonstrate that the alkalinization of media increases cytoplasmic Mn2+content, which in turn enhancesalxexpression. Alx then exports excess Mn2+to prevent toxic buildup of the metal inside the cell, with the export activity maximal at alkaline pH. Using mutational and complementation experiments, we pinpoint a set of acidic residues in the predicted transmembrane segments of Alx that play a crucial role in its Mn2+export. We propose that Alx-mediated Mn2+export provides a primary protective layer that fine-tunes the cytoplasmic Mn2+levels, especially during alkaline stress.
Cyber security in university libraries and implication for library and information science education in Nigeria
Authors: Igbinovia Magnus Osahon , Ishola Bolanle Clifford
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Technological expansion and adoption in university libraries have precipitated cybercrimes and the need to equip library personnel with the required knowledge to combat this menace. Consequently, this study aims to examine cyber security in university libraries and its implication for Library and Information Science education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted descriptive research design, while questionnaire and interview were used to elicit data from library personnel and heads of library schools, respectively. A total of 134 responses were elicited through structured questionnaire (administered online due to the closure of universities) while six heads of library schools were interviewed, one from each of the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.

Findings

The data from the questionnaire which were descriptively analysed revealed that the perceived knowledge of cyber security among the librarians was moderately low. Also, the university libraries were exposed to various cyber threats, with cyber security/guideline been one of the critical measures to combat cybercrime. Also, the result showed that librarians displayed high level of adherence to cyber ethics. However, the disposition of library management towards cyber security issues was revealed to be the main challenge to the deployment of cyber security in university libraries, follow by poor password management. Majority of the librarians possess basic knowledge of cyber security, though with serious interest to learn more about it. They were not taught cyber security in library school and they indicated enthusiasm to learn about it. The result of the interview with heads of library schools showed majority of these schools do not offer cyber security course due to dearth in skilled manpower.

Originality/value

The study presents cybercrime as a menace, if not tackled, would affect the university libraries’ sustainability as information institution, compromising their ability to deliver quality services.
Leveraging on intra- and inter-organizational collaboration in Industry 4.0 adoption for knowledge creation and innovation
Authors: Bettiol Marco , Capestro Mauro , Di Maria Eleonora , Grandinetti Roberto
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies on knowledge creation for innovation purposes by assessing the relationships among the variety of I4.0 technologies adopted (breadth I4.0), the penetration of these technologies within the firm’s value chain activities (depth I4.0) and the mediating role of both internal (inter-functional (IF)) and external [with knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS)] collaborations in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a quantitative research design. By administering a survey to entrepreneurs, chief operation officers or managers in charge of the operational and technological processes of Italian manufacturing firms, the authors collected 137 useful questionnaires. To test this study's theoretical framework and hypotheses, the authors ran regression and mediation analyses.

Findings

First, the results highlight the positive link between breadth I4.0 and depth I4.0. Moreover, the results show the key role played by increased collaboration among the firm’s business functions and by relationships with KIBS in creating knowledge to innovate processes and products when I4.0 technologies are adopted.

Research limitations/implications

The variety of I4.0 technologies adopted enables a firm to use such technologies in various value chain activities. However, the penetration of I4.0 into the firm’s value chain activities (depth I4.0) does not per se directly imply the production of new knowledge, for which a firm needs internal collaboration among different business functions, in particular with the production area, or collaboration with external partners that favor I4.0 implementation, such as KIBS.

Practical implications

To achieve innovation goals by creating new knowledge, especially in the manufacturing industries, firms should encourage internal and external collaboration when I4.0 technologies are adopted. Moreover, policy makers should not only consider fiscal incentives for the adoption of such technologies, but also encourage the building of networks between adopting firms and external actors.

Originality/value

The study is one of the first attempt that provides empirical evidence of how I4.0 enables the creation of knowledge to innovate processes and products, highlighting the relevance of collaboration both within the company and with external partners.
Fostering learning outcomes in a non-reading culture at foundational level of education: the role of information technology and pupil engagement
Authors: Naluwooza Ruqqaiya , Ayeni Foluso , Langmia Kebhuma , Mbarika Victor
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper examines the role of Information Technology and pupil engagement in fostering learning outcomes in a non-reading culture context at foundation level of education.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted a cross-sectional survey design with quantitative approaches. A sample of 412 was drawn from a population of 1,692 Primary Schools. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using the SPSS software.

Findings

Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) usage had positive and significant effects on pupil engagement and pupil learning outcomes. Pupil engagement moderated in the relationship between ICT usage and pupils' learning outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional design used in data collection may not monitor learning outcomes of the given samples over a longer period of time. Future studies should consider longitudinal research designs so that the behaviors of the learners can be observed over a long period of time.

Practical implications

Deliberate efforts to advocate for and promote the use of ICTs in primary schools are important if the schools are to foster pupils' engagements and register better learning outcomes.

Originality/value

The study confirms pupil engagement as a moderator in the relationship between ICT usage and learning outcomes at foundational levels of education in a resource poor country with a non-reading culture.
Study on anti-wear and friction-reducing compounding additives in lithium greases
Authors: Shen Yuhai , Wang Yanshuang , Lin Jianghai , Zhang Pu , Gao Xudong , Wang Zijun
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to determine a suitable anti-wear and friction-reducing compounding additive for lithium greases (LG) by investigating the effects of three single additives potassium borate (PB), zinc dialkyl dithiophosphate and molybdenum dialkyl dithiophosphate (MoDDP) and two compound additives on the friction, wear and extreme pressure properties of LG.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of the above five additives on the friction, wear and extreme pressure properties of LG were investigated using an SRV-5 friction tester. An X-ray photoelectron spectrometer was used to analyze the various elements presented on the wear surface as well as the types of compounds.

Findings

The compound additive suitable for grease consists of PB and MoDDP, which have excellent friction reduction, anti-wear and extreme pressure properties. And a boundary protection film consisting of oxide and MoS2 is formed on the friction surface, thus improving the friction reduction and anti-wear performance of the grease.

Originality/value

This study can improve the anti-wear and friction-reduction performance of greases, which is of great importance in the field of industrial lubrication. The results of this paper are expected to be useful to researchers and academics of grease.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-11-2022-0350/
Selected issues in the use of RegTech in the Islamic and conventional financial markets
Authors: Kunhibava Sherin , Muneeza Aishath , Mustapha Zakariya , Karim Mohammad Ershadul , Sa’ad Auwal Adam
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore several challenges in the use of regulatory technologies (RegTech) in Islamic and conventional financial markets and share recommendations in this regard.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research methodology was used to identify the existing challenges. Literature was reviewed and analyzed, and seven experts were interviewed or consulted online and their feedback examined. The judgment of the case B2C2 Ltd v Quoine Pte Ltd. was reviewed.

Findings

This study reveals a lack of relevant regulatory frameworks capable of meeting some of the evolving challenges, lack of awareness among market players and lack of expertise in RegTech. The list of additional challenges includes the issue of legacy technology, the weaknesses of human programmers and the need for a multifaceted solution for compliance requirements.

Research limitations/implications

This study notes the novelty of RegTech in the financial world, especially in the Islamic financial market. Thus, there is a dearth of relevant literature. This study assists relevant conventional and Islamic financial market entities and authorities in determining the potential impact of RegTech on their respective businesses and the financial system.

Practical implications

This study proffers recommendations to assist in addressing the challenges facing its users and paving the way for innovative solutions that will facilitate and enhance the use of RegTech in financial markets. Regulators and other stakeholders of the financial industry will learn from the challenges identified and can review the recommendations for adoption. Apart from that, the decision of B2C2 Ltd v Quoine has practical implications for RegTech users, as the court in B2C2 Ltd v Quoine accessed the “knowledge” of the programmers of deterministic software at the time of the coding.

Originality/value

RegTech can offer cost-effective and efficient means to comply with regulations and ensure the accuracy of the information provided to regulators. This study provides a better understanding of the challenges associated with its use. The recommendations include enactment of a blueprint for a digitally enabled regulatory framework, creating awareness of RegTech via stakeholder roundtable discussions, development of human talent, formulating human governance standards and finding innovative ways to manage risks.
Bringing recovery to the youth – a review of discovery colleges
Authors: Fitzgerald Aleisha , Moberg Tom , Quinlisk Phelim , Costello Chloe
Published: May 2023

Purpose

While the research literature on Recovery Colleges is relatively well-established, comprehensive research concerning Recovery Education for young people is currently scarce. The purpose of paper is to provide an overview of determinants of, and barriers to, the successful implementation of youth-adapted Recovery Colleges, known as Discovery Colleges, and to explore the wider impact of Discovery Colleges and Recovery Colleges.

Design/methodology/approach

In consultation with a Recovery College Peer Educator, three undergraduate applied psychology students conducted a literature review with no date limits on publications in the Google Scholar and PubMed electronic databases.

Findings

A total of 15 publications were included. Determinants for successful implementation included the importance of previously established Recovery College foundations, service and content accessibility and evaluative feedback. Barriers were primarily related to differences in how development, identity and environment between adults and young people impact positive educational outcomes. The wider impact of Discovery Colleges highlighted an improvement in relationships between service users and health-care professionals, an improved attitude towards education; improvements in well-being, self-worth and social connection; and promotion of transformative learning and personal autonomy. Through this, Discovery Colleges also continue to challenge the contemporary medical model of mental health.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this was the first literature review conducted specifically focussing on important factors in establishing Discovery Colleges. This literature review provides an important overview for both service users and staff members in how the development and implementation of this exciting and relatively new initiative can be further explored and enhanced going forward.
Telecommuting and cyberloafing in the Ghanaian context. The role of employees emotional exhaustion
Authors: Amponsah-Tawiah Kwesi , Mensah Justice , Baafi Nana Kojo Ayimadu
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between telecommuting and cyberloafing among Ghanaian workers. In addition, the study investigated the moderating role of emotional exhaustion on telecommuting and cyberloafing.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected quantitative data from 945 employees in banks, telecommunication and insurance sectors of the Ghanaian economy. Data was entered using SPSS v.23 and analysed with Process Macro v3.5.

Findings

The results indicate that there is a significant positive relationship between telecommuting and cyberloafing. It also found out that emotional exhaustion has a significant negative relationship with cyberloafing. Furthermore, emotional exhaustion moderated the relationship between telecommuting and cyberloafing. Organisations are not necessarily required to be in a particular location to achieve their goals. Through practices such as telecommuting, organisations are able to unleash the creative and innovative abilities of employees and also improve their psychological well-being for greater gains.

Practical implications

The practice of telecommuting psychologically empowers the individual giving some decision-making latitudes to one and making one responsible and accountable for their actions and inactions. Also, individuals who are giving the chance to telecommute will only engage in cyberloafing behaviours when they are emotionally exhausted. Thus, it is important to create conditions that establishes equilibrium and creates harmony between the individual and the work, hence eliminating any feeling of emotional exhaustion and reaping the full benefits of telecommuting.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the role of emotional exhaustion in the relationship between telecommuting workers and their engagement in cyberloafing.
Composite error-based finite time super twisting sliding mode synchronous control for hybrid mechanism
Authors: Gao Guoqin , Sun Jun , Cao Yuanyuan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to solve the problems of the synchronization between branches and the uncertainties such as joint friction, load variation and external interference of a hybrid mechanism. The controller is used to improve the synchronization and robustness of the hybrid mechanism system and achieve both finite time convergence and chattering-free sliding mode.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the dynamic model of hybrid mechanism containing lumped uncertainties is formulated by the Lagrange method, and a composite error based on coupling synchronization error and the end-effector tracking error is set up in the task space. Then, by combining the finite time super twisting sliding mode control algorithm, a composite error-based finite time super twisting sliding mode synchronous control law is designed to make the end-effector tracking error and coupling synchronization error achieve better tracking performance and convergence performance. Finally, the Lyapunov stability of the control law and the finite-time convergence of the composite error are proved theoretically.

Findings

To verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method, simulations and experiments for the prototype system of the hybrid mechanism are conducted. The results show that the proposed control method can achieve better tracking performance and convergence performance.

Originality/value

This is a new innovation for a hybrid mechanism containing lumped uncertainties to improve the robustness, convergence performance, tracking performance and synchronization of the system.
Indigenous food sovereignty assessment—A systematic literature review
Authors: Abdul Malika , Ingabire Ale , Lam Chin Yu Nicole , Bennett Bindi , Menzel Kelly , MacKenzie‐Shalders Kristen , van Herwerden Louise
Published: May 2023

Aims

The aims of this systematic review were to (1) identify assessment approaches of Indigenous food sovereignty using the core domains of community ownership, inclusion of traditional food knowledge, inclusion/promotion of cultural foods and environmental/intervention sustainability, (2) describe Indigenous research methodologies when assessing Indigenous food sovereignty.

Methods

Guided by Indigenous members of the research team, a systematic review across four databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO) was performed. Studies in any language from 1996 to 2021, that used one or more of the core domains (identified from a recent scoping review) of community ownership, inclusion of traditional food knowledge, inclusion/promotion of cultural foods and environmental/intervention sustainability were included.

Results

From 20 062 records, after exclusion criteria were applied, 34 studies were included. Indigenous food sovereignty assessment approaches were mostly qualitative (n = 17) or mixed methods (n = 16), with interviews the most utilised (n = 29), followed by focus groups and meetings (n = 23) and validated frameworks (n = 7) as assessment tools. Indigenous food sovereignty assessment approaches were mostly around inclusion of traditional food knowledge (n = 21), or environmental/intervention sustainability (n = 15). Community‐Based Participatory Research approaches were utilised across many studies (n = 26), with one‐third utilising Indigenous methods of inquiry. Acknowledgement of data sovereignty (n = 6) or collaboration with Indigenous researchers (n = 4) was limited.

Conclusion

This review highlights Indigenous food sovereignty assessment approaches in the literature worldwide. It emphasises the importance of using Indigenous research methodologies in research conducted by or with Indigenous Peoples and acknowledges Indigenous communities should lead future research in this area.