bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of gene expression across brain regions in behaviorally divergent deer mice
Authors: Kautt Andreas F. , Chen Jenny , Lewarch Caitlin L. , Hu Caroline , Turner Kyle , Lassance Jean-Marc , Baier Felix , Bedford Nicole L. , Bendesky Andres , Hoekstra Hopi E.
Published: September 2023

The evolution of innate behaviors is ultimately due to genetic variation likely acting in the nervous system. Gene regulation may be particularly important because it can evolve in a modular brain-region specific fashion through the concerted action ofcis- andtrans-regulatory changes. Here, to investigate transcriptional variation and its regulatory basis across the brain, we perform RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) on ten brain subregions in two sister species of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatusandP. polionotus) – which differ in a range of innate behaviors, including their social system – and their F1hybrids. We find that most of the variation in gene expression distinguishes subregions, followed by species. Interspecific differential expression (DE) is pervasive (52–59% of expressed genes), whereas the number of DE genes between sexes is modest overall (∼3%). Interestingly, the identity of DE genes varies considerably across brain regions. Much of this modularity is due tocis-regulatory divergence, and while 43% of genes were consistently assigned to the same gene regulatory class across subregions (e.g., conserved,cis-, ortrans-regulatory divergence), a similar number were assigned to two or more different gene regulatory classes. Together, these results highlight the modularity of gene expression differences and divergence in the brain, which may be key to explain how the evolution of brain gene expression can contribute to the astonishing diversity of animal behaviors.
Migration distance and mating system are not associated with genetic diversity and differentiation among bats (Chiroptera)
Authors: Thorstensen Matt J. , Korpach Alicia M. , de Greef Evelien , Newediuk Levi , Schmidt Chloé , Garroway Colin J.
Published: September 2023

Genetic variation is critical for evolutionary responses to environmental change. Links between genetic variation and behavioural or life history traits may reveal how varied strategies influence evolutionary trends in speciation and adaptation. Traits associated with movement typically correlate with population genetic structure and could help predict populations’ vulnerability to geographic processes such as habitat fragmentation and disease spread. With their wide diversity in behaviours and ecologies, bats provide a useful testing ground for hypotheses about population structure related to species-specific movement patterns. We used a global sample of microsatellite data (n=233 sites from 17 bat species) associated with published studies to examine potential links between genetic variation and migration and mating strategies. The genetic measures we tested were population-specific differentiation, gene diversity, and allelic richness. Using Bayesian models that accounted for phylogenetic distances among species, we identified no correlations between migration or mating strategy and genetic variation. Our results do not support long-standing hypotheses about dispersal-mediated genetic structure, and contrast with prior studies on bat genetic diversity and differentiation. We discuss the need for continued research into the complex association of ecological, biogeographical, and behavioural factors that facilitate gene flow among populations, especially in species with diverse movement patterns.
Identification of a link between splicing and endoplasmic reticulum proteostasis
Authors: Zahoor Muhammad , Dong Yanchen , Preussner Marco , Shameen Alam Sabrina , Hajdu Renata , Reiterer Veronika , Geley Stephan , Cormier-Daire Valerie , Heyd Florian , Jerome-Majewska Loydie A. , Farhan Hesso
Published: September 2023

The role of general splicing in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-proteostasis remains poorly understood. Here, we identify SNRPB, a component of the spliceosome, as a novel regulator of export from the ER. Mechanistically, SNRPB regulates the splicing of components of the ER export machinery, including Sec16A, a regulator of ER exit sites. Loss of function of SNRPB is causally linked to cerebro-costo-mandibular syndrome (CCMS), a genetic disease characterized by bone defects. We show that heterozygous deletion of SNRPB in mice resulted in intracellular accumulation of type-1 collagen as well as bone defects reminiscent of CCMS. Silencing SNRPB inhibited osteogenesis in vitro, which could be rescued by overexpression of Sec16A. This indicates that the role of SNRPB in osteogenesis is linked to its effects on ER export. Finally, we show that SNRPB is a target for the unfolded protein response (UPR), which supports a mechanistic link between the spliceosome and ER-proteostasis. Our work highlights SNRPB as a novel node in the proteostasis network, shedding light on CCMS pathophysiology.
Caspase-1 activates gasdermin A in non-mammals
Authors: Billman Zachary P. , Kovacs Stephen B. , Wei Bo , Kang Kidong , Cissé Ousmane H. , Miao Edward A.
Published: September 2023

Gasdermins oligomerize to form pores in the cell membrane, causing regulated lytic cell death called pyroptosis. Mammals encode five gasdermins that can trigger pyroptosis: GSDMA, B, C, D, and E. Caspase and granzyme proteases cleave the linker regions of and activate GSDMB, C, D, and E, but no endogenous activation pathways are yet known for GSDMA. Here, we perform a comprehensive evolutionary analysis of the gasdermin family. A gene duplication of GSDMA in the common ancestor of caecilian amphibians, reptiles and birds gave rise to GSDMA-D in mammals. Uniquely in our tree, amphibian, reptile and bird GSDMA group in a separate clade than mammal GSDMA. Remarkably, GSDMA in numerous bird species contain caspase-1 cleavage sites like YVAD or FASD in the linker. We show that GSDMA from birds, amphibians, and reptiles are all cleaved by caspase-1. Thus, GSDMA was originally cleaved by the host-encoded protease caspase-1. In mammals the caspase-1 cleavage site in GSDMA is disrupted; instead, a new protein, GSDMD, is the target of caspase-1. Mammal caspase-1 uses exosite interactions with the GSDMD C-terminal domain to confer the specificity of this interaction, whereas we show that bird caspase-1 uses a stereotypical tetrapeptide sequence to confer specificity for bird GSDMA. Our results reveal an evolutionarily stable association between caspase-1 and the gasdermin family, albeit a shifting one. Caspase-1 repeatedly changes its target gasdermin over evolutionary time at speciation junctures, initially cleaving GSDME in fish, then GSDMA in amphibians/reptiles/birds, and finally GSDMD in mammals.

One Sentence Summary

We demonstrate that amphibians, reptiles and birds engage pyroptosis using caspase-1 and GS-DMA, filling an evolutionary gap in which caspase-1 cleaves GSDME in fish and GSDMD in mammals.
TLNRD1 is a CCM complex component and regulates endothelial barrier integrity
Authors: Ball Neil J. , Ghimire Sujan , Follain Gautier , Pajari Ada O. , Vaitkevičiūtė Monika , Cowell Alana R. , Berki Bence , Ivaska Johanna , Paatero Ilkka , Goult Benjamin T. , Jacquemet Guillaume
Published: September 2023

We previously identified talin rod domain-containing protein 1 (TLNRD1) as a potent actin-bundling protein in vitro. Here, we report that TLNRD1 is primarily expressed in the vasculature in vivo and that its depletion leads to vascular abnormalities in vivo and loss of barrier integrity in cultured endothelial cells. We demonstrate that TLNRD1 is a component of the cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) complex through its direct, high-affinity interaction with CCM2. Modeling and functional testing of TLNRD1 and CCM2 mutants reveal that their interaction is mediated by a hydrophobic C-terminal helix in CCM2 that attaches to a hydrophobic groove on the 4-helix domain of TLNRD1. Disruption of this binding interface leads to CCM2 and TLNRD1 accumulation in the nucleus and actin fibers. Notably, a CCM2 pathogenic mutation linked to vascular dementia in patients maps to the interface and disrupts the interaction. Our findings indicate that CCM2 controls TLNRD1 localization to the cytoplasm and inhibits its actin-bundling activity. Based on these results, we propose a new pathway by which the CCM complex modulates the actin cytoskeleton and vascular integrity by controlling TLNRD1 bundling activity.
A direct solution to linear constraints in the finite element analysis and its application illustrations
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zheng Hong , Yuan Chi , Wu Wenan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This article aims to present a direct solution to handle linear constraints in finite element (FE) analysis without penalties or the Lagrange multipliers introduced.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the system of linear equations corresponding to the linear constraints is solved for the leading variables in terms of the free variables and the constants. Then, the reduced system of equilibrium equations with respect to the free variables is derived from the finite-dimensional virtual work equation. Finally, the algorithm is designed.

Findings

The proposed procedure is promising in three typical cases: (1) to enforce displacement constraints in any direction; (2) to implement local refinements by allowing hanging nodes from element subdivision and (3) to treat non-matching grids of distinct parts of the problem domain. The procedure is general and suitable for 3D non-linear analyses.

Research limitations/implications

The algorithm is fitted only to the Galerkin-based numerical methods.

Originality/value

The proposed procedure does not need Lagrange multipliers or penalties. The tangential stiffness matrix of the reduced system of equilibrium equations reserves positive definiteness and symmetry. Besides, many contemporary Galerkin-based numerical methods need to tackle the enforcement of the essential conditions, whose weak forms reduce to linear constraints. As a result, the proposed procedure is quite promising.
Brand community formation in service management: lessons from the sport industry
Authors: Heere Bob , Lock Daniel , Cooper Danielle
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to propose an overall framework for brand community formation that separates antecedents that lead to the formation of a brand community from those outcomes that are associated with established communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors approached this review through an interdisciplinary literature review that delineated psychological, structural and behavioral processes that underline the formation of the brand community, often illustrated by contemporary cases in the sport industry.

Findings

The findings outline 18 different constructs, categorized in three overarching dimensions, separating structural, behavioral and psychological constructs. The authors posit these 18 constructs are at the heart of brand community formation. These constructs provide managers with a guide to inform their efforts to form a new brand community.

Originality/value

It is emphasized that brand community formation is a complex process that is paradoxical in nature and requires organizations to balance a non-interventionist approach that would allow for consumer empowerment, with a pro-active approach that creates conditions for a successful brand community formation process.
Feedback digitalization preferences in online and hybrid classroom: Experiences from lockdown and implications for post-pandemic education
Authors: Sedrakyan Gayane , Borsci Simone , Abdi Asad , van den Berg Stéphanie M. , Veldkamp Bernard P. , van Hillegersberg Jos
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This research aims to explore digital feedback needs/preferences in online education during lockdown and the implications for post-pandemic education.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study approach was used to explore feedback needs and experiences from educational institutions in the Netherlands and Germany (N = 247) using a survey method.

Findings

The results showed that instruments supporting features for effortless interactivity are among the highly preferred options for giving/receiving feedback in online/hybrid classrooms, which are in addition also opted for post-pandemic education. The analysis also showed that, when communicating feedback digitally, more inclusive formats are preferred, e.g. informing learners about how they perform compared to peers. The increased need for comparative performance-oriented feedback, however, may affect students' goal orientations. In general, the results of this study suggest that while interactivity features of online instruments are key to ensuring social presence when using digital forms of feedback, balancing online with offline approaches should be recommended.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the gap in the scientific literature on feedback digitalization. Most of the existing research are in the domain of automated feedback generated by various learning environments, while literature on digital feedback in online classrooms, e.g. empirical studies on preferences for typology, formats and communication channels for digital feedback, to the best of the authors’ knowledge is largely lacking. The findings and recommendations of this study extend their relevance to post-pandemic education for which hybrid classroom is opted among the highly preferred formats by survey respondents.
Review of bargaining and transaction prices: future avenues for shipping studies
Authors: Sahoo Satya , Jiang Liping , Song Dong-Wook
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In the shipping industry, both sales and purchases of second-hand ships and freight transport services are prevalently tailormade and traded with intense bilateral negotiations. Price bargaining is the key step of this negotiation process and plays a crucial role in determining mutually agreed prices. Despite its cruciality and applicability, the price bargaining has yet received due conceptual and/or theoretical attention in the shipping literature. This paper attempts to conceptually examine the role of bargaining in shipping transaction prices and subsequently puts forward directions for future research. In doing so, the paper focuses on two types of transactions taking place in shipping markets: asset market trading of second-hand vessels and service market trading shipping freights.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a systematic literature review of price bargaining in the field of economics and management disciplines from a game-theoretic perspective. This approach does logically lead to the establishment of a conceptual framework for price bargaining in shipping sub-markets as a step toward having taken into consideration a variety of heterogeneities commonly present in trading activities and market dynamics.

Findings

A set of research areas has been consequently identified where price bargaining and mechanisms for the shipping freight and asset markets could be further explored and analyzed in a way to make better pricing decisions under a more tangible framework.

Research limitations/implications

One of the critical challenges when using bargaining mechanisms to make a decision on pricing shipping services and assets is how to operationalize the study for empirical investigation as some of the factors are internal information of the players and are not adequately revealed to externals: that is, an imperfect information sharing case. The current study aims, however, not to conduct an empirical analysis but to initiate a conversation among maritime economists by bringing their attention to this not-yet fully explored and potentially impactful field of research and by asking them to treat bargaining from a perspective for pricing shipping assets and services. It is claimed that, by doing so, one could better understand price differences between individual contracts.

Originality/value

This study would be considered the first of its kind to provide a detailed survey of the bargaining theory and models from a game theoretical perspective as a theoretical lens to understand its importance and relevance in pricing shipping assets and services. It also provides a simplified operational case on utilizing bargaining in practically pricing freight services.
Preference for teleworking during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spain: an exploratory study
Authors: Peñarroja Vicente
Published: September 2023

Purpose

While teleworking has become widespread during COVID-19, there is still little understanding of teleworking preferences. This study aims to explore how teleworking during the pandemic influences employees’ preference for teleworking in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used secondary survey data collected by the centro de investigaciones sociológicas (CIS) in Spain, from a sample of 430 individuals. The study used regression analysis to test how effort expectancy and perceived usefulness impact preference for teleworking through satisfaction with teleworking.

Findings

Results showed the importance of satisfaction with teleworking in explaining preference for teleworking. Moreover, satisfaction with teleworking was influenced by both effort expectancy and perceived usefulness. Specifically, individuals who perceived teleworking as useful and were more satisfied were also more likely to prefer teleworking after the pandemic, whereas individuals were less likely to prefer teleworking if it required more effort.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to the current literature by providing a new perspective on the topic of teleworking. This study focuses on exploring teleworking preferences during the pandemic from a post-adoption approach.
Changes in cross‐sector collaboration between nurse home visitors and community providers in the United States: A panel survey analysis
Authors: Williams Venice Ng , Franco‐Rowe Carol , Knudtson Michael , Tung Gregory , Allison Mandy
Published: September 2023

Objective

Assess changes in cross‐sector collaboration between Nurse‐Family Partnership (NFP) nurse home visitors and community providers in the United States.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We collected primary data via internet‐based surveys of all NFP nursing supervisors in the United States in 2018, 2020, and 2021.

Study Design

We conducted a panel survey to measure changes in cross‐sector collaboration between NFP nurses and 10 provider types in healthcare and social services. We assessed relational coordination using the validated seven item Relational Coordination Scale and structural integration using four items adapted from the Interagency Collaboration Activities Scale. Responses over time were compared using one‐way analysis of variances (ANOVAs) and pairwiset‐tests. We used the Kruskal–Wallis rank test to assess differences in collaboration by implementing agency type.

Data Collection

All nursing supervisors from NFP implementing agencies in the United States were eligible for the study. Survey implementation was conducted using Qualtrics and administered to all eligible participants (N = 370 [2018], 383 [2020], 414 [2021]). Email reminders were sent every 7–10 days, followed by a final telephone outreach.

Principal Findings

The response rate was 71% in 2018, 83% in 2020, and 74% in 2021. Relational coordination scores were calculated as a mean of the seven items and ranged from 1 to 5 (not at all to completely); integration scores were calculated as a sum of the four items and ranged from 4 to 20, where higher scores indicated greater sharing of resources. Coordination with women's care increased from 2018 to 2020 (M = 3.39 vs. 3.57;p < 0.01); while coordination (M = 3.23 vs. 3.01;p < 0.05) and integration (M = 6.50 vs. 5.28 vs. 5.43;p < 0.01) with parenting programs decreased.

Conclusions

Changes to cross‐sector collaboration varied by provider type, likely due to the delivery of NFP and other services via telehealth during the COVID‐19 pandemic. There is an opportunity to improve cross‐sector collaboration in home visiting to better address family needs.
The weather determines the number of cases of tick paralysis in dogs and cats in eastern Australia, caused by Ixodes holocyclus, the eastern paralysis tick
Authors: Teo EJM , Russell H , Lambert T , Webster R , Yappa A , McDonagh P , Harper G , Barker D , Barker SC
Published: September 2023

We studied over 222,000 cases of emergency veterinary consultations in four regions along the eastern coast of Australia. We found that cases of tick paralysis (TP) caused by the eastern paralysis tick, Ixodes holocyclus, accounted for 7.5% of these cases: >16,000 cases. The season of TP and the number (prevalence) of TP cases varied among regions and over the years. Our study of the association between weather and (i) the start of the season of TP, and (ii) the number of TP cases revealed much about the intricate relationship between the weather and I. holocyclus. We studied the effect of the hypothetical availability of isoxazoline‐containing tick‐preventative medicines and found that an increase in the availability of these medicines had significantly contributed to the decrease in TP cases. We found that the weather in winter accounted for the time of the year the season of TP starts whereas the weather in summer accounted for the number of TP cases in the TP season. Last, through a study of the effects of shifts in the climate under four hypothetical scenarios (warmer/cooler and drier/wetter than average), we propose that the start of the season of TP depends on how soon the weather in winter becomes suitable for the activity (e.g. host‐seeking) and the development of I. holocyclus nymphs, and that the number of TP cases during the TP season depends on how many engorged female ticks and their eggs survive during summer.
Investigation of the absolute bioavailability, mass balance, metabolism, and excretion of the cholesterol 24‐hydroxylase inhibitor soticlestat in healthy volunteers
Authors: Yin Wei , Ballard T. Eric , Zhu Sean Xiaochun , Hsiao Samuel , Chen Hao , Li Yuexian , Chowdhury Swapan K. , Stevenson Annette , Hui Tom , Hunt Allen , Asgharnejad Mahnaz , Han Steve
Published: September 2023

Aims

Our aim was to determine the absolute bioavailability, mass balance, metabolism and excretion of soticlestat (TAK‐935).

Methods

An open‐label, two‐period, single‐site, phase 1 study was conducted in six healthy men. In Period 1, a single 300 mg dose of soticlestat was administered orally, followed by a 15‐min intravenous infusion of [14C]soticlestat 50 μg (~1 μCi) 10 min later. In Period 2, a single 300 mg dose (~100 μCi) of [14C]soticlestat in solution was administered orally. Samples were collected, analysed for radioactivity or unchanged soticlestat, and profiled for metabolites.

Results

In Period 1, soticlestat had an absolute bioavailability of 12.6% (90% confidence interval, 7.81–20.23%). In Period 2, there was near‐complete recovery of total radioactivity (TRA) following a 300 mg dose of [14C]soticlestat: urine, 94.8% (standard deviation [SD], 1.35%); faeces, 2.7% (SD, 1.67%). Of TRA, 0.1% (SD, 0.09%) and 0.6% (SD, 0.21%) were recovered as soticlestat and metabolite M‐I in urine, respectively. In plasma, soticlestat and M‐I reached geometric mean maximum observed concentrations of 1352 ng/mL (geometric percent coefficient of variation [gCV%], 61.3) and 253.2 ng/mL (gCV%, 44.1) after 25 min and declined with mean terminal half‐lives (SD) of 5.7 (2.90) and 2.0 (0.15) h, respectively. Soticlestat represented 4.9% of TRA in plasma. Soticlestat was rapidly eliminated primarily via O‐glucuronidation to metabolite M3, which was the dominant species in plasma (92.6%) and urine (86%).

Conclusions

This study indicates that soticlestat and its metabolites are rapidly cleared and eliminated, lowering the risk of dose accumulation from repeated dosing and supporting further investigation of soticlestat.
A Robust Grid‐Based Meshing Algorithm for Embedding Self‐Intersecting Surfaces
Authors: Gagniere S. , Han Y. , Chen Y. , Hyde D. , Marquez‐Razon A. , Teran J. , Fedkiw R.
Published: September 2023

The creation of a volumetric mesh representing the interior of an input polygonal mesh is a common requirement in graphics and computational mechanics applications. Most mesh creation techniques assume that the input surface is not self‐intersecting. However, due to numerical and/or user error, input surfaces are commonly self‐intersecting to some degree. The removal of self‐intersection is a burdensome task that complicates workflow and generally slows down the process of creating simulation‐ready digital assets. We present a method for the creation of a volumetric embedding hexahedron mesh from a self‐intersecting input triangle mesh. Our method is designed for efficiency by minimizing use of computationally expensive exact/adaptive precision arithmetic. Although our approach allows for nearly no limit on the degree of self‐intersection in the input surface, our focus is on efficiency in the most common case: many minimal self‐intersections. The embedding hexahedron mesh is created from a uniform background grid and consists of hexahedron elements that are geometrical copies of grid cells. Multiple copies of a single grid cell are used to resolve regions of self‐intersection/overlap. Lastly, we develop a novel topology‐aware embedding mesh coarsening technique to allow for user‐specified mesh resolution as well as a topology‐aware tetrahedralization of the hexahedron mesh.
Characterization the prognosis role and effects of snoRNAs in melanoma patients
Authors: Wang Lei‐Yun , Song Jia‐Nan , Chen Yi‐Xuan , Zhu Ying , Ren Hui‐Li , Li Qiu‐Qi , Zhang Shao‐Hui
Published: September 2023

Melanoma is a melanocyte‐derived malignant cancer and is known for its early metastasis and high mortality rates. It is a highly cutaneous tumour disease that could be related to the abnormal immune microenvironment, and the identification of reliable diagnostic and prognostic markers is crucial for improving patient outcomes. In the search for biomarkers, various types of RNAs have been discovered and recognized as reliable prognostic markers. Among these, small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) have emerged as a promising avenue for studying early diagnosis and prognostic markers in tumours due to their widespread presence in tissues, tumour specificity and stability. In our study, we analysed snoRNAs data from melanoma samples in the TCGA‐SKCM cohort and developed a prognostic model comprising 12 snoRNAs (SNORD9, SNORA31, SNORD14E, SNORA14A, SNORA5A, SNORD83A, SNORA75, AL096855, AC007684, SNORD14A, SNORA65 and AC004839). This model exhibited unique prognostic accuracy and demonstrated a significant correlation with the immune infiltration tumour microenvironment. Additionally, analysis of the GSE213145 dataset, which explored the sensitivity and resistance of immune checkpoint inhibitors, further supported the potential of snoRNAs as prognostic markers for immunotherapy. Overall, our study contributes reliable prognostic and immune‐related biomarkers for melanoma patients. These findings can offer valuable insights for the future discovery of novel melanoma treatment strategies and hold promise for improving clinical outcomes in melanoma patients.
Global variation in the relationship between avian phylogenetic diversity and functional distance is driven by environmental context and constraints
Authors: Yaxley Keaghan J. , Skeels Alexander , Foley Robert A.
Published: September 2023

Aim

If evolutionary distance is akin to evolutionary chance, then it follows that species assemblages that are distantly related will also be more disparate in terms of their traits, features and the niches they occupy. Yet, studies have found that the total phylogenetic distance of an assemblage, known as phylogenetic diversity, is an unreliable surrogate for functional diversity. We investigate global variation in the relationship between Faith's phylogenetic diversity (PD) and mean pairwise functional distance (MPFD) across latitude and the influence of migratory species on both these aspects of diversity.

Location

Global.

Time period

Present day.

Major taxa studied

Birds.

Methods

We measure PD and MPFD for over 9000 species of bird across more than 17,000 globally distributed assemblages. We obtain standardised effect sizes for both indices by simulating assemblage composition under an ecologically informed null model. We employ path analysis to characterize variation in the relationship between PD's and MPFD across latitude, elevation and with proportion of migratory species.

Results

Globally, assemblages that were phylogenetically diverse tended to be less functionally dispersed than expected; however, this relationship showed considerable variation across latitude decreasing with distance from the equator. The proportion of migratory species in an assemblage was found to be an important predictor of functional diversity, with migrant rich assemblages generally showing less functional diversity than expected. We identify the Andes and Hengduan Mountains as regions of exceptional bird functional diversity.

Main conclusions

The relationship between phylogenetic diversity and function diversity is context specific, varying across environmental gradients such as latitude, and influenced by ecological phenomena such as migration. Thus, care should be taken using phylogenetic diversity as a proxy for functional diversity, particularly in clades with sparse functional data. Instead, we recommend that studies consider how phylogenetic diversity's surrogacy for functional diversity may be impacted by environmental context and evaluate empirical observations against biogeographically constrained and ecologically informed null models.
BREAKING THE COGNITIVE DIMENSION OF LOCAL PATH DEPENDENCE: AN ENTREPRENEURIAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Fredin Sabrina
Published: September 2023

Few attempts have been made to consider the role of individual activities in path dependence. The purpose of this paper is to analyse how local entrepreneurial activities can lead to a break in the cognitive local path. The theoretical framework rests on the literature on path dependence, but focuses mainly on cognitive frames as carriers of path‐dependent behaviour. A qualitative case study has been used to analyse the formation and breaking of a local cognitive path through individual activities. Four main conclusions can be drawn. First, cognitive paradigms explain why the degree of adaptability differs between locations. Second, external shocks are translated to local change through individual activities. Third, acknowledging cognitive barriers to individual behaviour, the important role of outsiders is highlighted for breaking the cognitive path. Fourth, the long durability of cognitive paradigms and the importance of outsiders suggest the emergence of a parallel, alternative cognitive path.
New Potential Sulfide Reference Materials for Microbeam S‐Fe‐Cu Isotope Measurements
Authors: Feng Yantong , Zhang Wen , Hu Zhaochu , Luo Tao , Li Qinglin , Liu Jinyu
Published: September 2023

S‐Fe‐Cu isotope systems are powerful tracers for revealing geochemical processes. However, the microanalysis of S‐Fe‐Cu isotopes is critically limited by the lack of suitable reference materials. Herein, we present three potential reference materials Ll‐Cpy (chalcopyrite), Ll‐Po (pyrrhotite) and Ll‐Sp (sphalerite) for in situ S‐Fe‐Cu isotope measurements. Numerous in situ S‐Fe‐Cu isotope measurements were performed over two years to assess isotopic homogeneity. The bulk S isotopic compositions were determined independently in seven laboratories by isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS); the preferred δ34SV‐CDT for Ll‐Cpy, Ll‐Po, Ll‐Sp are 6.13 ± 0.37‰ (2s), 6.42 ± 0.37‰ (2s) and 6.28 ± 0.38‰ (2s), respectively. The bulk Fe isotope ratios in Fe‐bearing Ll‐Cpy and Ll‐Po were determined using solution nebulisation multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry, and the obtained δ56FeIRMM‐014 values are 0.57 ± 0.07‰ (2s) and ‐0.62 ± 0.07‰ (2s), respectively. The mean bulk δ65CuNIST SRM 976 value of Ll‐Cpy is 0.57 ± 0.06‰ (2s). All the bulk values are in good agreement with the long‐term statistical results of laser ablation‐MC‐ICP‐MS and proposed as the recommended values. These sulfides are well characterised and isotopically homogeneous (at 30–40 μm spatial resolution), and can be used as potential calibration materials for in situ S‐Fe‐Cu isotope measurements.
The use and impact of European Testing Week regional awareness campaigns to increase HIV and viral hepatitis testing coverage
Authors: Raben Dorthe , Kahama C. B. , Combs L. , Stengaard Annemarie , Rockstroh J. K. , Simões Daniel , Collins Ben ,   the European Testing Week Working Group and the EuroTEST Steering Committee
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Since 2013, the European Testing Week (ETW) awareness campaign has become a key regional event influencing testing efforts for HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) through participation of 720 organizations. Here, we report on a survey from May to June 2022 aimed at assessing the participant‐reported impact of the campaign.

Methods

All past and current participating organizations were asked to complete an online questionnaire between 12 May and 17 June 2022. Multiple choice and open‐text questions included organization information, usage of ETW to engage in local testing‐related activities, and the effect of a regional campaign to reach a wider audience and generate impact.

Results

Of the 52 respondents, 34 (65%) stated first participating in ETW 5–10 years ago. ETW was used for awareness raising by 40 respondents (83%), new testing activities by 37 (77%), advocacy initiatives by 15 (31%), and training/capacity building by 18 (38%). For awareness raising, 95% used ETW to highlight the importance of and to encourage testing; for new testing activities, 74% used ETW to reach new groups. In total, 44 (85%) reported added benefits of a Europe‐wide campaign compared with national/local campaigns, particularly the increased visibility and collaboration opportunities. Impact at the local level was observed by 24 (51%), and impact at a national level was observed by 20 (43%). A total of 28 (79%) reported increases in the number of tests performed and 25 (75%) reported increases in clients accessing services.

Conclusions

Regional awareness campaigns reach wider audiences, boost local and national efforts to increase testing, and sensitize key populations about the critical value of testing compared with local/national campaigns.
Home Political Connections and Outward FDI of Emerging Market Firms
Authors: Huang Yuanyuan , Zhou Kevin Zheng , Wu Zhan , Wang Jue
Published: September 2023

While political connections are a critical non‐market strategy for emerging market firms (EMFs) to achieve success, how they affect EMFs’ outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) remains controversial. Building on the institution‐based view, we examine how home‐country political connections facilitate or impede EMFs’ OFDI. Using a panel dataset of listed private firms in China, we find that home political connections have an inverted U‐shaped effect on firms’ OFDI level; the effect becomes flatter as pro‐market reforms proceed in the home country, but becomes steeper for firms with strong technological capability. By revealing a nonlinear effect, our study helps reconcile inconsistencies regarding the role of home political connections in OFDI and has important implications for EMFs’ internationalization.
Telework in public organizations: A systematic review and research agenda
Authors: Mele Valentina , Belardinelli Paolo , Bellé Nicola
Published: September 2023

After a relatively slow policy intervention and scholarly take‐up, recent developments created the urgency for massive efforts to implement and regulate telework in public organizations. We contribute to this debate through a systematic review of 120 studies across disciplines. Findings from our analysis reveal a few established antecedents of telework, including individual characteristics like family responsibilities and expected productivity, but also organizational aspects like supportive leadership, and contextual features like natural disasters. Self‐reported productivity and work‐life balance stand out as telework's most widely studied outcomes, although evidence is often conflicting when coming to the effects of telework. We present our results by distinguishing pre‐ and post‐pandemic findings. Complementing our systematic review, we engage in a generative exercise by identifying emerging debates on telework in public bureaucracies. We conclude by indicating future research directions.
Modes of network governance revisited: Assessing their prevalence, promises, and limitations in the literature
Authors: van den Oord Steven , Kenis Patrick , Raab Jörg , Cambré Bart
Published: September 2023

The systematic literature review takes stock of the empirical literature on the governance of organizational networks. The analysis is based on empirical papers citing Provan and Kenis (2008) as the seminal article on the governance of networks. We synthesize key findings on the modes of network governance, contingency factors, and network‐level tensions. The review provides insights into how the contingency theory of network governance has developed into an established and recognized research agenda in the last 15 years. We conclude that the governance of organizational networks as a vocabulary has been adopted in the management and organization sciences literature to explain organizational networks' development, functioning, and effectiveness. However, further theoretical development and testing are warranted to inform the practice of network governance, particularly when, how, and why to use institutions and structures of authority and collaboration to allocate resources and coordinate and control joint action of groups of organizations.
Impact of financial inclusion on household welfare in Liberia: A gendered perspective
Authors: Mulbah Francis F. B. , Olumeh Dennis Etemesi , Mantey Vida , Ipara Billy Okemer
Published: September 2023

Financial inclusion (FI) is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly zero poverty, gender equality, and reduced inequalities, but there is limited evidence of its impacts on household welfare in fragile and post‐conflict countries (FPCCs). This study analyses the impact of FI on household welfare in Liberia using the Liberian Household Income and Expenditure Survey of 2016–2017. For the empirical analysis, we use an inverse probability‐weighted regression adjustment model and separate analyses for male‐headed households (MHHs) and female‐headed households (FHHs) to identify possible gender differences. We find that using mobile money statistically significantly increases household food security for MHHs and FHHs. In particular, the welfare impact is greater for MHHs in terms of food availability, while in relation to food quality and dietary diversity, the impact is greater for FHHs. These findings show the need to scale up FI in FPCCs as a catalyst for improving household welfare.
Ignition of Various Lubricating Oil Compositions Using a Shock Tube
Authors: Abulail Matthew , Cooper Sean P. , Sandberg Matthew G. , Petersen Eric L.
Published: September 2023

With new restrictions imposed on gas turbine efficiencies and power outputs, lubricating oils are used at higher temperatures and harsher conditions leading to potential, unintended combustion. To establish an understanding of lubricating oil's resistance to combustion, a new spray injector system was utilized in the High-Pressure Shock Tube (HPST) Facility at the TEES Turbomachinery Laboratory at Texas A&M University. Two gas turbine oils (Mobil DTE 732 and Castrol Perfecto X32), a base mineral oil, and a surrogate (n-hexadecane) were tested at postreflected shock conditions at equivalence ratios near 2.5. Castrol Perfecto X32 was also characterized at an equivalence ratio near 1.2. All of the lubricating oils displayed ignition between temperatures of 1152 and 1383 K and near atmospheric pressures. To characterize combustion, two different definitions of ignition delay time (IDT) were considered: sidewall OH* chemiluminescence and sidewall pressure. Both definitions were used to create temperature-dependent correlations for each of the lubricating oils. In general, both definitions provided similar results within the accuracy of the measurements. One trend from the data herein is that the brand-name oils (Mobil DTE 732 and Castrol Perfecto X32) provided ignition delay times that were similar to each other but slightly larger than the corresponding mineral oil and n-hexadecane results. This difference could be attributed to the additives that are present in the brand-name oils.
NKG2D-mediated detection of metabolically stressed hepatocytes by innate-like T cells is essential for initiation of NASH and fibrosis
Authors: Marinović Sonja , Lenartić Maja , Mladenić Karlo , Šestan Marko , Kavazović Inga , Benić Ante , Krapić Mia , Rindlisbacher Lukas , Cokarić Brdovčak Maja , Sparano Colin , Litscher Gioana , Turk Wensveen Tamara , Mikolašević Ivana , Fučkar Čupić Dora , Bilić-Zulle Lidija , Steinle Aleksander , Waisman Ari , Hayday Adrian , Tugues Sonia , Becher Burkhard , Polić Bojan , Wensveen Felix M.
Published: September 2023

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a spectrum of clinical manifestations ranging from benign steatosis to cirrhosis. A key event in the pathophysiology of MAFLD is the development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can potentially lead to fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, but the triggers of MAFLD-associated inflammation are not well understood. We have observed that lipid accumulation in hepatocytes induces expression of ligands specific to the activating immune receptor NKG2D. Tissue-resident innate-like T cells, most notably γδ T cells, are activated through NKG2D and secrete IL-17A. IL-17A licenses hepatocytes to produce chemokines that recruit proinflammatory cells into the liver, which causes NASH and fibrosis. NKG2D-deficient mice did not develop fibrosis in dietary models of NASH and had a decreased incidence of hepatic tumors. The frequency of IL-17A
+
γδ T cells in the blood of patients with MAFLD correlated directly with liver pathology. Our findings identify a key molecular mechanism through which stressed hepatocytes trigger inflammation in the context of MAFLD.
Laboratory mice with a wild microbiota generate strong allergic immune responses
Authors: Ma Junjie , Urgard Egon , Runge Solveig , Classon Cajsa H. , Mathä Laura , Stark Julian M. , Cheng Liqin , Álvarez Javiera A. , von Zedtwitz Silvia , Baleviciute Austeja , Martinez Hoyer Sergio , Li Muzhen , Gernand Anne Marleen , Osbelt Lisa , Bielecka Agata Anna , Lesker Till R. , Huang Huey-Jy , Vrtala Susanne , Boon Louis , Beyaert Rudi , Adner Mikael , Martinez Gonzalez Itziar , Strowig Till , Du Juan , Nylén Susanne , Rosshart Stephan P. , Coquet Jonathan M.
Published: September 2023

Allergic disorders are caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. The hygiene hypothesis postulates that early-life microbial exposures impede the development of subsequent allergic disease. Recently developed “wildling” mice are genetically identical to standard laboratory specific pathogen–free (SPF) mice but are housed under seminatural conditions and have rich microbial exposures from birth. Thus, by comparing conventional SPF mice with wildlings, we can uncouple the impact of lifelong microbial exposures from genetic factors on the allergic immune response. We found that wildlings developed larger populations of antigen-experienced T cells than conventional SPF mice, which included interleukin-10–producing CD4 T cells specific for commensal
Lactobacilli
strains and allergy-promoting T helper 2 (T
H
2) cells. In models of airway exposure to house dust mite (HDM), recombinant interleukin-33, or
Alternaria alternata
, wildlings developed strong allergic inflammation, characterized by eosinophil recruitment, goblet cell metaplasia, and antigen-specific immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) and IgE responses. Wildlings developed robust de novo T
H
2 cell responses to incoming allergens, whereas preexisting T
H
2 cells could also be recruited into the allergic immune response in a cytokine-driven and TCR-independent fashion. Thus, wildling mice, which experience diverse and lifelong microbial exposures, were not protected from developing pathological allergic immune responses. Instead, wildlings mounted robust allergic responses to incoming allergens, shedding new light on the hygiene hypothesis.
Antisense inhibition of RNA polymerase α subunit of
Clostridioides difficile
Authors: Pal Rusha , Seleem Mohamed N.
Published: September 2023

Clostridioides difficile,
the causative agent of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and pseudomembranous colitis, has emerged as a major enteric pathogen in recent years. Antibiotic treatment perturbs the gut microbiome homeostasis, which facilitates the colonization and proliferation of the pathogen in the host intestine. Paradoxically, the clinical repertoire for
C. difficile
infection includes the antibiotics vancomycin and/or fidaxomicin. The current therapies do not address the perturbed gut microbiome, which supports the recurrence of infection after cessation of antibiotic therapy. Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are novel alternatives to traditional antimicrobial therapy capable of forming strong and stable complexes with RNA and DNA, thus permitting targeted inhibition of specific genes. Here, we report a novel PNA that can target the RNA polymerase α subunit (
rpoA
) in
C. difficile
. The designed anti-
rpoA
construct inhibited clinical isolates of
C. difficile
(minimum inhibitory concentration values ranged between 4 and 8 µM) and exhibited bactericidal activity. Furthermore, silencing of the
rpoA
gene suppressed the expression of genes that encode virulence factors [toxin A (
tcdA
), toxin B (
tcdB
)] in
C. difficile
, and the gene that encodes the transcription factor stage 0 sporulation protein (
spoOA
). Interestingly, the efficacy of the designed PNA conjugate remained unaffected even when tested at different pH levels and against a high inoculum of the pathogen. The
rpoA
-TAT conjugate was very specific against
C. difficile
and did not inhibit members of the beneficial gut microflora. Taken altogether, our study confirms that the
rpoA
gene can be a promising narrow-spectrum therapeutic target to curb
C. difficile
infection.

IMPORTANCE

The widespread use of antibiotics can destroy beneficial intestinal microflora, opening the door for spores of
Clostridioides difficile
to run rampant in the digestive system, causing life-threatening diarrhea. Alternative approaches to target this deadly pathogen are urgently needed. We utilized targeted therapeutics called peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) to inhibit gene expression in
C. difficile
. Inhibition of the RNA polymerase α subunit gene (
rpo
A) by PNA was found to be lethal for
C. difficile
and could also disarm its virulence factors. Additionally, antisense inhibition of the
C. difficile rpo
A gene did not impact healthy microflora. We also propose a novel approach to manipulate gene expression in
C. difficile
without the need for established genetic tools.
Distinguishing the Formation of Typhoon Forerunner Waves Propagating over the East China Sea and the Sea of Japan
Authors: Dolgikh G. I. , Budrin S. S. , Shvets V. A. , Yakovenko S. V.
Published: September 2023

During the propagation of the Hinnamnor typhoon from September 5 to 6, 2022, swell waves were recorded that arrived at the recording point 20 h before the typhoon entered the Sea of Japan. While analyzing the field data of the laser meter of fluid pressure variation, it was possible to calculate the area of the formation of the main group of swell waves generated by the propagating typhoon and to localize the region of generation of forerunner waves and also to describe the mechanisms of their formation and propagation.