bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Caldovatus aquaticus sp. nov., a moderately thermophilic bacterium isolated from hot spring microbial mat
Authors: Hu Chao-Jian , Xian Wen-Dong , Lv Yi-Qing , Peng Cheng-Xiang , Shan Rong-Xu , Cheng Ze-Chang , Lv Qian , Tian Ye , Jiao Jian-Yu , Tan Sha , Li Wen-Jun
Published: December 2022

Two closely related, aerobic, Gram-stain-negative, motile, oval-shaped, non-endospore-forming, moderately thermophilic bacteria, designated strains SYSU G05006T and SYSU G05005, were isolated from a bioreactor enrichment and the original sample was collected from Rehai National Park, Tengchong, Yunnan Province, PR China. The results of phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that these two strains were closely related to

Caldovatus sediminis

YIM 72346T (96.75 and 96.89 % sequence similarity, respectively). The whole genome size of strain SYSU G05006T was 3.87 Mbp with a DNA G+C content of 75.33 mol%. The average nucleotide identity (ANI based on the MUMmer algorithm≤90.31 % and ANI based on blast≤89.36 %) and digital DNA–DNA hybridization (≤35.10 %) values between strain SYSU G05006T and other members of the family

Acetobacteraceae

were all lower than the threshold values recommended for distinguishing novel prokaryotic species. Optimal growth of the strain was observed at 55 °C and pH 6.0. Ubiquinone-10 was the predominant respiratory lipoquinone. The major cellular fatty acids included iso-C14 : 0, C16 : 1 ω5c, summed feature 5 and summed feature 7. The major polar lipids consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, one unidentified aminolipid, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylcholine, two unidentified phospholipids and two unidentified lipids. Based on results of phylogenetic analyses, comparative genomics and phenotypic characteristics, we describe a new species of the genus

Caldovatus

represented by strain SYSU G05006T (=KCTC 82831T=MCCC 1K06125T), for which we propose the name Caldovatus aquaticus sp. nov.
Deep Local Analysis deconstructs protein - protein interfaces and accurately estimates binding affinity changes upon mutation
Authors: Behbahani Yasser Mohseni , Laine Elodie , Carbone Alessandra
Published: December 2022

Abstract

The spectacular recent advances in protein and protein complex structure prediction hold promise for reconstructing interactomes at large scale and residue resolution. Beyond determining the 3D arrangement of interacting partners, modeling approaches should be able to unravel the impact of sequence variations on the strength of the association. In this work, we report on Deep Local Analysis (DLA), a novel and efficient deep learning framework that relies on a strikingly simple deconstruction of protein interfaces into small locally oriented residue-centered cubes and on 3D convolutions recognizing patterns within cubes. Merely based on the two cubes associated with the wild-type and the mutant residues, DLA accurately estimates the binding affinity change for the associated complexes. It achieves a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.81 on more than 2 000 mutations, and its generalization capability to unseen complexes is higher than the state-of-the-art methods. We show that taking into account the evolutionary constraints on residues contributes to predictions. We also discuss the influence of conformational variability on performance. Beyond the predictive power on the effects of mutations, DLA is a general framework for transferring the knowledge gained from the available non-redundant set of complex protein structures to various tasks. For instance, given a single partially masked cube, it recovers the identity and physico-chemical class of the central residue. Given an ensemble of cubes representing an interface, it predicts the function of the complex. Source code and models are available athttp://gitlab.lcqb.upmc.fr/DLA/DLA.git.
Monopogen: single nucleotide variant calling from single cell sequencing
Authors: Dou Jinzhuang , Tan Yukun , Kock Kian Hong , Wang Jun , Cheng Xuesen , Tan Le Min , Han Kyung Yeon , Hon Chung Chau , Park Woong Yang , Shin Jay W , Chen Han , Prabhakar Shyam , Navin Nicholas , Chen Rui , Chen Ken
Published: December 2022

Distinguishing how genetics impact cellular processes can improve our understanding of variable risk for diseases. Although single-cell omics have provided molecular characterization of cell types and states on diverse tissue samples, their genetic ancestry and effects on cellular molecular traits are largely understudied. Here, we developed Monopogen, a computational tool enabling researchers to detect single nucleotide variants (SNVs) from a variety of single cell transcriptomic and epigenomic sequencing data. It leverages linkage disequilibrium from external reference panels to identify germline SNVs from sparse sequencing data and uses Monovar to identify novel SNVs at cluster (or cell type) levels. Monopogen can identify 100K~3M germline SNVs from various single cell sequencing platforms (scRNA-seq, snRNA-seq, snATAC-seq etc), with genotyping accuracy higher than 95%, when compared against matched whole genome sequencing data. We applied Monopogen on human retina, normal breast and Asian immune diversity atlases, showing that that derived genotypes enable accurate global and local ancestry inference and identification of admixed samples from ancestrally diverse donors. In addition, we applied Monopogen on ~4M cells from 65 human heart left ventricle single cell samples and identified novel variants associated with cardiomyocyte metabolic levels and epigenomic programs. In summary, Monopogen provides a novel computational framework that brings together population genetics and single cell omics to uncover genetic determinants of cellular quantitative traits.
Co-occurrence and cooperation between comammox and anammox bacteria in a full-scale attached growth municipal wastewater treatment process
Authors: Vilardi Katherine , Cotto Irmarie , Bachmann Megan , Parsons Mike , Klaus Stephanie , Wilson Christopher , Bott Charles , Pieper Kelsey , Pinto Ameet
Published: December 2022

Cooperation between comammox and anammox bacteria for nitrogen removal has been recently reported in laboratory-scale systems including synthetic community construct; however, there are no reports of full-scale municipal wastewater treatment systems with such cooperation. Here, we report intrinsic and extant kinetics as well as genome-resolved community characterization of a full-scale integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS) system where comammox and anammox bacteria co-occur and appear to drive nitrogen loss. Intrinsic batch kinetic assays indicated that majority of the aerobic ammonia oxidation was driven by comammox bacteria (1.75 ± 0.08 mg-N/g TS-h) in the attached growth phase with minimal contribution by ammonia oxidizing bacteria. Interestingly, a portion of total inorganic nitrogen (∼8%) was consistently lost during these aerobic assays. Aerobic nitrite oxidation assays eliminated the possibility of denitrification as a cause of nitrogen loss, while anaerobic ammonia oxidation assays resulted in rates consistent with anammox stoichiometry. Full-scale experiments at different dissolved oxygen (DO = 2-6 mg/L) set points indicated persistent nitrogen loss that was partly sensitive to DO concentrations. Genome-resolved metagenomics confirmed high abundance (relative abundance 6.53 ± 0.34%) of twoBrocadia-like anammox populations while comammox bacteria within theCa. Nitrospira nitrosa cluster were lower in abundance (0.37% ± 0.03%) andNitrosomonas-like ammonia oxidizers even lower (0.12% ± 0.02%). Collectively, our study reports for the first time the co-occurrence and co-operation of comammox and anammox bacteria in a full-scale municipal wastewater treatment system.

Synopsis

Comammox and anammox cooperation resulted in dissolved oxygen concentration dependent nitrogen loss in municipal wastewater treatment system.
Hydroxycitric acid inhibits oxalate nephropathies formation through crystallization regulation and activation of the PPARα pathway
Authors: Zhang Yi-Han , Li Shu-Jue , Yu Bang-Xian , Liang Qing , Sun Xin-Yuan
Published: December 2022

Oxalate-induced nephropathies comprise a range of kidney disorders, for which there are no efficient pharmacological treatments. Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is a derivative of citric acid with a variety of pharmacological activities including reducing body weight and calcium salt deposition. However, the specific mechanism of inhibition of oxalate nephropathies by this compound is not well understood. In this study, we successfully applied bioinformatics-based and simulated drug molecular docking approaches to predict potential targets of HCA. Subsequently, we explored the molecular mechanisms of HCA inhibition of renal calcium oxalate (CaOx) deposition and nephrotoxicity in an oxalate-induced NRK-52E cell model and an oxalate nephropathy rat model. HCA could effectively inhibit CaOx crystal deposition and reduce crystal adhesion and oxidative damage, effectively inhibit lipid deposition caused by high oxalate, and reduce lipid nephrotoxicity. HCA is more effective than traditional stone medications in inhibiting CaOx deposition and kidney damage. Further cellular transcriptomic analysis and in vitro results showed that HCA could stably bind peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) and promote PPARα-RXR heterodimer formation, thus promoting the expression of downstream oxidative stress molecules (Nrf2, HO-1, SOD) and inhibiting calcium ion release and mitochondrial dysfunction, thus reducing oxalate-induced renal lipid peroxidation damage. Therefore, HCA, a novel drug with the ability to modulate lipid metabolism and inhibit CaOx formation, may be a therapeutic option for the treatment of oxalate nephropathies.
Sniper2L, a high-fidelity Cas9 variant with high activity
Authors: Kim Young-hoon , Kim Nahye , Okafor Ikenna , Choi Sungchul , Min Seonwoo , Lee Joonsun , Choi Keunwoo , Choi Janice , Harihar Vinayak , Kim Youngho , Kim Jin-Soo , Lee Jungjoon K. , Ha Taekjip , Kim Hyongbum Henry
Published: December 2022

Although several high-fidelity SpCas9 variants that have reduced activities at mismatched target sequences have been reported, it has been observed that this increased specificity is associated with reduced on-target activity, limiting the applications of the high-fidelity variants when efficient genome editing is required. Here, we developed an improved version of Sniper-Cas9, Sniper2L, which represents an exception to this trade-off trend as it showed higher specificity with retained high activity. We evaluated Sniper2L activities at a large number of target sequences, and developed DeepSniper, a deep-learning model that can predict the activity of Sniper2L. We also confirmed that Sniper2L can induce highly efficient and specific editing at a large number of target sequences when it is delivered as a ribonucleoprotein complex. Mechanically, the high specificity of Sniper2L originates from its superior ability to avoid unwinding a target DNA containing even a single mismatch. We envision that Sniper2L will be useful when efficient and specific genome editing is required.
Aβ-CT affective touch: Touch pleasantness ratings for gentle stroking and deep pressure exhibit dependence on A-fibers
Authors: Case Laura K. , Madian Nicholas , McCall Micaela V , Bradson Megan L , Liljencrantz Jaquette , Goldstein Benjamin , Alasha Vince J , Zimmerman Marisa S
Published: December 2022

Gentle stroking of the skin is a common social touch behavior with positive affective consequences. A preference for slow versus fast stroking of hairy skin has been closely linked to the firing of unmyelinated C-tactile (CT) somatosensory afferents. Because the firing of CT afferents strongly correlates with touch pleasantness, the CT pathway has been considered a social-affective sensory pathway. Recently, ablation of the spinothalamic pathway-thought to convey all C-fiber sensations-in patients with cancer pain impaired pain, temperature, and itch, butnotratings of pleasant touch. This suggested integration of A and CT fiber input in the spinal cord, or A-fiber contributions to computations of touch pleasantness in the brain. However, the causal contribution of A-fibers to touch pleasantness- in humanswithoutpain-remains unknown. In the current, single-blinded study we performed two types of peripheral nerve blocks in healthy adults to temporarily eliminate the contribution of A-fibers to touch perception. Our findings show that when A-fiber function is greatly diminished, the perceived intensityandpleasantness of both gentle stroking and deep pressure are nearly abolished. These findings demonstrate that explicit perception of the pleasantness of CT-targeted brushing and pressure both critically depend on A-fibers.
Layer-dependent activity in the human superior colliculus during working memory
Authors: Chen Danlei , Kragel Philip A. , Wager Tor D. , Wald Lawrence L. , Bianciardi Marta , Satpute Ajay B. , Quigley Karen S. , Barrett Lisa Feldman , Katsumi Yuta , Theriault Jordan E.
Published: December 2022

We examined the superior colliculus (SC) with ultra-high resolution 7-Tesla fMRI during an N-back working memory task. We observed both increased BOLD signal intensity and functional connectivity that followed a layer-dependent pattern predicted from anatomical connections between SC and other brain structures important for visual processing, motor control, and executive function. Our results highlight a role for the human SC in cognitive functions that usually associated with the cerebral cortex.
Cellular production of ade novomembrane cytochrome
Authors: Hardy Benjamin J , Martin Hermosilla Alvaro , Chinthapalli Dinesh K , Robinson Carol V , Anderson JL Ross , Curnow Paul
Published: December 2022

Heme-containing integral membrane proteins are at the heart of many bioenergetic complexes and electron transport chains. The importance of these electron relay hubs across biology has inspired the design ofde novoproteins that recreate their core features within robust, versatile and tractable protein folds. To this end, we report here the computational design and in-cell production of a minimal diheme membrane cytochrome which successfully integrates into the cellular membrane of live bacteria. This synthetic construct emulates a four-helix bundle found in modern respiratory complexes but has no sequence homology to any polypeptide sequence found in nature. The twob-type hemes, which appear to be recruited from the endogenous heme pool, have distinct split redox potentials with values close to those of natural membrane-spanning cytochromes. The purified protein can engage in rapid biomimetic electron transport with small molecules, with other redox proteins, and with biologically-relevant diffusive electron carriers. We thus report an artificial membrane metalloprotein with the potential to serve as a functional module in electron transfer pathways in both synthetic protocells and living systems.
Syngap1 Regulates Cortical Circuit Assembly by Controlling Membrane Excitability
Authors: Arora Vineet , Michaelson Sheldon , Aceti Massimiliano , Kilinic Murat , Miller Courtney , Rumbaugh Gavin
Published: December 2022

Gene expression intersects with neural activity to produce cortical circuits during brain development. However, the cell biological mechanisms linking gene expression to activity-dependent cortical circuit assembly remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate in mice that a newly discovered function of the neurodevelopmental disorder gene,Syngap1, is to cell-autonomously control intrinsic membrane excitability (IME) in developing cortical glutamatergic neurons.Syngap1regulation of IME was mechanistically linked to wiring of a cortical circuit motif required for sensory processing and behavioral action. Restoring depressed IME inSyngap1deficient neurons through genetic targeting of hyper-functional potassium currents unleashed deficient dendritic morphogenesis in upper lamina sensory cortex pyramidal neurons. Furthermore, enhancing dendritic morphogenesis was sufficient to stimulate assembly of translaminar feed-forward excitatory circuit motifs. Thus,Syngap1promotes excitatory circuit assembly during cortical development by maintaining IME in a range that enables trophic neuronal activity to maximize pyramidal cell somatodendritic maturation and subsequent synapse formation.

Highlights

Syngap1cell-autonomously tunes cortical pyramidal neuron IMEin vivo

Syngap1-IME is regulated in part by control of neuronal potassium currents

Syngap1enhancement of IME drives dendritic maturation in pyramidal cells

Syngap1tuning of IME-regulated dendritic maturation promotes circuit assembly
The utility and caveat of split-GAL4s in the study of neurodegeneration
Authors: Stickley Luca , Nagoshi Emi
Published: December 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, afflicting over 1% of the population of age 60 years and above. The loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons is the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) is the primary cause of its characteristic motor symptoms. Studies usingDrosophila melanogasterand other model systems have provided much insight into the pathogenesis of PD. However, little is known why certain cell types are selectively susceptible to degeneration in PD. Here we describe an approach to identify vulnerable subpopulations of neurons in the genetic background linked to PD inDrosophila, using the split-GAL4 divers that enable genetic manipulation of a small number of defined cell population. We identify a subtype of DA neurons selectively vulnerable in the model of theleucine-rich repeat kinase 2(LRRK2)-linked familial PD, demonstrating the utility of this approach. We also show an unexpected caveat of the split-GAL4 system in aging-related research: the age-dependent increase in the number of GAL4-labeled cells.
Novel populations of Tr1 cells contribute to the resolution of acute influenza A virus infection
Authors: Abbott Caitlin A , Freimayer Emily L , Tyllis Timona S , Norton Todd S , Alsharifi Mohammed , Heng Aaron H S , Pederson Stephen M , Qu Zhipeng , Armstrong Mark , Hill Geoffrey R , McColl Shaun R , Comerford Iain
Published: December 2022

Type I regulatory (Tr1) cells contribute to immune suppression in the context of chronic infection, autoimmunity, and transplant tolerance. However, their physiological relevance in the resolution of acute respiratory infection is not understood. Here, we identify Tr1 cells accumulating in the lung parenchyma during resolution of the response to sublethal influenza A virus infection in mice. Tr1 cells were dependent on IL-27Rα and in their absence recovery from IAV-induced weight loss is impaired. Notably, these Tr1 cells did not necessarily co-express the typical Tr1 markers LAG-3 and CD49b, with four distinct populations of Tr1 cells apparent in the lungs. Each population was suppressive and were differentially dependent on IL-10 to mediate suppression. Transcriptional analysis revealed a core Tr1 gene signature in each population and distinct expression profiles indicative of different states of activation and differentiation. Finally, sort-transfer experiments indicated non-linear plasticity between these subsets of Tr1 cells. Together, these data support Tr1 cells contributing to the resolution of acute inflammation and define novel Tr1 cell phenotypes in acute infection.
The role of local news in constructing media legitimacy: how news media frames the sociopolitical efforts of multinational corporations in host countries
Authors: Marschlich Sarah , Ingenhoff Diana
Published: December 2022

Purpose

For corporate communications, it is crucial to know how news media outlets report and frame the sociopolitical activities of multinational corporations (MNCs), including their corporate diplomacy, that affect perceptions of their legitimacy. Therefore, this study aims to identify how local news media frame corporate diplomacy in a host country and, in turn, benefit the media legitimacy of MNCs.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify media frames in the host country, a quantitative content analysis involving factor and cluster analyses of 385 articles published in newspapers in the United Arab Emirates from 2014 to 2019 addressing the corporate diplomacy of large European MNCs operating in the country was conducted.

Findings

This study identified three media frames, two of which establish moral and pragmatic media legitimacy. Results suggest that media legitimacy grows when news media emphasise institutional relationships between MNCs and local, established organisations and corporate diplomacy's benefits for society.

Practical implications

Findings provide insights into how corporate communications can contribute to legitimacy building by emphasising corporations' relationships with institutional actors in host countries and the benefits of corporate activities for local communities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study was the first in corporate communications to empirically investigate news media's role in corporate diplomacy and how media frames contribute to the media legitimacy of MNCs at the moral, pragmatic, regulative and cognitive levels.
What is the impact of social well-being factors on happiness?
Authors: Trabelsi Mohamed Ali
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, corruption perception, real gross domestic product per capita and the Gini index on happiness.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the sample consists of 137 countries observed over the period 2017–2019. A multidimensional approach is used consisting of a principal component analysis and an econometric linear regression model.

Findings

The findings indicate that perception, taking care of other people, corruption perception, freedom to make life choices and healthy life expectancy are the most determining factors of social well-being.

Practical implications

Well-being benefits countries by improving living standards. Indeed, taking care of other people, corruption perception, freedom to make life choices and healthy life expectancy directly and positively correlate with social well-being.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the previous literature in three ways. First, this paper provides fresh and recent data on social well-being. Second, the author introduced a multidimensional approach using a principal component analysis of the different social well-being factors to detect correlation between these indicators and to determine homogeneous clusters. Third, through these indicators, a country's leaders can formulate policies to enhance social well-being because it is closely linked to the improvement of the standard of living, good governance and therefore an increase in GDP.
Research on jet noise characteristics of aeroengine double S-bend nozzles with different cross sections
Authors: Shao Jiaru , Mo Xueping , Zheng Zijun , Yang Yu
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to improve the survivability and maneuverability of the fighter,and study the stealth performance of fighter in the jet noise of aeroengine, it is of great significance to study the jet noise characteristics of double S-bend nozzles.

Design/methodology/approach

The multiparameter coupling and super-ellipse design methods are used to design the cross section of double S-bend nozzle. Taking unsteady flow information as the equivalent sound source, the noise signal at the far-field monitoring points were calculated with Ffowcs Williams–Hawkings (FW–H) method, and then, the sound source characteristics of the double S-bend nozzle are analyzed.

Findings

The results show that the internal flow of the S-bend nozzle with rectangular section is smoothed and the aerodynamic performance is better than super-ellipse section, the shear layer length of rectangular section is longer, the thickness is smaller and the mixing ability is stronger. The sound pressure level of the two S-bend nozzles decreases with the increase of the monitoring angle, and the sound pressure on the horizontal plane is greater than the vertical plane. In the direction of 40°–120°, the jet noise of rectangular nozzle is smaller, and the multiparameter coupled rectangular cross section structure is more applicable.

Practical implications

It is beneficial to reduce the jet noise of the engine tail nozzle and improve the stealth performance of the aircraft.

Originality/value

There is very little research on the jet noise characteristics of the double S-bend nozzle. The multiparameter coupling and the super-ellipse method are used to design the nozzle flow section to study the aerodynamic performance and jet noise characteristics of the double S-bend nozzle and to improve the acoustic stealth characteristics of the aircraft.
Wall laminar nanofluid jet flow and heat transfer
Authors: Khan Usafzai Waqar , Haq Rizwan Ul , Aly Emad H.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This work aims to investigates exact solutions of the classical Glauert’s laminar wall jet mass and heat transfer under wall suction, wall contraction or dilation, and two thermal transport boundary conditions; prescribed constant surface temperature and prescribed constant surface flux in nanofluidic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The flow system arranged in terms of partial dif- ferential equations is non-dimensionalized with suitable dimensionless transformation variables, and this new set of equations is reduced into ordinary differential equations via a set of similarity transformations, where they are treated analytically for closed form solutions.

Findings

Exact solutions of nanofluid flow for velocity distributions, momentum flux, wall shear stress and heat transfer boundary layers for commonly studied nanoparticles; namely copper, alumina, silver, and titanium oxide are presented. The flow behavior of alumina and titanium oxide is identical, and a similar behavior is seen for copper and silver, making two pairs of identical traits. The mathematical expressions as well as visual analysis of wall shear drag and temperature gradient which are of practical interest are analyzed. It is shown that wall stretching or shrinking, wall transpiration and velocity slip together influences the jet flow mechanism and extends the original Glauert’s jet solutions. The exact solutions for the two temperature boundary layer conditions and temperature gradients are analyzed analytically. It is found that the effect of nanopar- ticles concentration on thermal boundary layer is intense, causing temperature uplift, whereas the wall transpiration causes a decrease in thermal layers.

Originality/value

The analysis carried out in nanofluid environment is genuinely new and unique, as our work generalizes the Glauert’s classical regular wall jet fluid problem.
Design creativity in Industry 4.0: Gravity Sketch and 3D printing in a Luminaire design project
Authors: Vo Hoa
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of experiencing virtual reality (VR) and three-dimensional (3D) printing during the design process on the creativity of interior design students in a luminaire design project.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the case-study approach within the context of a nine-week luminaire design project. Collected data included self-reported interest and engagement of students from a Qualtrics questionnaire and the ratings of their creativity via the Creative Product Semantic Scale (CPSS) with two judges.

Findings

Descriptive statistics from the Qualtrics questionnaire indicated an overall high level of student interest and engagement with the VR and 3D printing learning experience. Paired t-tests from CPSS ratings of the two judges showed a moderate increase in novelty and a significant increase in style with the introduction of VR and 3D printing technologies, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

Spearman’s correlations (rho) showed no statistical evidence for the relationships between CPSS ratings for creativity and students’ self-reported interest and engagement in VR and 3D printing learning experience.

Practical implications

Ample access time to VR technology and sufficient control over the 3D printing process are important for effective applications of Industry 4.0 technologies in organizations.

Social implications

This study dissected the confounding variables in its results as practical considerations for intergrading VR and 3D printing technologies for organizations in Industry 4.0.

Originality/value

This study acknowledged VR and 3D printing technologies as simulants for interest and engagement, which benefit creativity.
Local government officials’ susceptibility to corrupt behavior: some Indonesian evidence
Authors: Srirejeki Kiky , Putri Pretisila Kartika
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the factors affecting local government officials’ susceptibility to corrupt behavior among Indonesian local government officials.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a self-report survey and collected 449 questionnaires from 65 village government districts in Central Java province, Indonesia. This study uses a simple and partial correlation to measure the relationship between the susceptibility to corrupt behavior and the independent variables. Binary logistic regression was used to investigate which independent variables were best to explain the local government officials’ susceptibility to corrupt behavior.

Findings

The results show that the factors that best explain corrupt behavior’s susceptibility are the officials’ moral conviction to refrain from corrupt behavior, the perceived opportunity of corruption and the perceived benefit of engaging in such behavior. Further, this study finds an appealing crossover interaction between the perceived cost and social norms on corrupt behavior, such that when officials perceive the cost of engaging in corrupt behavior as low, they will rely more on social norms to decide whether to commit corrupt behavior.

Practical implications

This study provides actionable information for policy formulation. In particular, this study indicates that improvement of internal control can deter corrupt behavior. In addition, the findings of this study also suggest that changing the way we convey the message about corruption might be a promising intervention to mitigate corrupt behavior among government officials. More specifically, a more persuasive-positive-tone message that emphasizes the benefit of not engaging in corrupt behavior or that most people are against corruption can deter corrupt behavior.

Originality/value

The present study provides empirical evidence on the determinants of local government officials’ corrupt behavior from Indonesia’s perspective, which is currently limited.
Assessing the implementation of sustainable development goals: does integrated reporting matter?
Authors: Hamad Salaheldin , Lai Fong Woon , Shad Muhammad Kashif , Khatib Saleh F.A. , Ali Syed Emad Azhar
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the performance of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of public listed companies (PLCs) in Malaysia through their SDGs disclosure. In addition, it examines the impact of integrated reporting (IR) quality on the SDGs’ performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from an initial sample of Malaysia’s top 100 market-leading PLCs from 2016 to 2020. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal an increasing trend in SDGs’ performance. Companies contributing toward the 17 SDGs grew from 14% in 2016 to 78% in 2020. On a priority basis, the average score of the five years showed that the Malaysian PLCs are paying more attention to SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth (53%); SDG 12 Responsible Consumption and Production (43%); and SDG 13 Climate Action (42%). In addition, the fixed effects regression analysis proves that companies with higher IR quality are more likely to provide better SDGs disclosure.

Practical implications

This study provides insights to policymakers, investors and management on the vital role of businesses in supporting the SDGs’ achievement and how IR reveals a turning point in achieving the United Nations SDGs’ agenda.

Social implications

This study provides a clearer understanding of the activities seeking to achieve the SDGs and the influence of IR on them. This opens the debate for future research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is a pioneer in examining whether the quality of IR influences SDGs disclosure among large companies in one of the emerging economies in Southeast Asia in its early application stage.
The impact on graduate students when a university closes
Authors: Schiff Wendy B. , Gadzichowski K. Marinka , Le Brasseur Matthew G. , Carlin Melissa C.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the impact of a university’s abrupt closure on the lives of graduate students and examined the role of grit, social support and school identification as they transferred to a new institution.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was administered to a diverse sample of 130 psychology graduate students after their university unexpectedly closed and the students transferred to another institution to complete their degrees. The survey included both qualitative and quantitative measures of the impact on different areas of their lives, anxiety and depression, life satisfaction, social support, grit and school identification.

Findings

Students reported experiencing financial loss, family and marital strain, anger, fear, uncertainty and loss of progress toward professional goals. Nearly 40% of participants had scores indicating elevated anxiety and depression. Students with higher anxiety and depression and lower life satisfaction tended to identify less with their new institution. Both social support and grit were related to better adjustment and life satisfaction.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the impact on graduate students following the closure of an institution of higher education. The findings have implications for educational policy and graduate student support services.
A possible role for second‐hit postzygotic GJB2 mutation in porokeratotic eccrine ostial and dermal duct nevus
Authors: Chang Yi‐Han , Yang Hsing‐San , Huang Hsin‐Yu , Lee Julia Yu‐Yun , Hsu Chao‐Kai
Published: December 2022

Porokeratotic eccrine ostial and dermal duct nevus (PEODDN) is a rare type of epidermal nevus involving the eccrine acrosyringia. It typically presents as asymptomatic linear keratotic papules and plaques along the lines of Blaschko and predominantly affects the extremities. This disease has recently been linked to somatic mutations within the GJB2 locus. Only four GJB2 mutations have been previously documented for PEODDN, and the underlying genetic basis remains inconclusive. Herein, we report an 18‐year‐old female with a hyperkeratotic plaque on the dorsa of the proximal interphalangeal joint of her right ring finger, as well as multiple small hyperkeratotic papules linearly distributed on the lateral sides of her fingers occurring since birth. Histopathological results revealed prominent parakeratotic cornoid lamella‐like tiers at the opening of the eccrine secretory ducts. Whole‐exome sequencing of the affected skin tissue revealed a heterozygous germline mutation and a postzygotic somatic mutation in GJB2. In summary, this study presents a case of PEODDN with compound heterozygous mutations in GJB2, which broadens the genetic spectrum of this disease entity and implies a possible role for second‐hit mutations in the pathogenesis of PEODDN.
Human serum albumin stabilizes streptolysin S activity secreted in the extracellular milieu by streptolysin S‐producing streptococci
Authors: Yokohata Shuto , Ohkura Kazuto , Nagamune Hideaki , Tomoyasu Toshifumi , Tabata Atsushi
Published: December 2022

Anginosus group streptococci (AGS) are opportunistic pathogens of the human oral cavity; however, their pathogenicity has not been discussed in detail. Oral streptococci live in the gingival sulcus, from where they can easily translocate into the bloodstream due to periodontal diseases and dental treatment and cause hazardous effects on the host through their virulence factors. Streptolysin S (SLS), a pathogenic factor produced by β‐hemolytic species/strains belonging to AGS, plays an important role in damaging host cells. Therefore, we investigated the SLS‐dependent cytotoxicity of β‐hemolytic Streptococcus anginosus subsp. anginosus (SAA), focusing on different growth conditions such as in the bloodstream. Consequently, SLS‐dependent hemolytic activity/cytotoxicity in the culture supernatant of β‐hemolytic SAA was stabilized by blood components, particularly human serum albumin (HSA). The present study suggests that the secreted SLS, not only from β‐hemolytic SAA, but also from other SLS‐producing streptococci, is stabilized by HSA. As HSA is the most abundant protein in human plasma, the results of this study provide new insights into the risk of SLS‐producing streptococci which can translocate into the bloodstream.
We're in This Together: The Motivational Effects of Tangible Rewards in a Group Setting*
Authors: Kachelmeier Steven J. , Williamson Michael G. , Zhang Xinyu
Published: December 2022

We design three experiments to examine how group incentives moderate the motivational effects of cash versus tangible rewards. Our first experiment shows that, relative to individual incentives, group incentives can magnify any negative effect of the uncertain attractiveness of a less‐fungible tangible reward (versus cash), as group members must evaluate not only how attractive they find the reward themselves but also how attractive other group members are likely to find it. However, as we show in our second experiment, under group incentives, structuring a tangible reward as a shared experience among group members who like each other can mitigate any demotivating effect of an individually consumed tangible reward vis‐à‐vis a cash reward. A third experiment provides process support for our theory, showing that both the attractiveness of the reward and the degree of certainty that others will also find it attractive jointly and fully mediate our findings. As a whole, our study furthers an understanding of the multifaceted dimensions of tangible rewards, identifying incremental effects that can arise when tangible rewards are combined with group incentives.
Neuroligin‐3 in dopaminergic circuits promotes behavioural and neurobiological adaptations to chronic morphine exposure
Authors: Brandner Dieter D. , Retzlaff Cassandra L. , Kocharian Adrina , Stieve Bethany J. , Mashal Mohammed A. , Mermelstein Paul G. , Rothwell Patrick E.
Published: December 2022

Chronic opioid exposure causes structural and functional changes in brain circuits, which may contribute to opioid use disorders. Synaptic cell‐adhesion molecules are prime candidates for mediating this opioid‐evoked plasticity. Neuroligin‐3 (NL3) is an X‐linked postsynaptic adhesion protein that shapes synaptic function at multiple sites in the mesolimbic dopamine system. We therefore studied how genetic knockout of NL3 alters responses to chronic morphine in male mice. Constitutive NL3 knockout caused a persistent reduction in psychomotor sensitization after chronic morphine exposure and change in the topography of locomotor stimulation produced by morphine. This latter change was recapitulated by conditional genetic deletion of NL3 from cells expressing the Drd1 dopamine receptor, whereas reduced psychomotor sensitization was recapitulated by conditional genetic deletion from dopamine neurons. Without NL3 expression, dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area exhibited diminished activation following chronic morphine exposure, by measuring in vivo calcium signals with fibre photometry. This altered pattern of dopamine neuron activity may be driven by aberrant forms of opioid‐evoked synaptic plasticity in the absence of NL3: dopamine neurons lacking NL3 showed weaker synaptic inhibition at baseline, which was subsequently strengthened after chronic morphine. In total, our study highlights neurobiological adaptations in dopamine neurons of the ventral tegmental area that correspond with increased behavioural sensitivity to opioids and further suggests that NL3 expression by dopamine neurons provides a molecular substrate for opioid‐evoked adaptations in brain function and behaviour.
Effectiveness of a French mass‐media campaign in raising knowledge of both long‐term alcohol‐related harms and low‐risk drinking guidelines, and in lowering alcohol consumption
Authors: Quatremère Guillemette , Guignard Romain , Cogordan Chloé , Andler Raphaël , Gallopel‐Morvan Karine , Nguyen‐Thanh Viêt
Published: December 2022

Aims

To evaluate the effectiveness of a French mass‐media campaign in raising knowledge of both long‐term alcohol‐related harms (LTH) and low‐risk drinking guidelines (LRDG), as well as in lowering alcohol consumption.

Design

An 8‐month longitudinal survey from February to October 2019, with three waves of on‐line data collection (T0 before the campaign, T1 just after it ended and T2 6 months after it ended).

Setting

France.

Participants

A total of 2538 adult drinkers (aged 18–75 years).

Measurements

The main outcomes’ variables were LTH knowledge (cancer, hypertension, brain haemorrhage), LRDG knowledge (two guidelines: ‘maximum of two drinks a day’ and ‘minimum of 2 days without alcohol per week’), intention to reduce alcohol consumption and self‐declared consumption with respect to the French LRDG. At T1, exposure to the campaign was measured using self‐reported campaign recall.

Findings

In T1, we observed significant positive interactions between exposure group based on campaign recall and survey waves on knowledge of (i) the ‘maximum two drinks a day’ guideline [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–1.62, P = 0.008], (ii) brain haemorrhage (aOR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.44–2.25, P < 0.001) and (iii) hypertension (aOR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.09–1.81, P = 0.008) risks. Campaign exposure was also associated with a significant decrease in at‐risk drinking in women (aOR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.50–0.88, P = 0.004). No significant interaction was observed at T1 for the knowledge of the ‘minimum of 2 days without alcohol a week’ guideline, or of cancer risk. At T2, no significant interaction was observed for the main outcomes’ variables.

Conclusions

There appears to be an association between exposure to a 2019 French mass‐media campaign to raise knowledge of long‐term alcohol‐related harms and low‐risk drinking guidelines and reduce alcohol consumption and (i) improved knowledge of the ‘maximum two drinks per day guideline’, (ii) knowledge of the risks of hypertension and brain haemorrhage and (iii) a reduction in the proportion of people exceeding low‐risk drinking guidelines (in the general population only). These associations were only observed over the short term and, in some cases, only for certain segments of the population.
Diagnosis of immediate reactions to amoxicillin: Comparison of basophil activation markers CD63 and CD203c in a prospective study
Authors: Céspedes Jose A. , Fernández‐Santamaría Rubén , Ariza Adriana , Bogas Gador , Doña Inmaculada , Rondón Carmen , Salas María , Labella Marina , Frecha Cecilia , Mayorga Cristobalina , Torres María J. , Fernández Tahia D.
Published: December 2022

Background

Amoxicillin (AX) combined or not with clavulanic acid (CLV) is frequently involved in IgE‐mediated reactions. Drug provocation test (DPT) is considered as the gold standard for diagnosis, although contraindicated in high‐risk patients. Basophil activation test (BAT) can help diagnose immediate reactions to beta‐lactams, although controversy exists regarding the best activation marker. We have performed a real‐life study in a prospective cohort to analyze the real value of BAT as diagnostic tool and the best activation marker, CD63 and CD203c, for the evaluation of immediate reactions to these drugs.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated patients with a clinical suspicion of immediate reactions after AX or AX‐CLV administration during a 6‐year period. The allergological work‐up was done following the EAACI recommendations. BAT was performed in all patients using CD63 and CD203c as activation markers.

Results

In AX‐allergic patients, both activation markers, CD63 and CD203c, showed similar SE values (48.6% and 46.7%, respectively); however, specificity was of 81.1% and 94.6%, respectively, with CD203c showing good positive predictive value and like‐hood ratio. In CLV‐allergic patients, CD203c showed higher SE (50%) than CD63 (42.9%), maintaining the same value of SP (80%). Combining the results of both markers can slightly increase the sensitivity (51.4% for AX and 54.8% for CLV), although decreasing the specificity (79.7% and 73%, respectively). Interestingly, all patients with an anaphylactic shock showed a positive BAT to CLV using CD203c.

Conclusions

BAT using CD203c showed a good confirmatory power, especially for AX allergy. Placing BAT as a first step in the diagnostic procedure can help reduce the need of performing a complete allergological work‐up in 46.6% of patients, diminishing the risk of reinducing allergic reactions.
A case of congenital left ventricular diverticulum in an adult patient
Authors: Li Zhen‐Zhen , Zhang Wen‐Long , Zhu Mei , Liang Hao
Published: December 2022

Congenital left ventricular diverticulum (CL.koVD) refers to a localized cystic protrusion of the ventricular wall that interacts with the heart cavities through a narrow channel and is a rare heart malformation. In recent years, many cases of this disease involving infants and children have been reported, while few cases involving adults have been described. The case of an adult with CLVD who underwent successful surgery was retrospectively evaluated. The echocardiography examination indicated that the apical myocardium of the left ventricle was thin and bulging outward and that the contractile movement was significantly reduced. During the surgery, it was observed that the left ventricle was enlarged, and a left ventricular diverticulum structure was observed on the left side of the apex. A bovine pericardial patch of the corresponding size was used to continuously suture and repair the internal orifice of the diverticulum. The postoperative pathology revealed that the resected sample was composed of full myocardial tissue. This report focused on the imaging characteristics of left ventricular diverticula to improve the understanding of CLVD. With its simple, economical, and noninvasive characteristics, echocardiography presents the best option for diagnosing a ventricular diverticulum.