bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Circadian PERIOD proteins sculpt the mammalian alternative splicing landscape
Authors: Chikhaoui L , Mamgain K , Seki M , Blanco C , Sassolas F , Folco E , Sery D , Suzuki Y , Ananthasubramaniam B , Padmanabhan K
Published: December 2024

Mammalian circadian oscillators are driven by a transcription-translation feedback loop where CLOCK:BMAL1 activity is repressed by the PER:CRY complex. While transcriptional regulation by PER is well established, the role of circadian feedback in co- and post- transcriptional processes remains unclear. Here, we used Nanopore long-read direct RNA sequencing (dRNAseq) and quantitative mass spectrometry (qMS) to uncover a critical function of PERs in alternative splicing (AS) regulation in the liver. Our expanded long-read transcriptome revealed significant changes in rhythmic expression of annotated transcripts, novel isoforms of known genes, and previously unannotated genes, with widespread perturbations in Per1-/-;Per2-/-(PerKO) livers. Rhythmic AS events were restricted to a distinct subset of transcripts, and splicing entropy - a metric of AS complexity - displayed oscillations in only a limited number of pathways, primarily those associated with glucose homeostasis and cellular responses to insulin. In PerKO livers, however, we detected increased isoform complexity and altered splicing entropy across a broad range of pathways linked to cell growth, morphogenesis, ER-associated degradation (ERAD), insulin response and histone methylation. Biochemical analyses and qMS data indicate that these changes are not due to mis-expression of splicing factors, but rather stem from altered nuclear abundance and chromatin retention of a few Serine-Arginine-rich splicing factors (SRSFs). In particular, SRSF3 acts proximal to the core-clock by defining both the period and amplitude of cellular rhythms. Our findings highlight a critical role for PER proteins in shaping the circadian liver proteome by integrating rhythmic transcription with the regulation of a complex and dynamic splicing landscape.
Pharmacophore design and ensemble-docking as approach to screening a large-scale database for identification of potential inhibitors of APH(3')-IIIa ofEnterococcus faecalis
Authors: Velez Luis Alfredo , Arteaga Sandra Denisse
Published: December 2024

Fighting nosocomial infections represents one of the main difficulties in medical treatment units around the world. Among the bacteria with the greatest potential to cause these complications isEnterococcus faecalis, mainly due to the expression of aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes. In the approach adopted in this work, pharmacophore modeling followed by ensemble-docking were carried out to select potential inhibitors against the nucleotide binding site of EfAPH(3')-IIIa. The most promising ligands are all nucleotide analogues (ZINC000828691112, ZINC000029546074 and ZINC000062624753) and showed good toxicological and pharmacokinetic profiles and the ability to interact with key amino acids such as MET26, SER27 and TYR42. Taken together, these preliminary results show that nucleotide analogues may represent a promising structure for interacting with the EfAPH(3')-IIIa nucleotide-binding pocket. Further analysis will be conducted.
Diversity of motility patterns in benthic diatoms
Authors: Bondoc-Naumovitz Karen Grace , Crosato Emanuele , Wan Kirsty Y.
Published: December 2024

Diatoms, a highly successful group of photosynthetic algae, contribute to a quarter of global primary production. Many species are motile, despite having no appendages and a completely rigid cell body. Cells move to seek out nutrients, locate mating partners, and undergo vertical migration. To explore the natural diversity of diatom motility, we perform a comparative study across five common biofilm-forming species. Combining morphological measurements with high-resolution cell tracking, we establish how gliding movements relate to the morphology of the raphe – a specialised slit in the cell wall responsible for motility generation. Our detailed analyses reveal that cells exhibit a rich but species-dependent phenotype, switching stochastically between four stereotyped motility states. We model this behaviour and use stochastic simulations to predict how heterogeneity in microscale navigation patterns leads to differences in long-time diffusivity and dispersal. In a representative species, we extend these findings to quantify diatom gliding in complex, naturalistic 3D environments, suggesting that cells may exploit these distinct motility signatures to achieve niche segregation in nature.
Wide-field optical redox imaging with leading-edge detection for assessment of patient-derived cancer organoids
Authors: Gillette Amani , Udgata Shirsa , Schmitz Alexa E. , Stoecker Jordan E. , Deming Dustin , Skala Melissa
Published: December 2024

Patient-derived cancer organoids (PDCOs) are a valuable model to recapitulate human disease in culture with important implications for drug development. However, current methods for assessing PDCOs are limited. Label-free imaging methods are a promising tool to measure organoid level heterogeneity and rapidly screen drug response in PDCOs. The aim of this study was to assess and predict PDCO response to treatments based on mutational profiles using label-free wide-field optical redox imaging (WF ORI). WF ORI provides organoid-level measurements of treatment response without labels or additional reagents by measuring the autofluorescence intensity of the metabolic co-enzymes NAD(P)H and FAD. The optical redox ratio is defined as the fluorescence intensity of [NAD(P)H / NAD(P)H +FAD] which measures the oxidation-reduction state of PDCOs. We have implemented WF ORI and developed novel leading-edge analysis tools to maximize the sensitivity and reproducibility of treatment response measurements in colorectal PDCOs. Leading-edge analysis improves sensitivity to redox changes in treated PDCOs (GΔ = 1.462 vs GΔ = 1.233). Additionally, WF ORI resolves FOLFOX treatment effects across all PDCOs better than two-photon ORI, with ∼7X increase in effect size (GΔ = 1.462 vs GΔ = 0.189). WF ORI distinguishes metabolic differences based on driver mutations in CRC PDCOs identifyingKRAS+PIK3CAdouble mutant PDCOs vs wildtype PDCOs with 80% accuracy and can identify treatment resistant mutations in mixed PDCO cultures (GΔ = 1.39). Overall, WF ORI enables rapid, sensitive, and reproducible measurements of treatment response and heterogeneity in colorectal PDCOs that will impact patient management, clinical trials, and preclinical drug development.

Statement of Significance

Label-free wide-field optical redox imaging of patient-derived cancer organoids enables rapid, sensitive, and reproducible measurements of treatment response and heterogeneity that will impact patient management, clinical trials, and preclinical drug development.
A Witches’ Broom Phytoplasma effector induces stunting by stabilizing a bHLH transcription factor in plants
Authors: Yang Shuang , Lovelace Amelia , Yuan Yi , Nie Haizhen , Chen Weikai , Gao Yi , Bo Wenhao , Nagel Dawn H , Pang Xiaoming , Ma Wenbo
Published: December 2024

Phytoplasmas are specialized phloem-limited bacteria that cause diseases on various crops resulting in significant agricultural losses. This research focuses on the jujube Witches’ Broom (JWB) phytoplasma and investigates the host-manipulating activity of the effector SJP39.

We found that SJP39 directly interacts with the plant transcription factor bHLH87 in the nuclei. SJP39 stabilizes the bHLH87 homologs inA. thalianaand jujube, leading to growth defects in the plants.

Transcriptomic analysis indicates that SJP39 affects the gibberellin (GA) pathway in jujube. We further demonstrate that ZjbHLH87 regulates GA signalling as a negative regulator and SJP39 enhances this regulation.

The research offers important insights into the pathogenesis of JWB disease and identified SJP39 as a virulence factor that can contribute to the growth defects caused by JWB phytoplasma infection. These findings open new opportunities to manage JWB and other phytoplasma diseases.
Uncovering Ancient DNA in Petroleum: Insights into Earth’s Hidden Life Events and Geological History
Authors: Zhao Wan-Qian , Guo Zhan-Yong , Guo Yu-Qi , Li Mei-Jun , Cao Gang-Qiang , Tian Zeng-Yuan , Chai Ran , Qiu Li-You , Zeng Jin-Hua , Zhang Xin-Ge , Qin Tian-Cang , Yang Jin-Yu , Chen Ming-Jie , Song Mei-Rong , Liang Fei , Geng Jun-Hui , Zhou Chun-Yan , Zhang Shu-Jie , Zhao Li-Juan
Published: December 2024

This study employed nanoparticle affinity bead technology to isolate DNA from petroleum. The research identified 3,159,020 DNA sequences from petroleum extracts (pDNA), primarily from environmental DNA (eDNA). The study demonstrates how oil captures a vast array of eDNA through molecular exchanges with its surroundings, including the fragments from ancient periods (paeDNA) and more recent times (preDNA). An academically rigorous “mega screening method” was established to identify these fragments, revealing significant loss of the most originalin situDNA (oriDNA). Interestingly, the persistence of paeDNA provides valuable ecological and evolutionary insights that surpass traditional fossils. Petroleum, regarded as newly discovered fossils, reveals Earth’s hidden history by uncovering the ancient existence of marine species, ancestral birds, and unclassified species of ancient hominids. Additionally, the study sheds light on the tracks of locally extinct animals, including yaks, turkeys, and kiwi birds. Notably, these ancient DNA (aDNA) fragments do not exhibit signs of “deamination”, contradicting Pääbo’s standards for ancient,in situDNA authenticity. The study also highlights significant geological events, such as marine invasions during the Paleocene epoch. This work has the potential to revolutionize both petroleum geology and paleontology.
Generalists in a Specialist World: Vibrio-Phages with Broad Host Range
Authors: Bernard Charles , Labreuche Yannick , Diarra Carine , Daszkowski Pauline , Cahier Karine , Goudenège David , Lamarche Martin G. , Whitfield Gregory , Lang Manon , Valencia Jeffrey , Groseille Justine , Piel Damien , Brun Yves V. , Rocha Eduardo P.C. , Le Roux Frédérique
Published: December 2024

The host range of a bacteriophage—the diversity of hosts it can infect—is central to understanding phage ecology and applications. While most well-characterized phages have narrow host ranges, broad-host-range phages represent an intriguing component of marine ecosystems. The genetic and evolutionary mechanisms driving their generalism remain poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed Schizotequatroviruses and theirVibrio crassostreaehosts, collected from an oyster farm. Schizotequatroviruses exhibit broad host ranges, large genomes (~252 kbp) encoding 26 tRNAs, and conserved genomic organization interspersed with recombination hotspots. These recombination events, particularly in regions encoding receptor-binding proteins and antidefense systems, highlight their adaptability to host resistance. Notably, some lineages demonstrated receptor-switching between OmpK and LamB, showcasing their evolutionary flexibility. Despite their broad host range, Schizotequatroviruses were rare in the environment. Their scarcity could not be attributed to burst size, which was comparable to other phagesin vitro, but may result from ecological constraints or fitness trade-offs, such as their preference for targeting generalist vibrios in seawater rather than the patho-phylotypes selected in oyster farms. Our findings clarify the genetic and ecological trade-offs shaping Schizotequatrovirus generalism and provide a foundation for future phage applications in aquaculture and beyond.
Cigarette smoke induces PPP1R15A via oxidative stress to modulate inflammatory cytokine production by bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Amatngalim Gimano D. , van der Does Anne M. , Zarcone Maria C. , Malzer Elke , Bradley Jayson , Belvisi Maria G. , Birrell Mark , van Schadewijk Annemarie , Hiemstra Pieter S. , Marciniak Stefan J.
Published: December 2024

Cigarette smoke is the principal cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in western societies. It induces pulmonary inflammation and activates multiple stress signaling pathways in bronchial epithelial cells, including the integrated stress response (ISR). The ISR is triggered by phosphorylation of the translation initiation factor eIF2α in response to a variety of insults and is functionally antagonised by the eIF2α phosphatase subunit PPP1R15A. Deletion of PPP1R15A exaggerates the ISR and in many models protects against a cellular stress. However, loss of PPP1R15A was recently shown to exaggerate pulmonary fibrosis in bleomycin-challenged mice. We therefore wished to understand the role of PPP1R15A in the pulmonary response to cigarette smoke, which can cause both COPD and pulmonary fibrosis. Whole cigarette smoke rapidly activated the ISR in mucociliary differentiated human primary bronchial epithelial cells with those from COPD patients exhibiting higher levels of ISR. Acute exposure to cigarette smoke condensate induced a pro-inflammatory cytokine response accompanied by PPP1R15A expression. In this model, PPP1R15A induction was independent of eIF2α phosphorylation but was suppressed by antioxidants suggesting a response to oxidative stress. In vivo studies in mice revealed that PPP1R15A deficiency enhanced the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines in mice, suggesting a regulatory role for PPP1R15A in modulating the inflammatory response to smoke. Taken together, these data suggest that PPP1R15A is induced by cigarette smoke by an ISR-independent oxidative stress mechanism and ameliorates the pro-inflammatory cytokine response to cigarette smoke.
ISCO: Intelligent Framework for Accurate Segmentation and Comparative Analysis of Organoids
Authors: Zhou Jian , Fu Zihao , Ni Xiaoying , Luo Qi , Yang Gen
Published: December 2024

Organoids are self-organizing 3D cell clusters that closely mimic the structure and function of in vivo tissues and organs. Quantifying organoid morphology is critical for advancing our understanding of organ development, drug discovery, and toxicity assessment. Recent advances in microscopy have provided powerful tools to capture detailed morphological features of organoids, yet manual image analysis remains labor-intensive and time-consuming. In response, we present a comprehensive microscopy-based analysis pipeline that utilizes SegmentAnything 2.1 to accurately segment individual organoids. Additionally, we introduce a suite of morphological features—including perimeter, area, radius, non-smoothness, and non-circularity—that enable researchers to quantitatively and automatically analyze organoid structures. To further standardize organoid analysis across the field, Intelligent segmentation and comparison of organoids(ISCO), an intelligent AI-driven open-source algorithm, is developed with the aim of establishing a comprehensive toolset for organoid characterization.
High-Throughput Protein-Bound Amino Acid Quantification from Maize Kernels
Authors: Ansaf Huda , Yobi Abou , Angelovici Ruthie
Published: December 2024

In cereal crops, seed quality is determined by the composition and levels of protein-bound amino acids, which account for ∼90% of the seed total amino acid content. In maize particularly, seed quality is affected by the low levels of lysine and tryptophan, two amino acids that humans and animals cannot synthesize and must obtain from the diet. The low levels of these two amino acids in seeds is due to the dominance of seed storage proteins, namely zeins, which are deficient in these two amino acids. Many efforts have been deployed to improve the nutritional composition of maize kernels (i.e., seeds). Still, the lack of high-throughput and inexpensive methods for the quantification of amino acids that are found within proteins has limited those efforts, especially when large populations are targeted. In this protocol, we describe a robust, efficient, and high-throughput method for the quantification of all 20 proteogenic (protein-forming) amino acids from a crude protein extract. The method consists of four major parts: first, release of the 20 proteogenic amino acids from the protein backbone through hydrolysis; second, aqueous extraction of the released amino acids; third, separation, detection, and quantification of the released amino acids using a multiple reaction monitoring-based ultraperformance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry detection; and fourth, data analysis and processing using the MassLynx data analysis software, TargetLynx.
Axion window on new macroscopic forces
Authors: Di Luzio Luca , Gisbert Hector , Nesti Fabrizio , Sørensen Philip
Published: December 2024

Axion-mediated forces are enhanced by the presence of CP-violating axion couplings, which are however tightly constrained by electric dipole moment (EDM) searches. We discuss the underlying hypotheses behind different sources of CP violation at high energies and the interplay between axion-mediated force experiments and EDM observables. Specifically, we identify various mechanisms, based on new sources of CP violation or Peccei-Quinn symmetry breaking, that can significantly relax EDM constraints, leading to a substantial redefinition of the QCD axion window for axion-mediated forces. By considerably enlarging the QCD axion parameter space, our results provide a well-motivated target for experiments probing scalar axion couplings to matter fields. These include fifth-force tests of gravity, as well as searches for spin-dependent forces via precision magnetometry, proton storage rings and ultracold molecules.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Coupled Dynamics in Phenotype and Tissue Spaces Shape the Three-Dimensional Cancer Invasion
Authors: Naylor Austin , Libmann Maximilian , Raab Izabel , Rappel Wouter-Jan , Sun Bo
Published: December 2024

The metastasis of solid tumors hinges on cancer cells navigating through complex three-dimensional tissue environments, characterized by mechanical heterogeneity and biological diversity. This process is closely linked to the dynamic migration behavior exhibited by cancer cells, which dictates the invasiveness of tumors. In our study, we investigate tumor spheroids composed of breast cancer cells embedded in three-dimensional (3D) collagen matrices. Through a combination of quantitative experiments, artificial-intelligence-driven image processing, and mathematical modeling, we uncover rapid transitions in cell phenotypes and phenotype-dependent motility among disseminating cells originating from tumor spheroids. Persistent invasion leads to continuous remodeling of the extracellular matrix surrounding the spheroids, altering the landscape of migration phenotypes. Consequently, filopodial cells emerge as the predominant phenotype across diverse extracellular matrix conditions. Our findings unveil the complex mesoscale dynamics of invading tumor spheroids, shedding light on the complex interplay between migration phenotype plasticity, microenvironment remodeling, and cell motility within 3D extracellular matrices.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
ASUGNN: an asymmetric-unit-based graph neural network for crystal property prediction
Authors: Cao Barnie , Anderson Daniel , Davis Luke
Published: December 2024

Material properties can often be derived directly from fundamental equations governing electron behavior. In this study, we present an open-source asymmetric-unit-based graph neural network designed to capture atomic patterns and their corresponding electron distributions. By coarse-graining sites belonging to conjugate subgroups and analyzing reciprocal space through powder X-ray diffraction patterns, our model predicts key physical properties, including formation energy, band gap, bulk modulus and metal/non-metal classification. Our method demonstrates exceptional predictive accuracy for properties calculated using density functional theory across the Materials Project dataset. Our approach is compared with state-of-the-art models and exhibits impressively low error rates in zero-shot predictions.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic studies of AfeH from Acimetobacter sp. DL-2
Authors: Tang Huiling , Zhang XiaoRan , Duan Yajuan , Huang Yan
Published: December 2024

Fenoxaprop-P-ethyl (FE) is widely applied as a post-emergence aryloxyphenoxy propionate (AOPP) herbicide in agriculture. A novel FE hydrolase esterase from Acinetobacter sp. DL-2 (AfeH) was identified which belongs to the family IV carboxylesterases and shows less than 30% identity to other reported homologues with known structure. In order to understand the catalytic mechanism, recombinant AfeH was prepared in Escherichia coli and crystallized using the sitting-drop vapor-diffusion method. X-ray diffraction data were collected to 1.9 Å resolution. The crystal belonged to space group P1211, with unit-cell parameters a = 84.27, b = 46.74, c = 258.68 Å. The Matthews coefficient (V
M) was calculated to be 2.43 Å3 Da−1, which corresponds to a solvent content of 49.4%, suggesting the presence of three monomers in the crystallographic asymmetric unit. The crystal was assessed to be suitable for further structural determination, which is currently in progress.
Design of multi-echelon multi-fruit supply chain network considering multi-compartment reefer trucks to ensure food security
Authors: Yuvaraj M. , Jothi Basu R. , Prabhu B.V. , Boppana Satish Babu , Ganesh Kumar C.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The four pillars of food security are availability, accessibility, utilization and stability. In order to facilitate food security, an attempt is made to design a fruit supply chain network (FSCN) considering multi-compartment reefer trucks (MCRT) to reduce total supply chain costs. This in turn increases affordability, decreases food loss and increases availability, which further helps in improving food security.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed integer non-linear programming (MNILP) model is developed to minimize the overall cost considering MCRT and the same is solved by a heuristic approach. A real-world case study is conducted to test the robustness of the model.

Findings

There is a considerable cost saving with the new proposed model (MCRT). The number of trucks used is drastically reduced when the dedicated truck is replaced with MCRT. Overall, the design of the FSCN not only improves food security by lowering the total supply chain cost but also shows a high impact on sustainability. Since the proposed model is a mathematical formulation, the same model can be applied to other perishable commodities like vegetables.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed FSCN still requires more intermediaries to be added for more practicality. The model will be suitable for emerging markets mainly because the food supply chain sector is not completely organized.

Originality/value

This study is one of the initial studies in the context of facility location and FSCN optimization, specifically focusing on the inclusion of capacitated DCs. This study has the potential to assist supply chain managers in achieving sustainability by optimizing location decisions, inventory levels and movement between facilities. This study provides a valuable contribution towards the sustainable development goal of zero hunger (food security) by increasing affordability for low-income people.
Mind the gap: identifying the chasm between environmental awareness, attitudes and action in fast fashion consumption
Authors: Teerakapibal Surat , Schlegelmilch Bodo B.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Although consumers are aware of the importance of sustainable consumption, there is a persistent gap between positive attitudes and actual behavior. This disconnect is particularly pronounced in the fashion industry, where consumers often suppress their positive attitudes towards sustainability in the face of tempting fast fashion offers. This paper analyzes how consumers attempt to reconcile this attitude-behavior gap through using rationalization or neutralization techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

We surveyed more than 1,300 fashion consumers in the USA, Europe and Asia. Based on their last fashion purchase, respondents indicated various purchase details as well as their agreement/disagreement to 32 neutralization statements. Additional scales capture pertinent attitude and awareness measures. To scrutinize the role of neutralization statements, we use a series of logistic regression and multinomial regression analyses.

Findings

Country of residence, age and education level are the key determinants when employing neutralization techniques. Logistic regression results also reveal an inverse relationship between age and the propensity of buying sustainable fashion. Ethics, awareness and attitudes all play a role in purchasing sustainable products, but to different degrees in different countries.

Originality/value

Research on how consumers attempt to bridge the gap between attitude-behavior inconsistencies is scarce and primarily qualitative. Our study identifies how fast fashion consumers attempt to reconcile their divergent attitudes and behavior. Uncovering these rationalization or neutralization techniques improves the understanding of the attitude-behavior gap and enables marketers and policymakers to design more effective strategies to promote sustainable consumption.
Unlocking sustainable performance through circular economy principles
Authors: Gopalakrishna Pillai Souji , Arasli Furkan “Kai” , Haldorai Kavitha , Rahman Imran
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Drawing on stakeholder theory, institutional theory and upper echelon theory, this study aims to determine the roles of stakeholder pressure, institutional pressure and top management’s sustainability commitment in adopting circular economy principles. Additionally, it evaluates how the adoption of these principles impacts sustainable-oriented innovation and subsequently influences sustainable performance.

Design/methodology/approach

By employing an online survey, data were collected from 172 owners, managers and staff involved in circular economy practices.

Findings

The results indicate that stakeholder pressure and institutional pressure positively influence top management’s sustainability commitment, which in turn influences adoption of the circular economy principles. Furthermore, adopting circular economy principles positively impacts sustainable-oriented innovation, enhancing the sustainable performance of hotels. Additionally, the relationship between the pressures and sustainable performance was sequentially mediated by top management’s sustainability commitment, adoption of circular economy principles and sustainable-oriented innovation.

Practical implications

This study offers actionable insights for hospitality managers by emphasizing the interplay of stakeholder and institutional pressures with top management’s commitment to sustainability. Practical strategies include engaging stakeholders, investing in leadership training, conducting internal audits for circular economy practices and fostering a culture of sustainability-oriented innovation. These initiatives not only enhance environmental performance but also contribute to societal goals of reducing environmental degradation and promoting responsible consumption.

Originality/value

The study emphasizes the importance of shifting from a linear to a circular economy model to enhance sustainability in the hospitality sector.
The impact of the internet bubble on broker recommendations
Authors: Prat Christophe , Caby Jerome
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the unusual market conditions of the dot-com bubble that may affect the quality of financial analysts’ evaluations and their relevance for investors.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of more than 1 million recommendations issued by the top 100 brokerage houses of 1,323 companies listed in the European DJ Stoxx 600 from 12/31/1992 to 12/31/2005, the authors measured, via new metrics, the dispersion of broker recommendations, their quality and the changes in the rankings of brokerage houses.

Findings

The results showed that the dispersion and quality of recommendations are strongly affected and that the reliability of the reputation of brokerage houses is increased.

Practical implications

A close monitoring of the quality of recommendations measured by dispersion and performance as well as ranking volatility should be a useful tool for investors.

Originality/value

This leads to the conclusion that analysts’ recommendations should be used cautiously during troubled times.
Progress and challenges of bioclimatic design strategies for enhancing building environmental performance: a systematic review
Authors: Bera Mahadev , Das Sumanta , Dutta Suman , Nag Pranab Kumar , Roy Choudhury Malini
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study aims to synthesize findings from over two decades of research, highlighting key trends, progress, innovations, methodologies and challenges in bioclimatic design strategies and their interconnection with building environmental performance across the world.

Design/methodology/approach

This systematic review examines advancements in bioclimatic design strategies aimed at enhancing the environmental performance of buildings from 2000 to 2023 (n = 1,069). The methodology/approach involves a comprehensive analysis of literature from the SCOPUS database using bibliometric analysis, identifying trends, thematic evolution, keyword clusters and pivotal strategies such as passive solar design, natural ventilation, green roofs and thermal mass utilization.

Findings

The review highlights significant progress in several areas, including improved simulation/modeling tools for passive solar design, advanced computational fluid dynamics models for natural ventilation optimization, and the integration of green roofs with photovoltaic systems for increased building energy efficiency. Additionally, the use of phase change materials and high-performance glazing has reduced heating and cooling loads, while real-time optimization technologies have enhanced building performance and led to energy savings.

Research limitations/implications

The study recognizes limitations where the effectiveness of bioclimatic strategies varies across different climates. For example, passive solar design is highly effective in temperate climates but less so in tropical regions. Global differences in design preferences and building types and practices impact the applicability of bioclimatic strategies and traditional building methods in some cultures may not easily integrate with modern approaches, affecting their implementation and effectiveness. Furthermore, practical implications highlight the potential for reduced reliance on artificial heating, cooling and lighting systems, while social implications underscore the role of bioclimatic design in promoting sustainable construction practices.

Practical implications

Practical implications highlight the potential for reduced reliance on artificial heating, cooling and lighting systems.

Social implications

Social implications underscore the role of bioclimatic design in promoting sustainable construction practices.

Originality/value

This review offers a detailed analysis of bioclimatic design evolution, highlighting trends such as adaptive building designs and smart materials. This study serves as a crucial resource for architects, engineers and policymakers, advocating for innovative, climate-responsive design solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of the built environment and address challenges related to climate change and urbanization.
Effects of employee competency on customer loyalty via justice perception and customer affection in Indian banks: do gender and failure severity moderate such relations?
Authors: Rao Akuthota Sankar , Suar Damodar , Sahoo Bimal Kishore
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study examines whether customer-perceived employee competence (CPEC) furthers customer loyalty through justice perception and affection, and whether gender and service failure moderate these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 535 customers of five Indian rural banks administering the questionnaire. The questionnaire gathered information on sociodemographics and measured constructs using standard inventories. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results reveal that when the effects of age are controlled for, CPEC enhances attitudinal and behavioral loyalty. The effects of CPEC partially influence attitudinal and behavioral loyalty through justice perception and customer affection. Attitudinal loyalty also promotes behavioral loyalty. With a few exceptions, stronger (weaker) effects are observed for female (male) gender and low (high) service failure, including CPEC influencing loyalty and justice perception, justice perception impacting customer loyalty and affection, customer affection promoting loyalty and attitudinal loyalty furthering behavioral loyalty.

Originality/value

Customers need competent employees to address bank service failure. CPEC fosters justice perception and affection, which in turn increases customer loyalty to the bank.
‘We wear multiple hats’: Exploratory study of role of special education teachers of public schools in India
Authors: Khanna Radhika , Kareem Jacqueline
Published: December 2024

The role of special education teachers (SETs) is multifaceted. A gap was recognised in the literature in the lack of studies on the roles and responsibilities of SETs in India and the field realities of carrying out the role. The aim was to explore to what extent the special education teachers fulfil their roles and responsibilities. The following is an exploratory study, using open‐ended questions that interviewed 12 SETs from five public schools in Delhi, India. The policy documents shared that the SETs were responsible for direct instruction to special needs students, parent–teacher collaboration and documentation, including IEPs for students with special needs. But in practice, there were not any clear‐cut boundaries, the SETs played multiple roles—Subject teacher, taking substitution periods, para teachers, these were keeping the SETs away from their core responsibilities. The results of the study demonstrated an undervaluation of the work of SETs and lack of support from the principal and regular teachers. The results concluded with recommendations for policy proposal with regards to defining the role of all stakeholders in an inclusive education school and improvements for the teacher education program.
Bacillus subtilis Intraspecies Interactions Shape Probiotic Activity Against Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Kovačec Eva , Kraigher Barbara , Podnar Eli , Lories Bram , Steenackers Hans , Mandic‐Mulec Ines
Published: December 2024

Commercial probiotics are often formulated as multi‐strain cocktails, but the effects of social interactions, particularly between strains of a species, are often neglected, despite their potential to contribute to higher‐order interactions where these interactions could affect those with a third party. In this study, we investigated the probiotic potential of a collection of Bacillus subtilis strains against Salmonella Typhimurium in single‐strain and mixed cultures. The results indicate a promising probiotic potential of B. subtilis as 38 out of 39 strains significantly inhibited the growth of S. Typhimurium. Next, we tested the effect of mixing B. subtilis strains that differ in their inhibitory potency against S. Typhimurium. The results show that strong inhibition by one strain can be significantly reduced by mixing with a less effective strain. Moreover, mixing similarly effective strains mostly resulted in a decreased growth inhibition of the pathogen. Additionally, we found a group of highly aggressive strains, which completely eliminated other B. subtilis strains in the two‐strain mixtures. Overall, this work shows that intraspecies interactions between B. subtilis strains can significantly alter the probiotic effect against S. Typhimurium, which is of great importance for future research on the development of multi‐strain probiotics.
Identifying a Genetic Link Between Lung Function and Psoriasis
Authors: Tanimura Kazuya , Aldrich Melinda C. , Jaworski James , Xing Jinchuan , Okawa Satoshi , Chandra Divay , Nouraie Seyed M. , Nyunoya Toru
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The common genetic underpinnings of psoriasis and pulmonary comorbidities have yet to be explored.

Material and Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, we investigated the single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with psoriasis and their relationship with pulmonary function using data from the UK Biobank (UKBB) and the Vanderbilt University Medical Center Biobank (BioVU).

Results

Out of the 63 psoriasis‐associated SNPs identified in previous genome‐wide association studies within the European population, we successfully identified 53 SNPs, including proxy SNPs in UKBB database. Following adjustments using age and sex, 31 SNPs displayed statistically significant associations with psoriasis. Among these, 16 SNPs exhibited significant associations with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), 14 with forced vital capacity (FVC), and 5 with the FEV1/FVC ratio in the UKBB. In the validation analysis using the BioVU database, 27 of the 31 psoriasis‐associated SNPs were available for examination. Notably, the minor allele of SNP rs8016947 was confirmed to be significant, indicating a reduced risk for psoriasis and improved FEV1. Similarly, the minor alleles of SNPs rs17716942 and rs8016947 were associated with a reduced risk of psoriasis and enhanced FVC. However, none of the 5 SNPs significantly associated with the FEV1/FVC ratio in the UKBB displayed significance in the BioVU dataset.

Conclusion

This study has unveiled genetic variants that bridge the realms of psoriasis and lung function. The genes associated with these variants, including IFIH1, Grancalcin gene (GCA), and NFKB inhibitor alpha gene (NFKBIA), regulate innate immune responses, which suggests that immunodysregulation, a central element in psoriasis pathogenesis, may also impact lung function, alluding to a “skin–lung axis.”
Transcriptomic Profiles of the Nasal Mucosa Following Birch Pollen Provocation Differ Between Birch Pollen‐Allergic and Non‐Allergic Individuals
Authors: Sudharson Srinidhi , Eckl‐Dorna Julia , Meshcheryakova Anastasia , Basílio José , Derdak Sophia , Kalic Tanja , Lengger Nina , Schweitzer Nina , Mechtcheriakova Diana , Breiteneder Heimo , Hafner Christine
Published: December 2024

Background

Birch pollen (BP) interacts with airway epithelial cells to cause allergic sensitization and allergy in predisposed individuals. However, the basic mechanisms underlying the clinical effects are poorly understood. Changes in gene expression and cytokine secretion in nasal mucosal cells upon BP exposure were determined in BP‐allergic and non‐allergic individuals.

Methods

BP‐allergic (n = 11) and non‐allergic individuals (n = 12) participated in nasal provocations with saline and aqueous BP solution. Nasal scrapings and secretions were obtained at baseline and after BP provocation. Bulk RNA sequencing of the nasal scrapings was performed, and cytokines in nasal secretions were quantified.

Results

After BP challenge, we identified 160 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the nasal scrapings of allergic individuals and 44 in non‐allergic individuals. DEGs encoding S100 proteins, keratins, small proline‐rich repeat proteins, and cytokines were predominantly identified, with proinflammatory cytokine transcripts being upregulated only in the allergic cohort. The top canonical pathways in allergic individuals included granulocyte and agranulocyte adhesion and diapedesis, wound healing, IL‐8 signaling, and IL‐17‐related pathways. Enriched pathways in allergic participants were associated with granulocyte chemotaxis, humoral cell responses, and IL‐10, IL‐4, and IL‐13 signaling and were absent in non‐allergic individuals. At baseline and after BP challenge, higher amounts of CCL17, CCL20, CCL26, IL‐7, IL‐16, and IL‐33 were detected in nasal secretions of allergic compared to non‐allergic individuals.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the activation of important cellular signaling pathways specific to BP‐allergic individuals after BP exposure offering new perspectives for studying key players in BP allergy.
A mineralogical and geochemical database of Fe‐bearing mineral pigments from the south‐eastern alpine region
Authors: Cavallo Giovanni , Riccardi Maria Pia , Zorzin Roberto
Published: December 2024

The provenance of yellow, red, and green Fe‐bearing mineral pigments used in archaeological and artistic contexts is pivotal in archaeological science providing information on trading activities, commercial routes, and procurement of appropriate raw materials. To support these studies, mineralogical and geochemical databases are required.

The research presents a complete database of raw materials collected in the western sector of the Lessini Mountains (Venetian Pre‐Alps in NE Italy) based on mineralogical (X‐ray Powder Diffraction; XRPD) and geochemical (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy; ICP‐MC) data, providing a solid reference archive for provenance studies.
Hybrid of Deep Feature Extraction and Machine Learning Ensembles for Imbalanced Skin Cancer Datasets
Authors: Verma Neetu , Ranvijay  , Yadav Dharmendra Kumar
Published: December 2024

Skin cancer remains one of the most common and deadly forms of cancer, necessitating accurate and early diagnosis to improve patient outcomes. In order to improve classification performance on unbalanced datasets, this study proposes a distinctive approach for classifying skin cancer that utilises both machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methods. We extract features from three different DL models (DenseNet201, Xception, Mobilenet) and concatenate them to create an extensive feature set. Afterwards, several ML algorithms are given these features to be classified. We utilise ensemble techniques to aggregate the predictions from several classifiers, significantly improving the classification's resilience and accuracy. To address the problem of data imbalance, we employ class weight updates and data augmentation strategies to ensure that the model is thoroughly trained across all classes. Our method shows significant improvements over recent existing approaches in terms of classification accuracy and generalisation. The proposed model successfully received 98.7%, 94.4% accuracy, 99%, 95%, precision, 99%, 96% recall, 99%, and 96% f1‐score for the HAM10000 and ISIC datasets, respectively. This study offers dermatologists and other medical practitioners' valuable insights into the classification of skin cancer.
Cross‐Cultural Translation of the Adolescent Menstrual Bleeding Questionnaire (AMBQ)
Authors: Howie Chelsea , Cameron Hannah , Bouchard Mandy , Price Victoria , Young Nancy L. , Pike Meghan
Published: December 2024

Aim

Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) affects up to 37% of adolescents. Given the paucity of available tools to assess health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescents with HMB, we developed the adolescent menstrual bleeding questionnaire (aMBQ), a valid and reliable measure of bleeding‐related quality of life. The aim of this study was cross‐cultural translation and adaptation of the English aMBQ into French to ensure accessibility for more Canadian adolescents who menstruate.

Methods

A five‐step process was followed: (1) forward translation from English to Canadian French; (2) backward translation from French to English; (3) review of source and translated aMBQ to create a reconciled version; (4) cognitive debriefing to ensure linguistic and clinical equivalence and (5) review of cognitive debriefings to produce the final version of the French aMBQ. Results of cognitive debriefings were reviewed after every three participants; items were revised if presented as an issue by ≥2 participants. These changes were implemented and tested in cognitive debriefings until saturation was reached.

Results

Linguistic changes were made to nine (33%) of the questions and one (3.7%) answer options. Major changes were made to four of the 27 questions (15%), and minor changes were made to five of the 27 questions (19%).

Conclusion

Professional translators, clinical experts and patient input through cognitive debriefing are pivotal to successful cross‐cultural translation. Results of cognitive debriefing interviews suggest the French aMBQ is easily understood and confirms its face validity.
Reflecting back and looking forward: A systematic literature review of SME–university collaborations
Authors: Cao Zhe , Verreynne Martie‐Louise , de Oliveira Rui Torres
Published: December 2024

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are crucial in driving innovation, creating employment, and fostering economic development. To achieve these goals, they collaborate with various organizations, including universities, to extend their internal resources and capabilities, thereby scaling their efforts. However, inconsistent results and vague theoretical conclusions harbour ambiguity and a lack of paradigmatic analysis, hindering scholars’ ability to integrate and advance insights and harness the full potential of SME‐university collaboration for impactful outcomes. Our systematic literature review addresses these issues by providing a comprehensive and up‐to‐date understanding of the literature on SME‐university collaboration. Our review encompasses 145 peer‐reviewed publications from 1981 to 2023, showcasing the diversity of research regarding journal outlets, publication timelines, methodologies, empirical contexts, theoretical lenses, and themes. Our review reveals three paradigmatic collaboration logics: technology transfer, knowledge co‐development, and value co‐creation. We analyse and synthesize these insights to propose an overarching conceptual framework for theorizing SME‐university collaborations and supporting future research. We combine these to articulate theoretical and policy implications and present a future research agenda.
Diagnostic yield of upper gastrointestinal tract endoscopy and colonoscopy in patients with iron deficiency anaemia while on direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Ching Victor , Hay Karen , Hui Ivan , Vandeleur Ann , Har Prisca , Rahman Tony , Alghamry Alaa
Published: December 2024

Background

Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) related to occult gastrointestinal tract (GIT) blood loss is associated with high rates of GIT malignancies. Major society guidelines recommend bidirectional endoscopic evaluation for all men and post‐menopausal women with newly diagnosed, unexplained IDA. However, in patients prescribed direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), the endoscopic yield, specifically the rate of high‐risk findings, including colorectal cancers (CRCs) and advanced adenomas (AAs), is unknown.

Aim

Our aim is to determine the endoscopic yield, specifically the prevalence of these high‐risk findings in patients presenting with new‐onset unexplained IDA while on a DOAC.

Methods

This is a single‐centre, retrospective analysis performed at a tertiary hospital in Australia. Between January 2015 and July 2019, 178 consecutive patients underwent endoscopic evaluation for IDA while prescribed a DOAC. Patient demographics, laboratory data, medications and endoscopic findings were summarised and compared by diagnostic yield. Associations were explored using logistic regression analysis.

Results

CRCs were present in 2/178 (1.1% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.1–4.0)) patients. AAs were found in 35/178 (19.6% (95% CI: 14.1–26.3)) patients. The most common AAs were tubular adenomas (45.7%), tubulovillous (31.4%) and sessile serrated adenomas (14.2%). Older age (P = 0.013) and lower ferritin levels (P = 0.009) were associated with the presence of high‐risk findings.

Conclusion

In patients presenting with new‐onset, unexplained IDA while on a DOAC, the prevalence of CRCs is lower than previously reported in studies involving populations not prescribed DOACs. Conversely, there is a higher incidence of AAs, including high‐risk histological features, such as tubulovillous adenomas and sessile serrated polyps.