bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryo-electron tomography of eel sperm flagella reveals a molecular “minimum system” for motile cilia
Authors: Schrad Jason R. , Fu Gang , Hable Whitney E. , Tayar Alexandra M. , Oliveira Kenneth , Nicastro Daniela
Published: July 2023

Cilia and flagella play a crucial role in the development and function of most eukaryotic organisms. The structural core of the flagellum, the axoneme, is conserved in most eukaryotes and careful regulation of dynein motors within the axoneme is required for proper ciliary beating. The sperm flagellum from the American eel (Anguilla rostrata) has been shown to lack many of the canonical axonemal proteins, including the radial spokes, the central pair complex, and possibly even the outer row of dynein arms, presenting a “minimal” flagellar system. Here, we present cryo-electron tomography analysis of the eel sperm flagellum. We identified two states for the eel sperm flagellum within our tomograms, narrow and wide, and found that the flagellum started narrow near the sperm head and widened distally. Subtomogram averages revealed that the eel sperm flagellum has retained remnants of the missing regulatory complexes, including a short radial spoke 3 complex, basal components of radial spokes 1 and 2, and an outer dynein arm docking complex. We also describe unique structural features of theA. rostratasperm flagellum, such as a unique pattern of holes at the inner junction and an accessory complex located at the “outer” junction. Finally, we discuss the consequences of losing key regulatory factors for the eel sperm flagellum and hypothesize several evolutionary factors that may have led to their loss. Together, our results shed light onto the structure and function of the eel sperm axoneme and provide insight into the minimum requirements for proper ciliary beating.
Divergent recovery trajectories in reef-building corals following a decade of successive marine heatwaves
Authors: Brown Kristen T. , Lenz Elizabeth A. , Glass Benjamin H. , Kruse Elisa , McClintock Rayna , Drury Crawford , Nelson Craig E. , Putnam Hollie M. , Barott Katie L.
Published: July 2023

Increasingly frequent marine heatwaves are devastating coral reefs. Corals that survive these extreme heat stress events must rapidly recover if they are to withstand subsequent events, and long-term survival in the face of rising ocean temperatures may hinge on recovery capacity and acclimatory gains in heat tolerance over an individual’s lifespan. To better understand coral recovery trajectories in the face of successive marine heatwaves, we monitored the responses of bleaching-susceptible and bleaching-resistant individuals of two dominant coral species in Hawaiʻi,Montipora capitataandPorites compressa, over a decade that included three marine heatwaves. Bleaching-susceptible colonies ofP. compressaexhibited beneficial acclimatization to heat stress (i.e., less bleaching) following repeat heatwaves, becoming indistinguishable from bleaching-resistant conspecifics during and after the third heatwave. In contrast, bleaching-susceptibleM. capitatarepeatedly bleached during all successive heatwaves and exhibited seasonal bleaching for up to three years following the third heatwave. Encouragingly, bleaching-resistant individuals of both species remained pigmented across the entire time series; however, pigmentation did not necessarily indicate physiological resilience. Specifically,M. capitatadisplayed incremental yet only partial recovery of symbiont density and tissue biomass across both bleaching phenotypes up to 35 months following the third heatwave. Conversely,P. compressaappeared to recover across most physiological metrics within two years, reverting to predictable seasonal variability. Ultimately, these results indicate that even some visually robust, bleaching-resistant corals can carry the cost of recurring heatwaves over multiple years, leading to divergent recovery trajectories that may erode coral reef resilience in the Anthropocene.

Significance Statement

Coral reefs are in jeopardy as climate change has led to increasingly frequent marine heatwaves. Some corals can survive these extreme heat stress events, thus acquiring environmental memory that may prime them for increased resistance and resilience in subsequent heatwaves via beneficial acclimatization. Yet, as the time between heatwaves decreases, the accumulation of stress experienced by some individuals may preclude opportunities for beneficial acclimatization. This nearly decade-long study revealed divergent recovery trajectories within and between species in response to successive marine heatwaves, ranging from costly to beneficial. As the climate continues to change, surviving corals must not only gain heat tolerance, but also rapidly recover to maintain the critically important ecosystem services that humanity relies on.
Deciphering the polycistronic nature ofMycobacterium tuberculosislipoproteins of unknown functions
Authors: Blanco  , Bigi Fabiana
Published: July 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative agent of human tuberculosis, encodes 116 lipoproteins, from which 48 have no demonstrated or predicted function. In this study, we demonstrated that six genes of these lipoproteins of unknown function are encoded in transcriptional units together with genes with experimentally verified functions or that encode conserved functional domains. We assigned predicted functions to LpqT (Rv1016c), LppE (1881c), LppO (Rv2290), LprE (Rv1252c) and LpqF (Rv3593).
Visualization of syntrophic benzene-fermentingDesulfobacterotaORM2 in a methanogenic enrichment culture using fluorescencein situhybridization
Authors: Chen Xu , Toth Courtney R.A. , Guo Shen , Luo Fei , Howe Jane , Nesbø Camilla L. , Edwards Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2023

Although benzene degradation under strictly anoxic conditions was first reported over 25 years ago, the mechanism for benzene activation in the absence of oxygen is still elusive. A major limitation has been the difficulty to grow anaerobic benzene-degrading enrichment cultures. Our laboratory has maintained a methanogenic enrichment culture for decades, harboring a benzene fermenter referred to asDesulfobacterotaORM2. Recent genomic analyses indicate that ORM2 is not affiliated with any characterized genus, but it is phylogenetically similar to several other known and predicted benzene degraders.DesulfobacterotaORM2 has a doubling time of approximately 30 days and often enters a long lag or decay phase after inoculation into sterile pre-reduced anaerobic medium. A specific fluorescentin situhybridization (FISH) probe was used to observeDesulfobacterotaORM2 cells during this decay phase, revealing a rod-shaped cell of variable length with a tendency to associate with other cells, particularly methanogens. Microscopic and genomic analyses indicate thatDesulfobacterotaORM2 may produce extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) that likely contribute to cell aggregation. The production of EPS may consume a significant amount of energy, perhaps contributing to the lag time before onset of growth ofDesulfobacterotaORM2 post-inoculation. We observed little cell aggregation in a culture amended with very high concentrations of benzene (90-120 mg/L). This study visualized the cells of a novel clade within theDesulfobacterotafor the first time, enabling monitoring of spatial organization within a methanogenic consortium and provides hints to improve the growth rate of ORM2.

Importance

A specific FISH probe was designed for the poorly characterized benzene fermenterDesulfobacterotaORM2. This probe was used to monitor changes in spatial organization in a methanogenic benzene-degrading enrichment culture. ORM2 cells were often found in cell aggregates, revealing a possible reason for the long lag phases observed after inoculation.
Virus replication in the honey bee parasite,Varroa destructor
Authors: Damayo James E. , McKee Rebecca C. , Buchmann Gabriele , Norton Amanda M. , Ashe Alyson , Remnant Emily J.
Published: July 2023

Arthropod vectors such as mites and ticks introduce an alternative viral transmission route between their hosts. The ectoparasitic miteVarroa destructoris the leading threat to the health of Western honey bees (Apis mellifera) primarily through its action as a vector of viruses. However, it is unclear whether viruses transmitted byV. destructoractively infect and replicate in mites, which could facilitate increased transmission and select for more virulent strains. To better understand the role ofV. destructoras a vector, we took advantage of differences between bee and mite antiviral RNA interference pathways to identify the host specificity of replicating viruses. We used small RNA sequencing of individualV. destructormites to examine viral small interfering RNA (vsiRNA) profiles of Deformed wing virus genotypes (DWV-A and DWV-B), associated with colony declines, as well as nine other viruses present in our samples. We found active replication of sixV. destructor-associated viruses, including a novel virus, Varroa destructor virus 9 (VDV-9), and replication of two honey bee associated viruses, including both DWV-A and -B genotypes, suggesting that mites are biological vectors for important bee pathogens. We show that the antiviral RNAi response can be used define the host range of viruses in host-parasite interactions, such as honey bees and their parasites, enabling a better understanding of the role of a vector in the evolution and spread of honey bee pathogens.
Comparing the diagnostic and clinical utility of WGS and WES with standard genetic testing (SGT) in children with suspected genetic diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tirrell Kimberley M.B. , O’Neill Helen C.
Published: July 2023

3.0

Importance

Rare genetic diseases are one of the leading causes of infant mortality worldwide. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and whole-exome sequencing (WES) are relatively new techniques for diagnosing genetic diseases, that classic newborn screening (NBS) fails to detect.

Objective

To systematically assess the diagnostic and clinical utility of WGS and WES, compared to standard genetic testing (SGT), in children with suspected genetic diseases, and discuss its impact on the expansion of NBS.

Data Sources

EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and references of included full-text articles were searched until 21stOctober 2021.

Study Selection

Studies reporting the diagnostic yield or rate of change of management for WGS and/or WES were included. The meta-analysis included 43 of the original 1768 identified articles (2%).

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data extraction followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses reporting guideline. The quality of included papers was assessed using QUADAS-2, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to create pooled proportions and a pooled odds ratio.

Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s)

Diagnostic utility, as determined by the diagnostic yield, which is defined as P/LP variants with strong or moderate associations with the presenting clinical phenotype of the affected patient, and that were reported to the patient’s clinician. Clinical utility as defined by any change in clinical management (medically or surgically), determined through clinician questionnaires or Electronic Health Record reviews.

Results

A total of 43 studies were included, comprising 6168 children. The pooled diagnostic utility of WES (0.40, 95% CI 0.34-0.45,I2=90%), was qualitatively greater than WGS (0.34, 95% CI 0.29-0.39,I2=79%), and SGT (0.19, 95% CI 0.13-0.25,I2=64%). The pooled clinical utility of WGS (0.74, 95% CI 0.56-0.89,I2=93%), was qualitatively greater than WES (0.72, 95% CI 0.61-0.81,I2=86%), while both were qualitatively greater than SGT (0.69, 95% CI 0.38-0.94).

Conclusions and Relevance

Our evidence suggests that WGS/WES should be considered the first-line test for genetic diseases. There is reason to believe that WGS and WES should be included as part of NBS, however, more studies are required to assess the cost-effectiveness of this approach.
Interaction betweenAPOE4status and lifestyle on brain and cognitive outcomes in cognitively unimpaired older adults
Authors: Felisatti Francesca , Chauveau Léa , Marchant Natalie L , Collette Fabienne , Demnitz-King Harriet , Whitfield Tim , Requier Florence , Mézenge Florence , Landeau Brigitte , Palix Cassandre , Haudry Sacha , Delarue Marion , de la Sayette Vincent , Vivien Denis , Poisnel Géraldine , de Flores Robin , Chételat Gaël , Gonneaud Julie ,   MEDIT-AGEING Research Group
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

APOE4genotype and lifestyle have been associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk, but how they interact on neuroimaging and cognitive markers of aging and AD remains unclear.

METHODS

In 135 cognitively unimpaired older adults from the baseline Age-Well trial, we investigated the interaction betweenAPOE4 status and cognitive activity, diet and physical activity on cognition and neuroimaging markers of neurodegeneration and amyloid.

RESULTS

Higher cognitive activity correlated with lower medial temporal lobe (MTL) volume and perfusion inAPOE4-carriers, but increased cognitive performance irrespective ofAPOE4status. Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet correlated with higher MTL metabolism and attention scores inAPOE4-carriers. Conversely, physical activity correlated with higher MTL perfusion and lower amyloid inAPOE4-non-carriers only.

DISCUSSION

Genetics and lifestyle factors act through different mechanisms to helpAPOE4-carriers resist or cope with brain alterations and postpone cognitive decline. Our results support the need of personalized lifestyle-based interventions for AD.

Trial Registration Information

EudraCT: 2016-002441-36; IDRCB: 2016-A01767-44;ClinicalTrials.govIdentifier:NCT02977819.
Implementation of the SDGs by social economy enterprises in the agrifood sector
Authors: Lafont-Torio Juan , Calderon-Monge Esther , Ribeiro-Soriano Domingo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is a global initiative that is becoming increasingly important in the industrial and service sectors. This paper analyses how the SDGs are being implemented in the agrifood supply chain by social economy enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study methodology was used to understand how companies implement the SDGs. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with managers from two cooperatives in the agrifood sector.

Findings

There are no differences in the way that the SDGs are implemented by social economy enterprises involved in the food sector supply chain. Therefore, the SDG approach is an alternative that can be applied by food sector supply chain companies to achieve the sustainability favoured by the cooperative model.

Originality/value

The value of the present study lies in its analysis of the sustainability of the agrifood supply chain from an SDG-based approach that is more comprehensive than other commonly cited approaches in the academic literature.
When workplace humour turns into conflict: exploring HR practices in the case of conflict management
Authors: Liao Qiandan , Pandeli Jenna
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Although humour and conflict are popular topics in management, little attention has been paid to the negative effects of humour in terms of how workplace humour could turn into unexpected conflicts. From the perspective of conflict management, human resources (HR) need to better understand this dynamic transition process. The purpose of this research is to explore the transition from humour to conflict and how HR perform when addressing humour-related issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A secondary data, multiple case study approach is adopted. Case studies are analysed qualitatively and thematically through a content analysis matrix.

Findings

Aggressive humour is closely related to conflict. Humour content and the context in which it takes place are important influential factors contributing to the transition from humour to conflict. It is challenging for HR to deal with humour-related issues: most victims are unwilling to report the issue at an early stage until they cannot bear the joke, forcing HR to perform reactively.

Practical implications

Workplace humour-related issues should not be overlooked. HR should adopt an early, proactive approach to prevent severe conflict from developing and relationships deteriorating.

Originality/value

This study highlights the dynamics and complexity of the transition from humour to conflict, providing new insights for HR in terms of effective conflict management.
A work-family enrichment model of perceived overqualification: the moderating role of flexibility human resource practices
Authors: Li Yan , Jin Shumei , Chen Qi , Armstrong Steven J.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This research focuses on the work–family facilitation process to theorize and examine the potential positive impact of perceived overqualification (POQ) on an individual’s work–family interface. Drawing on social cognitive theory of self-regulation, this research identifies work–family balance self-efficacy (WFBSE) as a motivational mechanism through which POQ affects work engagement. Additionally, it proposes flexibility human resource (HR) practices as a key moderator of this process.

Design/methodology/approach

This research collected multi-wave time-lagged data from 342 managers in the hospitality industry. The research focused on managers with the title of headwaiter and above, while front-line service personnel were not included.

Findings

The results showed that POQ had an indirect positive relationship with work engagement via WFBSE. The results also showed that employee-experienced flexibility HR practices moderated the effectiveness of WFBSE in translating POQ into work engagement.

Practical implications

This research provides guidance and insights into how HRM systems can be customized to sustain positive outcomes in situations of overqualification. It is crucial that hotels offer flexibility options or individualization of work arrangements for overqualified employees.

Originality/value

The potential positive impact of POQ on employees’ work–family interface has been neglected. In addition, prior research has devoted little attention to potential organizational factors that enhance the positive effects of POQ. By examining the mediating and moderating effects, this research aims to explain how and under what conditions POQ facilitates work engagement.
Development of work-life/family policy and gendered division of childcare responsibility: the case of South Korea
Authors: Yoon Seonwoo , Park Nara
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to overcome the limitations of studies on work-life balance, which have focused on Western countries without considering “mental” dimensions of gendered childcare. By concentrating on South Korea as a case study, this paper also aims to examine how the gendered division of childcare changed when Korea's work-life/family policy followed European work-family conciliation policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The Korean Time Use Survey (KTUS) in 2009 and 2019 are used for multiple regression analyses. Based on discussions about theories on unpaid work distribution within households and its stratification effects, this study examines the relationship between wife's and husband's behaviors and the stratification effects in the gendered division of childcare alongside the work-life/family policy change.

Findings

Substantial findings indicate the necessity of strengthening various legal and institutional structures that might increase husbands' characteristics of caring masculinities. Additionally, while policies developed to support flexible working arrangements, low-income women at risk of being trapped in dual poverty of time and income should be carefully considered.

Originality/value

This study focuses especially on South Korea, thereby contributing to understanding how national policy and gendered distribution of childcare are related. Notably, this link has not been widely discussed in the literature on work-life balance. It also suggests viable directions for future policies depending on gender and socioeconomic status.
Tapping into flavourful journeys: a systematic review and application of craft beer tourism frameworks
Authors: Tham Aaron , Campton Jenna , Cooper-McKenzie Bruce
Published: July 2023

Purpose

There is a growing interest in investigating craft beer tourism and consumption experiences as different destinations seek to position unique attributes and cultures in their culinary offerings. Yet, in this space, factors that have triggered the creation, management and marketing of craft beer tourism remain implicit. The purpose of this paper is therefore to present a systematic literature review of craft beer tourism, apply a conceptual model of craft beer gastronomy tourism and, in turn, provide strategic imperatives for the sector moving forward.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive search for craft beer tourism in hospitality and tourism literature was undertaken using a combination of Google Scholar search terms as well as institutional library databases. Then, following the steps proposed by Xiao and Watson (2019), articles were sorted into themes before determining their appropriateness to be included in a systematic literature review.

Findings

Based on prior research, a Craft beer gastronomy tourism model is proposed. This model was found to provide a macro perspective of the craft beer tourism literature and was applied using the systematic literature review. It was found that not many of the papers fit the three-step process, and a fragmented relationship between craft breweries and tourism was observed. On reviewing the theories and frameworks used, it was found that there was not much consistency with the majority using frameworks and concepts. Furthermore, most studies were undertaken from the perspective of a single region or homogenous samples, with few offering cross-sectional comparisons. The most common methods of the papers were surveys and interviews, with a majority being cross-sectional.

Originality/value

The systematic literature review has led to the development of a novel conceptual model that highlights the current focal areas but also gaps that inform future studies and managerial implications.
Internationalization of research in Georgia: why to engage and with whom to engage?
Authors: Chachkhiani Ketevan , Tabatadze Shalva
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the research internationalization process in Georgia, one of the post-Soviet countries. Specifically, it examines the individual-level reasons that motivate faculty at Georgian universities to engage in the process of research internationalization. It also unpacks scholars’ perspectives on the driving factors for selecting the key partners in international research.

Design/methodology/approach

Sixteen faculty members for this exploratory qualitative study were selected through stratified purposeful sampling from five higher educational institutions in Georgia. Participants were asked to discuss their participation in international research projects and underline the activities and events that motivated them to participate in international collaborative projects. The critical incident method was used to analyze our qualitative data collected through semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The research revealed that faculty at Georgian universities are more oriented toward collaboration with their peers from European countries and the USA. This preference is influenced by such factors as higher quality of science, higher level of freedom and autonomy, personal contacts and networks, as well as language competencies. The data also helped to unpack Georgian scholars’ individual-level rationales that were conceptualized into three domains: human capital, financial capital and physical capital.

Originality/value

This study is an original work conducted in Georgia. It contributes to the development of the field of internationalization of research. The three-domain conceptual framework on the individual-level rationale for internationalization can be used in future research on post-Soviet countries and beyond.
Adapting management control to virtual teams: evidence from a natural experiment
Authors: Noto Guido , Marisca Carmelo , Barresi Gustavo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many organisations to transform face-to-face teams into virtual ones through the adoption of remote working modes. This event has represented the starting point of a process that is changing how management control (MC) systems are designed and implemented to guide employees towards organisational objectives. The previous literature on virtual teams (VTs) has devoted scant attention to MC issues. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring how MC – and particularly cultural control – has changed to cope with the shift from face-to-face to VTs and by analysing the interrelationship between the different control mechanisms and the resulting tensions.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts the methodological framework based on abduction to provide a theoretical explanation and conceptualisation of MC in virtual settings. To tackle the research objective, this work undertakes a cross-sectional field study based on semi-structured interviews with managers of different service companies.

Findings

The results of the research highlight the key challenges that managers are called to deal with to design and change MC systems when implementing remote working. In particular, managers must cope with the reduced possibility to leverage cultural controls. To do this, this study’s analysis found that managers act by introducing and/or removing formal and informal controls and by orchestrating the interplays and tensions between these mechanisms.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, to date limited attention has been paid to MC in VTs. Moreover, few researchers have investigated the process of MC change from face-to-face to VTs. This work aims to contribute to this nascent stream of literature by providing interesting implications for both research and practice.
Electrophysiology and hyperscanning applied to e-learning for organizational training
Authors: Balconi Michela , Angioletti Laura , Cassioli Federico
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of the remote training process on distance learning with the application of neurometrics and investigate the features of the training that promote better synchronization between trainers and trainees in terms of cognitive and emotional processes favorable to learning, during a condition of remote professional training.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors proposed a hyperscanning paradigm together with a conversational analysis to assess remote online training by collecting neurophysiological measures (frequency band analysis: delta, theta, alpha and beta) via multiple wearable electroencephalograms (EEGs) during a session of remote training.

Findings

Results showed increased delta activity in the trainer when he was leading the session and when the participants were exchanging feedback. The delivery of feedback was also linked to increased theta activity compared with the normal activity of the trainees. Finally, synchronization of EEG between trainer and trainee groups was found for the beta band.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposes to adopt a new multi-methodological approach that combines conversational analysis with the detection of remote neurometric parameters, in the field of educational neuroscience applied to organizational contexts.

Practical implications

Findings can help trainers in the development of their skills as trainers and in modeling remote training in organizations.

Originality/value

Findings highlight the crucial role of particular phases of the e-learning process, such as the feedback phase and the interaction trainer group, and they pointed out the relevance of neurophysiological measures to test the e-learning process.
High‐resolution reservoir stochastic modelling based on optimized estimation of vertical autocorrelation
Authors: Zeng Fanxin , Zhang Hongbing , Zhang Lingyuan , Shang Zuoping , Zhu Xinjie
Published: July 2023

The high‐resolution model of elastic properties is of great significance for fine reservoir characterization and precise oil and gas exploration. However, it is difficult to obtain a satisfactory high‐resolution reservoir model with the existing technologies. In this paper, a novel high‐resolution stochastic modelling strategy based on the fast Fourier transform moving average is proposed. In this strategy, several structural parameters are optimized to improve the rationality of the stochastic model, including vertical autocorrelation length, horizontal autocorrelation length, roughness factor and angle parameter. Among them, the optimization of the vertical autocorrelation length is crucial for vertical high‐resolution modelling. To this end, a nonlinear optimal inversion strategy of the vertical autocorrelation length is designed based on the idea of minimizing the spectral Jensen–Shannon divergence between the modelling result and the logging curve. However, nonlinear inversion is usually unstable, so it is necessary to introduce a regularization operator in the inversion to improve the stability. Considering that the heterogeneity of the subsurface medium is consistent or gradual within the stratums, but discontinuous and abrupt at the interfaces, edge‐preserving regularization is applied to obtain a blocky estimation of the vertical autocorrelation length. The optimal estimation experiment of the vertical autocorrelation length based on the measured logging data shows that the edge‐preserving regularization significantly improves the stability of the nonlinear optimal inversion, and blocky estimation results with sharp edges are obtained. Then, the optimized vertical autocorrelation length and the other structural parameters are applied to fast Fourier transform moving average modelling on an actual reservoir profile. The result shows that the resolution of the model is significantly improved, which realizes the fine reservoir characterization. In addition, the optimized structural parameters effectively constrain the small‐scale heterogeneity and ensure the rationality of the stochastic model.
New evidence on sources of macroeconomic fluctuations in sub‐Saharan African countries
Authors: Taiwo Shakirudeen , Uwilingiye Josine
Published: July 2023

Following a global vector autoregressive (GVAR) approach, this paper presents new evidence on the validity of international transmission of economic shocks from key trading partners as sources of macroeconomic fluctuations in sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries. The GVAR model was estimated for 21 SSA countries grouped into three country classes—oil‐rich, other‐resources‐rich and non‐resource‐based economies, to account for output shocks from crucial trading partner countries—United States, United Kingdom, China and Europe. Furthermore, the generalized forecast error variance decompositions results reveal that output shocks from key trading partners constitute significant contributors to changes in key macroeconomic indicators—real gross domestic product, inflation, exchange rate and short‐term interest rate, in the SSA region. The generalized impulse response functions indicate that these economic shocks have more significant impacts on oil‐rich countries than on other country groups. A key recommendation from this study is that SSA countries, especially the resource‐rich economies, need to strengthen and diversify their economic structure, including the trade basket.
Critical examination of the characterization techniques, and the evidence, for the existence of extra‐long amylopectin chains
Authors: Li Changfeng , Wu Alex , Gilbert Robert G.
Published: July 2023

It has been suggested that amylopectin can contain small but significant amounts of extra‐long chains (ELCs), which could affect functional properties, and also would have implications for the mechanism of starch biosynthesis. However, current evidence for the existence of ELCs is ambiguous. The amylose/amylopectin separation and the characterization techniques used for the investigation of ELCs are reviewed, problems in those techniques are examined, and studies of ELCs of amylopectin are discussed. A model for the biosynthesis of amylopectin chains in terms of conventional biosynthesis enzymes, which provides an excellent fit to a large amount of experimental data, is used to provide a rigorous definition of ELCs. In addition, current investigations of ELCs, involving separation, is hindered by the lack of a method to quantitatively separate all the amylopectin from starch without any traces of residual amylose (which would have long chains). Unambiguous evidence for the existence of ELCs can be obtained using two‐dimensional (2D) characterization, these dimensions being the degree of polymerization of a chain and the size of the whole molecule. Available 2D data indicate that there are no ELCs present in currently detectable quantities in native rice starches. However, concluding this more rigorously requires improvements in the resolution of current 2D methods.
Transcriptomic and metabolite analyses provided a new sight of 1‐MCP on organic acid metabolism in peach during storage
Authors: Cai Hongfang , Han Shuai , Wang Qingwen , Liu Xinyue , Yu Zhifang
Published: July 2023

In this study, “Xiahui 6” peaches were treated with 10 µL/L 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) for 12 h and then stored at 20°C for 9 days; the regulation of 1‐MCP on organic acids during storage was investigated through transcriptomic and metabolite analyses. Results showed that 1‐MCP maintained higher gene expression of malate synthesis (PpPEPC1, PpPEPC2, and PpNAD‐cytMDH) at the end of storage but extremely inhibited the gene expression of malate degradation (PpNADP‐cytME) during storage, resulting that malate content in treated peaches was twice that of control group at day 7. Besides, the increasement of citrate synthesis and degradation‐related genes (PpmitCS, PpcytACO, PpNAD‐mitIDH, and PpNADP‐cytIDH) at days 3 and 5 was postponed by 1‐MCP treatment, accompanied by 0.5 times higher citrate content at day 7. Our results suggested that 1‐MCP has inhibitory effects on both the synthesis and degradation of organic acids; however, the inhibitory effect of 1‐MCP on organic acid degradation may be greater than that on organic acid synthesis.

Practical Application: This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of 1‐methylcyclopropene (1‐MCP) in fruit preservation.
Preparation, identification, and inhibitory mechanism of dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitory peptides from goat milk whey protein
Authors: Du Xiaojing , Jiang Chengyu , Wang Shan , Jing Huijuan , Mo Ling , Ma Chaoyang , Wang Hongxin
Published: July 2023

This study explores potential hypoglycemic mechanisms by preparing and identifying novel dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory peptides from goat milk (GM) whey protein. Papain was used to hydrolyze the GM whey protein. After purification by ultrafiltration, the Sephadex column, and preparative RP‐HPLC, the peptide inhibited DPP‐IV, α‐glucosidase, and α‐amylase with IC50 of 0.34, 0.37, and 0.72 mg/mL, respectively. To further explore the inhibitory mechanism of peptides on DPP‐IV, SPPEFLR, LDADGSY, YPVEPFT, and FNPTY were identified and synthesized for the first time, with IC50 values of 56.22, 52.16, 175.7, and 62.32 µM, respectively. Molecular docking and dynamics results show that SPPEFLR, LDADGSY, and FNPTY bind more tightly to the active pocket of DPP‐IV, which was consistent with the in vitro activity. Furthermore, the first three N‐terminals of SPPEFLR and FNPTY peptides exhibit proline characteristics and competitively inhibit DPP‐IV. Notably, the first N‐terminal leucine of LDADGSY may play a key role in inhibiting DPP‐IV.
Improvements in the color, phytochemical, and antioxidant properties of frozen ripe mango pieces using calcium chloride dipping and chitosan coating
Authors: Saikaew Kawinchaya , Siripornadulsil Wilailak , Siripornadulsil Surasak
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to investigate the influences of a dipping/coating composed of calcium chloride (CaCl2) or chitosan on the quality of ripe mango pieces during frozen storage for 6 months. The fruits were dipped in solutions with concentrations of 0.5% and 1% for different times (15 or 30 min for CaCl2 and 1 or 15 min for chitosan). We found that treatment with 1% CaCl2 for 30 min significantly retarded the color changes with the highest L* (p < 0.05) and the lowest of b* and ∆E (p ≥ 0.05). Interestingly, treatment with 0.5% CaCl2 for 30 min significantly preserved the contents of total phenolics and total flavonoids and the antioxidant activities at values higher than the control levels, as determined by DPPH and ABTS assays (p < 0.05). Moreover, treatment with 0.5%–1% chitosan for 1 min effectively delayed the loss of moisture and weight. The results indicate that dipping in CaCl2 is an alternative simple food processing technique for improving the quality of ripe mango pieces during frozen storage that effectively delays the color changes and preserves the antioxidant content and activity.

Highlights

The coating of frozen ripe mango pieces with CaCl2 and chitosan was first investigated.

CaCl2 effectively retarded the color change during storage and after thawing.

Chitosan effectively delayed the loss of moisture and weight of mango pulp.

Coating with 0.5% CaCl2 for 30 min maintained the phytochemicals and antioxidant activities.

Coating treatment can preserve mango qualities and could be commercialized with cost savings.

Practical Application

The present article proposes a strategy that effectively delays the physicochemical changes and preserves the nutritional properties of mango fruit and could be commercialized with cost savings. A frozen mango can either be consumed (ready‐to‐eat frozen mango) or used as a food raw material.
Plus Token and investor searching behaviour – A cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme
Authors: Zhang Shuyu , Zhang Dunli , Zheng Jianming , Aerts Walter , Xu Dandan
Published: July 2023

In July 2020, the Chinese government warned that the Plus Token was a Ponzi scheme based on blockchain. More than 200 million investors were involved in this scam. We investigate how investors' search behaviour is associated with their decision making. We find that the bitcoin bag of words Baidu index is positively and significantly related to bitcoins transferred to Plus Token addresses, suggesting that public prominence of searches about bitcoin and blockchain tends to be related to investor decisions regarding the Plus Token project.
Deleveraging for talents: Human capital reliance and corporate leverage
Authors: Liu YunGuo , Zheng Minghui , Xu Yue , Xie Sujuan
Published: July 2023

Using data from Chinese listed firms, we develop a measure of a firm's reliance on human capital that is based on its demand for highly educated employees. We find that a high reliance on human capital is linked to low corporate leverage, and this effect is more pronounced among firms at a high risk of human capital mobility and those facing high skilled‐labour adjustment costs. Our results indicate that firms strategically manage their capital structure to maintain financial flexibility, enabling them to effectively respond to the labour‐related costs associated with human capital losses and costly labour adjustments.
Immediate and lasting effects of different regulation of craving strategies on cue‐induced craving and the late positive potential in smokers
Authors: Nickel Solvej , Endrass Tanja , Dieterich Raoul
Published: July 2023

Craving, induced by substance‐related cues, contributes to continued substance use and relapse. Therefore, regulation of craving (ROC) is important for treatment success. Distraction involves disengaging from craving‐inducing cues; whereas, reappraisal requires engaging with potential risks of substance use. Given this difference in elaboration, we addressed the question whether reappraisal entails lasting advantages over distraction in successful ROC. To elucidate how this is implemented neurally, we examined the late positive potential (LPP) as an electrocortical indicator of motivated attention to cues. N = 62 smokers viewed smoking‐related pictures and indicated the degree of craving each picture induced. While viewing the pictures, EEG was recorded, and the participants focused on the long‐term negative (LATER) or short‐term positive (NOW) consequences of smoking or performed an arithmetic task to distract themselves from processing the pictures (DISTRACT). After a break, all pictures were presented again without regulation instruction (re‐exposure). Results revealed that LATER and DISTRACT achieved similar degrees of immediate ROC success, but only LATER had a sustained effect during re‐exposure. In contrast, LPP amplitudes were more prominently reduced during DISTRACT than LATER, and there was no difference in LPP amplitudes during re‐exposure. These findings imply that it may be beneficial to engage with the risks of drug use (reappraisal) rather than avoiding triggers of craving (distraction). However, these effects do not seem to be mediated by lasting changes in cue‐related motivated attention (LPP).
Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis with atopic, nonatopic, and sans asthma—Factor analysis
Authors: Okada Naoki , Yamamoto Yoshiro , Oguma Tsuyoshi , Tanaka Jun , Tomomatsu Katsuyoshi , Shiraishi Yoshiki , Matsuse Hiroto , Shimoda Terufumi , Kimura Hirokazu , Watai Kentaro , Harada Toshiyuki , Fujita Yuka , Obase Yasushi , Suzukawa Maho , Suzuki Junko , Takayanagi Noboru , Ishiguro Takashi , Masaki Katsunori , Fukunaga Koichi , Asano Koichiro
Published: July 2023

Background

Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) develops in the presence or absence of asthma, either atopic or nonatopic. We have tried to explore the essential components in the pathogenesis of the disease, which are either consistent and variable according to the presence and type of asthma.

Methods

Non‐cystic fibrosis ABPA cases satisfying Asano's criteria were extracted from a prospective registry of ABPA and related diseases in Japan between 2013 and 2023. According to the type of preceding asthma, ABPA was classified into three groups: ABPA sans asthma (no preceding asthma), ABPA with atopic asthma, and ABPA with nonatopic asthma. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed to identify the components that determined the clinical characteristics of ABPA.

Results

Among 106 cases of ABPA, 25 patients (24%) had ABPA sans asthma, whereas 57 (54%) and 24 (23%) had ABPA with atopic and nonatopic asthma, respectively. Factor analysis identified three components: allergic, eosinophilic, and fungal. Patients with atopic asthma showed the highest scores for the allergic component (p < .001), defined by total and allergen‐specific IgE titers and lung opacities, and the lowest scores for the fungal component defined by the presence of specific precipitin/IgG or positive culture for A. fumigatus. Eosinophilic components, including peripheral blood eosinophil counts and presence of mucus plugs/high attenuation mucus in the bronchi, were consistent among the three groups.

Conclusion

The eosinophilic component of ABPA is considered as the cardinal feature of ABPA regardless of the presence of preceding asthma or atopic predisposition.
Women in surgery: trends in nine surgical specialties
Authors: Graham Vaite , Arora Bharti
Published: July 2023

Background

Gender disparity in surgery remains an issue worldwide. We analysed the trends in gender distribution in surgical subspecialties across Australia and New Zealand over the last 8 years.

Methods

Workforce reports from the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons were reviewed from 2014 to 2021. Data relating to 4802 applicants, 1554 trainees and 6839 active surgeons across nine surgical subspecialties was analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using a difference of proportions hypothesis test. Predictions regarding time to parity were performed using a linear regression model.

Results

All nine surgical subspecialties' surgeon numbers saw a steady increase in the representation of women between 2014 and 2021. The most significant rise seen in general surgery from 14% to 21% (P ≤ 0.001). Proportions of women trainees were variable, the only significant rise was seen in orthopaedics from 9% to 19% (P ≤ 0.001). Proportions of women applicants and successful applicants have also been variable. General surgery saw the only consistent increase in women applicants over the last 6 years, from 35% in 2016 to 43% in 2021. Linear regression predictions estimate that paediatric surgery will be the first to reach gender parity in 23 years, and orthopaedics the last, in 186 years.

Conclusion

A steady increase in women has been observed across all surgical subspecialities over the last 8 years. However, estimates based on current trends suggest that gender parity may be out of reach for the next eight generations in subspecialties such as cardiothoracic and orthopaedic surgery.
Artificial intelligence for predicting acute appendicitis: a systematic review
Authors: Lam Antoinette , Squires Emily , Tan Sheryn , Swen Ng Jeng , Barilla Adriano , Kovoor Joshua , Gupta Aashray , Bacchi Stephen , Khurana Sanjeev
Published: July 2023

Background

Paediatric appendicitis may be challenging to diagnose, and outcomes difficult to predict. While diagnostic and prognostic scores exist, artificial intelligence (AI) may be able to assist with these tasks.

Method

A systematic review was conducted aiming to evaluate the currently available evidence regarding the use of AI in the diagnosis and prognostication of paediatric appendicitis. In accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, the databases PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched. This review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO.

Results

Ten studies met inclusion criteria. All studies described the derivation and validation of AI models, and none described evaluation of the implementation of these models. Commonly used input parameters included varying combinations of demographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics. While multiple studies used histopathological examination as the ground truth for a diagnosis of appendicitis, less robust techniques, such as the use of ICD10 codes, were also employed. Commonly used algorithms have included random forest models and artificial neural networks. High levels of model performance have been described for diagnosis of appendicitis and, to a lesser extent, subtypes of appendicitis (such as complicated versus uncomplicated appendicitis). Most studies did not provide all measures of model performance required to assess clinical usability.

Conclusions

The available evidence suggests the creation of prediction models for diagnosis and classification of appendicitis using AI techniques, is being increasingly explored. However, further implementation studies are required to demonstrate benefit in system or patient‐centred outcomes with model deployment and to progress these models to the stage of clinical usability.