bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutation rates and selection on synonymous mutations in SARS-CoV-2
Authors: De Maio Nicola , Walker Conor R. , Turakhia Yatish , Lanfear Robert , Corbett-Detig Russell , Goldman Nick
Published: January 2021

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen an unprecedented response from the sequencing community. Leveraging the sequence data from more than 140,000 SARS-CoV-2 genomes, we study mutation rates and selective pressures affecting the virus. Understanding the processes and effects of mutation and selection has profound implications for the study of viral evolution, for vaccine design, and for the tracking of viral spread. We highlight and address some common genome sequence analysis pitfalls that can lead to inaccurate inference of mutation rates and selection, such as ignoring skews in the genetic code, not accounting for recurrent mutations, and assuming evolutionary equilibrium. We find that two particular mutation rates, G→U and C→U, are similarly elevated and considerably higher than all other mutation rates, causing the majority of mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 genome, and are possibly the result of APOBEC and ROS activity. These mutations also tend to occur many times at the same genome positions along the global SARS-CoV-2 phylogeny (i.e., they are very homoplasic). We observe an effect of genomic context on mutation rates, but the effect of the context is overall limited. While previous studies have suggested selection acting to decrease U content at synonymous sites, we bring forward evidence suggesting the opposite.
Polygenic adaptation, clonal interference, and the evolution of mutators in experimentalPseudomonas aeruginosapopulations
Authors: Harris Katrina B. , Flynn Kenneth M. , Cooper Vaughn S.
Published: January 2021

In bacterial populations, switches in lifestyle from motile, planktonic growth to surface-grown biofilm is associated with persistence in both infections and non-clinical biofilms. Studies have identified the first steps of adaptation to biofilm growth but have yet to replicate the extensive genetic diversity observed in chronic infections or in the natural environment. We conducted a 90-day long evolution experiment withPseudomonas aeruginosaPA14 in growth media that promotes biofilm formation in either planktonic culture or in a biofilm bead model. Surprisingly, all populations evolved extensive genetic diversity with hundreds of mutations maintained at intermediate frequencies, while fixation events were rare. Instead of the expected few beneficial mutations rising in frequency through successive sweeps, we observe a remarkable 40 genes with parallel mutations spanning both environments and often on coexisting genotypes within a population. Additionally, the evolution of mutator genotypes (mutSormutLmutator alleles) that rise to high frequencies in as little as 25 days contribute to the extensive genetic variation and strong clonal interference. Parallelism in several transporters (includingpitA, pntB, nosD, andpchF) indicate probable adaptation to the arginine media that becomes highly alkaline during growth. Further, genes involved in signal transduction (includinggacS, aer2, bdlA, andPA14_71750) reflect likely adaptations to biofilm-inducing conditions. This experiment shows how extensive genetic and phenotypic diversity can arise and persist in microbial populations despite strong selection that would normally purge diversity.

Importance

How biodiversity arises and is maintained in clonally reproducing organisms like microbes remains unclear. Many models presume that beneficial genotypes will outgrow others and purge variation via selective sweeps. Environmental structure like biofilms may oppose this process and preserve variation. We tested this hypothesis by evolvingP. aeruginosapopulations in biofilm-promoting media for three months and found both adaptation and diversification that were mostly uninterrupted by fixation events that eliminate diversity. Genetic variation tended to be greater in lines grown using a bead model of biofilm growth but many lineages also persisted in planktonic lines. Convergent evolution affecting dozens of genes indicates that selection acted on a wide variety of traits to improve fitness, causing many adapting lineages to co-occur and persist. This result demonstrates that some environments may expose a large fraction of the genome to selection and select for many adaptations at once, causing enduring diversity.
Mitotic R-loops direct Aurora B kinase to maintain centromeric cohesion
Authors: Moran Erin C. , Liu Limin , Zasadzinska Ewelina , Kestner Courtney A. , Sarkeshik Ali , DeHoyos Henry , Yates John R. , Foltz Daniel , Stukenberg P. Todd
Published: January 2021

Recent work has shown that R-loops exist at mitotic centromeres, but the function of these R-loops is not well understood. Here, we report that mitotic R-loops arise in distinct locations from those formed during interphase. They accumulate on chromosome arms in prophase, where they are quickly resolved and continue to be produced at repetitive sequences including centromeres during a mitotic stall. Aurora B kinase activity is required to resolve R-loops during prophase and R-loops promote the localization of the Chromosome Passenger Complex (CPC) to the inner centromere. CPC purified from mitotic chromosomes interacts with thirty-two proteins involved with R-loop biology. One of these, the RNA regulator RBMX, controls Aurora B localization and activity in vivo. Perturbations in R-loop homeostasis or RBMX cause defects in the maintenance of centromeric cohesion due to the mislocalization of the CPC. We conclude that R-loops are generated by mitotic processes in repetitive DNA sequences, they play important roles in mitotic fidelity, and we have identified a set of mitotic R-loop regulators including the CPC and RBMX that will enable future studies of mitotic R-loops.
Phases of cortical actomyosin dynamics coupled to the neuroblast polarity cycle
Authors: Oon Chet Huan , Prehoda Kenneth E.
Published: January 2021

The Par complex dynamically polarizes to the apical cortex of asymmetrically dividingDrosophilaneuroblasts where it directs fate determinant segregation. Previously we showed that apically directed cortical movements that polarize the Par complex require F-actin (Oon and Prehoda, 2019). Here we report the discovery of cortical actomyosin dynamics that begin in interphase when the Par complex is cytoplasmic but ultimately become tightly coupled to cortical Par dynamics. Interphase cortical actomyosin dynamics are unoriented and pulsatile but rapidly become sustained and apically-directed in early mitosis when the Par protein aPKC accumulates on the cortex. Apical actomyosin flows drive the coalescence of aPKC into an apical cap that is depolarized in anaphase when the flow reverses direction. Together with the previously characterized role of anaphase flows in specifying daughter cell size asymmetry, our results indicate that multiple phases of cortical actomyosin dynamics regulate asymmetric cell division.
Development and evaluation of rapid data-enabled access to routine clinical information to enhance early recruitment to the national clinical platform trial of COVID-19 community treatments
Authors: Cake Caroline , Ogburn Emma , Pinches Heather , Coleman Garry , Seymour David , Woodard Fran , Manohar Sinduja , Monsur Marjia , Landray Martin , Dalton Gaynor , Morris Andrew D , Chinnery Patrick F. ,   UK COVID-19 National Core Studies Consortium, Hobbs FD Richard , Butler Christopher
Published: January 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unique challenges for rapidly designing, initiating, and delivering therapeutic clinical trials. PRINCIPLE is the UK national platform investigating repurposed therapies for COVID-19 treatment of older people in the community at high risk of complications. Standard methods of patient recruitment were failing to meet the required pace and scale of enrolment.

This paper describes the development and appraisal of a near real-time, data-driven, ethical approach for enhancing recruitment in community care by contacting people with a recent COVID-19 positive test result from the central NHS Test and Trace service within 24-48 hours of their test result.

Methods

A multi-disciplinary team was formed to solve the technical, ethical, public perception, logistical and information governance issues required to provide a near-real time (within 24-48 hours of receiving a positive test) feed of potential trial participants from test result data to the research team. PRINCIPLE was also given unique access to the Summary Care Record (SCR) to ensure safe prescribing, and to enable the trial team to quickly and safely bring consented patients into the trial. A survey of the public was used to understand public perceptions of the use of test data for this proposed methodology.

Results

Prior to establishing the data service, PRINCIPLE registered on average 87 participants per week. This increased by up to 87 additional people registered per week from the test data, contributing to an increase from 1,013 recruits to PRINCIPLE at the start of October 2020 to 2,802 recruits by 20th December 2020.

While procedural caveats were identified by the public consultation, out of 2,639 people contacted by PRINCIPLE following a positive test result, no one raised a concern about being approached.

Conclusions

This paper describes a novel approach to using near-real time NHS operational data to recruit community-based patients within a few days of presentation with acute illness.

This approach increased recruitment, and reduced time between positive test and randomisation, allowing more rapid evaluation of treatments and increased safety for participants. End-to-end public and patient involvement in the design of the approach provided evidence to inform information governance decisions.

Trial registration

PRINCIPLE is funded by UK Research and Innovation and the Department of Health and Social Care through the National Institute for Health Research.

EudraCT number: 2020-001209-22

ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN86534580

REC number: 20/SC/058

IRAS number: 281958
Sterilization of disposable face masks with respect to COVID-19 shortages; a nationwide field study including 19 sterilisation departments
Authors: van Straten B. , Robertson P.D. , Oussoren H. , Espindola S. Pereira , Ghanbari E. , Dankelman J. , Picken S. , Horeman T.
Published: January 2021

Objective

Face masks also referred to as half masks are essential to protect healthcare professionals, working in close contact with patients having Covid-19 related symptoms. During the threating deficit, healthcare institutions sought an approach to re-use face masks or to acquire imported masks. The objective of this study is to assess the quality of sterilised and imported FFP2/KN95 face mask materials.

Design

prospective, bench-to-bedside

Setting

General healthcare including 19 hospitals in the Netherlands

Interventions

Face masks were reprocessed using a medical autoclave at 121°C.

Methods

A 48 minutes steam sterilization process of single-use face masks with 15 min holding time at a 121 °C was developed, validated and implemented in 19 different hospitals. Steam and H2O2 plasma sterilized as well as new, imported masks are tested in a custom-made, non-standard EN-149, test set-up that measures Particle Filtration Efficiency (PFE) and pressure drops.

Results

PFE validation data of 84 masks indicated differences of 2.3±2 % (mean±SD) between the custom build test set-up and a continues flow according to the EN-149. Test data showed the mean PFE values of 444 sterilised FFP2 face masks from 19 CSSD were 90±11% (mean±SD) and of 474 imported KN95/FFP2 face masks 83±16% (mean±SD). Differences in PFE between sterilisation departments were found.

Conclusion

Face masks can be reprocessed with 121 0 C steam or H2O2 plasma sterilization with minimum reduction of PFE. PFE comparison between sterilised mask and new, imported mask filter material indicates that most reprocessed masks of high quality brands outperform new imported face masks of unknown brands. Although the PFE of tested face mask material from different sterilisation departments remained efficient, different types of sterilisation equipment can result in different PFE outcomes.

Strengths and limitations of this study

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Reprocessing face masks at 121 °C steam Sterilization, a simple method to be used by hospitals in times of shortages

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Laboratory findings to evaluate the safety and quality of face mask material

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The study is limited and restricted to selected FFP-2 face masks

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This study is a first of its kind in quality and safety check of the vast growing face masks, entering our markets

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The study focusses on testing environmental dry particles in a rapid test setup
Antibiotic Prescribing Patterns at COVID-19 Dedicated Wards in Bangladesh: A Single Center Point-Prevalence Survey
Authors: Molla Md. Maruf Ahmed , Yeasmin Mahmuda , Islam Md. Khairul , Sharif Md. Mohiuddin , Amin Mohammad Robed , Nafisa Tasnim , Ghosh Asish Kumar , Parveen Monira , Hossain Arif Md. Masum , Jamiul Alam Junaid Abdullah , Raza Rizvi Syed Jafar , Saif-Ur-Rahman KM , Akram Arifa , Shamsuzzaman AKM
Published: January 2021

There is a clear deficiency in antimicrobial usage data and ongoing stewardship programs both in government and private health care facilities in Bangladesh. As evidences are mounting regarding irrational and often unnecessary use of antibiotics during COVID-19 pandemic, a point prevalence survey (PPS) was conducted across COVID-19 dedicated wards in Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH). Antibiotic usage data were collected from 193 patients at different COVID-19 dedicated wards at DMCH between 21 May, 2020 and 10 June, 2020. Comparisons in antibiotic usage were made between different groups using Pearson chi-square and Fisher exact test. Factors associated with multiple antibiotic prescription were evaluated using binary logistic regression model.

On survey date all (100%) patients were receiving at least one antibiotic with 133 patients (68.91%) receiving multiple antibiotics. Overall, patients presenting with severe disease received more antibiotics on average. Third generation cephalosporin ceftriaxone (53.8%), meropenem (40.9%), moxifloxacin (29.5%) and doxycycline (25.4%) were the four most prescribed antibiotics among survey patients. Among comorbidities diabetes mellitus (DM) was independently associated with increased antibiotic prescribing. Abnormal C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum d-dimer were linked with higher odds of antibiotic prescribing among survey patients. Overall, prevalence of antibiotic prescribing in COVID-19 patients at DMCH was very high. This could be attributed to a lack of clear treatment protocol against COVID-19 till date as well as lack of modern laboratory facilities to support judicial antibiotic prescribing in Bangladesh. A well-functioning antibiotic stewardship program in Bangladesh is required to prevent an impending health crisis.
Protein-bound molybdenum cofactor is bioavailable and rescues molybdenum cofactor-deficient C. elegans
Authors: Warnhoff Kurt , Hercher Thomas W. , Mendel Ralf R. , Ruvkun Gary
Published: January 2021

The molybdenum cofactor (Moco) is a 520-Da prosthetic group that is synthesized in all domains of life. In animals, four oxidases (among them sulfite oxidase) use Moco as a prosthetic group. Moco is essential in animals; humans with mutations in genes that encode Moco biosynthetic enzymes display lethal neurological and developmental defects. Moco supplementation seems a logical therapy; however, the instability of Moco has precluded biochemical and cell biological studies of Moco transport and bioavailability. The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans can take up Moco from its bacterial diet and transport it to cells and tissues that express Moco-requiring enzymes, suggesting a system for Moco uptake and distribution. Here we show that protein-bound Moco is the stable, bioavailable species of Moco taken up by C. elegans from its diet and is an effective dietary supplement, rescuing a C. elegans model of Moco deficiency. We demonstrate that diverse Moco:protein complexes are stable and bioavailable, suggesting a new strategy for the production and delivery of therapeutically active Moco to treat human Moco deficiency.
Octopaminergic neurons have multiple targets in Drosophila larval mushroom body calyx and can modulate behavioral odor discrimination
Authors: Wong J.Y. Hilary , Wan Bo Angela , Bland Tom , Montagnese Marcella , McLachlan Alex D. , O'Kane Cahir J. , Zhang Shuo Wei , Masuda-Nakagawa Liria M.
Published: January 2021

Discrimination of sensory signals is essential for an organism to form and retrieve memories of relevance in a given behavioral context. Sensory representations are modified dynamically by changes in behavioral state, facilitating context-dependent selection of behavior, through signals carried by noradrenergic input in mammals, or octopamine (OA) in insects. To understand the circuit mechanisms of this signaling, we characterized the function of two OA neurons, sVUM1 neurons, that originate in the subesophageal zone (SEZ) and target the input region of the memory center, the mushroom body (MB) calyx, in larval Drosophila. We found that sVUM1 neurons target multiple neurons, including olfactory projection neurons (PNs), the inhibitory neuron APL, and a pair of extrinsic output neurons, but relatively few mushroom body intrinsic neurons, Kenyon cells. PN terminals carried the OA receptor Oamb, a Drosophila α1-adrenergic receptor ortholog. Using an odor discrimination learning paradigm, we showed that optogenetic activation of OA neurons compromised discrimination of similar odors but not learning ability. Our results suggest that sVUM1 neurons modify odor representations via multiple extrinsic inputs at the sensory input area to the MB olfactory learning circuit.
A framework for measuring customer loyalty for 3PL industry: a case of evolving market
Authors: Ahmed Waqar , Najmi Arsalan , Kusi-Sarpong Simonov , Khan Sharfuddin Ahmed , Khushal Asad , Quartey Joseph
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This research aims to propose a framework for measuring customer loyalty for third party logistics (3PL) industry by exploring the attributes that are more attractive to customers and ascertain the mechanisms for increasing customer loyalty in 3PL industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from one hundred and thirty-three (133) respondents who were employees of different industries that outsource 3PL services. The partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS–SEM) was deployed for analysis.

Findings

The results showed that service quality has a significant positive impact on customer orientation, customer satisfaction and relationship quality. On the other hand, customer orientation has been observed to positively impact customer satisfaction but an insignificant impact on customer loyalty and relationship quality. Customer satisfaction has a significant positive impact on relationship quality but an insignificant impact on customer loyalty. Also, relationship quality has a significant positive impact on customer loyalty.

Practical implications

The results recommend that 3PL companies' managers focus more on developing quality relationships with their customers, delivering exemplary service quality and offering customer orientation.

Originality/value

This study will help the stakeholders gain much more understanding and insights on how competitive advantage can be achieved and, consequently, help 3PL become the market leaders.
Do women on corporate boardrooms influence remuneration patterns and socially responsible practices? Malaysian evidence
Authors: Karim Sitara
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The prime objective of this study is to investigate the moderating influence of executive and independent female directors on the relationship between remuneration packages (CEO and executive director) and socially responsible practices (marketplace, environment, community, workplace and money spent on CSR) of 483 Malaysian listed firms during 2006–2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The dynamic estimator, namely, system generalized method of moments (GMM) given by Blundell and Bond (1998) has been employed on the dataset to control dynamic endogeneity, unobserved heterogeneity and simultaneity problems.

Findings

Findings indicate that there is a significant relationship between remuneration patterns of CEOs and executive directors and socially responsible activities. In the same way, executive board gender diversity significantly, whereas independent board gender diversity insignificantly moderates the remuneration and CSR nexus.

Practical implications

This study is particularly significant for regulatory bodies of Malaysia, e.g. Securities Commission Malaysia, Bursa Malaysia, policy makers, investors and managers. For academia, this study fetches support from agency theory, stakeholder theory and upper echelons theory and presents integrated theoretical approach to be considered for future research.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in providing empirical evidence on the moderating effect of both executive and independent women directors on the relationship between remuneration patterns of CEOs and executive directors and independent CSR activities for the first time. Moreover, this study has sourced several theoretical and practical implications. And, the study employs dynamic estimator for precise and concrete results.
On the road towards IPSAS with a maturity model: a Swiss case study
Authors: Soguel Nils , Luta Naomi
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) have driven the modernisation of public systems of financial information. The extent and pace of their implementation remain uneven. The goal of this study was to measure whether and how much governmental accounting standards converge towards IPSAS' true and fair approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical context of the 26 Swiss cantons was used to apply a simplified maturity model. Under two successive reforms (maturity stages), each canton's accounting standards was assessed and scored. The derived maturity levels indicate how close—or far—each canton has stood from a state of full IPSAS compliance (full maturity), at each stage of the process.

Findings

As Swiss cantons have a certain degree of autonomy in setting their own accounting standards, the evolving paths they followed when implementing IPSAS were heterogeneous. The maturity level attained by each canton within each stage thus varies. However, the results show that the two successive reforms had an overall favourable impact on Swiss cantonal accounting standards compliance with IPSAS, and fairly improved the faithfulness of reported financial information.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the international literature on public accounting standards and provides new insights for the assessment of convergence with IPSAS.
Using psychological capital at organizational levels of study
Authors: Tefera Chalachew Almaw , Hunsaker William D.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Since the term's introduction two decades ago, “psychological capital” has been described as an intangible strategic organizational resource. However, there remains a dearth of research regarding its application, especially in the macro-management fields. This paper addresses this gap by elevating the individual-level psychological capital (ILPC) concept to an equivalent organizational-level psychological capital (OLPC) model with appropriate methodological considerations.

Design/methodology/approach

The elevation of ILPC to OLPC is conducted using referent shift approach. Then, the proposed OLPC model is tested and validated using the partial least-squares structural equation modeling analysis technique.

Findings

Testing the OLPC model adequately validated the basic requirements of reliability, validity, multicollinearity and redundancy analysis. To ensure the practical use of the proposed model, a simulation study was also conducted, and the results confirmed the strength of ILPC being elevated to a model of OLPC.

Research limitations/implications

The findings imply a better understanding of psychological capital from a multilevel perspective and present cross-level opportunities to enrich the scholarly corpus. The current paper also provides an insight into psychological capital management efficiency at all organizational levels so that the greatest benefits can be obtained.

Originality/value

This paper shows, for the first time, the possibility of borrowing ILPC concepts to help enact OLPC in organizations by means of a survey study. This paves the way for further investigation into the use of psychological capital at strategic and other macromanagement levels. Finally, future studies are encouraged to triangulate and strengthen the main arguments presented here.
Interdependence analysis of supplier relationship challenges in the South African automotive industry
Authors: Sharma Mohita Gangwar , Naude Micheline Juliana
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The South African automotive industry, which is the most significant sector in the South African economy, needs to function efficiently to compete globally. The purpose of this paper is to report on a study that investigated the challenges faced by the South African automotive component manufacturers and their suppliers and provide a structure and identify the dependencies between these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

Interpretive structural modelling (ISM) was adopted to explore the supplier relationship challenges and the dynamics and interlinkages between these challenges. ISM was deemed appropriate, as it is a multi-criterion decision-making technique suited for complex problems and provides an ordered, directional framework.

Findings

The findings revealed that advanced communication, rapid change in demand and dependence on a single customer are independent problems but have a lesser feedback loop and do not create instability by ripple effect. Interdependencies, on the other hand, create lesser ripples when tackled.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of this study will be able to guide all the stakeholders: the policymakers and the automotive industry players to target the driving issue which can bring efficiency in the South African automotive supply chain. If the automotive components manufacturers (ACMs) are able to have more than one customer, their reliance on one will decrease and the systems will improve which shall benefit the industry. This methodology can also be used in future for determining the roadmap for complex issues.

Originality/value

The framework presented in this paper provides decision makers with a realistic picture of their situation by providing insight into the interrelationships, ranking them by importance and aiding in creating a roadmap for addressing identified challenges.
When and why does a “poker face” facilitate workplace creativity?
Authors: Chen Weiyi , Liu Xinmei , Zhang Xiaojie
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The authors investigate when and why a subordinate's expressive suppression facilitates workplace creativity, building on the conservation of resources theory and considering the effect of the supervisor's expressive suppression and time pressure as boundary conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Multisource data were collected from 132 teams in northwestern China, including 132 supervisors and 648 subordinates. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to test the effects.

Findings

The subordinate’s expressive suppression was positively related to their workplace creativity. Challenge time pressure was positively related to workplace creativity, and the subordinate’s expressive suppression was positively related to workplace creativity when challenge time pressure was lower and the supervisor's expressive suppression was higher. Hindrance time pressure was negatively related to workplace creativity, and a positive relationship between a subordinate's expressive suppression and workplace creativity was also found with less hindrance time pressure and greater expressive suppression by their supervisor.

Originality/value

By examining the role of the supervisor as a source of downward spillovers in various time pressure contexts, the study explains why a subordinate’s suppression facilitates workplace creativity from the conservation of resources perspective.
Homophily: functional bias to the talent identification process?
Authors: Golik Mariela , Blanco Maria Rita
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This empirical study aims to analyse the talent spotters' perception of their tendency to be homophilic in the talent identification process and their stance on it. Besides, this article examines the type of homophily and the homophily attributes involved.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a qualitative design, 37 middle and senior line managers, working for two Argentine conglomerates in six Latin American countries, participated in the study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Homophily was perceived by most of talent spotters, who judged it as natural, while it was not perceived by a small group of the interviewees. In addition, among those who recognized its presence, another group advocated the homophilic advantages, while a final one admitted the presence of homophily and its negative implications. In addition, a variety of homophily attributes were identified; most of them within the value category. We posit that if homophily attributes are, at the same time, components of high potential models, homophily will constitute a functional bias to the talent identification process.

Originality/value

This is the first study that explores the talent spotters' perception of their homophily bias as well as the diversity of homophily attributes present in the talent identification process. This research highlights the relevance of the homophily attributes' analysis, taking into account its alignment to the potential model in order to improve the talent identification process.
A new, established approach to managing misbehavior: system justification theory
Authors: Thomas Benjamin J. , Harris Spencer
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The status quo for managing deviant workplace behavior is underperforming. The current research offers a new approach for scholars and managers in approaching these misbehaviors. Namely, we outline how system justification theory, which holds that people are motivated to rationalize and justify the systems—including workplaces—to which they belong even when those systems disadvantage them or others, offers value in explaining and addressing the prevalence of such misbehaviors and contemporary failures in managing them.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual research explores the situated role of onlookers to patterns of workplace misbehavior, like harassment. We explore existing scholarship on why and how onlookers respond to such actions, including cultural elements, and draw parallels between those accounts and the foundational concepts of system justification theory to demonstrate an unrealized theoretical overlap valuable for its immediate applications in research.

Findings

The current paper establishes clear links between system justification theory and efforts to manage misbehavior, establishing system justifications as freezing forces in the culture of a workplace that must be unfrozen to successfully implement strategies for managing misbehavior. Further, we describe how organizational onlookers to misbehavior are subject to system justifications, which limit prescribed means of stopping these patterns of wrongdoing.

Originality/value

Very limited organizational scholarship has utilized system justification theory, despite calls for such applications. Given the existing shortcomings in scholarship and management approaches to workplace misbehavior, the current research breaks from the status quo and offers an established theory as a new way to approach these misbehaviors.
How do social entrepreneurs develop technological innovation?
Authors: Turker Duygu , Ozmen Y. Serkan
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The present study attempts to analyze how social entrepreneurs (SEs) develop technological innovation in the face of diverse institutional logics, which are embedded in the National Systems of Innovation (NSI).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the content analysis of Ashoka Fellows, the study compares SEs in developed and developing countries, which represent strong versus weak NSIs.

Findings

SEs selectively couple the elements of diverse institutional logics to ensure the resource inflow and legitimacy of their operations. However, SEs particularly at weak NSIs are also decoupling their profit and non-for-profit branches to address conflict among diverse logics. Moreover, the study finds that 12 out of 20 entrepreneurs who identify themselves as technologically innovative did not develop any new technological innovation.

Practical implications

The study shows that being technologically innovative depends on the acquisition of resources and the management of legitimacy challenges, SEs can diversify their innovations by creating more incremental, architectural and modular innovations to address competing demands among logics.

Social implications

The study reveals that SEs in weak NSIs interact with multiple institutional logics more frequently than their counterparts in strong NSIs. Although this context leads them to diversify their technological innovation, there is a need for improving the NSIs of SEs in developing countries to facilitate the continuity of resource inflow and ensure the legitimacy of their operations.

Originality/value

Integrating two complementary theoretical lenses, the study contributes to the literature by exploring the impact of the interaction between logics nested within a supra system and SEs’ ability to develop technological innovation.
Research Note: Reconstruction of seismic signals using S‐transform ridges
Authors: Serdyukov Aleksander S. , Azarov Anton V. , Yablokov Aleksander V. , Shilova Tatiana V. , Baranov Valery D.
Published: January 2021

We have addressed the problem of seismic data frequency–time filtration based on the S‐transform. The S‐transform provides frequency‐dependent resolution while maintaining a direct relationship with the Fourier spectrum and has been widely used in different seismic data‐processing applications. The standard S‐transform filtration method is based on its invertibility. In a sense of time localization, this method is not optimal because the calculation of the inverse S‐transform includes time averaging. We propose an alternative filtration method based on the reconstruction of a signal by S‐transform ridges. We approximate the phase of the Fourier spectrum of the reconstructed signal using the phase of the S‐transform ridge. We derive the integral equation, which expresses the S‐transform ridge amplitudes in terms of the amplitudes of the Fourier spectrum of the reconstructed signal. The introduced equation is numerically solved to find the signal amplitude using the truncated singular value decomposition. From the results, we obtain both the phase and amplitude of the signal. Thus, the signal can be extracted from the S‐transform spectrum only by the ridges. This finding is promising in terms of maximum usage of the time‐localization properties of the S‐transform during frequency–time filtration. The presented results of ground‐roll attenuation from reflection seismic data demonstrate that the proposed S‐transform ridge filtration method can be effective in practice.
Collective decision‐making when quantity is more important than quality: Lessons from a kidnapping social parasite
Authors: Miller Julie S.
Published: January 2021

Identifying the general principles that shape mechanisms of collective decision‐making requires studies that span a diversity of ecological contexts. However, collective decision‐making has only been explored in a handful of systems.

Here, I investigate the ecologically mediated costs and benefits of collective decisions by socially parasitic kidnapping ants Temnothorax americanus over where to launch raids to steal host brood.

I first investigate their sampling strategies and preferences with choice tests. Using more realistic spatial scales, I confirm the findings of others that colonies use a sequential choice strategy, and do not compare options simultaneously. I then ask which ecological conditions could favour the evolution of this strategy by testing the following hypotheses from optimal foraging and mate choice theories: (a) raiding decisions are time constrained or (b) search payoffs are low due to resource uniformity.

Spatial distribution and phenological data on nest contents support the time constraints hypothesis. Host nests contain an optimal ratio of brood and workers for a brief period relative to discovery rates. Colonies therefore benefit from raiding most nests they find in this period rather than deliberating over the best choice, favouring host quantity over quality.

The decision strategy for raids uncovered here contrasts with best‐of‐n collective decision‐making found in other systems. These findings demonstrate that ecological constraints on information acquisition can alter how collectives process information.
Biological Flora of the British Isles: Crataegus monogyna
Authors: Fichtner André , Wissemann Volker
Published: January 2021

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Crataegus monogyna Jacq. (Hawthorn) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Crataegus monogyna is native to the British flora, occurring frequently in hedgerows, scrubs, thickets and woodland. It can be found throughout almost all of Europe, on all soils of medium conditions regarding pH value, nutrient and water supply.

Crataegus monogyna is a deciduous shrub or rarely a small tree of 2–8 m. Its twigs and branches bear sharp thorns about 1 cm long. Crataegus monogyna is of both ornamental and ecological value. During flowering in May and June, shrubs may appear white through a multitude of flowers, presenting pollen and nectar to a variety of different insects. Starting in August, almost the whole shrub can become dark red with the huge number of small red berries (pomes) produced during fruiting. The fruit are a preferred food for many birds.

Although hybridizing freely and frequently with the other native species, Crataegus laevigata (Poir.) DC., the two species are easily recognizable in natural stands in the British Isles. Elsewhere, and with the occurrence of horticultural naturalizations and many intermediate forms of hybrid origin with closely related Crataegus species (especially the similar looking one‐styled species Crataegus rhipidophylla Gand. s.l. and Crataegus × subsphaerica Gand. s.l.) expert knowledge is required to avoid misidentifications and thus inaccurate understanding of frequency and distribution–not only on continental Europe but also increasingly in the British Isles.

Identification in the field is further complicated by inbreeding of horticultural stock, which suffers from a myriad of descriptions and given names at different hierarchical levels. Cultivars are commonly planted in hedges and along roadsides or for ornamental purposes. The origin of this stock is not always known, so genetic exchange with the natural populations may lead to introgression and thus genotypes that are more adapted than the local genotypes in a changed environment.
Dead litter of resident species first facilitates and then inhibits sequential life stages of range‐expanding species
Authors: Smith Rachel S. , Blaze Julie A. , Byers James E.
Published: January 2021

Resident species can facilitate invading species (biotic assistance) or inhibit their expansion (biotic resistance). Species interactions are often context‐dependent and the relative importance of biotic assistance versus resistance could vary with abiotic conditions or the life stage of the invading species, as invader stress tolerances and resource requirements change with ontogeny. In northeast Florida salt marshes, the abundant dead litter (wrack) of the native marsh cordgrass, Spartina alterniflora, could influence the expansion success of the black mangrove, Avicennia germinans, a tropical species that is expanding its range northward.

We used two field experiments to examine how S. alterniflora wrack affects A. germinans success during (a) propagule establishment and (b) subsequent seedling survival. We also conducted laboratory feeding assays to identify propagule consumers and assess how wrack presence influences herbivory on mangrove propagules.

Spartina alterniflora wrack facilitated A. germinans establishment by promoting propagule recruitment, retention and rooting; the tidal regime influenced the magnitude of these effects. However, over time S. alterniflora wrack inhibited A. germinans seedling success by smothering seedlings and attracting herbivore consumers. Feeding assays identified rodents—which seek refuge in wrack—as consumers of A. germinans propagules.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that the deleterious effects of S. alterniflora wrack on A. germinans seedling survival counterbalance the initial beneficial effects of wrack on A. germinans seed establishment. Such seed‐seedling conflicts can arise when species stress tolerances and resource requirements change throughout development and vary with abiotic conditions. In concert with the tidal conditions, the relative importance of positive and negative interactions with wrack at each life stage can influence the rate of local and regional mangrove expansion. Because interaction strengths can change in direction and magnitude with ontogeny, it is essential to examine resident–invader interactions at multiple life stages and across environmental gradients to uncover the mechanisms of biotic assistance and resistance during invasion.
Two white collar proteins protect fungal cells from solar UV damage by their interactions with two photolyases in Metarhizium robertsii
Authors: Peng Han , Guo Chong‐Tao , Tong Sen‐Miao , Ying Sheng‐Hua , Feng Ming‐Guang
Published: January 2021

The photolyases PHR1 and PHR2 enable photorepair of fungal DNA lesions in the forms of UV‐induced cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) and (6‐4)‐pyrimidine‐pyrimidone (6‐4PP) photoproducts, but their regulation remains mechanistically elusive. Here, we report that the white collar proteins WC1 and WC2 mutually interacting to form a light‐responsive transcription factor regulate photolyase expression required for fungal UV resistance in the insect‐pathogenic fungus Metharhizum robertsii. Conidial UVB resistance decreased by 54% in Δwc1 and 67% in Δwc2. Five‐hour exposure of UVB‐inactivated conidia to visible light resulted in photoreactivation rates of 30% and 9% for the Δwc1 and Δwc2 mutants, contrasting to 79%–82% for wild‐type and complemented strains. Importantly, abolished transcription of phr1 in Δwc‐2 and of phr2 in Δwc1 resulted in incapable photorepair of CDP and 6‐4PP DNA lesions in UVB‐impaired Δwc2 and Δwc1 cells respectively. Yeast two‐hybrid assays revealed interactions of either WC protein with both PHR1 and PHR2. Therefore, the essential roles for WC1 and WC2 in both photorepair of UVB‐induced DNA lesions and photoreactivation of UVB‐inactivated conidia rely upon their interactions with, and hence transcriptional activation of, PHR1 and PHR2. These findings uncover a novel WC‐cored pathway that mediates filamentous fungal response and adaptation to solar UV irradiation.
Moral barriers to HIV prevention and care for gay and bisexual men: Challenges in times of conservatism in Brazil
Authors: da Silva Luís Augusto Vasconcelos , Duarte Filipe Mateus , Magno Laio , Dourado Inês , Squire Corinne
Published: January 2021

This article examines narratives about promiscuity that are emphasized by some gay and bisexual men who are themselves living with HIV. We used semi‐structured interviews to assess the processes, outcomes, and meanings of HIV diagnosis among 10 young gay and bisexual men aged between 18 and 30 years old. Interviews were conducted in health service settings for the diagnosis and treatment of HIV and AIDS in Salvador, Brazil. Based on a socioculturally oriented approach, the narratives suggest that discourse about promiscuity seems to persist, or is even strengthened, in order to explain HIV infection among young gays/bisexual men and to emphasize a more restrained sexual life following HIV diagnosis. Despite the biotechnologies and biomedical advances, some difficulties and tensions also persist in the daily life of young people living with HIV. Difficulties in starting new relationships, dilemmas around responsibility for infection/transmission, fear and guilt are elements that stand out in these narratives, demonstrating that HIV discourses and practices may produce greater stigma and discrimination in current times, individualizing and blaming certain people for the infection/transmission of the virus, and marginalizing practices that do not conform to hegemonic heteronormativity.
Mechanisms by which morphological awareness contributes to Chinese and English reading comprehension
Authors: Qiao Shen , Liu Yingyi , Yeung Susanna Siu‐sze
Published: January 2021

Background

Research has established the link between morphological awareness and reading comprehension. However, the theoretical mechanisms underlying the association remain unclear. This study examined the direct and indirect effects of morphological awareness on reading comprehension in L1 Chinese and L2 English, with a sample of Chinese children who speak English as a second language (ESL). We tested theoretically driven predictions regarding the ways in which morphological awareness might impact reading comprehension.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐six children in Grades 3 and 4 completed Chinese and English measures of morphological awareness (English: derivational awareness; Chinese: compound awareness), expressive vocabulary, word reading and reading comprehension, in addition to age, working memory and the other language's word definitions as control measures.

Results

For both languages, analyses showed that morphological awareness had significant direct effects on both English and Chinese reading comprehension above and beyond mediators and control variables. In addition, morphological awareness had significant indirect effects on reading comprehension mediated by word reading (indirect path 1) as well as vocabulary and word reading in sequence (indirect path 2) after taking control variables into account. Vocabulary did not emerge as a mediator for either the English or the Chinese models.

Conclusions

The results underscore the importance of morphology for reading comprehension and reveal the potential mechanisms that underpin their relations in L1 Chinese and L2 English. Our findings further specify the role of morphology in the reading systems framework and highlight the value of incorporating morphology into reading instruction for Chinese ESL children.