bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of chromogranin A and catestatin affect pancreatic islet homeostasis, endocrine function, and neurotransmitters
Authors: Muntjewerff Elke M. , Epremidze Dali , Nezhyva Mariya , Bootsma Marleen , Mannaa Atef , Ikebuchi Hiromi , Nilsson Anna , Andrén Per E. , Jansson Erik , Mahata Sushil K. , Christoffersson Gustaf
Published: December 2024

The pro-hormone chromogranin A (CgA) and its cleavage product, the neuropeptide catestatin (CST) are linked to various cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases (T1D, IBD, RA) as biomarkers for disease severity. In these diseases, CgA and CST seem to affect inflammation, nerve communication, insulin resistance and hypertension. Since we found various CgA cleavage products leading towards CST in the pancreatic islet, we investigated how CgA and CST may modulate the pancreatic islet microenvironment and function. We show that CgA-KO and CST-KO mice have fewer insulin producing cells per islet and altered physiological islet function. To map the neurotransmitter microenvironment in the pancreatic islet and exocrine tissue we used spatial mass spectrometry that allowed us to identify neurotransmitter levels in and outside of the islets. Using this method, we show that endocrine cell homeostasis and insulin regulating pathways are disturbed in the pancreatic islets upon CgA or CST deletion. Thus, absence of CgA or CST in mice affects the endocrine composition and microenvironment of the pancreatic islet. Our findings contribute to understanding the role of CgA and CST in the pancreas with possible implications for the pathology of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Passage through micro-sprayer increases functional activity – implications for activity assays in time-resolved cryo-EM
Authors: Garg Priyanka , Feng Xiangsong , De Swastik , Frank Joachim
Published: December 2024

This study examines the validity of an assay that is used to report on the retainment of functional competence by ribosomes as they pass a micro-sprayer. We find a reproducibleincrease, rather than the expecteddecreasein GFP production as monitored by fluorescence, which suggests heterogeneity or partial aggregation of ribosomes in solution. An even larger increase in functional activity is observed when sonication is used, pointing to mechanical agitation as the decisive factor in both scenarios. The results have a bearing on the design and interpretation of validation experiments in time-resolved cryo-EM based on microfluidic chips.
Morphological map of under- and over-expression of genes in human cells
Authors: Chandrasekaran Srinivas Niranj , Alix Eric , Arevalo John , Borowa Adriana , Byrne Patrick J. , Charles William G. , Chen Zitong S. , Cimini Beth A. , Deng Boxiong , Doench John G. , Ewald Jessica D. , Fritchman Briana , Fuller Colin J. , Gaetz Jedidiah , Goodale Amy , Haghighi Marzieh , Han Yu , Hanifehlou Zahra , Hennig Holger , Hernandez Desiree , Jacob Christina B. , James Tim , Jetka Tomasz , Kalinin Alexandr A. , Komalo Ben , Kost-Alimova Maria , Krawiec Tomasz , Marion Brittany A. , Martin Glynn , McCarthy Nicola Jane , Miller Lisa , Monsees Arne , Moshkov Nikita , Muñoz Alán F. , Ogier Arnaud , Otrocka Magdalena , Rataj Krzysztof , Root David E. , Rubbo Francesco , Scrace Simon , Selinger Douglas W. , Senft Rebecca A. , Sommer Peter , Thibaudeau Amandine , Trisorus Sarah , Veettil Rahul Valiya , Van Trump William J. , Wang Sui , Warchoł Michał , Weisbart Erin , Weiss Amélie , Wiest Michael , Zaremba Agata , Zinovyev Andrei , Singh Shantanu , Carpenter Anne E.
Published: December 2024

Cell Painting images offer valuable insights into a cell’s state and enable many biological applications, but publicly available arrayed datasets only include hundreds of genes perturbed. The JUMP (Joint Undertaking in Morphological Profiling) Cell Painting Consortium perturbed roughly 75% of the protein-coding genome in human U-2 OS cells, generating a rich resource of single-cell images and extracted features. These profiles capture the phenotypic impacts of perturbing 15,243 human genes, including overexpressing 12,609 genes (using open reading frames, ORFs) and knocking out 7,975 genes (using CRISPR-Cas9). We mitigated technical artifacts by rigorously evaluating data processing options and validated the dataset’s robustness and biological relevance. Analysis of phenotypic profiles revealed novel gene clusters and functional relationships, including those associated with mitochondrial function, cancer, and neural processes. The JUMP Cell Painting genetic dataset is a valuable resource for exploring gene relationships and uncovering novel functions.
Structural polymorphism ofα-synuclein fibrils alters pathway of Hsc70 mediated disaggregation
Authors: Jäger Svenja , Tittelmeier Jessica , Dang Thi Lieu , Bellande Tracy , Redeker Virginie , Buell Alexander K. , Melki Ronald , Nussbaum-Krammer Carmen , Bukau Bernd , Wentink Anne S.
Published: December 2024

The pathological aggregation ofα-synuclein into amyloid fibrils is a hallmark of synucleinopathies including Parkinson’s disease. Despite this commonality, synucleinopathies display divergent disease phenotypes that have been attributed to disease specific three-dimensional structures ofα-synuclein fibrils, each with a unique toxic gain-of-function profile. The Hsc70 chaperone is remarkable in its ability to disassemble pre-existing amyloid fibrils of different proteins in an ATP and co-chaperone dependent manner. We find however, using six well-defined conformational polymorphs ofα-synuclein fibrils, that the activity of the Hsc70 disaggregase machinery is sensitive to differences in the amyloid conformation, confirming that fibril polymorphism directly affects interactions with the proteostasis network. Amyloid conformation influences not only how efficiently fibrils are cleared by the Hsc70 machinery but also the preferred pathway of disaggregation. We further show that,in vitro, the active processing of fibrils by the Hsc70 machinery inadvertently produces seeding competent species that further promote protein aggregation. Amyloid conformation thus is an important feature that can tilt the balance between beneficial or detrimental protein quality control activities in the context of disease.
Unveiling Cell Wall Structure and Echinocandin Response inCandida aurisandCandida albicansvia Solid-State NMR
Authors: Widanage Malitha C. Dickwella , Singh Kalpana , Li Jizhou , Yarava Jayasubba Reddy , Scott Faith J. , Xu Yifan , Gow Neil A.R. , Mentink-Vigier Frederic , Wang Ping , Lamoth Frederic , Wang Tuo
Published: December 2024

Invasive candidiasis affects 1.6 million people annually, implicating high mortality and morbidity in immunocompromised and hospitalized patients. Echinocandins, inhibitors of β-1,3-glucan synthesis, are used as a first-line treatment; however, their efficacy is increasingly compromised by resistance and tolerance. To understand how echinocandins remodelCandidacell wall structures, thereby reducing drug effectiveness, this study compares the effects of echinocandin exposure on the cell walls of the prevalent pathogenCandida albicansand the recently emerged multidrug-resistant superbugCandida auris. High-resolution solid-state NMR analysis revealed a conserved cell wall structure in both species, with a rigid inner layer composed of closely associated chitin microfibrils and β-1,3-glucans, supported by a flexible network of β-1,6-glucans and additional β-1,3-glucans. Despite the presence ofN-mannan fibrils in the outer layer, mannan components are mobile and rely on α-1,2-linked mannoside sidechains to maintain contact with chitin and β-1,3-glucans. Caspofungin treatment rigidifies certain mannan sidechains and β-1, 6-glucans to reinforce the cell wall in response to the depletion of most β-1,3-glucans. While caspofungin treatment reduced water permeability in both species, onlyC. albicansresponded by inducing cell wall thickening and changes in chitin and β-1,3-glucan dynamics. Furthermore, the deletion ofKRE6genes encoding β-1,6-glucan synthase reduced the echinocandin susceptibility ofC. auris,and the impaired β-1,6-glucan biosynthesis were offset by compensatory upregulation of this wall component due to caspofungin treatment. The profound alterations induced by caspofungin inCandidacell wall architecture suggest that cell wall structural contribute substantially to drug resistance and tolerance.
Shifts in Coral Reef Holobiont Communities in the High-CO2Marine Environment of Iōtorishima Island
Authors: Huerlimann Roger , Wee Hin Boo , Alves dos Santos Maria , Kise Hiroki , Mizuyama Masaru , Dudoit ‘Ale’alani , Jamodiong Emmeline , Satoh Nagi , Soong Giun Yee , Kurihara Haruko , Toonen Robert J , Husnik Filip , Iguchi Akira , Ravasi Timothy , Reimer James Davis
Published: December 2024

Ocean acidification (OA), driven by rising atmospheric CO2, presents a serious threat to marine biodiversity, especially within coral reef ecosystems. Natural analogue sites, such as the high-pCO2 seep at Iōtorishima Island in Japan, offer insights into future conditions. This study investigated the holobiont communities of Symbiodiniaceae and bacteria in the zoantharianPalythoa tuberculosaat Iōtorishima and compared them to specimens from control sites in Okinawa and Hawaiʻi.

Using amplicon sequencing of the dinoflagellate internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of ribosomal DNA and microbial 16S rRNA gene, we detected significant shifts in both Symbiodiniaceae and bacterial communities under high-pCO2conditions at Iōtorishima. Specifically,P. tuberculosaat the seep site had reduced Symbiodiniaceae diversity, predominatly featuringCladocopiumC1 and C3 types. Additionally, its bacterial communities showed lower richness with distinct taxonomic profiles, including increased levels ofMollicutesandVibriospp.

These results highlight the potentially adverse effects of OA on hexacoral holobionts and emphasize the need for detailed, high-resolution studies across various holobiont species and geographic locations. The shifts observed specifically in Symbiodiniaceae and bacterial communities at the Iōtorishima Seep suggest that holobionts may exhibit plasticity in response to environmental stress, which has implications for resilience and adaptation of zoantharians and other reef organisms amid climate change. This research provides crucial baseline data for predicting future coral reef compositions in an OA-affected world.
Temporal Configuration as a New Feature of Sound: Psychological and Neurophysiological Evidence, Cross-species Consistency and Underlying Neuronal Mechanisms
Authors: Zhai Yuying , Du Xinyu , Song Peirun , Xu Haoxuan , Ye Hangting , Bao Xuehui , mehmood Ishrat , Tanigawa Hisashi , Niu Wanqiu , Tu Zhiyi , Chen Pei , Zhang Tingting , Zhang Lingling , Zhao Xuan , Yu Xiongjie
Published: December 2024

Temporal integration is crucial for auditory perception, yet the mechanisms underlying its role are not fully elucidated. This study examines the perceptual discrimination of click trains with varied temporal configurations to determine if they can be perceived as distinct auditory objects, potentially introducing a novel dimension to sound perception. In humans, psychological experiments using a delayed match-to-sample task revealed that participants could distinctly discriminate between click trains with different temporal configurations, suggesting that temporal configuration significantly influences auditory perception. This was supported by electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings showing robust mismatch negativity (MMN) signals, indicating that the auditory system differentiates standard from deviant sounds based on their temporal characteristics. Parallel electrocorticography (ECoG) studies in rats demonstrated similar discriminatory abilities, suggesting a cross-species consistency. Neuronal recordings showed pronounced stimulus-specific adaptation (SSA) in the primary auditory cortex (A1) but minimal SSA in lower auditory areas such as the inferior colliculus (IC) and medial geniculate body (MGB), indicating that A1 uniquely integrates temporal features and discriminates complex temporal patterns. This research advances our understanding of how temporal configurations are processed in the auditory system and suggests a new feature of sound perception.
PHLPP2 is a pseudophosphatase that lost activity in the metazoan ancestor
Authors: Husremović Tarik , Siess Katharina M. , Antonioli Sumire , Meier Vanessa , Piëch Lucas , Grishkovskaya Irina , Kircheva Nikoleta , Angelova Silvia E. , Brandstätter Andreas , Veis Jiri , Miočić-Stošić Fran , Anrather Dorothea , Hartl Markus , Truebestein Linda , Žagrović Bojan , Hann Stephan , Bock Christoph , Ogris Egon , Dudev Todor , Irwin Nicholas A.T. , Haselbach David , Leonard Thomas A.
Published: December 2024

The phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway is a major regulator of cell and organismal growth. Consequently, hyperactivation of PI3K and its downstream effector kinase, Akt, is observed in many human cancers. PH domain leucine-rich repeat-containing protein phosphatases (PHLPP), two paralogous members of the metal-dependent protein phosphatase family, have been reported as negative regulators of Akt signaling and, therefore, tumor suppressors. However, the stoichiometry and identity of the bound metal ion(s), mechanism of action, and enzymatic specificity of these proteins are not known. Seeking to fill these gaps in our understanding of PHLPP biology, we unexpectedly discovered that PHLPP2 has no catalytic activity against the regulatory phosphorylation sites of Akt, nor the generic substratepara-nitrophenylphosphate. Instead, we found that PHLPP2 is a pseudophosphatase with a single zinc ion bound in its catalytic center. Furthermore, we found that current cancer genomics data do not support the proposed role of PHLPP1 or PHLPP2 as tumor suppressors. Phylogenetic analyses revealed an ancestral phosphatase that arose more than 1000 Mya, but that lost activity at the base of the metazoan lineage. In summary, our results provide a molecular explanation for the inconclusive results that have hampered research on PHLPP and argue for a new focus on non-catalytic roles of PHLPP1 and PHLPP2.

Significance Statement

PHLPP1 and PHLPP2 have previously been reported as protein phosphatases that specifically inactivate Akt, a pro-growth and survival kinase hyperactivated in many human cancers. Unexpectedly, we found that purified PHLPP2 has no detectable enzymatic activity in vitro, an observation which can be rationalized by its unusual active site, which has diverged significantly from that of canonical metal-dependent phosphatases. Furthermore, we show that cancer genomics do not support a role for either PHLPP1 or PHLPP2 in cancer. Our findings argue for the exploration of alternative hypotheses regarding the role of PHLPP in Akt signaling and cancer, with a focus on its non-catalytic functions.
Histology-Guided Single-Cell Mass Spectrometry Imaging using Integrated Bright-field and Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Potthoff Alexander , Niehaus Marcel , Bessler Sebastian , Schwenzfeier Jan , Hoffmann Emily , Soehnlein Oliver , Höhndorf Jens , Dreisewerd Klaus , Soltwisch Jens
Published: December 2024

The rapidly evolving field of spatial biology revolves around the analysis of cells in their native microenvironment. This analysis can include morphological features, the presence of specific antigens or gene expression. To add another layer of information, recent methodological advances in matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) now enable the untargeted analysis of lipids and metabolites at subcellular resolution. The integration of MALDI-MSI at the single-cell level with established optical modalities, however, relies on an accurate yet intricate co-registration. Here, we describe the integration of bright-field and fluorescence microscopy into a prototype ion source of a state-of-the art MALDI-MSI instrument to obtain lipid and fluorescence microscopy-derived information from the same specimen, hence with intrinsic spatial correlation. We demonstrate the potential of the combined mass spectrometric and optical single-cell analysis on three examples. This includes the visualization of intracellular lipid distributions in macrophages, the introduction of pre-MALDI immunofluorescence staining on the example of murine cerebellum, and the heterogeneity of lipid profiles of tumor infiltrating neutrophils correlated to their individual microenvironments. Overall, the achieved tight correlation of single-cell lipid profiles with morphologic features and protein expression patterns constitutes a powerful resource for cell biology.
A female-specific RdDM-associated element guides de novo DNA methylation during rice gametophyte development
Authors: Kim Taehoon , Resende Marcio F. R. , Zhao Meixia , Begcy Kevin
Published: December 2024

DNA methylation is crucial for regulating gene expression and silencing transposons. While the spatiotemporal specificity of DNA methylation controls organ formation and development, the molecular mechanisms underlying locus- or tissue-specific DNA methylation remain unclear. Previously, locus- or tissue-specific DNA methylation was thought to depend solely on the recognition of histone methylations. Here we show that high expression of 24-nucleotide small interfering RNAs (24-nt siRNAs) leads to incremental CHH methylation at specific loci via the RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) pathway during female gametophyte development in rice. We also identify a DNA motif, the Female-specific RdDM-associated Element (FRE), which guides methylation to these loci. Furthermore, we show that the female-preferentially expressed protein OsCLSY3 directly interacts with FRE to regulate CHH methylation specifically in female reproductive tissues. These findings uncover a novel molecular mechanism necessary for tissue- and locus-specific de novo DNA methylation that might be conserved across diverse organisms including animals.
Facilitating Gene Editing in Human Lymphoma Cells Using Murine Ecotropic γ-Retroviruses
Authors: Kumar Manish , Gentner-Göbel Eva , Maity Palash Chandra
Published: December 2024

Genetic modifications using CRISPR-Cas9 have revolutionized cancer research and other pre-clinical studies. Exceptionally, these efficient tools are inadequate in a few disease models and cell lines due to the aberrant differentiation states and the accumulation of excessive somatic mutations that compromise the robustness of viral gene delivery and stable transduction. A couple of B lymphoma cell lines fall into this category where lentiviral transfection becomes inefficient and exhibits variable efficiency. Additionally, lentiviral delivery requires high biosafety levels. To address this challenge, we have developed a two-step strategy that supports CRISPR-Cas9 through lentivirus and murine ecotropic γ-retrovirus. By engineering B lymphoma cell lines to express Cas9 and mCat-1, a specific receptor for ecotropic retroviruses, we enable efficient and safe gene editing through ecotropic γ-retrovirus. We demonstrate the efficacy of this method by generating IgM-deficient B lymphoma cell lines. This innovative approach simplifies protocols, enhances accessibility, and paves the way for standardized gene manipulation of B cell lymphoma models for molecular cell biology research.
RNAi-mediated HBV antigen shutdown enhances the antiviral immune effects of PEGIFNα via altering T and B cell crosstalk
Authors: Zai Wenjing , Hu Kongying , He Mengying , Song Ziyang , Luo Chen , Xie Minxiang , Ashuo Asha , Chen Jieliang , Yuan Zhenghong
Published: December 2024

PEGylated interferon-α (PEGIFNα) demonstrates promising therapeutic outcomes against chronic hepatitis B (CHB), whereas patient response to PEGIFNα therapy remains unsatisfied. Shutdown of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigens by RNA interference (RNAi) could enhance PEGIFNα efficacy in CHB patients, whereas the underlying immunological mechanisms remain obscure. We performed studies by utilizing our newly established extracellular humanized IFNAR (IFNAR-hEC) mice. An in-house constructed small interfering RNAs (GalNac-siHBV) was administrated to mice either alone or in combination with PEGIFNα. The phenotypic and functional characteristics of peripheral and organ-specific immune cells were assessed by flow cytometry, ELISpot, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), and single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) analysis. Our results demonstrated that combined treatment with PEGIFNα and RNAi exerted a synergistic and prolonged inhibition of HBsAg (∼4log10IU/mL, vs PBS) and induced a higher incidence of HBsAg seroconversion (∼30%), comparing with either monotreatment. Mechanistically, combined therapy improved the functionality of global T and B cells, triggered increased anti-HBs producing B cells, and enhanced IFNγ-producing T cells. scRNA-seq analysis revealed that the combined therapy reduced inhibitory B cell-B cell interaction, enhanced MHC-I signaling mediated T cell-T cell communication, and improved T cell-B cell crosstalk, thus improving the functionality of T and B cells. Enhanced MHC-II signaling networks across B cells and hepatocytes/Cd8+T cells further promoted HBsAg seroconversion in the combined treatment groups. These results together provided scientific rationale and lessons for the combination of the two towards better therapeutic efficacy.

Graphical Abstract

Highlights

Shutting down HBsAg through RNA interference augmented the antiviral immune effects of PEGIFNα in chronic HBV-carrier IFNAR-hEC mice.

Combined RNAi plus PEGIFNα augmented the functionality of T cells, promoted B cell activation and class switch, but also exerted some suppressive effects on B cells.

Reduced inhibitory B cell-B cell interaction, enhanced MHC-I signaling between T cells and T cells, and improved T cell-B cell crosstalk, improved the functionality of T cells and B cells.

Enhanced MHC-II signaling networks across B cells and hepatocytes/ Cd8+T cells further promoted HBsAg seroconversion in RNAi plus PEGIFNα combined treatment groups.
Multifunctional Roles of Sec13 Paralogues in the EuglenozoanTrypanosoma brucei
Authors: Sharif Mohamed , Greenberg Lydia , Bangs James
Published: December 2024

Secretory cargos are exported from the ER via COPII coated vesicles that have an inner matrix of Sec23/Sec24 heterotetramers and an outer cage of Sec13/Sec31 heterotetramers. In addition to COPII, Sec13 is part of the nuclear pore complex (NPC) and the regulatory SEA/GATOR complex in eukaryotes, which typically have one Sec13 orthologue. The kinetoplastid parasiteTrypanosoma bruceihas two paralogues: TbSec13.1, an accepted component of both COPII and the NPC, and TbSec13.2. Little is known about TbSec13.2, but others have proposed that it, and its orthologue in the distantly related diplonemidParadiplonema papillatum, operate exclusively in the SEA/GATOR complex, and that this represents an evolutionary diversification of function unique to the euglenozoan protists (doi.org/10.1098/rsob.220364). Using RNAi silencing in trypanosomes we show both TbSec13s are essential. Knockdown of each dramatically and equally delays transport of GPI-anchored secretory cargo, indicating roles for both in COPII-mediated trafficking from the ER. Immunofluorescence and proximity labeling studies confirm that both TbSec13.1 and TbSec13.2 co-localize with TbSec24.1 to ER exit sites, and thus are functional components of the COPII machinery. Our findings indicate that TbSec13.2 function is not restricted to the SEA/GATOR complex in trypanosomes.
Soil microbes prefer organic acids over sugars in simulated root exudation
Authors: Wiesenbauer Julia , Gorka Stefan , Jenab Kian , Schuster Raphael , Kumar Naresh , Rottensteiner Cornelia , König Alexander , Kraemer Stephan , Inselsbacher Erich , Kaiser Christina
Published: December 2024

Sugars and organic acids, primary components in plant root exudates, are thought to enhance microbial decomposition of organic matter in the rhizosphere. However, their specific impacts on microbial activity and nutrient mobilisation remain poorly understood. Here, we simulated passive root exudation to investigate the distinct effects of sugars and organic acids on microbial metabolism in the rhizosphere. We released13C- labelled sugars and/or organic acids via reverse microdialysis into intact meadow and forest soils over 6-hours. We measured substrate-induced microbial respiration, soil organic matter mineralization, metabolite concentrations, and substrate incorporation into lipid-derived fatty acids. Our results reveal a pronounced microbial preference for organic acids over sugars, with organic acids being removed faster from the exudation spot and preferentially respired by microbes. Unlike sugars, organic acids increased concentrations of microbial metabolic byproducts and cations (K, Ca, Mg) near the exudation spot. Our results challenge the prevailing assumption that sugars are the most readily available and rapidly consumed substrates for soil microbes. Microbial preference for organic acids indicates a trade-off between rapid biomass growth and ATP yield. Our findings underscore the significant role of exudate composition in influencing microbial dynamics and nutrient availability, and emphasize the importance of biotic and abiotic feedback mechanisms in the rhizosphere in regulating root exudation.
Common mycelial network mediated inter-plant signals modulate plant biotic stress responses and defence against foliar pathogens
Authors: Orlovskis Zigmunds , Voroņins Ēriks , Kotova Annija , Pugačevskis Daniels , Blūms Kārlis Trevors , Nakurte Ilva , Silamiķelis Ivars , Lee Soon-Jae
Published: December 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonize multiple plant hosts and form common mycelial networks (CMNs) that link multiple plants in nature. CMNs are hypothesised to function as a highway for inter-plant information exchange to modulate plant biotic and abiotic stress responses.

Here we used AMFRhizophagus irregularisto inter-connect twoMedicago truncatulaplants and explored the effect of known plant defence elicitor on pathogen tolerance of AMF-connected inter-plant signal receivers. We analysedMedicagoleaf metabolites and emitted volatiles together with transcriptome data to compare responses of the inter-plant signal receivers with intact and cut CMN.

The integrity of CMN significantly affected inter-plant signal receiver responses. Plant defence and signalling pathways were enriched with receiver transcripts that are uniquely changing in the intact vs interrupted CMN along with distinct production of plant isoprenoids – volatile monoterpenes and triterpene saponins. Furthermore, receivers of CMN-mediated signals from stressed senders display increased resistance toFusarium sporotrichoidesand susceptibility toBotrytis cinerea.

Our results highlight CMN contribution to receiver plant responses which may encode susceptibility and resistance factors to different plant pathogens. Future dissection of the mechanisms involved in inter-plant signal decoding will yield novel discoveries on genetic regulation of inter-plant defence priming under pathogen attack.
Hexokinase 1-mediated plant immunity under abiotic stress depends on chloroplast positioning
Authors: Bagshaw Sophia Bianca , Kitashova Anastasia , Özmen Beyza , Yip Chun Kwan , Süling Bianca Emily , Schröder Laura , Kleine Tatjana , Nägele Thomas
Published: December 2024

Molecular networks involved in the responses of plants towards environmental changes are multifaceted and affect diverse metabolic and signalling pathways. Under challenging environmental conditions, such as low temperatures and high light intensities, plants need to immediately adjust their metabolism to prevent irreversible tissue damage, e.g., caused by reactive oxygen species. Regulation of photosynthesis and carbohydrate metabolism plays a crucial role in this stress response. Here, we analysed mutants ofArabidopsis thaliana, which were affected in either central enzymatic activities of carbohydrate metabolism, in chloroplast positioning or in a combination of both. Plants were exposed to a treatment of combined cold and elevated light. While mutants with deficiencies in sucrose (spsa1) or starch (pgm1) metabolism showed affected metabolic pathway regulation under abiotic stress, Hexokinase 1 mutants (hxk1) showed a severe growth phenotype with lesions and pale areas on leaf tissue. In a double mutant, which combined deficiencies in Chloroplast Unusual Positioning 1 (CHUP1)-mediated chloroplast positioning and HXK1 (chup1 x hxk1), this growth phenotype vanished resulting in wild type-like plants. Transcriptome analysis revealed a significantly affected immune response ofhxk1plants, which was suppressed in the double mutants. Our findings provide evidence for a role of HXK1 as a positive regulator of the plant immune response. Finally, we suggest that, due to its potential role as a negative regulator of plant immunity, CHUP1 deficiency counteracted the reduced immunity ofhxk1in the double mutant which rescued the plants. Future studies might now reveal whether deficiencies in CHUP1 function and/or transcription represent a conserved strategy to increase plant immunity under abiotic stress.
Transition path time over a barrier of a colloidal particle in a viscoelastic bath
Authors: Ferrer Brandon R. , Arzola Alejandro V. , Boyer Denis , Gomez-Solano Juan Ruben
Published: December 2024

We experimentally study the statistics of the transition path time taken by a submicron bead to successfully traverse an energy barrier created by two optical tweezers in two prototypical viscoelastic fluids, namely, aqueous polymer and micellar solutions. We find a very good agreement between our experimental distributions and a theoretical expression derived from the generalized Langevin equation for the particle motion. Our results reveal that the mean transition path times measured in such viscoelastic fluids have a nontrivial dependence on the barrier curvature and they can be significantly reduced when compared with those determined in Newtonian fluids of the same zero-shear viscosity. We verify that the decrease of the mean transition path time can be described in terms of an effective viscosity that quantitatively coincides with that measured by linear microrheology at a frequency determined by the reactive mode that gives rise to the unstable motion over the barrier. Therefore our results uncover the linear response of the particle during its thermally activated escape from a metastable state even when taking place in a non-Markovian bath.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Can government subsidies for the digital economy promote corporate innovation?
Authors: Wan Xiangli , Ding Haidong
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically explore the impact of government subsidies for the digital economy on corporate innovation. It aims to determine whether these subsidies promote innovation, and to examine the specific ways in which they inspire corporate innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study selects Chinese A-share listed companies during the period from 2007 to 2019 as the research object. It employs panel data to empirically examine the impact of government subsidies in the digital economy on corporate innovation.

Findings

The findings reveal that government subsidies for the digital economy effectively promote corporate innovation. They significantly increase the number and share of invention patents and improve the quality of corporate innovation. Moreover, it is noted that the positive impact is largely confined to non-state-owned enterprises, small firms and those in highly competitive markets.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper lies in focusing on government subsidies in the digital economy, which is distinct from the general government subsidies in a broad sense.
Interaction and collision of moral and legal norms in the process of anti-corruption measures implementation: natural and actual aspects
Authors: Maletova Olha , Utkina Maryna
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the dynamics between moral and legal frameworks in the context of anti-corruption efforts in Ukraine, particularly under martial law. This study aims to provide a detailed characterisation of how these norms interact and sometimes conflict during the implementation of anti-corruption measures, examining both theoretical and practical aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

Selecting an appropriate and objective methodology is pivotal to the success of scholarly research. Indeed, it is not merely the choice of specific methods that prove crucial, but rather their skilful integration and systematic application sequence that determines the quality of investigation. To achieve the stated objectives, this research employs a comprehensive system of scientific inquiry methods, applied in a precise sequence aligned with the logic of academic exploration.

Findings

This paper endeavours to elucidate the fundamental nature of corruption, scrutinises the intrinsic characteristics of moral and legal norms and evaluates their consequential impact on the efficacy of anti-corruption reforms. The research has identified their intricate interrelationships and emergent conflicting attributes through a rigorous comparative analysis of moral and legal norms. The authors conducted research contemporaneously with the implementation of anti-corruption reforms and ongoing military operations in Ukraine. It proposes to harness specific ramifications of the conflict to foster enhanced legal cognisance and cultural awareness, aiming to augment their practical application within the framework of extant anti-corruption initiatives.

Originality/value

The research’s novel contribution lies in its juxtaposition of moral and legal norms, elucidating their complex interplay and points of contention. It subsequently proposes juridical measures designed to recalibrate individual moral paradigms, whereby the collective welfare of the state assumes precedence over personal interests. Specifically, the research advocates for leveraging the phenomenon of national cohesion precipitated by the conflict to facilitate the implementation and execution of anti-corruption measures, instituting systematic and enduring anti-corruption educational programmes and broadening the conceptualisation of leadership through the assimilation of the “Tone at the top” approach.
The effect of family members’ communication mode choice on the family’s perceptions of care
Authors: Gerblich Adi , Rubin Eran , Kennedy Kathleen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Family-centered rounds (FCR) are a multidisciplinary process in which patients and/or family members are present and actively participate in medical rounds. While research has shown that FCR may enhance collaborative information exchange and reduce family anxiety, the impact of the information exchange modality on the experience has been largely unexplored. Medical rounds are typically assumed to be carried out in person at the bedside. In this research, we challenge this perception. We ask whether FCR communication is best conducted at the bedside or if similar communication outcomes are obtained when family members choose the communication mode according to their preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a field experiment in which participants choose the communication mode, we empirically analyze perceptions of the resulting communication in terms of information exchange. Three communication modes are available for participants to choose from (i.e. patients’ families): face-to-face (FtF), phone and video conferencing. A questionnaire is distributed, and the responses of the patients’ family members are analyzed. ANOVA tests are carried out to analyze the effect of communication mode on family perceptions.

Findings

Perceptions following video conferencing or FtF interaction were significantly higher than perceptions following the use of a phone. Thus, our results show clear superiority of video and FtF communication modes as facilitators of effective communication perceptions. There is also marginal evidence that FtF communication is perceived as superior than video conferencing in supporting the receipt of information and understanding but not in the ability to convey information and input to the care team. These results suggest that allowing family members to choose their communication preferences does not always support effective communication. A case can be made for motivating patient family members to use face-to-face or video communication rather than phone if possible.

Originality/value

The possible ramifications of allowing family members to choose communication mode with the care team have been largely unexplored. Medical rounds are typically assumed to be carried out in person at the bedside. In this research, we challenge this perception. We ask whether communication is best conducted at the bedside or whether similar communication outcomes are obtained when family members choose the communication mode according to their preferences.
Transforming performance: how agility, response, resilience and support shape success in digital strategies
Authors: Goraya Muhammad Awais Shakir , Yaqub Muhammad Zafar , Khan Muhammad Asif , Akram Muhammad Shakaib , Alofaysan Hind
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Evolving business landscapes have highlighted the crucial role of innovative digital transformation strategies (DTSs) in reimagining organisational operations and responses to optimise performance, regardless of organisational size or employee composition. The study suggests that DTS is a process that occurs continuously, rather than being a one-time event. It also underscores the critical role of personal resilience and organisational support in achieving job performance goals.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey analysis, this study examines the impact of organisational response and agility, as fundamental components of DTS, on employees' job performance. In addition, it investigates how boundary conditions of personal resilience and organisational support moderates the relationship between (1) organisational agility and job performance, and (2) organisational response and job performance.

Findings

The research findings demonstrate the impact of DTS on job performance. It highlights the mediating roles of organisational support and agility in improving employees' performance. The study also discusses the critical role of personal resilience and organisational support in navigating the insightful impacts of organisational agility and organisational response on the job performance.

Originality/value

This paper presents a theoretical framework that integrates the dynamic capabilities of employees and organisations, providing academics and practitioners with a comprehensive perspective on the growth of employees' dynamic capabilities. By offering insightful discussions, the study highlights that, while creating new DTS, organisations not only improve their dynamic capabilities but also enhances the people’s dynamic capabilities and make them more resilient.
Online public opinion prediction based on a novel conformable fractional discrete grey model
Authors: Feng Feng , Ge Xiaoxiao , Tomasiello Stefania , Zhang Jianke
Published: December 2024

Purpose

As social networks have developed to be a ubiquitous platform of public opinion spreading, it becomes more and more crucial for maintaining social security and stability by accurately predicting various trends of public opinion dissemination in social networks. Considering the fact that the dissemination of online public opinion is a dynamic process full of uncertainty and complexity, this study establishes a novel conformable fractional discrete grey model with linear time-varying parameters, namely the CFTDGM(1,1) model, for more accurate prediction of online public opinion trends.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the conformable fractional accumulation and difference operators are employed to build the CFTDGM(1,1) model for enhancing the traditional integer-order discrete grey model with linear time-varying parameters. Then, to improve forecasting accuracy, a base value correction term is introduced to optimize the iterative base value of the CFTDGM(1,1) model. Next, the differential evolution algorithm is selected to determine the optimal order of the proposed model through a comparison with the whale optimization algorithm and the particle swarm optimization algorithm. The least squares method is utilized to estimate the parameter values of the CFTDGM(1,1) model. In addition, the effectiveness of the CFTDGM(1,1) model is tested through a public opinion event about “IG team winning the championship”. Finally, we conduct empirical analysis on two hot online public opinion events regarding “Chengdu toddler mauled by Rottweiler” and “Mayday band suspected of lip-syncing,” to further assess the prediction ability and applicability of the CFTDGM(1,1) model by comparison with seven other existing grey models.

Findings

The test case and empirical analysis on two recent hot events reveal that the CFTDGM(1,1) model outperforms most of the existing grey models in terms of prediction performance. Therefore, the CFTDGM(1,1) model is chosen to forecast the development trends of these two hot events. The prediction results indicate that public attention to both events will decline slowly over the next three days.

Originality/value

A conformable fractional discrete grey model is proposed with the help of conformable fractional operators and a base value correction term to improve the traditional discrete grey model. The test case and empirical analysis on two recent hot events indicate that this novel model has higher accuracy and feasibility in online public opinion trend prediction.
The impact of users’ experience and satisfaction on users’ intention to use digital library resources
Authors: Kaba Abdoulaye , Aburezeq Ibtehal Mahmoud , Dweikat Fawzi , ElRefae Ghaleb Awad
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of user experience and user satisfaction on users' continued intention to use digital library resources. It also aimed to find out how user expectation and user satisfaction predict continued intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the expectation confirmation theory (ECT) to understand the relationship between independent variables and dependent variables. The study is based on data collected from 164 faculty members and students of Al Ain University (AAU) using a survey questionnaire. Data were analyzed using factor analysis, linear regression and the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test and validate the stated models and hypotheses.

Findings

The findings suggested the impact of gender, status and age on the continued intention, perceived usefulness and accessibility of digital library resources. On the other hand, the results revealed that both user experience and user satisfaction predict and explain 55–67% variations of continued intention to use digital library resources.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few studies that used ECT theory to predict the impact of user experience and user satisfaction on continued intention to use digital library resources. The paper contributes to the expanding body of library literature and offers valued insights into practical strategies to improve the delivery of digital library resources.
Do stock prices deviate from their fundamental values during and after COVID-19? Evidence from Fintech firms
Authors: Ali Salma , Ali Heba , Tarek Amira
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims at investigating the nexus between stock misvaluation, Fintech and COVID-19 via identifying the firm-level misvaluation of Fintech firms, and additionally examining how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected this misvaluation. This study further examines how the level of stock misvaluation has changed after the COVID-19 pandemic to shed more light on the pricing behavior of Fintech in a post-pandemic world.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of all Fintech firms listed in the STOXX Global Fintech Index over the period (2014–2023). To empirically identify stock misvaluation, the authors apply the widely used approach of Rhodes-Kroph et al. (2005). Then, a series of fixed-effects regressions is conducted to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mispricing.

Findings

This study finds compelling evidence that Fintech stocks tend to be particularly mispriced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This evidence suggests that investors became more attracted to Fintech stocks, as being exposed to widespread adoption, usage and investment worldwide during the pandemic. Interestingly, the findings show that Fintech firms remain overvalued, even after the pandemic, which indicates that investors maintain their positive expectations for Fintech firms after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Practical implications

For investors and fund managers, the observed high valuation in the Fintech sector highlights its noticeable growth in the financial industry. The results also suggest that the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pricing behavior is asymmetric across the undervalued and overvalued Fintech stocks. This finding provides important insights for portfolio construction and investment strategies during the hard times of pandemics.

Originality/value

No previous work has been done on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevailing levels of mispricing in Fintech stocks. Moreover, the findings provide novel insights into the pricing efficiency in the context of Fintech and extend the understanding of the long-term effects on Fintech firms in a post-pandemic world.
School staff perspectives on using augmentative and alternative communication with students with severe or profound intellectual and multiple disabilities
Authors: Flink Anna Rensfeldt , Wallin Sofia , Larsson Johanna , Westling Ellen , Johnels Jakob Åsberg
Published: December 2024

This mixed methods survey study aims to investigate school staff's perspectives on using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) with students with the most severe disabilities in Swedish school settings. The study employed a convergent mixed methods design, where both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analysed in parallel and then integrated and compared in the discussion and conclusion section of the paper. The study's respondents consisted of school staff who worked with students with severe or profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (S/PIMD) in Swedish schools. Results showed that almost all staff reported using AAC with students at least half of the time. The frequency of AAC use did not seem to differ between staff with different educational backgrounds, apart from teachers/special educators appearing slightly more inclined to use AAC in planned classroom activities when compared to staff with other educational backgrounds. The results also corroborate previous research stating that collaboration between stakeholders (such as school, family and the habilitation services) is fundamental to successful AAC implementation but that there are challenges when establishing efficient collaborations between stakeholders.
Patient care on the ramp: Who is legally responsible?
Authors: Eburn Michael , Cockburn Tina , Kelly Anne‐Maree
Published: December 2024

Ambulance ramping, the delay to transfer of a patient arriving at an ED by ambulance into an ED treatment space and handover of care to ED clinicians, is a problem in all Australian states and territories and New Zealand. It is a symptom of ED overcrowding and access block and has been associated with adverse health outcomes for some patient groups. The questions arise, who might be legally responsible for the care of patients who are ramped and does their physical location matter? The short answers are ‘everyone' and ‘no', however, whether there will be a breach of duty depends on the reasonableness of responses and resource allocation considerations.