bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A complex between IF2 and NusA links transcription and translation
Authors: Metelev Mikhail , Johansson Magnus
Published: September 2024

The main function of translation initiation factors is to assist ribosomes in selecting the correct reading frame on an mRNA. This process has been extensively studied with the help of reconstituted in vitro systems, but the dynamics in living cells have not been characterized. In this study, we performed single-molecule tracking of the bacterial initiation factors IF2, IF3, as well as the initiator fMet-tRNAfMetdirectly in growingEscherichia colicells. Our results reveal the kinetics of factor association with the ribosome and, among other things, highlight the respective antagonistic roles of IF2 and IF3 in the process. Importantly, our comparisons of in vivo binding kinetics of the two naturally occurring isoforms of IF2 reveal that the longer IF2α isoform directly interacts with the transcriptional factor NusA, a finding further corroborated by pull-down and cross-linking experiments. We further show that cells with compromised binding between IF2α and NusA display slow adaptation to new growth conditions. Taken together, these results suggest a novel coupling mechanism between transcription and translation initiation, important for the rewiring of the transcriptome during a shift of growth media.
Leveraging Synthetic Virology for the Rapid Engineering of Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV)
Authors: Moles Chad M. , Basu Rupsa , Weijmarshausen Peter , Ho Brenda , Farhat Manal , Flaat Taylor , Smith Bruce F.
Published: September 2024

Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is a prototype RNA virus that has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of viral molecular biology and has applications in vaccine development, cancer therapy, antiviral screening, and more. Current VSV genome plasmids for purchase or contract virus services provide limited options for modification, restricted to predefined cloning sites and insert locations. Improved methods and tools to engineer VSV will unlock further insights in long-standing virology questions and new opportunities for innovative therapies. Here, we report the design and construction of a full-length VSV genome. The 11,161 base pair synthetic VSV (synVSV) was assembled from four modularized DNA fragments. Following rescue and titration, phenotypic analysis showed no significant differences between natural and synthetic viruses. To demonstrate the utility of a synthetic virology platform, we then engineered VSV with a foreign glycoprotein, a common use case for studying viral entry and developing anti-virals. To show the freedom-of-design afforded by this platform, we then modified the genome of VSV by rearranging the gene order, switching the positions of VSV-P and VSV-M genes. This work represents a significant technical advance, providing a flexible, cost-efficient platform for the rapid construction of VSV genomes, facilitating the development of innovative therapies.
Combined PARP14 Inhibition and PD-1 Blockade Promotes Cytotoxic T Cell Quiescence and Modulates Macrophage Polarization in Relapsed Melanoma
Authors: Leshem Rotem , Sefton Kieran N. , Wong Chun Wai , Lin I-Hsuan , Isaac Dervla T. , Niepel Mario , Hurlstone Adam F.L.
Published: September 2024

Programmed Cell Death 1 (PD-1) signaling blockade effectively restores immune surveillance to treat melanoma. However, chronic interferon-gamma (IFNγ) -driven immune homeostatic mechanisms in melanoma cells contribute to immune evasion and acquired resistance. We previously demonstrated that poly ADP ribosyl polymerase 14 (PARP14), an IFNγ-responsive gene product, in part mediates IFNγ-driven resistance, as its inhibition prolonged PD-1 blockade responses in preclinical models. Nevertheless, PARP14 inhibition alone could not achieve full tumor clearance, indicating additional resistance mechanisms. Herein, we identify a robust PARP14 catalytic inhibitor (PARP14i) gene signature associated with improved patient survival. We elucidate immune and tumor cell adaptations to PARP14 inhibition combined with PD-1 blockade using preclinical models. This combination therapy suppressed tumor-associated macrophages while increasing pro-inflammatory memory macrophages. Notably, it preserved cytotoxic T cell function by inducing a quiescent state, mitigating terminal exhaustion. Despite enhancing immune responses, adaptive resistance mechanisms emerged in tumor cells, engaging alternative immune evasion pathways. These findings indicate that this combination therapy primes immune cells for further therapeutic intervention, providing a promising strategy to overcome resistance and optimize treatment outcomes.

While immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as α-PD-1 therapy, provide significant clinical benefits, many tumors develop resistance and relapse. Re-treatment with α-PD-1 often fails because T cells lose their function (a process called exhaustion), and immune-suppressing cells like tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) increase in the tumor environment, enabling tumors to evade immune attack.

Recent studies have shown that a small molecule inhibitor of PARP14 can restore sensitivity to α-PD-1 therapy by remodeling the tumor environment. This includes increasing immune cell infiltration and improving antigen presentation, which helps the immune system recognize tumor cells.

Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we discovered that this therapy induces a new state of T cell dormancy, where cytotoxic T cells temporarily stop attacking but retain the potential to be reactivated by additional treatments. This finding opens new opportunities to sustain immune responses and improve outcomes for patients who relapse after immunotherapy.

Graphical Summary
Whole genome methylation sequencing in blood from persons with mild cognitive impairment and dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease identifies cognitive status
Authors: Madrid Andy , Papale Ligia A. , Bergmann Phillip E. , Breen Coleman , Clark Lindsay R. , Asthana Sanjay , Johnson Sterling C. , Keleş Sündüz , Hogan Kirk J. , Alisch Reid S.
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

Whole genome methylation sequencing (WGMS) in blood identifies differential DNA methylation in persons with late-onset dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) but has not been tested in persons with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

METHODS

We used WGMS to compare DNA methylation levels at 25,244,219 CpG loci in 382 blood samples from 99 persons with MCI, 109 with AD, and 174 who are cognitively unimpaired (CU).

RESULTS

WGMS identified 9,756 differentially methylated positions (DMPs) in persons with MCI, including 1,743 differentially methylated genes encoding proteins in biological pathways related to synapse organization, dendrite development, and ion transport. 447 DMPs exhibit progressively increasing or decreasing DNA methylation levels between CU, MCI, and AD that correspond to cognitive status.

DISCUSSION

WGMS identifies DMPs in known and newly detected genes in blood from persons with MCI and AD that support blood DNA methylation levels as candidate biomarkers of cognitive status.
Assessing neurocognitive maturation in early adolescence based on baby and adult functional brain landscapes
Authors: Kardan Omid , Jones Natasha , Wheelock Muriah D. , Michael Cleanthis , Angstadt Mike , Molloy M. Fiona , Cope Lora M. , Martz Meghan M. , McCurry Katherine L. , Hardee Jillian E. , Rosenberg Monica D. , Weigard Alexander S. , Hyde Luke W. , Sripada Chandra , Heitzeg Mary M.
Published: September 2024

Adolescence is a period of growth in cognitive performance and functioning. Recently, data-driven measures of brain-age gap, which can index cognitive decline in older populations, have been utilized in adolescent data with mixed findings. Instead of using a data-driven approach, here we assess the maturation status of the brain functional landscape in early adolescence by directly comparing an individual’s resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) to the canonical early-life and adulthood communities. Specifically, we hypothesized that the degree to which a youth’s connectome is better captured by adult networks compared to infant/toddler networks is predictive of their cognitive development. To test this hypothesis across individuals and longitudinally, we utilized the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study at baseline (9-10 years; n = 6,489) and 2-year-follow-up (Y2: 11-12 years; n = 5,089). Adjusted for demographic factors, our anchored rsFC score (AFC) was associated with better task performance both across and within participants. AFC was related to age and aging across youth, and change in AFC statistically mediated the age-related change in task performance. In conclusion, we showed that a model-fitting-free index of the brain at rest that is anchored to both adult and baby connectivity landscapes predicts cognitive performance and development in youth.
Occurrence of “under-the-radar” antibiotic resistance in anthropogenically affected produce
Authors: Davidovich Chagai , Erokhina Kseniia , Gupta Chhedi Lal , Zhu Yong-Guan , Su Jian-Qiang , Djordjevic Steven P. , Wyrsch Ethan R. , Blum Shlomo , Cytryn Eddie
Published: September 2024

With global climate change, treated-wastewater (TWW) irrigation and manure amendment are becoming increasingly important in sustainable agriculture in water- and nutrient-stressed regions. Yet, these practices can potentially disseminate pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) determinants to crops, resulting in serious health risks to humans through the food chain. Previous studies demonstrated that pathogen and AMR indicators from wastewater and manure survive poorly in the environment, suggesting that ecological barriers prevent their dissemination. However, we recently found that these elements can persist below detection levels in low quality TWW-irrigated soil, and potentially proliferate under favorable conditions. This “under the radar” phenomenon was further investigated here, in TWW irrigated- and poultry litter-amended lettuce plants, using an enrichment platform that resembles gut conditions, and an analytical approach that combined molecular and cultivation-based techniques. Enrichment uncovered clinically-relevant multidrug resistant pathogen indicators and a myriad of antibiotic resistance genes in the litter amended and TWW-irrigated lettuce that were not detected by direct analyses, or in the enriched freshwater irrigated samples. Selected resistantE. coliisolates were capable of horizontally transferring plasmids carrying multiple resistance genes to a susceptible strain. Overall, our study underlines the hidden risks of under-the-radar pathogen and AMR determinants in anthropogenically affected agroenvironments, providing a novel platform to improve quantitative microbial risk assessment models in the future.
Capture, mutual inhibition and release mechanism for aPKC-Par6 and its multi-site polarity substrate Lgl
Authors: Earl Christopher P. , Cobbaut Mathias , Barros-Carvalho André , Ivanova Marina E. , Briggs David C. , Morais-de-Sá Eurico , Parker Peter J. , McDonald Neil Q.
Published: September 2024

The mutually antagonistic kinase-substrate relationship between the apical aPKC-Par6 heterodimer and the basolateral substrate Lgl is key to the establishment and maintenance of cell polarity across metazoa. Although aPKC-Par6 can phosphorylate Lgl at three serine sites to exclude it from the apical domain, paradoxically, aPKC-Par6 and Lgl can also form a stable kinase-substrate complex whose function remains unclear and with conflicting roles proposed for Par6. We report the structure of human aPKCι-Par6α bound to full-length Llgl1, captured through an aPKCι docking site and a Par6PDZcontact. This soluble tripartite complex traps a phospho-S663 Llgl1 intermediate bridging between aPKC and Par6, impeding phosphorylation progression. Thus, aPKCι is effectively inhibited by Llgl1pS663whilst Llgl1 is captured by aPKCι-Par6. Mutational disruption of Lgl-aPKC interaction impedes complex assembly and Lgl phosphorylation, whereas disrupting the Lgl-Par6PDZcontact promotes complex dissociation and completion of Lgl phosphorylation cycle. We incorporate these findings into a Par6PDZ-regulated substrate capture-and-release model that we demonstrate requires binding by Cdc42-GTP and the apical partner Crumbs to drive complex disassembly. Our results provide an explanation for the opposing roles of Par6 underpinning the spatial control of aPKC-Par6 activity by Lgl relevant to polarised membrane contexts across multi-cellular organisms.
Biosynthesis of the α-D-Mannosidase Inhibitor (–)-Swainsonine
Authors: Liu Shaonan , Batool Zainab , Hai Yang
Published: September 2024

(–)-Swainsonine is a polyhydroxylated indolizidine alkaloid with potent inhibitory activity against α-D-mannosidases. In this work, we successfully reconstituted swainsonine biosynthetic pathway both in vivo and in vitro. Our study unveiled an unexpected epimerization mechanism involving two α-ketoglutarate-dependent non-heme iron dioxygenases (SwnH2 and SwnH1), and an unusual imine reductase (SwnN), which displays substrate-dependent stereospecificity. The stereochemical outcome of SwnN-catalyzed iminium reduction is ultimately dictated by SwnH1-catalyzed C8-hydroxylation. We also serendipitously discovered that anO-acetyl group can serve as a detachable protecting/directing group, altering the site-selectivity of SwnH2-catalyzed hydroxylation while maintaining the stereoselectivity. Insights gained from the biochemical characterization of these tailoring enzymes enabled biocatalytic synthesis of a new polyhydroxylated indolizidine alkaloid, opening doors to the biosynthesis of diverse natural product-based glycosidase inhibitors.
Ballistic and delayed photodissociation channels in the
B̃ 2A11
state of water studied with resonant inelastic x-ray scattering
Authors: Ignatova Nina , Kimberg Victor , Gel'mukhanov Faris , Pietzsch Annette , Eckert Sebastian , Fondell Mattis , Kennedy Brian , Dantz Marcus , Schmitt Thorsten , Odelius Michael , Föhlisch Alexander , Vaz da Cruz Vinícius
Published: September 2024

Photodissociation is one of the most important photoinduced chemical reactions. It occurs when the potential energy curve along a chemical bond is repulsive in an excited state. Typically, “ballistic” ultrafast dissociation leads to the broadening of absorption resonances and the smearing out of vibrational fine-structure. We report on the photodissociation of H2O in the B̃ 2A11 electronic state, characterized by a |3a1−14a11〉 configuration, which can be reached via resonant inelastic x-ray scattering or direct ultraviolet absorption. In both cases the spectra show narrow vibrational resonances, in spite of the dissociative character of the state. We find that “delayed” dissociation pathways, caused by reflection of the nuclear wave packet, are responsible for this effect. In spite of the analogous topology of the potential energy surfaces of the core- and valence-excited states, the reflection of the wave packet takes place only in the latter. The two-dimensional wave packet of the O-H stretching coordinates becomes trapped in a “cavity” near the Franck-Condon region, resulting from a mismatch between the OH vibrational frequency in the cavity and the one at the dissociation limit.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Rydberg-atom-based system for benchmarking millimeter-wave automotive radar chips
Authors: Borówka Sebastian , Krokosz Wiktor , Mazelanik Mateusz , Wasilewski Wojciech , Parniak Michał
Published: September 2024

Rydberg atomic sensors and receivers have enabled sensitive and traceable measurements of rf fields at a wide range of frequencies. Here, we demonstrate the detection of electric field amplitude in the extremely-high-frequency (EHF) band, at 131GHz. In our approach, we propagate the EHF field in a beam, with control over its direction and polarization at the detector using photonic wave plates. This way, we take advantage of the highest detection sensitivity, registered for collinear propagation and circular polarization. To exhibit the potential for applications in this kind of Rydberg-atom-based detection, we perform test measurements on the EHF field emitted from an on-chip radar, which is designed to be used in the automotive industry as a vital sign detector. Our work elucidates practical applications of Rydberg-atom media and photonic metamaterial elements.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Magnetic field effect on hadron yield ratios and fluctuations in a hadron resonance gas
Authors: Vovchenko Volodymyr
Published: September 2024

This work studies the influence of an external magnetic field on hadron yields and fluctuations in a hadron resonance gas by performing calculations within an updated version of the open-source package. The presence of the magnetic field has a sizable influence on certain hadron yield ratios. Most notably, it leads to enhanced p/π and suppressed n/p ratios, which may serve as a magnetometer in heavy-ion collisions. By attributing the centrality dependence of the p/π ratio in Pb-Pb collisions at 5.02 TeV measured by the ALICE Collaboration entirely to the magnetic field, its maximal strength at freezeout is estimated to be eB≃0.12GeV2≃6.3mπ2 in peripheral collisions. The magnetic field also enhances various conserved charge susceptibilities, which is qualitatively consistent with recent lattice QCD data and is driven in the HRG model by the increase of hadron densities. However, the variances of hadrons do not show any enhancement when normalized by the means, therefore, measurements of second-order fluctuations in heavy-ion collisions appear to offer limited additional information about the magnetic field relative to mean multiplicities.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Undergraduate physics students’ experiences: Exploring the impact of underrepresented identities and intersectionality
Authors: Keblbeck D. K. , Piatek-Jimenez K. , Medina Medina C.
Published: September 2024

Historically, physics has been a predominantly male field, with previous literature showing that there is little diversity among U.S. physics students at the undergraduate and graduate levels or among physicists within the work force. Recent research indicates that the lack of diversity in physics is partially due to an unwelcoming climate within physics departments, as well as differential experiences during college. Most physics education research that addresses the lack of underrepresented identities within the field has focused on the identities of women and people of color. There has been little research to investigate people with multiple underrepresented identities, including those such as socioeconomic status, first-generation college students, or learning disabilities. Furthermore, there has been even less research conducted to better understand the impacts of the intersection of these underrepresented identities and how it relates to experiences when pursuing a physics major. In order to address this gap in the literature, our research project has investigated undergraduate physics students’ experiences to better understand what factors affect their experiences and how these may differ by the intersection of one’s underrepresented identities. In particular, we explored how these identities impact their experiences as a physics major. To achieve this goal, we conducted a series of in-depth interviews with physics majors at one university to learn more about their college experiences regarding physics. Our findings suggest that there is a disproportionate number of obstacles when pursuing a physics major faced by those with a greater number of underrepresented identities. We conclude that there is a need for more equitable pedagogical practices and departmental policies within the undergraduate physics experience, in addition to a more “human” approach to mentorship, in order to foster an environment in which students with underrepresented identities can feel supported and thrive academically and professionally. In particular, we believe that dedicated formal pedagogical trainings that teach diverse teaching skills to accommodate students with different learning styles would be useful to many university physics instructors. This type of formal training would include annual workshops designed to educate faculty on how curriculum, pedagogy, and departmental practices can be altered to be more inclusive with the intent to ensure a more equitable and welcoming experience for all students. Additionally, incorporating mentorship programs that focus on a more individualized and natural support system would likely benefit all students, especially those with underrepresented identities, by creating a more welcoming and inclusive space within physics departments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Optimal radar ranging pulse to resolve two reflectors
Authors: Jordan Andrew N. , Howell John C. , Kempf Achim , Zhang Shunxing , White Derek
Published: September 2024

Previous work established fundamental bounds on subwavelength resolution for the radar range resolution problem, called superradar []. In this work, we identify the optimal waveforms for distinguishing the range resolution between two reflectors of identical strength, leveraging results in quantum metrology. We discuss both the unnormalized optimal waveform as well as the best square-integrable pulse and their variants. Using orthogonal function theory, we give an explicit algorithm to optimize the wave pulse in finite time to have the best performance. We also explore range resolution estimation with unnormalized waveforms with multiparameter methods to also independently estimate loss and time of arrival. These results are consistent with the earlier single parameter approach of range resolution only and give deeper insight into the ranging estimation problem. Experimental results are presented using radio pulse reflections inside coaxial cables, showing robust range resolution smaller than a tenth of the inverse bandlimit, with uncertainties close to the derived Cramér-Rao bound.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Differentiation in perceived organizational support and knowledge sharing of outsourced employees – a cross-hierarchy moderating model
Authors: Qin Chuanyan , Wang Pengcheng , Liu Shanshi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Outsourcing has become a crucial avenue for companies to acquire external knowledge. To better understand how dual organizational supports influence the knowledge sharing behavior of outsourced employees within triangular employment relationships, grounded in social exchange theory, this study explores the effect and mechanism of differentiation in perceived organizational support (DPOS) on knowledge sharing of outsourced employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-wave survey was conducted to test the hypotheses, and data were collected from 271 outsourced employees and their leaders (from client organizations) in 52 interorganizational teams.

Findings

Results show that DPOS positively affect the knowledge sharing of outsourced employees and has a stronger predictive value than that of client organizational support. Outsourced employees’ psychological ownership to the interorganizational team mediates this relationship. Task interdependence plays a positive cross-hierarchy moderating role in the relationship between DPOS and psychological ownership to the interorganizational team.

Practical implications

This research provides practical advice for support strategies of client and supplier organizations.

Originality/value

Results provide further understanding for outsourced employees’ psychological and behavioral mode in triangular employment contexts.
Analysis of efficient discretization technique for nonlinear integral equations of Hammerstein type
Authors: Bhat Imtiyaz Ahmad , Mishra Lakshmi Narayan , Mishra Vishnu Narayan , Tunç Cemil
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study focuses on investigating the numerical solution of second-kind nonlinear Volterra–Fredholm–Hammerstein integral equations (NVFHIEs) by discretization technique. The purpose of this paper is to develop an efficient and accurate method for solving NVFHIEs, which are crucial for modeling systems with memory and cumulative effects, integrating past and present influences with nonlinear interactions. They are widely applied in control theory, population dynamics and physics. These equations are essential for solving complex real-world problems.

Design/methodology/approach

Demonstrating the solution’s existence and uniqueness in the equation is accomplished by using the Picard iterative method as a key technique. Using the trapezoidal discretization method is the chosen approach for numerically approximating the solution, yielding a nonlinear system of algebraic equations. The trapezoidal method (TM) exhibits quadratic convergence to the solution, supported by the application of a discrete Grönwall inequality. A novel Grönwall inequality is introduced to demonstrate the convergence of the considered method. This approach enables a detailed analysis of the equation’s behavior and facilitates the development of a robust solution method.

Findings

The numerical results conclusively show that the proposed method is highly efficacious in solving NVFHIEs, significantly reducing computational effort. Numerical examples and comparisons underscore the method’s practicality, effectiveness and reliability, confirming its outstanding performance compared to the referenced method.

Originality/value

Unlike existing approaches that rely on a combination of methods to tackle different aspects of the complex problems, especially nonlinear integral equations, the current approach presents a significant single-method solution, providing a comprehensive approach to solving the entire problem. Furthermore, the present work introduces the first numerical approaches for the considered integral equation, which has not been previously explored in the existing literature. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the work is the first to address this equation, providing a foundational contribution for future research and applications. This innovative strategy not only simplifies the computational process but also offers a more comprehensive understanding of the problem’s dynamics.
Lesson study in Content and Language Integrated Learning: making young case pupils’ learning visible through English alongside translanguaging and trans-semiotising
Authors: Frank Schmid Silvia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The paper reports how lesson study helped to make the learning of students with limited English competencies visible in Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL).

Design/methodology/approach

The two lesson study cycles took place in a Swiss primary school with a focus on three case pupils each with heterogeneous attainment levels in English. The research group observed how the case pupils coped with learning English integrated with art, crafts, and sports in four research lessons. Following a case study methodology, the research focussed on how the case pupils used their limited English language competencies complemented with multilingual and multimodal means to make their learning visible.

Findings

Thanks to the close observations of students’ learning and the detailed analysis thereof as a cooperative effort of the research group, the lesson study revealed that the case pupils used varied means to express their learning partly depending on their levels of English.

Research limitations/implications

This small-scale case study only describes data collected from four research lessons based on a total of 12 case pupils.

Originality/value

Commonly during lesson study, the students’ learning is captured through the verbal language they use. But if the research lesson takes place in a foreign language setting in which students’ language competencies are limited in expressing their learning, other languages and modes of communication must be considered. To date, there are few papers on how lesson study helps to explore learners’ use of so-called translanguaging and trans-semiotising.
Moderation of OM practice effectiveness by organizational culture profile: contingency vs paradox perspective
Authors: Bortolotti Thomas , Boscari Stefania , Danese Pamela , Flynn Barbara Bechler
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates how a firm’s organizational culture profile (configuration of organizational culture types) influences the effectiveness of operations management (OM) practices in improving their targeted outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

We developed alternative hypotheses based on contingency and paradox perspectives to predict the effectiveness of OM practices in dominant (one prevalent organizational culture type) vs eclectic (opposing organizational culture types at a similar level) organizational culture profiles. They were tested using data from over 7,000 respondents across 330 manufacturing plants in 15 countries.

Findings

Consistent with contingency theory, OM practices oriented toward innovation are more efficacious in plants with an adhocracy-dominant organizational culture profile and practices targeting supply chain (SC) control are less effective in a clan-dominant organizational culture profile. Consistent with paradox theory, OM practices oriented toward efficiency or SC control are more effective in plants with an eclectic organizational culture profile.

Practical implications

This study offers relevant practical implications regarding the effectiveness of various OM practices, whether they are used in an aligned dominant organizational culture profile or in an eclectic organizational culture profile.

Originality/value

Previous research on organizational culture provides a limited understanding of the effectiveness of OM practices in the presence of strategic tensions, such as opposing organizational cultures or opposing targeted outcomes. This research concludes that the validity of the contingency or paradox perspective depends on strategic tensions faced, with important implications for research and practice.
Exploring the hierarchy of motivations in the wine purchase behavior of Chinese young wine consumers
Authors: Peng Dingkang , Huang Chia-Hsing
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the hierarchy of motivations behind Chinese young wine consumers’ wine-purchasing behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a random and snowball sampling technique to collect data from Chinese young wine consumers. Ultimately, 840 participants were included, representing diverse geographic regions across China. The gathered data was analyzed to explore wine customer behavior using SPSS and AMOS.

Findings

The hierarchical structure of motivations guiding young consumers’ wine consumption becomes apparent when analyzed across ascending levels: from considerations of health benefits and emotional assessments to social interactions and status symbols. These factors wield significant influence over the purchase of wines among Chinese young wine consumers. Moreover, these consumption motivations notably impact consumption behavior by mediating through consumption intentions.

Originality/value

This study integrates the theory of planned behavior with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, systematically identifying four primary motivations that hierarchically influence wine consumption among Chinese young wine consumers. It empirically validates the relationships between motivations, intentions and behaviors, underscoring intentions as a mediating factor linking motivations and behaviors.
The differentiated roles of digitalization in firms’ value chain activities: a double-edged sword?
Authors: Tian Meng , Huang Wei , Hu Chuan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Building on the value chain model, this study develops a theoretical framework to illustrate the associations between digitalization and firms’ value chain activities from three typical dimensions including R&D investment, manufacturing cost efficiency and marketing cost efficiency. The roles of unabsorbed and absorbed slack resources in their relationships are also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon a large sample of Chinese manufacturing firms from 2016 to 2020 and then employing text mining-based analysis and the multiple regression model, this study empirically tests the effects of digitalization on firms’ value chain activities and how these effects are moderated by slack resources.

Findings

The findings show that increase in digitalization leads to an increase in firms’ R&D investment and a decline in manufacturing cost, but results in an increase in marketing cost. In addition, the unabsorbed slack resources and absorbed slack resources play differentiated roles in the associations between digitalization and these value chain activities.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the debate on how digitalization facilitates or hinders the value increment by employing the value chain model and further analyzing the impacts of digitalization on three value chain dimensions: R&D investment, manufacturing cost efficiency and marketing cost efficiency. This study extends the possibility that the influences of digitalization on different value chain dimensions may vary depending on some key contingency factors such as unabsorbed and absorbed slack resources.
Estimation of green total factor productivity and green efficiency in Jordan based on the Super-SBM model
Authors: Al-Majali Ahmad A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The study aims to estimate Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP) and green efficiency in Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the Super-SBM model.

Findings

The study found significant progress in green factor productivity from 2014 to 2022, more significant than the total ordinary productivity. Also, environmental efficiency rebounded to reach its peak in the period from 2020 to 2022, where the efficiency value reached one, which can be attributed to the government's adoption of many policies focusing on using green energy methods in production processes, especially in the use of solar energy and waste recycling, and the use of energy-saving machines, particularly encouraging the use of electric cars.

Originality/value

The primary contribution of this study can be summarized in evaluating the results of growth calculation with the results of the Super-SBM model to calculate green efficiency by identifying appropriate and undesirable outputs. This provides a new perspective in studying GTFP and fills the gap in the theoretical understanding of green development strategy.
The relational embeddedness in the context of multinational subsidiaries: in search of new avenues
Authors: Isaac Victor Ragazzi , Borini Felipe Mendes , Oliveira Jr. Moacir de Miranda
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The scholarly discourse concerning the significance of relational embeddedness within multinational corporation (MNC) subsidiaries has reached a stage of maturity, albeit with fragmentation. In light of this, this paper aims to delineate hot topics that can serve as a promising research trajectory for future investigations into the phenomenon of relational embeddedness in MNC subsidiaries.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a systematic literature review, the authors examined 66 articles published between 1998 and 2022, sourced from two prominent databases: Scopus and Web of Science. To ensure the rigor of the investigation, the authors specifically focused on articles published in journals accredited with a minimum two-star rating according to the ABS (2021) criteria.

Findings

In the systematic review, the authors delineated four principal themes addressed in the literature concerning subsidiaries and relational embeddedness. Within these themes, the authors identified five underexplored research avenues that hold promise for future studies on relational embeddedness within the context of subsidiaries: (a) the question of the dark side of relational embeddedness, (b) the development of a global construct for relational embeddedness, (c) understanding how the social factors of relational embeddedness relate to each other, (d) the gains that local partners have in developing relational embeddedness with subsidiaries of foreign MNCs and how this relationship is moderated by the institutional environment and (e) the impact of internal.

Research limitations/implications

While this study drew upon two major databases, future researchers are encouraged to explore alternative repositories to ensure the thoroughness of the findings. Another limitation of this study pertains to the chosen set of keywords, which did not encompass literature on innovation collaboration or knowledge flows within foreign subsidiaries. These areas are interconnected with the knowledge management literature and relational embeddedness, warranting attention in future investigations.

Practical implications

The managerial insights cater to two distinct cohorts: multinational subsidiary managers, equipping them with insights into leveraging relational strategies effectively and managers of partner companies, facilitating informed decision-making in optimizing access to subsidiary knowledge and resources.

Originality/value

In addition to facilitating the consolidation of fragmented literature, this study has identified five theoretical gaps that remain insufficiently explored within research utilizing the relational embeddedness framework in the context of MNC subsidiaries. Consequently, this research serves as an inaugural step for future investigations, elucidating specific avenues ripe for further exploration in the field.
Police accountability and officer misconduct: moderation effects by officers’ gender and race for body-worn cameras and an early intervention system
Authors: Freemon Kayla
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Much empirical work has examined body-worn cameras (BWCs), and there is a growing interest in early intervention systems (EISs) in policing. Whether the effects of these accountability mechanisms are stable by officer gender and race remains unknown – important assumptions of each program despite differences in misconduct levels and policing practices by subgroups of officers (i.e. male vs female officers, White vs Black and Hispanic officers).

Design/methodology/approach

The current study uses data from a large Southwestern police department to examine the influence of BWCs and an EIS on alleged and sustained patrol officer misconduct between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2020.

Findings

In line with expectations and the intended goal of these programs, the effects of BWCs and the EIS on officer misconduct were stable by officer gender and race.

Originality/value

Given the importance of addressing officer misconduct to build and maintain community trust and the rapid expansion of BWCs and EISs across the United States, it is vital that police departments consider the accountability programs they implement and the equity of these programs. The current study provides insight into this process in one agency and offers policy implications and directions for future research.
Longitudinal electrical resistivity tomography interpretation: Numerical modelling
Authors: Mukanova Balgaisha , Turarova Marzhan , Rakisheva Dilyara
Published: September 2024

This study conducts numerical simulations using the boundary integral equations method to model electric resistivity tomography for investigating an embankment dam. Computational speed is enhanced by formulating the direct problem in integral equations and employing the Fourier transform along the strike direction, thereby reducing the 2.5D problem to a set of 1D integral equations. Synthetic data obtained for potential installations are interpreted using the inversion programme ZondRes2D. The impact of varying dam slope angles and the resistivity of interfacing media on interpretation outcomes is systematically evaluated across different dam models. Main geometric anomalies associated with the three‐dimensional structure of the dam are described.
Lessons learned from Dread darknet communities: How and why are fraudsters targeting the elderly to be victims or accomplices?
Authors: Logie Kenji , Das Sumita
Published: September 2024

Research Summary

We examined darknet user discussions on the Dread forum to identify key themes and emerging topics in fraud planning, focusing additionally on elderly victimization. Using the conceptual framework of criminogenic learning to study the process of fraud planning in darknet communities of practice, we analyzed the content of original user posts (n = 818) and comments (n = 1365) collected from the Dread forum. We identified nine unique fraud categories, of which payments‐related fraud was the most‐discussed fraud category and accounted for 25% of original user posts. We further found our sampled forum content to be dominated by the theme of learning or knowledge sharing in eight of the nine fraud categories, which appeared in more than 44% of original user posts. Our content analysis revealed specific insights into why and how darknet forum users may target people, including the elderly subpopulation, for different types of fraud. Overall, our research demonstrates the diversity of opinion and knowledge sharing among darknet forum users in relation to planning and committing fraud against the elderly, views on who is a suitable target and why, and what veteran and aspiring fraudsters consider to be important information for success in fraud.

Policy Implications

Utilized independently or as part of a multistage strategy of darknet data analysis, our research method can be used to monitor criminally active darknet forums for current and emerging themes in fraud against general populations and vulnerable subpopulations, such as the elderly, and to develop strategies to identify, disrupt, or destroy hubs of criminal planning and knowledge sharing. Our study additionally informs policy makers of certain elder‐specific vulnerabilities that might be addressed by more up‐to‐date elder cybercrime awareness campaigns and initiatives. Our findings also highlight the presence of insider threats that may inform discussions on how health and financial institutions can better regulate these cybersecurity risks.
Effects of different processing methods on the lipid composition of seabuckthorn fruit oil based on lipidomics
Authors: Li Yazhuan , Wan Yilai , Chen Zhanglian , Wang Ting , Fu Xizhe , Zhao Yue , Liu Wenyu , Wei Changqing
Published: September 2024

Employing lipidomics, this study investigated the lipid composition of seabuckthorn fruit oil processed via supercritical CO2 extraction and centrifugal separation. Qualitative analysis showed that a total of 2861 lipid molecules were identified in seabuckthorn fruit oil. Quantitative analysis showed that the content of lipids in seabuckthorn fruit oil extracted by supercritical CO2 extraction (927,539.84 µg/mL) was significantly higher than that in centrifugal‐separated seabuckthorn fruit oil (735,717.63 µg/mL), with 17 distinct lipid classes and 215 lipid molecules differentiated through multivariate statistical analysis. Lipid molecules, such as diacylglycerol (DG), ceramides (Cer), monohexosyl ceramide, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and monogalactosyl DG, were predominantly found in the oil extracted using supercritical CO2. In contrast, monogalactosyl monoacylglycerol, diglycosyl ceramide, and Cer phosphate were significantly present in the oil extracted by centrifugal separation. These findings contribute new insights into how processing methods affect the quality and composition of seabuckthorn fruit oil and provide a basis for detecting oil adulteration.
Protective effects of sodium humate on the intestinal barrier damage of Salmonella Typhimurium‐challenged broilers
Authors: Ma Weiming , Zou Xing , Sun Xinyu , Wang Wenzhe , Liu Kexin , He Yanjun , Liu Yun , Wang Dong
Published: September 2024

Salmonella Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) infections can lead to severe intestinal damage and reduce growth performance in broilers. Thus, this study examined the potential mitigating impact of sodium humate (HNa) on intestinal barrier damage resulting from S. Typhimurium infection in broilers. A total of 320 1‐day‐old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly assigned into 5 treatments with 8 replicates. On d 22–24, broilers in the CON group were challenged with 1 ml of PBS, while broilers in the other groups were challenged with 1 ml of 3 × 109 CFU/ml S. Typhimurium, daily. Dietary administration with 4 g/kg of HNa increased (P < 0.05) the final body weight, jejunal secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA), total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC), total superoxide dismutase (T‐SOD), and catalase (CAT) levels as compared with the MOD group broilers. Furthermore, HNa alleviated intestinal barrier damage by increasing villus height (VH), upregulating protein expression of Occludin, Claudin‐1, and zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), inhibiting toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)/nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) signaling pathway activation, and decreasing the secretion of inflammatory cytokines (P < 0.05). Collectively, the present study showed that HNa mitigated intestinal barrier damage induced by S. Typhimurium infection in broilers.
Modelling antibody dynamics in humans after different Ad26.COV2.S vaccination schemes
Authors: Dari Anna , Pérez Ruixo Juan José , Le Gars Mathieu , Struyf Frank , Jacqmin Philippe
Published: September 2024

Aims

To develop a semimechanistic model that describes the kinetic profile and variability of antibody (Ab) concentrations following vaccination with Ad26.COV2.S at different doses and dosing intervals.

Methods

Data were collected from participants randomized into 5 clinical trials receiving the Ad26.COV2.S vaccine. The model considered key elements of humoral immune response, dose proportionality and the evolutionary processes of the immune response. Interindividual variability and covariates were explored.

Results

Fast and slow kinetic phases of Ab and their evolution over time were differentiated. After first and second administrations, Ab concentrations of both phases increased less than dose proportionally, indicating a saturation of B‐cell production processes. Ab concentrations produced during the fast kinetic phase increased significantly after the second administration, indicating an underlying evolutive process after antigen exposures. For the slow kinetic phase, a less pronounced increase occurred after the second and third administrations but was relatively higher in subjects who had low concentrations after the first administration. Ab concentrations of the slow phase were higher in females and decreased with age. After multiple administrations, the fast phase had Ab maximum concentrations about 5 times higher than the slow phase. The limiting kinetic factors in the fast and slow phases were the elimination rates of Ab itself and Ab producing cells, respectively.

Conclusion

The model appears suitable to quantitatively describe the inter‐ and intraindividual kinetics of the immune response and the impact of covariates after multiple administrations of a vaccine.
In the SARS‐CoV‐2 era, do we need to be afraid of obinutuzumab?
Authors: Choy Joleen , Lewis Katharine L.
Published: September 2024

In their paper, Pinto et al. report findings from the Italian URBAN study; an ambispective, observational, multicentre study evaluating the safety and efficacy of obinutuzumab‐based therapy for advanced stage follicular lymphoma (FL) in routine practice. The URBAN substudy reported here examined severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) outcomes in 299 patients with treatment‐naïve advanced stage FL, treated with obinutuzumab‐based chemoimmunotherapy and maintenance. The study began enrolling in September 2019, continuing enrolment throughout the pandemic, with cut‐off for the current analysis of 31 January 2022; thus, it provides unique insights into various pandemic phases, including the impact of administration of SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccination.

Commentary on: Pinto et al. Exposure to obinutuzumab does not affect outcomes of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in vaccinated patients with newly diagnosed advanced‐stage follicular lymphoma. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:2219‐2227.