bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constraining Einstein’s equivalence principle with multiwavelength polarized astrophysical sources
Authors: Yi Shuang-Xi , Zou Yuan-Chuan , Wei Jun-Jie , Zhou Qi-Qi
Published: September 2020

The observed time delays between photons with different circular polarizations from an astrophysical object provide a new, interesting way of testing the Einstein Equivalence Principle (EEP). In this paper, we constrain the EEP by considering both Shapiro time delay and Faraday rotation effects. We continue to search for astronomical sources that are suitable for testing the EEP accuracy, and obtain 60 extragalactic radio sources with multiwavelength polarization angles in three different radio bands (20, 8.6, and 4.8 GHz) and 29 brightest stars within our own Milky Way galaxy with multicolour linear polarimetric data in five optical bands (UBVRI). We apply the Metropolis–Hastings Markov Chain to simulate the fit parameters. The final results show that the values of the parametrized post-Newtonian parameter γ discrepancy (Δγp) are constrained to be in the range of 10−26 − 10−23 for 60 radio sources and in the range of 10−23 − 10−20 for 29 optical polarization stars. Compared to previous EEP tests that based on the single polarization measurement in the gamma-ray band, our results have profound superiority that nearly a few tens of astrophysical sources with multiwavelength polarization observations commonly in the optical and radio bands are available. It ensures that these sources can give more significantly robust bounds on the EEP. Although the presented method is straightforward, the resulting constraints on the EEP should be taken as upper limits as other more complex astrophysical effects affecting a polarization rotation are hardly considered.
Melody
Authors: Trippett David
Published: September 2020

Melody is a fundamental concept in Western musical thought; it connotes the form and affective power of successive sounds in motion, perceived as an aesthetic unity. Yet for many writers, melody does not exist as an autonomous form, and for those who credit its existence, few agree on what it is, or how it functions in relation to harmonic voice leading and phrase rhythm. This chapter examines the historical emergence of a theory of melody in the West, from Aristoxenus to Leonard Bernstein; it traces the rich intellectual currents that saw melody variously coupled to ideas of voice, schemes of rhythmic symmetry, overtones, spatial organization, theories of evolution, and computational analysis.
Phylogenetic Analysis, Vegetative Compatibility, Virulence, and Fungal Filtrates of Leaf Curl Pathogen Colletotrichum fioriniae from Celery
Authors: Liu Bo , Pavel Jason A. , Hausbeck Mary K. , Feng Chunda , Correll James C.
Published: September 2020

Leaf curl of celery, caused by Colletotrichum acutatum sensu lato, has been reported in the United States. A multilocus phylogenetic analysis with three genes was conducted with a collection of isolates from celery (n = 23) and noncelery (n = 29) hosts to evaluate their taxonomic position within C. acutatum sensu lato. The three DNA regions used for phylogenetic analysis included the introns of the glutamine synthase GS and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase GPDH genes, and the partial sequence of the histone3 his3 gene. Moreover, celery and noncelery isolates were evaluated for vegetative compatibility and pathogenicity on celery. Culture filtrates from celery and noncelery isolates were also evaluated for their ability to reproduce leaf curl symptoms. A total of 23 celery isolates were evaluated based on phylogenetic analysis, which showed that all celery isolates were closely related and belonged to the newly described species C. fioriniae. The celery isolates were grouped into six vegetative compatibility groups, indicating that the population was not clonal. Isolates of C. fioriniae from celery (22 of 23) and other hosts (26 of 29) caused leaf curl symptoms. Isolates of C. acutatum, C. nymphaeae, and C. godetiae were pathogenic but did not cause leaf curl symptoms. Isolates of C. lupini, C. johnstonii, and C. gloeosporioides were not pathogenic on celery. In addition, cell-free fungal culture filtrates caused leaf curl symptoms on celery, indicating that certain isolates produce a metabolite that can cause leaf curl symptoms on celery, possibly indole acetic acid.
Up-to-date treatment and management of myositis
Authors: Pipitone Nicolò , Salvarani Carlo
Published: September 2020

Purpose of review

Myositis, or idiopathic inflammatory myopathy, is an overarching concept that includes dermatomyositis, polymyositis, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy and the antisynthetase syndrome. Glucocorticoids are still considered the mainstay of treatment of myositis but some patients require add-on immunosuppressive therapy because of insufficient response to glucocorticoids, relapses when glucocorticoids are tapered, or because they incur glucocorticoid-related side effects.

Recent findings

The goal of this article was to review (PubMed search from January 2019 through June 2020) the efficacy and safety of standard and novel agents used in adult dermatomyositis, polymyositis, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy and the antisynthetase syndrome.

Established therapies beyond glucocorticoids continue to have a major role in managing patients with myositis. In addition, novel agents are being tried for refractory manifestations of myositis.
Risk Factors Predicting C- Versus S-shaped Sagittal Spine Profiles in Natural, Relaxed Sitting
Authors: Hey Hwee Weng Dennis , Ramos Miguel Rafael David , Lau Eugene Tze-Chun , Tan Jiong Hao Jonathan , Tay Hui Wen , Liu Gabriel , Wong Hee-Kit
Published: September 2020

Study Design.

A cross-sectional study on a randomly selected prospective cohort of patients presenting to a single tertiary spine center.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and radiographic parameters of patients with S- and C-shaped thoracolumbar sagittal spinal profiles, and to identify predictors of these profiles in a natural, relaxed sitting posture.

Summary of Background Data.

Sagittal realignment in adult spinal deformity surgery has to consider the sitting profile to minimize the risks of junctional failure. Persistence of an S-shaped sagittal profile in the natural, relaxed sitting posture may reflect a lesser need to accommodate for this posture during surgical realignment.

Methods.

Consecutive patients with low back pain underwent whole body anteroposterior and lateral radiographs in both standing and sitting. Baseline clinical data of patients and radiographic parameters of both standing and sitting sagittal profiles were compared using χ
2, unpaired t tests, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Subsequently, using stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis, predictors of S-shaped curves were identified while adjusting for confounders.

Results.

Of the 120 patients included, 54.2% had S-shaped curves when sitting. The most common diagnoses were lumbar spondylosis (26.7%) and degenerative spondylolisthesis (26.7%). When comparing between patients with S- and C-shaped spines in the sitting posture, only diagnoses of degenerative spondylolisthesis (odds ratio [OR], 5.44; P = 0.01) and degenerative scoliosis (OR, 2.00; P = 0.039), and pelvic incidence (PI) >52.5° (OR, 5.48; P = 0.008), were predictive of an S-shaped sitting sagittal spinal alignment on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion.

Stiffer lumbar curves (eg, patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis and degenerative scoliosis) or those who have a predilection for an S-shaped standing sagittal profile when sitting (eg, high PI) may be more amenable to fusion in accordance with previously studied sagittal realignment targets. In contrast, more flexible curves may benefit from less aggressive lordotic realignment to prevent potential junctional failures.

Level of Evidence: 3
Embryonal tumors of the central nervous system
Authors: Pagès Mélanie , Masliah-Planchon Julien , Bourdeaut Franck
Published: September 2020

Purpose of review

This review aims to give an update on histopathological, molecular and clinical features of central nervous system (CNS) ‘embryonal’ tumors.

Recent findings

The taxonomy of previously called ‘CNS primitive neuroectodermal tumor’ (CNS PNET) has been deeply modified since the discovery of specific molecular profiles for each various sub-entity of these rare, mainly pediatric, tumors. The term ‘embryonal tumors’ now refers to medulloblastomas, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) and other rare entities, defined by their specific histopathological features together with expression-based or methylation-based profiling; specific gene mutations or fusions characterize some tumor types. In addition, the compilation of large series of molecular data has allowed to dissecting several of these tumor types in molecular subgroups, increasing the number of tumor entities, and leading to an amazingly complex nosology of rare-to-extremely rare malignancies. This rarity precludes from having strong evidence-based therapeutic recommendations, although international efforts are conducted to define the best treatment strategies.

Embryonal tumors now correspond to molecularly well defined entities, which deserve further international collaborations to specify their biology and the appropriate burden of treatment, in order to minimize the long-term side-effects of treatment of these overall rare and severe diseases of childhood.
Fertility Awareness-Based Methods for Family Planning
Authors: Jensen Ashley , Wrede Jane
Published: September 2020

A review of 23 research articles to examine fertility awareness-based methods revealed biologic indicators and tracking methods to identify the fertile window in reproductive-aged women. This literature review indicated that a woman's cycle regularity is a major determinant of which method is best. Additionally, the woman's desire to achieve a pregnancy and her preference regarding the intensity of training are factors in method choice. Some evidence suggests that use of at least two biologic indicators is most effective for determining the fertility window. Recommended web and mobile applications also are discussed.
Renovating an Overbusy Lifestyle
Authors: Haddock Katelyn
Published: September 2020

Nurses often juggle multiple roles and responsibilities that can result in an overfull life. An overwhelmed schedule can lead to unintentionally becoming distanced from Jesus. The author suggests that true self-care includes proper balance of one's spiritual life with God. Three interventions can rebalance an overwhelmed life: seeking regular quiet time with God, prayer discernment about schedule decisions, and recognizing contemplative moments each day.
CULTURE-POSITIVE ACUTE POSTVITRECTOMY ENDOPHTHALMITIS IN A SILICONE OIL–FILLED EYE
Authors: Al Taisan Abdulaziz A. , Semidey Valmore A.
Published: September 2020

Background/Purpose:

The aim of this report was to present the details of a case of culture-positive endophthalmitis in a silicone oil–filled eye.

Methods:

This report includes the description of the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative findings of the case.

Patient:

A 73-year-old male patient presented to our emergency department with complaints and symptoms indicative of acute postvitrectomy endophthalmitis.

Results:

Aqueous, silicone oil, and vitreous washout samples tested positive for Streptococcus pneumoniae after a culture test.

Conclusion:

Culture-positive endophthalmitis in a silicone oil–filled eye has rarely been described in literature. The reported cases were culture-negative cases, possibly because they were cases of acute inflammatory reactions to silicone oil. In the present case, an otherwise healthy patient developed acute endophthalmitis after pars plana vitrectomy plus silicone oil tamponade. The case was successfully managed with conventional silicone oil removal, antibiotic injection, and silicone oil reinjection.
Hereditary Palpebro-Gingival Fibrosis Syndrome
Authors: Acosta Stefany , Lyon David B. , Jakobiec Frederick A. , Iyengar Srinivas S.
Published: September 2020

This is a case report involving 3 siblings, ages 22, 21, and 3 years old, of consanguineous parents and Syrian descent with a particularly unique clinical phenotype and eyelid/gingival findings that have not been previously characterized. Full-thickness eyelid biopsies for 2 of the siblings were evaluated by ophthalmic pathology showed generalized fibrosis without any active destructive process or amyloid. Three of the 9 siblings were affected by this order with no familial history. Ophthalmic plastic surgeons should be aware of this new entity as genetic localization and further identification may help families affected by this disorder.
Neuropathic pruritus associated with brain disorders
Authors: Ju Teresa , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: September 2020

Various types of brain pathology may be associated with neuropathic pruritus. While the mechanisms behind neuropathic itch is not well understood, damage to the itch processing centers and circuits of the brain may lead to changes in signaling in both top-down and bottom-up pathways that results in the distortion of itch sensation. Patients with brain pathologies such as such as stroke, brain tumors, spongiform encephalopathies, multiple sclerosis, trigeminal trophic syndrome, and systemic diseases such as end-stage renal diseases and primary biliary cholangitis have reported neuropathic itch of different characteristics. Commonly involved areas of the brain that, when damaged, are associated with neuropathic itch are the primary somatosensory cortex, precuneus, hippocampus, amygdala, periaqueductal gray, thalamus, insula, nucleus accumbens, Gasserian ganglion, cerebellum, cingulate cortex, prefrontal cortex, medulla, frontotemporal, and parietal lobe. Treatments for neuropathic pain, depression and seizures, such as kappa opioids, gabapentinoids, tricyclic antidepressants, and ketamine, are commonly used to treat neuropathic pruritus and are found to be effective.
Drug-induced sleep endoscopy: techniques, interpretation and implications
Authors: Stanley Jeffrey J.
Published: September 2020

Purpose of review

The purpose of this article is to highlight recent advances in the burgeoning field of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE).

Recent findings

One of the first studies to investigate the correlation of DISE findings and natural sleep endoscopy found good agreement in clinically significant obstruction. Previous studies have shown good agreement of DISE findings with the use of different sedative agents implying that the choice of sedative may not be crucial. However, recent studies show variable patterns of collapse, especially at the tongue base, with the use of different sedative agents. A universally accepted classification scheme for drug-induced sleep endoscopy is lacking. A new DISE classification system, termed Palate, Tonsils, Lateral pharyngeal wall, Tongue base, Epiglottis, was introduced this year with the noted advantage of being able to better differentiate between clinically relevant tonsillar and lateral pharyngeal wall collapse. Despite recent advances in the field, there remains no general consensus that DISE findings predict surgical success but may aid in the identification of patients who will respond well to oral appliance therapy.

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy is a structure-based evaluation of the upper airway that more closely resembles the natural sleep state compared with awake evaluation.
Endotypes and phenotypes in obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Malhotra Atul , Mesarwi Omar , Pepin Jean-Louis , Owens Robert L.
Published: September 2020

Purpose of review

The purpose of this review is to describe the variability of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), both from a standpoint of underlying mechanisms and in terms of clinical manifestations.

Recent findings

Recent data suggest that not all patients with sleep apnea get their disease for the same reason. As such, no one variable is effective at defining which patients do or do not have sleep apnea. Identifying the mechanism(s) underlying OSA for an individual is helpful as it can help to determine whether personalized therapy could be developed based on an individual's characteristics. In addition, these underlying mechanisms may be helpful in predicting response to therapy and prognosticating regarding future complications.

OSA is a heterogeneous disease with highly varying underlying mechanisms. OSA has variable clinical manifestations with definable subsets having risk of particular complications. Future studies will be helpful to identify mechanisms underlying OSA using clinically accessible tools and then using these data to focus individualized treatment approaches.
Common Pathways for Pain and Depression-Implications for Practice
Authors: Mihailescu-Marin Maria-Mirabela , Mosoiu Daniela Viorica , Burtea Victoria , Sechel Gabriela , Rogozea Liliana Marcela , Ciurescu Daniel
Published: September 2020

Background:

Pain and depression have a high impact on caring for the people who need palliative care, but both of these are neglected compared with the approach for other symptoms encountered by these patients.

Areas of Uncertainty:

There are few studies in humans that support the existence of common neural circuits between depression and pain that also explore the use of drugs with effects in both conditions. More knowledge is needed about the relationship of these clinical entities that will lead to the optimization of the treatment and improvement of quality of life.

Data Sources:

We conducted a search in PubMed to identify relevant articles and reviews that have been published in the last 5 years, concerning the topic of common pathways between depression and pain (2014–April 2019).

Therapeutic Advances:

The connections between the 2 clinical entities start at the level of the cortical regions. The hippocampus is the main site of neural changes, modification of the immune system, neuromodulators, neurotransmitters, and signaling pathways implicated in both conditions. Increased levels of peripheral proinflammatory cytokines and neuroinflammatory changes are related to the physiopathology of these entities. Inflammation links depression and pain by altering neural circuits and changes in their common cortical regions. Antidepressants are used to treat depression and chronic, pain but more experimental studies are needed to determine which antidepressant drugs are the most effective in treating the 2 entities.

Conclusions:

Pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions targeting cortical changes in pain and depression are promising, but more clinical studies are needed to validate their usefulness.
Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients With Acute Kidney Injury Have Reduced Renal Blood Flow and Perfusion Despite Preserved Cardiac Function: A Case-Control Study Using Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound
Authors: Watchorn James , Huang Dean Y. , Joslin Jennifer , Bramham Kate , Hutchings Sam D.
Published: September 2020

Background:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of COVID-19 critical illness but the pathophysiology is uncertain. Some evidence has indicated that a vascular aetiology may be implicated. We used contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and echocardiography to study renal perfusion and global blood flow and compared our findings with measurements taken in a group of septic shock patients and healthy volunteers.

Methods:

Prospective case-control study. Renal perfusion variables were assessed with CEUS; macrovascular blood flow was assessed using Doppler analysis of large renal vessels; echocardiography was used to assess right and left heart function and cardiac output.

Results:

CEUS-derived parameters were reduced in COVID-19 associated AKI compared with healthy controls (perfusion index 3,415 vs. 548 a.u., P = 0·001; renal blood volume 7,794 vs. 3,338 a.u., P = 0·04). Renal arterial flow quantified using time averaged peak velocity was also reduced compared with healthy controls (36·6 cm/s vs. 20·9 cm/s, P = 0.004) despite cardiac index being similar between groups (2.8 L/min/m2 vs. 3.7 L/min/m2, P = 0.07). There were no differences in CEUS-derived or cardiac parameters between COVID-19 and septic shock patients but patients with septic shock had more heterogeneous perfusion variables.

Conclusion:

Both large and small vessel blood flow is reduced in patients with COVID-19 associated AKI compared with healthy controls, which does not appear to be a consequence of right or left heart dysfunction. A reno-vascular pathogenesis of COVID-19 AKI seems likely.
Improving Simulation Accessibility in a Hospital Setting
Authors: Trawber Rory A. H. , Sweetman Greg M. , Proctor Leah R.
Published: September 2020

Summary Statement

This article documents the creation and implementation of a unique approach to translational simulation in a large, tertiary hospital setting. By creating a simulation consultation service, the ethos of translational simulation can be made more accessible to all areas of the hospital. Through the referral-consultation process, simulation exercises can be specifically designed, in conjunction with the referring individual/team, to directly address specific objectives. The service provides a wide range of multiprofession, multidiscipline simulation expertise and ensures simulation facilitation in a consistent, safe, and objective specific manner accessible to all areas of a large, hospital setting.
Mucilaginibacter celer sp. nov. and Aquirhabdus parva gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from freshwater
Authors: Kim MinJi , Shin Su-Kyoung , Yi Hana
Published: September 2020

Two novel bacteria, designated HYN0043T and HYN0046T, were isolated from a freshwater lake in Korea. 16S rRNA gene sequence phylogeny indicated that strain HYN0043T belongs to the genus

Mucilaginibacter

of the family

Sphingobacteriaceae

because it showed highest sequence similarity to

Mucilaginibacter oryzae

(98.2 %). The average nucleotide identity between strain HYN0043T and

M. oryzae

was 83.5 %, which is clearly below the suggested threshold for species demarcation. Strain HYN0046T was found to belong to the family

Moraxellaceae

and shared highest sequence similarity with

Agitococcus lubricus

(93.8 %). The average amino acid identity values between strain HYN0046T and representative type strains of closely related genera (Alkanindiges, Agitococcus and

Acinetobacter

) were 53.1–60.7 %, implying the novelty of the isolate at the genus level. Phenotypic characteristics (physiological, biochemical and chemotaxonomic) also supported the taxonomic novelty of the two isolates. Thus, we suggest the following names to accommodate strains HYN0043T and HYN0046T: Mucilaginibacter celer sp. nov. (type strain HYN0043T=KACC 19184T=NBRC 112738T) in the family Spingobacteriaceae and phylum

Bacteroidetes

and Aquirhabdus parva gen. nov., sp. nov. (type strain HYN0046T=KACC 19178T=NBRC 112739T) in the family

Moraxellaceae

and phylum

Proteobacteria

.
The discovery of gene mutations making SARS-CoV-2 well adapted for humans: host-genome similarity analysis of 2594 genomes from China, the USA and Europe
Authors: Sun Weitao
Published: September 2020

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a positive-sense single-stranded virus approximately 30 kb in length, causes the ongoing novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Studies confirmed significant genome differences between SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, suggesting that the distinctions in pathogenicity might be related to genomic diversity. However, the relationship between genomic differences and SARS-CoV-2 fitness has not been fully explained, especially for open reading frame (ORF)-encoded accessory proteins. RNA viruses have a high mutation rate, but how SARS-CoV-2 mutations accelerate adaptation is not clear. This study shows that the host-genome similarity (HGS) of SARS-CoV-2 is significantly higher than that of SARS-CoV, especially in the ORF6 and ORF8 genes encoding proteins antagonizing innate immunityin vivo. A power law relationship was discovered between the HGS of ORF3b, ORF6, and N and the expression of interferon (IFN)-sensitive response element (ISRE)-containing promoters. This finding implies that high HGS of SARS-CoV-2 genome may further inhibit IFN I synthesis and cause delayed host innate immunity. An ORF1ab mutation, 10818G>T, which occurred in virus populations with high HGS but rarely in low-HGS populations, was identified in 2594 genomes with geolocations of China, the USA and Europe. The 10818G>T caused the amino acid mutation M37F in the transmembrane protein nsp6. The results suggest that the ORF6 and ORF8 genes and the mutation M37F may play important roles in causing COVID-19. The findings demonstrate that HGS analysis is a promising way to identify important genes and mutations in adaptive strains, which may help in searching potential targets for pharmaceutical agents.
Single-cell transcriptomic analyses define distinct peripheral B cell subsets and discrete development pathways
Authors: Stewart Alexander , Ng Joseph , Wallis Gillian , Tsioligka Vasiliki , Fraternali Franca , Dunn-Walters Deborah
Published: September 2020

Separation of B cells into different subsets has been useful to understand their different functions in various immune scenarios. In some instances, the subsets defined by phenotypic FACS separation are relatively homogeneous and so establishing the functions associated with them is straightforward. Other subsets, such as the “Double negative” (DN, CD19+CD27-IgD-) population, are more complex with reports of differing functionality which could indicate a heterogeneous population. Recent advances in single-cell techniques enable an alternative route to characterise cells based on their transcriptome. To maximise immunological insight, we need to match prior data from phenotype-based studies with the finer granularity of the single-cell transcriptomic signatures. We also need to be able to define meaningful B cell subsets from single cell analyses performed on PBMCs, where the relative paucity of a B cell signature means that defining B cell subsets within the whole is challenging. Here we provide a reference single-cell dataset based on phenotypically sorted B cells and an unbiased procedure to better classify functional B cell subsets in the peripheral blood, particularly useful in establishing a baseline cellular landscape and in extracting significant changes with respect to this baseline from single-cell datasets. We find 10 different clusters of B cells and applied a novel, geometry-inspired, method to RNA velocity estimates in order to evaluate the dynamical transitions between B cell clusters. This indicated the presence of two main developmental branches of memory B cells. One involves IgM memory cells and two DN subpopulations, culminating in a population thought to be associated with Age related B cells and the extrafollicular response. The other branch involves a third DN cluster which appears to be a precursor of classical memory cells. In addition, we identify a novel DN4 population, which is IgE rich and on its own developmental branch but with links to the classical memory branch.
GTPBP1 resolves paused ribosomes to maintain neuronal homeostasis
Authors: Terrey Markus , Adamson Scott I. , Gibson Alana L. , Deng Tianda , Ishimura Ryuta , Chuang Jeffrey H. , Ackerman Susan L.
Published: September 2020

Ribosome-associated quality control pathways respond to defects in translational elongation to recycle arrested ribosomes and degrade aberrant polypeptides and mRNAs. Loss of an individual tRNA gene leads to ribosomal pausing that is resolved by the translational GTPase GTPBP2, and in its absence causes neuron death. Here we show that loss of the homologous protein GTPBP1 during tRNA deficiency in the mouse brain also leads to codon-specific ribosome pausing and neurodegeneration, suggesting that these non-redundant translational GTPases function in the same pathway to mitigate ribosome pausing. Ribosome stalling in the mutant brain led to activation of the integrated stress response (ISR) mediated by GCN2 and decreased mTORC1 signaling. However, in contrast to the ISR, which enhanced neuron survival, reduced mTORC1 signaling increased neuronal death. Our data demonstrate that GTPBP1 functions as an important quality control mechanism during translation elongation and suggest that translational signaling pathways intricately interact to regulate neuronal homeostasis during defective translation elongation.
Mutations in the Pectin Methyltransferase QUASIMODO2 Influence Cellulose Biosynthesis and Wall Integrity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Du Juan , Kirui Alex , Huang Shixin , Wang Lianglei , Barnes William J. , Kiemle Sarah N. , Zheng Yunzhen , Rui Yue , Ruan Mei , Qi Shiqian , Kim Seong H. , Wang Tuo , Cosgrove Daniel J. , Anderson Charles T. , Xiao Chaowen
Published: September 2020

Pectins are abundant in the cell walls of dicotyledonous plants, but how they interact with other wall polymers and influence wall integrity and cell growth has remained mysterious. Here, we verified that QUASIMODO2 (QUA2) is a pectin methyltransferase and determined that QUA2 is required for normal pectin biosynthesis. To gain further insight into how pectin affects wall assembly and integrity maintenance, we investigated cellulose biosynthesis, cellulose organization, cortical microtubules, and wall integrity signaling in two mutant alleles of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) QUA2, qua2 and tsd2. In both mutants, crystalline cellulose content is reduced, cellulose synthase particles move more slowly, and cellulose organization is aberrant. NMR analysis shows higher mobility of cellulose and matrix polysaccharides in the mutants. Microtubules in mutant hypocotyls have aberrant organization and depolymerize more readily upon treatment with oryzalin or external force. The expression of genes related to wall integrity, wall biosynthesis, and microtubule stability is dysregulated in both mutants. These data provide insights into how homogalacturonan is methylesterified upon its synthesis, the mechanisms by which pectin functionally interacts with cellulose, and how these interactions are translated into intracellular regulation to maintain the structural integrity of the cell wall during plant growth and development.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and DFT studies of (E)-4-methyl-2-{[(2-methyl-3-nitrophenyl)imino]methyl}phenol
Authors: Cinar Emine Berrin , Faizi Md. Serajul Haque , Yagci Nermin Kahveci , Dogan Onur Erman , Aydin Alev Sema , Agar Erbil , Dege Necmi , Mashrai Ashraf
Published: September 2020

The title compound, C15H14N2O3, was prepared by condensation of 2-hydroxy-5-methyl-benzaldehyde and 2-methyl-3-nitro-phenylamine in ethanol. The configuration of the C=N bond is E. An intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond is present, forming an S(6) ring motif and inducing the phenol ring and the Schiff base to be nearly coplanar [C—C—N—C torsion angle of 178.53 (13)°]. In the crystal, molecules are linked by C—H...O interactions, forming chains along the b-axis direction. The Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions to the crystal packing are from H...H (37.2%), C...H (30.7%) and O...H (24.9%) interactions. The gas phase density functional theory (DFT) optimized structure at the B3LYP/ 6–311 G(d,p) level is compared to the experimentally determined molecular structure in the solid state. The HOMO–LUMO behaviour was elucidated to determine the energy gap.
Crystal structures of three functionalized chalcones: 4′-dimethylamino-3-nitrochalcone, 3-dimethylamino-3′-nitrochalcone and 3′-nitrochalcone
Authors: Hall Charlie L. , Hamilton Victoria , Potticary Jason , Cremeens Matthew E. , Pridmore Natalie E. , Sparkes Hazel A. , D'ambruoso Gemma D. , Warren Stephen D. , Matsumoto Masaomi , Hall Simon R.
Published: September 2020

The structure of three functionalized chalcones (1,3-diarylprop-2-en-1-ones), containing combinations of nitro and dimethylamino functional groups, are presented, namely, 1-[4-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-3-(3-nitrophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one, C17H16N2O3, Gp8m, 3-[3-(dimethylamino)phenyl]-1-(3-nitrophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one, C17H16N2O3, Hm7m and 1-(3-nitrophenyl)-3-phenylprop-2-en-1-one, C15H11NO3, Hm1-. Each of the molecules contains bonding motifs seen in previously solved crystal structures of functionalized chalcones, adding to the large dataset available for these small organic molecules. The structures of all three of the title compounds contain similar bonding motifs, resulting in two-dimensional planes of molecules formed via C—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions involving the nitro- and ketone groups. The structure of Hm1- is very similar to the crystal structure of a previously solved isomer [Jing (2009). Acta Cryst. E65, o2510].
Synthesis and crystal structure of 1,1′-bis{[4-(pyridin-2-yl)-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl]methyl}ferrocene, and its complexation with CuI
Authors: Pokharel Uttam R. , Naquin Aaron P. , Brochon Connor P. , Fronczek Frank R.
Published: September 2020

The title compound, [Fe(C13H11N4)2], was synthesized starting from 1,1′-ferrocenedicarboxylic acid in a three-step reaction sequence. The dicarboxylic acid was reduced to 1,1′-ferrocenedimethanol using LiAlH4 and subsequently converted to 1,1′-bis(azidomethyl)ferrocene in the presence of NaN3. The diazide was treated with 2-ethynylpyridine under `click' conditions to give the title compound in 75% yield. The FeII center lies on an inversion center in the crystal. The two pyridyltriazole wings are oriented in an anti conformation and positioned exo from the FeII center. In the solid state, the molecules interact by C—H...N, C—H...π, and π–π interactions. The complexation of the ligand with [Cu(CH3CN)4](PF6) gives a tetranuclear dimeric complex.
Assessing the effects of human capital composition, innovation portfolio and size on manufacturing firm performance
Authors: Seclen-Luna Jean Pierre , Opazo-Basáez Marco , Narvaiza Lorea , Moya Fernández Pablo Jose
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the effects of human capital composition, innovation portfolio and size on manufacturing firms’ performance. Moreover, it seeks to empirically identify the levels of education that are significant in labour productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The resource-based view (RBV) theory is applied using data gathered from the National Innovation Survey in the Manufacturing Industries of Peru. Using the ordinary least squares method on a sample of 584 Peruvian manufacturing firms, the effects on firm performance of two subsamples according to innovation portfolio and firm size are determined.

Findings

The direct effects of human capital composition on productivity show that the higher the workers’ educational level, the higher the productivity. However, if this relationship is analysed in terms of the innovation portfolio, the authors find that labour productivity in companies with product–service innovation is greater (i.e. more significant) than in traditional manufacturing firms with only product innovations. Similarly, if this relationship is compared in terms of company, the authors find that large companies are more significant than small and medium-sized enterprises.

Practical implications

The study furthers the understanding of how the relationship between human capital composition, innovation portfolio and size of manufacturing firms positively affects labour productivity. Hence, it can help managers to craft their innovation portfolio according to the educational level of their human capital. This could require that not only human resource management innovates, but also that strategic partnerships be developed with educational establishments to boost training towards product–service innovation.

Originality/value

This study’s results provide confirmation that the configuration of human resources, innovation portfolio and size plays a significant role on manufacturing firms’ performance, particularly in the context of developing countries.
Demographic factors, compensation, job satisfaction and organizational commitment in private university: an analysis using SEM
Authors: Ashraf Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the direct and indirect effects of demographic factors on employee compensation, job satisfaction and organizational commitment in private higher educational institutes in Bangladesh. Specifically, how do compensation structure and job satisfaction mediate in the link between demographic factors and organizational commitment? To answer this question, a theoretical framework using the theory of employee retention provided by Martin and Kaufman, as its basis was established.

Design/methodology/approach

Data (n= 515) were collected from faculty members of the private universities in Bangladesh. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Findings indicate that though demographic factors have no direct impact on organizational commitment, they have indirect impacts on organizational commitment through the mediation of compensation structure and faculty job satisfaction. Besides, compensation structure also has a significant mediating role in the link between demographic structure and faculty job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

One possible drawback is the number of private universities from which the data were collected. In the sample used here, only 20 private universities were selected to conduct the survey. Besides, the study could not include public universities that are also a significant part and parcel of higher education in the country. So, if more private and public universities were taken into consideration to collect the data, the results might be improved. Thus, the usual cautions about overgeneralizing findings from this sample, to populations for which it is not strictly representative, apply.

Practical implications

From a practical perspective, as a cumulative body of work on organizational commitment, we will be better able to advise policymakers and educators on the elements they need to address to increase the longer engagement of the faculty members in their institutes. In this study, the one area of findings that may help policymakers and educators the most concerns compensation package that affects job satisfaction and organizational commitment. We found that demographic factors and compensation packages are the most important factors for the faculty members to impact on organizational commitment in this study.

Social implications

The social implication is that policymakers of the private universities can focus on fair justice in terms of demographic factors and compensation package for job satisfaction, motivation and organizational commitment of the faculty members in their universities.

Originality/value

The findings of the study are important for the policymakers of the higher education institutes.
The effect of green CSR skepticism on positive attitude, reactance, and behavioral intention
Authors: Kwon Jookyung , Ahn Jiseon
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) skepticism on dual types of attitudinal factors (i.e. positive attitude and reactance) and examine the impact of attitudinal factors on customers' behavioral intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies mixed-method research to examine the link between CSR skepticism, positive attitude, reactance and behavioral intention based on attitude-behavior-context theory.

Findings

As predicted, CSR skepticism weakens a favorable attitude toward CSR, whereas it increases the level of reactance. Also, CSR skepticism negatively influences behavioral intention, while positive attitude and reactance positively influence behavioral intention.

Originality/value

Understanding customers' skepticism toward CSR has become increasingly important because of its negative consequences. Despite existing studies on CSR skepticism, few have focused on why and how CSR skepticism leads to negative behavioral outcomes. Thus, this research contributes to existing tourism literature by examining the role of CSR skepticism on their attitude and behavior. Findings will help researchers and practitioners understand how CSR skepticism impacts customers' behavioral intention and develops CSR strategies to enhance the behavioral intention to patronize.
Social identity theory and leader–member exchange: individual, dyadic and situational factors affecting the relationship between leader–member exchange and job performance
Authors: Thrasher Gregory , Dickson Marcus , Biermeier-Hanson Benjamin , Najor-Durack Anwar
Published: September 2020

Purpose

This study aims to integrate social identity and leader–member exchange (LMX) theory to investigate the processes and boundary conditions around LMX–performance relationships. Through the application of two leader–follower subsamples, the authors test three main objectives. What is the effect of multi-dimensional dyad value-congruence on LMX and how does congruence on these dimensions differentially influence leader and follower perceptions of LMX? In a subsample of followers including supervisor-rated performance, the authors develop a model that examines how individual values moderate the effect of dyad contact on supervisor-rated job performance mediated by follower LMX.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants for this study include graduate and undergraduate social work students who were taking part in a one-year work placement within a social work organization as well as their immediate supervisors. Across a four-month period, participants filled out measures of their supervisor contact, work values and LMX. Supervisor-rated performance was also included.

Findings

Findings from the dyadic subsample show that growth value congruence is a predictor of follower-rated LMX, with value congruence across all values having no effect on leader-rated LMX. Within a subsample of followers, findings suggest that follower-rated LMX mediates the relationship between dyad contact and supervisor-rated job performance, with individual work values moderating this effect.

Originality/value

The current study offers several contributions to the literature on LMX and job performance. First, in this study’s dyadic leader–follower sample, the authors extend propositions made by social identity theory around value congruence and LMX by offering support for a multi-dimensional and multi-target approach to questions of values and LMX. Second, within this study’s larger non-dyadic sample, the authors offer insights into previous conflicting findings around dyad contact and LMX, by offering support for the indirect effect of dyad contact on supervisor-rated performance via LMX. Third, within this second sample, the authors also extend the literature on values and LMX to show that the process through which LMX influences job performance is dependent on follower values.
Watch me go big: CEO narcissism and corporate acquisitions
Authors: Aabo Tom , Als Mikkel , Thomsen Lars , Wulff Jesper N.
Published: September 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of CEO narcissism in corporate acquisitions with a focus on frequency and size and furthermore to examine the subsequent stock market reaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigate 751 acquisitions made by 158 UK nonfinancial firms and 202 CEOs in the 10-year period 2007–2016. The authors use the ratio of first-person singular pronouns to total first-person pronouns in CEO speech as the main proxy for CEO narcissism but the results are robust to the use of signature size and picture as alternative measures.

Findings

The authors find that increased CEO narcissism is associated with an increase in M&A expenditures, an increase in deal size and a decrease in deal frequency. Thus, the authors find that narcissistic CEOs favor size over frequency (“go big”). Furthermore, the authors find that the stock market reacts less favorably to acquisitions announced by firms run by narcissistic CEOs.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to upper echelon research by investigating the association between CEO narcissism and corporate decisions in a UK setting. More specifically, the paper contributes to the existing literature by investigating how CEO narcissism is associated with corporate acquisitions in terms of the size and frequency of deals and how such irrational behavior is penalized by the stock market. Previous literature has focused on the more broad association between CEO narcissism and M&A expenditures.
Developing a building performance score model for assessing the sustainability of buildings
Authors: HP Thanu , C Rajasekaran , MD Deepak
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Construction industry is one of the leading causes of pollution generation in today's context. But the fact that the development of construction industry leads to the country's economic and social development cannot be unobserved. Hence, there is a need to develop a sustainable construction methodology, and while doing so, measures must be considered so as to not disturb the natural habitats. With the greater prominence shown toward the concept of green and sustainable construction developments, various tools have been developed in recent years in order to measure the performance of such sustainable and green buildings. In the Indian context, the assessment tools developed to measure the performance of the green building are found to be scanty in addressing various economic and social impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims at developing a building performance score (BPS) model concerning the sustainability model built on the triple bottom priorities considering all the three vital components, viz. environmental, economic and social factors. In this study, the different phases involved in the complete life cycle of the project are recognized and then all the phases are assessed considering all the three major components mentioned in the BPS model.

Findings

The outcome of this study specifies that various indicators, such as the topographical and climate change, health and safety of the construction workers, project management consultancy, risk management, security measures and solid waste management, form a chief source of a sustainable building, and these indicators are not being assessed in the existing assessment tools. Also, consideration of environmental, economic and social factors is also equally important in construction industry. Moreover, these indicators are also required to be assessed and included in the evaluation process while assessing the performance of the building.

Originality/value

The BPS model developed in the study will assist to improve in assessing the building performance with respect to all indicators in the complete life cycle of the project.