bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo characterization of the bacterial intramembrane-cleaving protease RseP using the heme binding tag-based assay iCliPSpy
Authors: Kupke Thomas , Götz Rabea M. , Richter Florian M. , Beck Rainer , Lolicato Fabio , Nickel Walter , Hopf Carsten , Brügger Britta
Published: March 2023

Regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) describes the protease-dependent cleavage of transmembrane proteins within the hydrophobic core of cellular membranes. Intramembrane-cleaving proteases (I-CliPs) that catalyze these reactions are found in all kingdoms of life and are involved in a wide range of cellular processes, including signaling and protein homeostasis. I-CLiPs are multispanning membrane proteins and represent challenging targets in structural and enzyme biology. Here we introduce iCLiPSpy, a simple assay to study I-CLiPs in vivo. To allow easy detection of enzyme activity, we developed a heme-binding reporter based on TNFα that changes color after I-CLiP-mediated proteolysis. Co-expression of the protease and reporter in Escherichia coli (E. coli) results in white or green colonies, depending on the activity of the protease. As a proof of concept, we use this assay to study the bacterial intramembrane-cleaving zinc metalloprotease RseP in vivo. iCLiPSpy expands the methodological repertoire for identifying residues important for substrate binding or activity of I-CLiPs and can in principle be adapted to a screening assay for the identification of inhibitors or activators of I-CLiPs, which is of great interest for proteases being explored as biomedical targets.
ClpC2 protects mycobacteria against a natural antibiotic targeting ClpC1-dependent protein degradation
Authors: Taylor Gabrielle , Cui Hengjun , Leodolter Julia , Giese Christoph , Weber-Ban Eilika
Published: March 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis Clp proteases are targeted by several antitubercular compounds, including cyclomarin A (CymA). CymA exerts its toxicity by binding to AAA + chaperone ClpC1. Here, we show that CymA can also bind a partial homologue of ClpC1, known as ClpC2, and we reveal the molecular basis of these interactions by determining the structure of the M. tuberculosis ClpC2:CymA complex. Furthermore, we show deletion of clpC2 in Mycobacterium smegmatis increases sensitivity to CymA. We find CymA exposure leads to a considerable upregulation of ClpC2 via a mechanism in which binding of CymA to ClpC2 prevents binding of ClpC2 to its own promoter, resulting in upregulation of its own transcription in response to CymA. Our study reveals that ClpC2 not only senses CymA, but that through this interaction it can act as a molecular sponge to counteract the toxic effects of CymA and possibly other toxins targeting essential protease component ClpC1 in mycobacteria.
The SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin improves cardiac energy status via mitochondrial ATP production in diabetic mice
Authors: Choi Jungmi , Matoba Naoki , Setoyama Daiki , Watanabe Daiki , Ohnishi Yuichiro , Yasui Ryuto , Kitai Yuichirou , Oomachi Aki , Kotobuki Yutaro , Nishiya Yoichi , Pieper Michael Paul , Imamura Hiromi , Yanagita Motoko , Yamamoto Masamichi
Published: March 2023

Empagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor developed, has been shown to reduce cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Several studies have suggested that empagliflozin improves the cardiac energy state which is a partial cause of its potency. However, the detailed mechanism remains unclear. To address this issue, we used a mouse model that enabled direct measurement of cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP levels. Empagliflozin treatment significantly increased cytosolic and mitochondrial ATP levels in the hearts of db/db mice. Empagliflozin also enhanced cardiac robustness by maintaining intracellular ATP levels and the recovery capacity in the infarcted area during ischemic-reperfusion. Our findings suggest that empagliflozin enters cardiac mitochondria and directly causes these effects by increasing mitochondrial ATP via inhibition of NHE1 and Nav1.5 or their common downstream sites. These cardioprotective effects may be involved in the beneficial effects on heart failure seen in clinical trials.
Domain adaptation for supervised integration of scRNA-seq data
Authors: Sun Yutong , Qiu Peng
Published: March 2023

Large-scale scRNA-seq studies typically generate data in batches, which often induce nontrivial batch effects that need to be corrected. Given the global efforts for building cell atlases and the increasing number of annotated scRNA-seq datasets accumulated, we propose a supervised strategy for scRNA-seq data integration called SIDA (SupervisedIntegration usingDomainAdaptation), which uses the cell type annotations to guide the integration of diverse batches. The supervised strategy is based on domain adaptation that was initially proposed in the computer vision field. We demonstrate that SIDA is able to generate comprehensive reference datasets that lead to improved accuracy in automated cell type mapping analyses.
The microbiome of the marine flatworm Macrostomum lignano provides fitness advantages and exhibits circadian rhythmicity
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , He Jinru , Sieber Michael , von Frieling Jakob , Bruchhaus Iris , Baines John F. , Bickmeyer Ulf , Roeder Thomas
Published: March 2023

The close association between animals and their associated microbiota is usually beneficial for both partners. Here, we used a simple marine model invertebrate, the flatworm Macrostomum lignano, to characterize the host-microbiota interaction in detail. This analysis revealed that the different developmental stages each harbor a specific microbiota. Studies with gnotobiotic animals clarified the physiological significance of the microbiota. While no fitness benefits were mediated by the microbiota when food was freely available, animals with microbiota showed significantly increased fitness with a reduced food supply. The microbiota of M. lignano shows circadian rhythmicity, affecting both the total bacterial load and the behavior of specific taxa. Moreover, the presence of the worm influences the composition of the bacterial consortia in the environment. In summary, the Macrostomum-microbiota system described here can serve as a general model for host-microbe interactions in marine invertebrates.
Correlation-temperature phase diagram of prototypical infinite layer rare earth nickelates
Authors: Pascut Gheorghe Lucian , Cosovanu Lucian , Haule Kristjan , Quader Khandker F.
Published: March 2023

The discovery of superconductivity in hole-doped infinite layer nickelates, RNiO2 (R = Nd, Pr, La) has resulted in sustained interest in the field. A definitive picture of low-energy many-body states has not yet emerged. Here we provide insights into the low-energy physics, based on our embedded dynamical mean-field theory calculations, and propose a correlation (U)-temperature (T) phase diagram. The key features are a low-T Fermi liquid (FL) phase, a high-T Curie-Weiss regime, and an antiferromagnetic phase in a narrow U-T region. We associate the onset of the FL phase with partial screening of Ni-d moments; however, full screening occurs at lower temperatures. This may be related to insufficiency of conduction electrons to effectively screen the Ni-d moments, suggestive of Nozieres Exhaustion Principle. Our results suggest that RNiO2 are in the paramagnetic state, close to an antiferromagnetic dome, making magnetic fluctuations feasible. This may be consequential for superconductivity.
Observation of terahertz-induced dynamical spin canting in orthoferrite magnon by magnetorefractive probing
Authors: Kurihara Takayuki , Bamba Motoaki , Watanabe Hiroshi , Nakajima Makoto , Suemoto Tohru
Published: March 2023

Intense terahertz pulses offer unique pathway to resonantly drive the correlated spin systems up to the nonlinear regime. However, detection of such nonlinear spin dynamics often suffers from the small signal amplitude that can be easily hindered by the linear background components. In order to efficiently extract the nonlinear signals, here we demonstrate that magnetooptical effect can be utilized. We excite spin precession in orthoferrite YFeO3 by the magnetic field of intense terahertz pulse and probe its dynamics by transient transmissivity change in the near infrared. The observed waveforms contain quasi-ferromagnetic-mode magnon oscillation and its second harmonics with a comparably strong amplitude. The result can be explained by dielectric function derived from magnetorefractive Hamiltonian. We reveal that the strong second harmonic signal microscopically originates from the dynamics of the quasi-ferromagnetic mode magnon at nonlinear regime, wherein spin canting angle periodically oscillates.
The transformative potential of a Global Urban Agenda and its lessons in a time of crisis
Authors: Espey Jessica , Parnell Susan , Revi Aromar
Published: March 2023

2015 was a seismic moment for urban stakeholders around the world. A coalition of policymakers, academics and practitioners came together to successfully advocate for an urban goal to be included in the UN Sustainable Development Goal framework. Although the value of a place-based approach to development has been demonstrated by a number of cities and countries worldwide, it was 2020–2022 (three years of cataclysmic global events) that highlighted the necessity for a universal place-based approach to planning in order to foster resilience and sustainability. In this article, three academic-practitioners reflect upon the transformative potential of the 2015–16 urban agendas.
Disrupting the phase separation of KAT8–IRF1 diminishes PD-L1 expression and promotes antitumor immunity
Authors: Wu Yuanzhong , Zhou Liwen , Zou Yezi , Zhang Yijun , Zhang Meifang , Xu Liping , Zheng Lisi , He Wenting , Yu Kuai , Li Ting , Zhang Xia , Chen Zhenxuan , Zhang Ruhua , Zhou Penghui , Zhang Nu , Zheng Limin , Kang Tiebang
Published: March 2023

Immunotherapies targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis have become first-line treatments in multiple cancers. However, only a limited subset of individuals achieves durable benefits because of the elusive mechanisms regulating PD-1/PD-L1. Here, we report that in cells exposed to interferon-γ (IFNγ), KAT8 undergoes phase separation with induced IRF1 and forms biomolecular condensates to upregulate PD-L1. Multivalency from both the specific and promiscuous interactions between IRF1 and KAT8 is required for condensate formation. KAT8–IRF1 condensation promotes IRF1 K78 acetylation and binding to the CD247 (PD-L1) promoter and further enriches the transcription apparatus to promote transcription of PD-L1 mRNA. Based on the mechanism of KAT8–IRF1 condensate formation, we identified the 2142–R8 blocking peptide, which disrupts KAT8–IRF1 condensate formation and consequently inhibits PD-L1 expression and enhances antitumor immunity in vitro and in vivo. Our findings reveal a key role of KAT8–IRF1 condensates in PD-L1 regulation and provide a competitive peptide to enhance antitumor immune responses.
Decline in seasonal predictability potentially destabilized Classic Maya societies
Authors: Braun Tobias , Breitenbach Sebastian F. M. , Skiba Vanessa , Lechleitner Franziska A. , Ray Erin E. , Baldini Lisa M. , Polyak Victor J. , Baldini James U. L. , Kennett Douglas J. , Prufer Keith M. , Marwan Norbert
Published: March 2023

Classic Maya populations living in peri-urban states were highly dependent on seasonally distributed rainfall for reliable surplus crop yields. Despite intense study of the potential impact of decadal to centennial-scale climatic changes on the demise of Classic Maya sociopolitical institutions (750-950 CE), its direct importance remains debated. We provide a detailed analysis of a precisely dated speleothem record from Yok Balum cave, Belize, that reflects local hydroclimatic changes at seasonal scale over the past 1600 years. We find that the initial disintegration of Maya sociopolitical institutions and population decline occurred in the context of a pronounced decrease in the predictability of seasonal rainfall and severe drought between 700 and 800 CE. The failure of Classic Maya societies to successfully adapt to volatile seasonal rainfall dynamics likely contributed to gradual but widespread processes of sociopolitical disintegration. We propose that the complex abandonment of Classic Maya population centres was not solely driven by protracted drought but also aggravated by year-to-year decreases in rainfall predictability, potentially caused by a regional reduction in coherent Intertropical Convergence Zone-driven rainfall.
A big data approach to assess progress towards Sustainable Development Goals for cities of varying sizes
Authors: Liu Yu , Huang Bo , Guo Huadong , Liu Jianguo
Published: March 2023

Cities are the engines for implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which provide a blueprint for achieving global sustainability. However, knowledge gaps exist in quantitatively assessing progress towards SDGs for different-sized cities. There is a shortage of relevant statistical data for many cities, especially small cities, in developing/underdeveloped countries. Here we devise and test a systematic method for assessing SDG progress using open-source big data for 254 Chinese cities and compare the results with those obtained using statistical data. We find that big data is a promising alternative for tracking the overall SDG progress of cities, including those lacking relevant statistical data (83 Chinese cities). Our analysis reveals decreasing SDG Index scores (representing the overall SDG performance) with the decrease in the size of Chinese cities, suggesting the need to improve SDG progress in small and medium cities to achieve more balanced sustainability at the (sub)national level.
Projected increase in carbon dioxide drawdown and acidification in large estuaries under climate change
Authors: Li Ming , Guo Yijun , Cai Wei-Jun , Testa Jeremy M. , Shen Chunqi , Li Renjian , Su Jianzhong
Published: March 2023

Most estuaries are substantial sources of carbon dioxide (CO2) to the atmosphere. The estimated estuarine CO2 degassing is about 17% of the total oceanic uptake, but the effect of rising atmospheric CO2 on estuarine carbon balance remains unclear. Here we use 3D hydrodynamic-biogeochemical models of a large eutrophic estuary and a box model of two generic, but contrasting estuaries to generalize how climate change affects estuarine carbonate chemistry and CO2 fluxes. We found that small estuaries with short flushing times remain a CO2 source to the atmosphere, but large estuaries with long flushing times may become a greater carbon sink and acidify. In particular, climate downscaling projections for Chesapeake Bay in the mid-21st century showed a near-doubling of CO2 uptake, a pH decline of 0.1–0.3, and >90% expansion of the acidic volume. Our findings suggest that large eutrophic estuaries will become carbon sinks and suffer from accelerated acidification in a changing climate.
Statistical modeling of adaptive neural networks explains co-existence of avalanches and oscillations in resting human brain
Authors: Lombardi Fabrizio , Pepić Selver , Shriki Oren , Tkačik Gašper , De Martino Daniele
Published: March 2023

Neurons in the brain are wired into adaptive networks that exhibit collective dynamics as diverse as scale-specific oscillations and scale-free neuronal avalanches. Although existing models account for oscillations and avalanches separately, they typically do not explain both phenomena, are too complex to analyze analytically or intractable to infer from data rigorously. Here we propose a feedback-driven Ising-like class of neural networks that captures avalanches and oscillations simultaneously and quantitatively. In the simplest yet fully microscopic model version, we can analytically compute the phase diagram and make direct contact with human brain resting-state activity recordings via tractable inference of the model’s two essential parameters. The inferred model quantitatively captures the dynamics over a broad range of scales, from single sensor oscillations to collective behaviors of extreme events and neuronal avalanches. Importantly, the inferred parameters indicate that the co-existence of scale-specific (oscillations) and scale-free (avalanches) dynamics occurs close to a non-equilibrium critical point at the onset of self-sustained oscillations.
Three-dimensional morphologic and molecular atlases of nasal vasculature
Authors: Hong Seon Pyo , Yang Myung Jin , Bae Jung Hyun , Choi Du Ri , Kim Young-Chan , Yang Myeon-Sik , Oh Byungkwan , Kang Kyung Won , Lee Sang-Myeong , Kim Bumseok , Kim Yong-Dae , Ahn Ji Hoon , Koh Gou Young
Published: March 2023

Understanding the function of the nasal vasculature in homeostasis and pathogenesis of common nasal diseases is important. Here we describe an extensive network of venous sinusoids (VSs) in mouse and human nasal mucosa. The endothelium of the VSs expressed Prox1 (considered to be a constitutive marker of lymphatic endothelium) and high levels of VCAM-1 and exhibited unusual cell-to-cell junctions. VSs are supported by circular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and surrounded by immune cells. The nasal mucosa also showed a rich supply of lymphatic vessels with distinctive features, such as the absence of the lymphatic marker LYVE1 and sharp-ended capillaries. In mouse models of allergic rhinitis or acute Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, Prox1+ VSs were regressed or compromised. However, in aged mice, the VSs lost the SMC support and were expanded and enlarged. Our findings demonstrate three-dimensional morphological and molecular heterogeneities of the nasal vasculature and offer insights into their associations with nasal inflammation, infection and aging.
Supply-chain data sharing for scope 3 emissions
Authors: Stenzel Aurel , Waichman Israel
Published: March 2023

This paper deals with data sharing among firms along a supply chain for the calculation of Scope 3 emissions. Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions produced along a firm’s supply chain. They represent the majority of most firms’ carbon footprint. Current estimations of Scope 3 emissions are largely based on industry averages and other approximations, which leads to several disadvantages. By contrast, primary data sharing along the supply chain would provide firms with precise measures of Scope 3 emissions (that are eventually necessary for decarbonizing supply chain emissions beyond industry averages). For that, firms need access to data and information from their suppliers that are not under their control. We review the benefits of and three main obstacles to such data sharing: legal and regulatory challenges, missing interoperability, and data privacy concerns. Finally, we discuss initiatives and approaches for overcoming these obstacles.
Unraveling the device performance differences between bulk-heterojunction and single-component polymer solar cells
Authors: Zheng Yina , Wu Yao , Chen Zhihao , Xia Xinxin , Li Yawen , Wu Qiang , Lin Yuze , Lu Xinhui , Hao Xiaotao , Min Jie
Published: March 2023

A new conjugated-block copolymer PBDB-YTCl-2 was synthesized. The photovoltaic performance, morphological characteristics and physical mechanisms of PBDB-YTCl-2 were compared with those of the bulk-heterojunction PBDB-T:PYCl-2 system.
The Bank of Japan’s exchange traded fund purchases: a help or hindrance to market efficiency?
Authors: Charteris Ailie , Steyn Conrad Alexander
Published: March 2023

We examine the impact of the Bank of Japan’s exchange traded fund (ETF) purchases on two aspects of market efficiency—long-range dependence and price delay—of the TOPIX and Nikkei 225 indices. An increase in ETF purchases results in lower long-range dependence for both indices while the impact on the price delay varies according to index and measure. A sub-period analysis shows that the impact on market efficiency varies over time, with the dominant pattern being a delayed harmful effect, followed by a positive impact and thereafter a negative effect. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Quest for financial inclusion via digital financial services (Fintech) during COVID-19 pandemic: case study of women in Indonesia
Authors: Setiawan Budi , Phan Thich Dai , Medina Jennifer , Wieriks Martijn , Nathan Robert Jeyakumar , Fekete-Farkas Maria
Published: March 2023

Based upon an extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study aims to investigate the factors influencing the behavioral intention to adopt Fintech from the perspective of Indonesian women. The research data were collected from 409 Indonesian female respondents and analyzed using the SEMinR statistical data analysis tool. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to assess this research’s measurement model and structural model. The result shows that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, user innovativeness, attitude, trust, and brand image significantly positively impact behavioral intention to adopt Fintech among Indonesian women. Meanwhile, perceived ease of use, financial literacy, and government support are found to have indirect relationships with behavioral intention. In addition, moderation analysis revealed that the saving habits of women during the COVID-19 pandemic reduced the relationship between their innovativeness and behavioral intention to adopt Fintech. Based on these results, we recommend practical suggestions to the government, policymakers, and aspiring Fintech service providers further to enhance women’s empowerment through digital financial inclusion.
Does FDI have a social demonstration effect in developing economies? Evidence based on the presence of women-led local firms
Authors: Fang Sheng , Xu Dean , Xu Lixin Colin , Shams Heba
Published: March 2023

We hypothesize that foreign direct investment (FDI) benefits female entrepreneurs in developing economies through a “social demonstration effect,” namely, by exhibiting norms and practices supporting gender equality and promoting women’s role in business. Results based on data from 44,418 firms in 91 developing economies show that, at the country level, increased employment share of foreign invested firms has a positive association with women’s entrepreneurship, namely, it boosts the presence of female leaders in new ventures and small businesses, as foreign firms help break local conventions unfavorable to female entrepreneurs. This positive impact is more evident when women face greater institutional barriers. However, at the industry level, foreign employment share becomes nonsignificant, and it has a negative association with the presence of female entrepreneurs in countries where women face greater barriers. We reason that this is due to occupational competition: The more disadvantaged women are in a country, the greater the advantage foreign firms possess in attracting women to work for foreign firms instead of pursuing their own entrepreneurial opportunities. The practical implication of our study is that governments can reformulate FDI policies with a view to fostering women’s entrepreneurship.
The possibilities and limits of insurance as governance in insuring pandemics
Authors: He Qihao , Faure Michael , Liu Chengwei
Published: March 2023

Insurance can, as has clearly been indicated in the literature, play an important role in dealing with catastrophe risks, not only as a compensation mechanism but also as a mechanism to influence the behaviour of the insured. It is the concept known as ‘insurance as governance’. However, we argue that there are limited possibilities for this role as far as the insurance of pandemics is concerned. The traditional technical tools, such as risk-based pricing, are difficult to apply. In addition, there may, ab initio, be serious problems in insuring pandemics within one of the main conditions of insurability (controlling moral hazard through an effective risk differentiation). One remedy that is traditionally applied, more particularly for natural catastrophes, is mandatory coverage. Furthermore, the capacity problem might potentially be solved through a multilayered approach in which, in addition to insurance and reinsurance, the government could also take up a role as reinsurer of last resort. That would also have the major advantage of stimulating market solution (and potentially providing incentives for the mitigation of damages), which clearly fails in a model where the government simply bails out operators. Finally, one important regulatory intervention is that insurers should be better informed than was apparently the case during the last pandemic about exactly which type of risks are covered and which are not.
The moderating role of information technology governance in the relationship between board characteristics and continuity management during the Covid-19 pandemic in an emerging economy
Authors: Almaqtari Faozi A. , Farhan Najib H. S. , Al-Hattami Hamood Mohammed , Elsheikh Tamer
Published: March 2023

The main aim of the current study is to investigate the relationship between governance characteristics, information technology governance, and continuity management during Covid-19 in an emerging economy. The study also examines the moderating role of information technology governance in the relationship between governance characteristics and business continuity management. The quantitative approach is used by utilising a survey questionnaire. A sample of 232 questionnaire surveys has been collected from the board of directors, top and middle management executives, external auditors, information technology experts, and some other respondents. The results were estimated using structural equation modelling. The results indicate that information technology governance has a statistically significant effect on business continuity. Board size, board independence, audit committee independence, audit committee diligence, and external audit have a statistically significant positive effect on information technology governance. Further, the results indicate that information technology governance significantly moderates the effect of board size, board independence, board diligence, audit committee independence, audit committee diligence, and external audit on business continuity. However, information technology governance does not moderate the relationship between board committees and business continuity, which indicates less board involvement in information technology governance. The current research provides insight into the role of information technology governance in business continuity management during crises. The present study provides a unique contribution as it investigates the relationship between corporate governance characteristics, information technology governance, and business continuity management during Covid-19, providing empirical evidence from an emerging country.
Language anxiety in an Algerian multilingual tertiary context
Authors: AL-Qadri Abdo Hasan , Al-khresheh Mohammad H. , Boudouaia Azzeddine , Bouflih Amira
Published: March 2023

Few phenomena can be as debilitating or frustrating as anxiety. It is a severe problem in language learning and is one of the most important barriers. Although there is plenty of literature on language anxiety, little research has examined the connection between multilingualism, proficiency, and foreign language anxiety. Therefore, the objective of this study was to assess the degree of English language anxiety among multilingual undergraduate Algerian students exploring the main anxiety factors and taking into account their ethnicity, language proficiency, and university major as three key variables. To accomplish these primary objectives, 471 undergraduate university students ranging in age from 19 to 24 years old and majoring in natural sciences, human sciences, and applied sciences were involved. A foreign language anxiety scale comprised of 23 validated items distributed among three factors: communicative anxiety, fear of failure, and negative experiences, was used as the study instrument for data collection. The study’s findings showed that the participants generally had moderate anxiety levels. Communicative anxiety emerged as the most common form of anxiety, followed by fear of failure and negative experiences. The less anxiety a student experienced, the more advanced their English level was. Arab students were more anxious than Amazigh students. Speaking more than one language may make one less anxious. There were no significant differences between the students’ majors and anxiety levels. Recommendations are made based on these findings.
Organizational slack, entrepreneurial orientation, and corporate political activity: From the behavioral theory of the firm
Authors: Li Yanyan , Gao Yu , Gao Shanxing
Published: March 2023

As a popular non-market strategy, corporate political activity (CPA) benefits a firm’s risk management and competitive advantage. However, the mechanism of promoting firms to engage in corporate political activity remains obscure. Based on the behavioral theory of the firm, this research develops a mediation model containing organization slack, entrepreneurial orientation, and corporate political activity to investigate the prediction effect of different types of slack, as well as the mediation effect of different dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation. Based on the multiple informant data from 303 firms in China, this research conducted ordinary least-squares estimation with SPSS and post hoc analysis with PROCESS. The results support the main and key hypotheses. First, entrepreneurial orientation plays a mediation effect between slack and corporate political activity. Second, financial slack provides stronger support to develop certain capabilities than operational slack. Third, two sub-dimensions of entrepreneurial orientation play heterogeneous mediation effects according to their different emphasis. Managerial attitude also mediates the effect of entrepreneurial behavior effect toward CPA. This research enriches the antecedent research of CPA, deepens our understanding of the CPA engagement mechanism, and extends the behavioral theory of the firm.
Do personal remittance outflows impede economic growth in Saudi Arabia? The role of trade, labor force, human, and physical capital
Authors: Islam Md. Saiful , Alhamad Ibrahim A.
Published: March 2023

Saudi Arabia is the leading economy in the Arabian Gulf region; it accounts for a significant amount of remittance outflow (RMO) to the rest of the world. The objective of the study is to investigate the impact of remittance outflow on the economic growth (EG) of Saudi Arabia by utilizing time-series data from 1985 to 2019 controlling trade, labor force, human capital, and physical capital. It employs the non-linear autoregressive distributive lag (NARDL) model, cointegrating regressions, and vector error correction (VEC) Granger causality check to accomplish the study. The outcomes of the NARDL exercise confirm a cointegrating association among variables and reveal that RMO has mixed but negative resultant impacts on the EG in the short run, while in the long run, EC growth is augmented if remittance outflows decline. Both trade and labor force positively contribute to EG, while neither human nor physical capital significantly influences the latter. The cointegrating regression outcomes precisely authenticate the NARDL findings and acknowledge their robustness. Moreover, the VEC Granger causality test also supports the NARDL outcomes. The outcome suggests that the policymakers may allure the expatriates through pragmatic labor laws, policies, and smart incentives to direct their savings to domestic consumption and investments. Moreover, the quality of education in general and tertiary education, in particular, needs to be upgraded in the real sense to develop the practical skills and efficiency of the Saudi labor force so that they can replace the expatriates. This will eventually reduce outbound remittances.
Phase-locked measurements of linear and weakly nonlinear interfacial waves in a stratified turbulent gas–liquid pipe flow
Authors: Farias P. S. C. , Azevedo L. F. A. , de Paula I. B.
Published: March 2023

The present work reports an experimental characterization of linear and weakly nonlinear interfacial waves in a stratified air–water horizontal pipe flow. An oscillating paddle was employed to generate controlled waves at the liquid interface. The driving signal of the oscillating paddle was controlled and synchronized with image acquisitions, enabling phase-locked measurements and the application of ensemble averaging techniques. Velocity field measurements in the liquid and gas phases were performed simultaneously using an off-axis particle image velocimetry setup and shadowgraphy. The combined techniques allowed us to extract the coherent part of flow fluctuations related to the excited waves. This was done for a range of flow rates and wave frequencies. The selected conditions are close to the transition from stratified to slug/plug flow regimes. In the presence of linear waves, the coherent disturbances in both phases were weakly dependent on near-wall disturbances. Flow changes in the presence of weakly nonlinear waves were also investigated. In these cases, noticeable modifications in the mean flow and in turbulence distribution were observed near the interface, whereas close to the wall, the flow was weakly affected. This investigation follows the work of Farias et al. [“Characterization of interfacial waves in stratified turbulent gas-liquid pipe flow using Particle Image Velocimetry and controlled disturbances,” Int. J. Multiphhase Flow 161, 104381 (2023)], where the threshold for linear and weakly nonlinear waves was studied. Here, a clear comparison between wave-induced disturbances in linear and weakly nonlinear regimes is reported in the literature for the first time for stratified turbulent gas–liquid pipe flows. The methodology proposed is relatively simple and can contribute to describe wave-related phenomena in stratified pipe flows.
Optimising rostering patterns for Australian junior doctors
Authors: Fletcher Calvin M. , Rotstein Laila L.
Published: March 2023

Optimising junior doctor rosters is a common subject of debate both in Australia and overseas. While total work hours are recognised to increase the risk of fatigue-related complications for both junior doctors and their patients, patterns of work are less commonly described. Multiple low quality evidence recommendations exist to guide rostering practices to reduce predominantly the risk of fatigue-associated error and burnout, but also to avoid disruptions to continuity of care and provide adequate training opportunities. Given available evidence is poor, further centre and specialty-specific studies are required to delineate optimal rostering patterns for Australian junior doctors.
Rapid elemental prediction of heterogeneous tropical soils from pXRF data: a comparison of models via linear regressions and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Faria Álvaro José Gomes de , Silva Sérgio Henrique Godinho , Lima Luiza Carvalho Alvarenga , Andrade Renata , Botelho Lívia , Melo Leônidas Carrijo Azevedo , Guilherme Luiz Roberto Guimarães , Curi Nilton
Published: March 2023

Context USEPA 3051a is a standard analytical methodology for the extraction of inorganic substances in soils. However, these analyses are expensive, time-consuming and produce chemical residues. Conversely, proximal sensors such as portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) spectrometry reduce analysis time, costs and consequently offer a valuable alternative to laboratory analyses. Aim We aimed to investigate the feasibility to predict the results of the USEPA 3051a method for 28 chemical elements from pXRF data. Methods Samples (n = 179) representing a large area from Brazil were analysed for elemental composition using the USEPA 3051a method and pXRF scanning (Al, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, Sr, Ti, V, Zn and Zr). Linear regressions (simple linear regression – SLR and stepwise multiple linear regressions – SMLR) and machine learning algorithms (support vector machine – SVM and random forest – RF) were tested and compared. Modelling was developed with 70% of the data, while the remaining 30% were used for validation. Key results Results demonstrated that SVM and RF performed better than SLR and SMLR for the prediction of Al, Ba, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, P, Pb, Sn, Sr, Ti, Tl, V, Zn and Zr; R2 and RPD values ranged from 0.52 to 0.94 and 1.43 to 3.62, respectively, as well as the lowest values of RMSE and NRMSE values (0.28 to 0.70 mg kg−1). Conclusions and implications Most USEPA 3051a results can be accurately predicted from pXRF data saving cost, time, and ensuring large-scale routine geochemical characterisation of tropical soils in an environmentally friendly way.
The impact of AUD on death for men with different IQ-scores: a register-based cohort study of 645 955 men
Authors: Honoré Emilie Theisen , Jakobsen Søren Helmer , Osler Merete , Jørgensen Terese Sara Høj
Published: March 2023

Aim: To investigate whether the effect of alcohol use disorder (AUD) on death by natural and unnatural causes, respectively, differs according to intelligence quotient (IQ) scores. Methods: We followed 654 955 Danish men, including 75 267 brothers, born between 1939 and 1959 from their 25th birthday, 1 January 1970, or date of conscription (whichever came last) until 31 December 2018. The exposure of AUD was defined by first registered treatment (diagnosis since 1969, prescription medicine since 1994, or other treatment since 2006), and the outcomes of death by natural and unnatural causes, respectively, were obtained from nationwide registers since 1970. Information on IQ score was retrieved at conscription from the Danish Conscription Database. Results and conclusion: In total, 86 106 men were defined with an AUD. AUD combined with the highest, middle, and lowest IQ score tertiles, respectively, were associated with a 5.90 (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.75; 6.01), 6.88 (95% CI: 6.73; 7.04), and 7.53 (95% CI: 7.38; 7.68) times higher hazard of death by natural causes compared with no AUD and the highest IQ score tertile. The risk of death by unnatural causes was comparable for men with AUD regardless of IQ score tertile. A within-brother analysis showed that the impact of AUD on death by natural and unnatural causes, respectively, did not vary between men with different IQ score tertiles, but were hampered by statistical uncertainty. Our study indicates a need of special focus on men with lower levels of IQ score and AUD for prevention of death by natural causes.
Efficient gene targeting in Aspergillus chevalieri used to produce katsuobushi
Authors: Hiramatsu Kentaro , Nishitani Atsushi , Okutsu Kayu , Yoshizaki Yumiko , Takamine Kazunori , Tamaki Hisanori , Futagami Taiki
Published: March 2023

In this study, we developed an efficient gene targeting system for the osmophilic fungus Aspergillus chevalieri, which is commonly used in the production of a dried bonito, katsuobushi. Specifically, we utilized the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 system to disrupt the ATP sulfurylase encoding sC gene. This results in methionine auxotroph and selenate-resistance. Additionally, we disrupted the DNA ligase IV encoding ligD gene, which is required for nonhomologous end joining. Using the sC marker and selenate-resistance as a selection pressure, we were able to rescue the sC marker and generate a ΔligD ΔsC strain. We determined that the gene targeting efficiency of the ΔligD ΔsC strain was significantly higher than that of the parental ΔsC strain, which indicates that this strain provides efficient genetic recombination for the genetic analysis of A. chevalieri.
Overcoming barriers to social inclusion in agricultural intensification: reflections on a transdisciplinary community development project from India and Bangladesh
Authors: Roth Christian H , Cosijn Michaela , Carter Lucy , Chakraborty Arnab , Das Mahanambrota , Hamilton Serena H , Kumar Jana Alak , Lim-Camacho Lilly , Majumdar Subrata , Merritt Wendy S , Mishra Pulak , Mishra Rajeshwar , Nidumolu Uday , Rahman Md Wakilur , Ray Dhananjay , Williams Liana J
Published: March 2023

We describe a research-for-development (R4D) strategy developed to address how investments and interventions in agricultural intensification as a means to achieve community development can be designed to be more socially inclusive and equitable. We draw on results from a 5-year project – Promoting socially inclusive and sustainable agricultural intensification in West Bengal (India) and southern Bangladesh (SIAGI). We reflect on a major pivot in the project’s strategy, from being primarily research-driven to placing community concerns and priorities at the centre with a shift towards Ethical Community Engagement (ECE). This became the foundational framework which guided the definition and undertaking of all subsequent activities – including a rethink of methods and concepts to develop tools and frameworks fit for purpose and local context, and inculcating a culture of reflexivity and mutual learning in the project. We show that creating the conditions for true participation, where project beneficiaries and non-government organizations are equal partners alongside researchers and government actors, and for co-learning using the ECE framework, sets the foundations for increased and potentially enduring social inclusion in agricultural intensification.
The neurocognitive effects of atrial fibrillation: benefits of the ABC pathway
Authors: Calvert Peter , Gupta Dhiraj , Lip Gregory Y H
Published: March 2023

Atrial fibrillation (AF) has a recognized association with not only stroke, but also neurocognitive impairment and both vascular and Alzheimer's dementia. Effective management of AF can reduce the risk of such complications. In this narrative review article, we discuss the pathophysiological links between AF and dementia, as well as the benefits of adherence to the guideline-recommended ‘ABC’ pathway.
The SR protein RSP-2 influences expression of the truncated insulin receptor DAF-2B in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Martinez Bryan A , Gill Matthew S
Published: March 2023

The alternatively spliced daf-2b transcript in Caenorhabditis elegans encodes a truncated isoform of the nematode insulin receptor that retains the extracellular ligand binding domain but lacks the intracellular signaling domain and is therefore unable to transduce a signal. To identify factors that influence expression of daf-2b, we performed a targeted RNA interference screen of rsp genes, which encode splicing factors from the serine/arginine protein family. Loss of rsp-2 significantly increased the expression of a fluorescent daf-2b splicing reporter, as well as increasing expression of endogenous daf-2b transcripts. Correspondingly, rsp-2 mutants exhibited similar phenotypes to those previously observed with DAF-2B overexpression, namely suppression of pheromone-induced dauer formation, enhancement of dauer entry in insulin signaling mutants, inhibition of dauer recovery, and increased lifespan. However, the epistatic relationship between rsp-2 and daf-2b varied according to the experimental context. Increased dauer entry and delayed dauer exit of rsp-2 mutants in an insulin signaling mutant background were partially dependent on daf-2b. Conversely, suppression of pheromone-induced dauer formation and increased lifespan in rsp-2 mutants were independent of daf-2b. These data demonstrate that C. elegans RSP-2, an ortholog of human splicing factor protein SRSF5/SRp40, is involved in regulating the expression of the truncated DAF-2B isoform. However, we also find that RSP-2 can influence dauer formation and lifespan independently of DAF-2B.
An improved reference of the grapevine genome reasserts the origin of the PN40024 highly homozygous genotype
Authors: Velt Amandine , Frommer Bianca , Blanc Sophie , Holtgräwe Daniela , Duchêne Éric , Dumas Vincent , Grimplet Jérôme , Hugueney Philippe , Kim Catherine , Lahaye Marie , Matus José Tomás , Navarro-Payá David , Orduña Luis , Tello-Ruiz Marcela K , Vitulo Nicola , Ware Doreen , Rustenholz Camille
Published: March 2023

The genome sequence of the diploid and highly homozygous Vitis vinifera genotype PN40024 serves as the reference for many grapevine studies. Despite several improvements to the PN40024 genome assembly, its current version PN12X.v2 is quite fragmented and only represents the haploid state of the genome with mixed haplotypes. In fact, being nearly homozygous, this genome contains several heterozygous regions that are yet to be resolved. Taking the opportunity of improvements that long-read sequencing technologies offer to fully discriminate haplotype sequences, an improved version of the reference, called PN40024.v4, was generated. Through incorporating long genomic sequencing reads to the assembly, the continuity of the 12X.v2 scaffolds was highly increased with a total number decreasing from 2,059 to 640 and a reduction in N bases of 88%. Additionally, the full alternative haplotype sequence was built for the first time, the chromosome anchoring was improved and the number of unplaced scaffolds was reduced by half. To obtain a high-quality gene annotation that outperforms previous versions, a liftover approach was complemented with an optimized annotation workflow for Vitis. Integration of the gene reference catalogue and its manual curation have also assisted in improving the annotation, while defining the most reliable estimation of 35,230 genes to date. Finally, we demonstrated that PN40024 resulted from 9 selfings of cv. “Helfensteiner” (cross of cv. “Pinot noir” and “Schiava grossa”) instead of a single “Pinot noir”. These advances will help maintain the PN40024 genome as a gold-standard reference, also contributing toward the eventual elaboration of the grapevine pangenome.
Design and validation of a high-density single nucleotide polymorphism array for the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica)
Authors: Xuereb Amanda , Nahuelpi Rodrigo Marín , Normandeau Eric , Babin Charles , Laporte Martin , Mallet André , Yáñez José M , Mallet Martin , Bernatchez Louis
Published: March 2023

Dense single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays are essential tools for rapid high-throughput genotyping for many genetic analyses, including genomic selection and high-resolution population genomic assessments. We present a high-density (200 K) SNP array developed for the Eastern oyster (Crassostrea virginica), which is a species of significant aquaculture production and restoration efforts throughout its native range. SNP discovery was performed using low-coverage whole-genome sequencing of 435 F1 oysters from families from 11 founder populations in New Brunswick, Canada. An Affymetrix Axiom Custom array was created with 219,447 SNPs meeting stringent selection criteria and validated by genotyping more than 4,000 oysters across 2 generations. In total, 144,570 SNPs had a call rate >90%, most of which (96%) were polymorphic and were distributed across the Eastern oyster reference genome, with similar levels of genetic diversity observed in both generations. Linkage disequilibrium was low (maximum r2 ∼0.32) and decayed moderately with increasing distance between SNP pairs. Taking advantage of our intergenerational data set, we quantified Mendelian inheritance errors to validate SNP selection. Although most of SNPs exhibited low Mendelian inheritance error rates overall, with 72% of called SNPs having an error rate of <1%, many loci had elevated Mendelian inheritance error rates, potentially indicating the presence of null alleles. This SNP panel provides a necessary tool to enable routine application of genomic approaches, including genomic selection, in C. virginica selective breeding programs. As demand for production increases, this resource will be essential for accelerating production and sustaining the Canadian oyster aquaculture industry.