bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Equilibrium dynamics of a biomolecular complex analyzed at single-amino acid resolution by cryo-electron microscopy
Authors: Luque Daniel , Ortega-Esteban Alvaro , Valbuena Alejandro , Vilas Jose Luis , Rodríguez-Huete Alicia , Mateu Mauricio G. , Castón José R.
Published: June 2022

The biological function of macromolecular complexes depends not only on large-scale transitions between conformations, but also on small-scale conformational fluctuations at equilibrium. This study shows that detailed information on the equilibrium dynamics of a biocomplex obtained from local resolution (LR) data in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) density maps matches the information obtained in solution by hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass-spectrometry. The structure of the minute virus of mice (MVM) capsid as a model system was determined by cryo-EM, and LR values were found to correlate with both crystallographic B-factors and hydrogen-deuterium exchange values. Once validated, the cryo-EM LR-based approach was used to compare the equilibrium dynamics of wild-type and two mutant MVM capsids. The results revealed a linkage between mechanical stiffening and impaired equilibrium dynamics in a biocomplex. Cryo-EM is emerging as a powerful approach for simultaneously acquiring information on the atomic structure and local equilibrium dynamics of biomolecular complexes.
Opioid Suppression of an Excitatory Pontomedullary Respiratory Circuit by Convergent Mechanisms
Authors: Bateman Jordan T. , Levitt Erica S.
Published: June 2022

Opioids depress breathing by inhibition of inter-connected respiratory nuclei in the pons and medulla. Mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists directly hyperpolarize a population of neurons in the dorsolateral pons, particularly the Kölliker-Fuse (KF) nucleus, that are key mediators of opioid-induced respiratory depression. However, the projection target and synaptic connections of MOR-expressing KF neurons is unknown. Here, we used retrograde labeling and brain slice electrophysiology to determine that MOR-expressing KF neurons project to respiratory nuclei in the ventrolateral medulla, including the pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) and rostral ventral respiratory group (rVRG). These medullary projecting, MOR-expressing dorsolateral pontine neurons express FoxP2 and are distinct from calcitonin gene-related peptide-expressing lateral parabrachial neurons. Furthermore, dorsolateral pontine neurons release glutamate onto excitatory preBötC and rVRG neurons via monosynaptic projections, which is inhibited by presynaptic opioid receptors. The excitatory preBötC and rVRG neurons receiving MOR-sensitive glutamatergic synaptic input from the dorsolateral pons are themselves hyperpolarized by opioids. Thus, opioids can synergistically inhibit this excitatory pontomedullary respiratory circuit by three distinct mechanisms—somatodendritic MORs on dorsolateral pontine and ventrolateral medullary neurons and presynaptic MORs on dorsolateral pontine neuron terminals in the ventrolateral medulla—all of which could contribute to opioid-induced respiratory depression.
Replicative aging impedes stress-induced assembly of a key human protein disaggregase
Authors: Mathangasinghe Yasith , Alberts Niels , Rosado Carlos J. , Cox Dezerae , Payne Natalie L. , Ormsby Angelique R. , Alp Keziban Merve , Sakson Roman , Uthishtran Sanjeev , Ruppert Thomas , Arumugam Senthil , Hatters Danny M. , Kampinga Harm H. , Nillegoda Nadinath B.
Published: June 2022

The collapse of protein homeostasis manifests itself in a toxic protein aggregation cascade, which is associated with degenerative diseases and aging. To solubilize aggregates, dedicated protein disaggregases exist in unicellular organisms, but these have no nuclear/cytosolic orthologs in metazoa. Alternative metazoan disaggregation machines have been described, but how these are operated and regulatedin vivoremained unknown. We show that protein disaggregases are functionally diversified in human cells to efficiently target different types of stress-induced aggregates in sequential and temporally distinct phases. In particular, we show the selective assembly of an Hsp70-DNAJA1-DNAJB1 trimeric disaggregase that forms during late phase of stress recovery.,i.e., after VCP-dependent solubilization of non-native proteins that accumulate in cellular condensates such as nucleoli or stress granules. When activated, the trimeric disaggregase provides resistance to stress toxicity and contributes to amyloid disposal. Strikingly, this disaggregase collapses early in cells undergoing replicative aging with important underlining pathophysiological consequences.
Generation of functional posterior spinal motor neurons from hPSCs-derived human spinal cord neural progenitor cells
Authors: Xu Jax H. , Yao Yao , Yao Fenyong , Chen Jiehui , Li Meishi , Yang Xianfa , Li Sheng , Lu Fangru , Hu Ping , He Shuijin , Peng Guangdun , Jing Naihe
Published: June 2022

Spinal motor neurons deficiency results in a series of devastating disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and spinal cord injury (SCI). These disorders are currently incurable, while human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs)-derived spinal motor neurons are promising but suffered from low-efficiency, functional immaturity and lacks of posterior cellular identity. In this study, we have established human spinal cord neural progenitor cells (hSCNPCs) via hPSCs differentiated neuromesodermal progenitors (NMPs) and demonstrated the hSCNPCs can be continuously expanded up to 40 passages. hSCNPCs can be rapidly differentiated into posterior spinal motor neurons with high efficiency. The functional maturity has been examined in detail. Moreover, a co-culture scheme which is compatible for both neural and muscular differentiation is developed to mimic the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) formation in vitro. Together, these studies highlight the potential avenues for generating clinically relevant spinal motor neurons and modeling neuromuscular diseases through our defined hSCNPCs.
sRNA-controlled iron sparing response in Staphylococci
Authors: Coronel-Tellez Rodrigo H. , Pospiech Mateusz , Barrault Maxime , Liu Wenfeng , Bordeau Valérie , Vasnier Christelle , Felden Brice , Sargueil Bruno , Bouloc Philippe
Published: June 2022

Staphylococcus aureus, a human opportunist pathogen, adjusts its metabolism to cope with iron deprivation within the host. We investigated the potential role of small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) in dictating this process. A single sRNA, named here IsrR, emerged from a competition assay with tagged-mutant libraries as being required during iron starvation. IsrR is iron-repressed and predicted to target mRNAs expressing iron-containing enzymes. Among them, we demonstrated that IsrR down-regulates the translation of mRNAs of enzymes that catalyze anaerobic nitrate respiration. The IsrR sequence reveals three single-stranded C-rich regions (CRRs). Mutational and structural analysis indicated a differential contribution of these CRRs according to targets. We also report that IsrR is required for full lethality of S. aureus in a mouse septicemia model, underscoring its role as a major contributor to the iron-sparing response for bacterial survival during infection. IsrR is conserved among staphylococci, but it is not ortholog to the proteobacterial sRNA RyhB, nor to other characterized sRNAs down-regulating mRNAs of iron-containing enzymes. Remarkably, these distinct sRNAs regulate common targets, illustrating that RNA-based regulation provides optimal evolutionary solutions to improve bacterial fitness when iron is scarce.
A forskolin-mediated increase in cAMP promotes T helper cell differentiation into the Th1 and Th2 subsets rather than into the Th17 subset
Authors: Daďová Petra , Mikulová Antónia , Jaroušek Radim , Uldrijan Stjepan , Kubala Lukáš
Published: June 2022

The cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) signaling pathway is involved in various physiological and pathophysiological processes. Forskolin (FSK), a labdane diterpene well known as an activator of cAMP production, is suggested to possess significant immunomodulatory potential. However, the specific effects of elevated cAMP levels caused by the FSK-mediated activation of adenylate cyclase (AC) on T helper (Th) cell differentiation and functions are still unclear. We speculated that the increased levels of cAMP in Th cells affect the differentiation program of distinct Th populations differently, in particular the development of Th1, Th2, and Th17 subsets. Only minor changes in the expressions of isoforms of ACs and phosphodiesterases (PDE), enzymes responsible for the degradation of cAMP, were observed in differentiating human Th cells with prevailingADCY1, ADCY3, ADCY7, andADCY9andPDE3B,PDE4A/B/D,PDE7A/B, andPDE8Aisoforms. FSK mediated elevation in Th1-specific markers reinforcing the Th1 cell phenotype. The differentiation of Th2 was not altered by FSK, though cell metabolism was affected. In contrast, the Th17 immunophenotype was severely suppressed leading to the highly specific upregulation of the level of CXCL13. The causality between FSK-elicited cAMP production and the observed modulation of Th2 differentiation was proven by using cAMP inhibitor 2’,5’-dideoxyadenosine that reverted the FSK effects. Overall, an FSK-mediated cAMP increase has an effect on Th1, Th2 and Th17 differentiation and can contribute to the identification of novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of Th cell-related pathological processes.
Structural basis of mitochondrial membrane bending by I-II-III2-IV2 supercomplex
Authors: Mühleip Alexander , Flygaard Rasmus Kock , Haapanen Outi , Baradaran Rozbeh , Gruhl Thomas , Tobiasson Victor , Maréchal Amandine , Sharma Vivek , Amunts Alexey
Published: June 2022

Mitochondrial energy conversion requires an intricate architecture of the inner mitochondrial membrane1. Here we show that in ciliates, the membrane curvature is provided by a supercomplex containing all four respiratory chain components. We report cryo-electron microscopy and cryo-tomography structures of the supercomplex that comprises 150 different proteins and 311 bound lipids, forming a stable 5.8-megadalton assembly. Due to subunit acquisition and extension, complex I associates with a complex IV dimer, generating a wedge-shaped gap that serves as a binding site for complex II. Together with a tilted complex III dimer association, it results in a curved membrane region. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that the divergent supercomplex actively contributes to the membrane curvature induction and cristae tubulation. Our findings explain how the architecture of the native I-II-III2-IV2 supercomplex reflects the functional specialization of bioenergetics by shaping the membrane.
An ERK-dependent molecular switch antagonizes fibrosis and promotes regeneration in spiny mice (Acomys)
Authors: Tomasso Antonio , Bartscherer Kerstin , Seifert Ashley W.
Published: June 2022

Although most mammals heal wounds with scar tissue, spiny mice (Acomys cahirinus) naturally regenerate skin and complex musculoskeletal tissues. The core signaling pathways driving mammalian tissue regeneration are poorly characterized. Here, we show that MAPK/ERK signaling acts as a major hub directing cellular injury responses towards regeneration. While immediate ERK activation was a shared feature of scarring (Mus musculus) and regenerating (Acomys) wounds, ERK activity was only sustained during regeneration. Upon ERK inhibition, theAcomyswound microenvironment exhibited key hallmarks of fibrosis, including a pro-scarring matrisome, epidermal differentiation and reduced proliferation. These findings indicate that ERK inhibition shifts tissue regeneration towards fibrosis. Conversely, the ectopic release of ERK activators (FGF/Neuregulin) in fibrotic scars, stimulated a pro-regenerative matrisome, cell proliferation and hair follicle neogenesis, thus promoting skin regeneration. Our data provide new insights into why some mammals regenerate better than others and open avenues to reverse fibrosis in favor of regeneration.

Teaser

FGF2 and NRG1 stimulate skin and hair follicle regeneration through ERK-mediated control of cell behavior in adult mammals.
Plasmid manipulation of bacterial behaviour through translational regulatory crosstalk
Authors: Thompson Catriona M A , Hall James P. J. , Chandra Govind , Martins Carlo , Saalbach Gerhard , Bird Susannah , Ford Samuel , Little Richard H. , Piazza Ainelen , Harrison Ellie , Jackson Robert W. , Brockhurst Michael A. , Malone Jacob G.
Published: June 2022

Beyond their role in horizontal gene transfer, conjugative plasmids commonly encode homologues of bacterial regulators. Known plasmid regulator homologues have highly targeted effects upon the transcription of specific bacterial traits. Here, we characterise a plasmid translational regulator, RsmQ, capable of taking global regulatory control in Pseudomonas fluorescens and causing a behavioural switch from motile to sessile lifestyle. RsmQ acts as a global regulator controlling the host proteome through direct interaction with host mRNAs and interference with the host’s translational regulatory network. This mRNA interference leads to largescale proteomic changes in metabolic genes, key regulators and genes involved in chemotaxis, thus controlling bacterial metabolism and motility. Moreover, comparative analyses found RsmQ on a large number of divergent plasmids isolated from multiple bacterial host taxa, suggesting the widespread importance of RsmQ for manipulating bacterial behaviour across clinical, environmental, and agricultural niches. RsmQ is a widespread plasmid global translational regulator primarily evolved for host chromosomal control to manipulate bacterial behaviour and lifestyle.

Significance Statement

Plasmids are recognised for their important role in bacterial evolution as drivers of horizontal gene transfer. Less well understood are the effects of plasmids upon bacterial behaviours by manipulating the expression of key bacterial phenotypes. Until now, examples of plasmid manipulation of their bacterial hosts were limited to highly targeted transcriptional control of a few related traits. In contrast, here we describe the first plasmid global translational regulator evolved to control the bacterial behavioural switch from a motile to a sessile lifestyle and bacterial metabolism, mediated through manipulation of the bacterial proteome. Moreover, this global translational regulator is common across divergent plasmids in a wide range of bacterial host taxa, suggesting that plasmids may commonly control bacterial lifestyle in the clinic, agricultural fields, and beyond.
An ANI gap within bacterial species that advances the definitions of intra-species units
Authors: Rodriguez-R Luis M. , Conrad Roth E. , Viver Tomeu , Feistel Dorian J. , Lindner Blake G. , Venter Fanus , Orellana Luis , Amann Rudolf , Rossello-Mora Ramon , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T.
Published: June 2022

Large-scale surveys of prokaryotic communities (metagenomes) as well as isolate genomes have revealed that their diversity is predominantly organized in sequence-discrete units that may be equated to species. Specifically, genomes of the same species commonly show genome-aggregate average nucleotide identity (ANI) >95% among themselves and ANI <90% to members of other species, while genomes showing ANI 90-95% are comparatively rare. However, it remains unclear if such “discontinuities” or gaps in ANI values can be observed within species and thus, used to advance and standardize intra-species units such as strains and sequence types. By analyzing 18,123 complete isolate genomes from 330 bacterial species with at least ten genome representatives each as well as available long-read metagenomes, we show that such a discontinuity exists between 99.2-99.8% (mean 99.5%) ANI. The 99.5% ANI threshold is largely consistent with how sequence types have been defined in previous epidemiological studies but provides clusters with ∼20% higher accuracy in terms of evolutionary and gene-content relatedness of the grouped genomes, while strains should be consequently defined at higher ANI values (>99.99% proposed). Collectively, our results should facilitate future micro-diversity studies across clinical or environmental settings because they provide a more natural definition of intra-species units of diversity.
Correlating viscosity and molecular crowding with fluorescent nanobeads and molecular probes: in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Lecinski Sarah , Shepherd Jack W. , Bunting Kate , Dresser Lara , Quinn Steven D. , MacDonald Chris , Leake Mark C.
Published: June 2022

In eukaryotes, intracellular physicochemical properties like macromolecular crowding and cytoplasmic viscoelasticity influence key processes such as metabolic activities, molecular diffusion, and protein folding. However, mapping crowding and viscoelasticity in living cells remains challenging. One approach uses passive rheology in which diffusion of exogenous fluorescent particles internalised in cells is tracked and physicochemical properties inferred from derived mean square displacement relations. Recently, the crGE2.3 Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) biosensor was developed to quantify crowding in cells, though it is unclear how this readout depends on viscoelasticity and the molecular weight of the crowder. Here, we present correlative, multidimensional data to explore diffusion and molecular crowding characteristics of molecular crowding agents using super-resolved fluorescence microscopy and ensemble time-resolved spectroscopy. We firstly characterise in vitro and then apply these insights to live cells of budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is to our knowledge the first time this has been attempted. We demonstrate that these are usable both in vitro and in the case of endogenously expressed sensors in live cells. Finally, we present a method to internalise fluorescent beads as in situ viscoelasticity markers in the cytoplasm of live yeast cells, and discuss limitations of this approach including impairment of cellular function.
Integration networks in IT-enabled transformation programs
Authors: Fernandez Walter , Klein Gary , Jiang James , Khan Rasheed M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Discover how organizations effectively integrate the temporary program outputs into the permanent organization.

Design/methodology/approach

A grounded theory approach deriving knowledge from interviews, field observations and documentary evidence.

Findings

A network of actors integrates the multiteam program system into the overall organization, generating alternate political and implementation impetus.

Research limitations/implications

The paper significantly contributes to the literature of IT-enabled programs by surfacing processes, mechanisms and structures that simultaneously address extant concerns in the program management literature.

Practical implications

The directives of current research and program standards of professional societies identify an individual responsible for integrating the program output into the organization. The study indicates greater autonomy on the responsible actor requiring adjusting to changing stakeholder groups.

Originality/value

The authors add a missing link in understanding how programs can institute effective work structures to address emerging program conflicts and issues, suggesting strategies to foster interaction between temporary and permanent organizations.
Social embeddedness and food justice at farmers markets: the model farmers market program
Authors: He Arden , Morales Alfonso
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Despite the progressive values espoused by farmers' market patrons, markets have been shown to be exclusive to low-income people of color. This paper examines a particular food security program at a farmers market to ask how social embeddedness and moral economy can be incorporated to dignify underrepresented groups at the market.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study uses an embeddedness framework to analyze the design of a community-oriented food security program at a farmers market.

Findings

Social embeddedness contributed to the success of the program in a number of meaningful ways: face-to-face community outreach reached target populations at a human level, and engendered spontaneous support from organizations with shared values. Graphics and text used in marketing material can make transparent the moral economy of the market. However, as soon as social embeddedness is legitimized within a program design, suppressed tensions emerge that are associated with the perceived dichotomy between academic, technically-oriented professionals and on-the-ground community members. In particular, the selection of personnel from the community itself led to interpersonal tensions as well as technical difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis proceeds from an administrative point of view, and does not include direct interviews with market attendees or vendors.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that long-term support is necessary for the implementation of socially embedded food security programs, so that personnel can build trust and technical competence over time.

Originality/value

This paper offers solutions to the limitations of farmers markets as sites for food security programs, and uniquely contextualizes policy administration in a social embeddedness lens.
Sustainable exploration of coffee extracts (coffea arabica l.) for dyeing of microwave-treated bio-mordanted cotton fabric
Authors: Adeel Shahid , Rehman Fazal-Ur , Amin Ayesha , Amin Nimra , Batool Fatima , Hassan Atya , Ozomay Meral
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to observe the coloring efficacy of coffee-based natural brown colorant for cotton dyeing under microwave (MW) treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

The colorant extracted in particular (neutral and acidic) media was stimulated by MW treatment up to 6 min. Dyeing variables were optimized and 2–10 g/100 mL of sustainable anchors (mordants) have been used to get colorfast shades.

Findings

It has been found that un-irradiated acidic extract (RE) containing 5% of table salt at 80 °C for 50 min has given high color yield onto MW-irradiated cotton fabric (RC = 2 min). The utilization of 2% of Fe, 10% of tannic acid and 10% of sodium potassium tartrate before bio-coloration, whereas 4% of Fe, 10% of tannic acid and 6% of sodium potassium tartrate after bio-coloration has given good color characteristics. In comparison the application of 6% of pomegranate and turmeric extracts before bio-coloration and 6% of pomegranate and 10% of turmeric extracts after bio-coloration have given good color characteristics. New bio-mordants can be added to get more new colorfast shades.

Research limitations/implications

There is no research limitation for this work. New bio-mordants can be added to get more new colorfast shades.

Practical implications

This work has practical application for artisans, textile industry and handicrafts. It is concluded that colorant from coffee beans can be possible alternative of synthetic brown dyes and inclusion of MW rays for extraction and plant molecules as shade developers can make process more green.

Social implications

Socially, it has good impact on eco-system and global community because the effluent load is not carcinogenic in nature.

Originality/value

The work is original and contains value-added product for textiles and other allied fields.
Communist Ideological Imprinting and the Transformation of State‐owned Enterprises
Authors: Zhang Liang , Ren Yeyao , Wu Jianzu
Published: June 2022

Despite an increasingly similar institutional environment for state‐owned enterprises (SOEs), some SOEs adapt to transformation more rapidly than others. We seek answers to this puzzle by examining how founding institutional environments shape the timing of SOE transformation. We first employ imprinting theory to argue that SOEs founded in different environments are imprinted with different political ideologies that influence their subsequent transformation timing. Using a dataset from the Annual Census of Chinese Industrial Enterprises from 1998 to 2007, we find that SOEs’ communist ideological imprint negatively affects their faster transformation. Drawing on insights from institutional theory, we also consider the contextual factors that influence the strength and decay of the imprint. We find that SOEs affiliated with central government at founding develop a stronger imprint, but mimetic force and regional marketization in the current environment weaken the negative effect of the imprint on faster SOE transformation. We discuss the contributions to the literature on SOE transformation and imprinting and the research at the intersection of imprinting and institutional theory.
Autochthonous Dolomitization and Dissolution in the Microbial Carbonate Rocks of the Fengjiawan Formation in the Ordos Basin
Authors: ZHANG Jing , ZHANG Baomin , ZHANG Shuichang , WANG Huajian
Published: June 2022

Many euhedral dolomite crystals and related pores are found in the microbial siliceous stromatolite dolomite and siliceous oolitic dolomite in the Fengjiawan Formation of the Mesoproterozoic Jixian System in the southern Ordos Basin. With the application of the microscope, scanning electron microscope, cathodoluminescence and in‐situ trace element imaging, it can be seen that different from the phase I dolomite that was damaged by silicification, the intact euhedral phase II dolomite occurred through dolomitization after silicification, concentrated mainly in the organic‐rich dark laminae of the stromatolite and the dark spheres and cores of the ooids. A considerable number of phase II dolomite crystals were dissolved, giving rise to mold pores and vugs which constituted the matrix pores and also the major pore space of the Fengjiawan Formation. The formation and dissolution of the dolomite were controlled by the microenvironment favorable, respectively, for carbonate precipitation and dissolution under the influence of microbial biological activities and related biochemical reactions. The driving force and material supply of dolomitization and dissolution were confined to the fabrics enriched with microorganisms, which are highly autochthonous. This mechanism may be a key factor for the development of Precambrian dolomite and related reservoirs, in the context of the domination of microbial rocks.
Rectal hyposensitivity: a common pathophysiological finding in patients with constipation and associated hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome
Authors: Choudhary Anisa , Vollebregt Paul F. , Aziz Qasim , Scott S. Mark , Fikree Asma
Published: June 2022

Background and Aims

To evaluate symptom presentation and underlying pathophysiology of colonic/anorectal dysfunction in females with functional constipation (FC) and hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (hEDS)/hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD)

Methods

Case–control study of 67 consecutive female patients with an established diagnosis of hEDS/HSD referred to a specialist centre for investigation of FC (Rome III criteria), age‐matched (1:2 ratio) to 134 female controls with FC scoring 0 on the validated 5‐point joint hypermobility questionnaire. Symptoms and results of colonic/anorectal physiology testing were compared. An independent series of 72 consecutive females with hEDS/HSD, referred to a separate hospital for investigation of FC, was used to validate physiological findings.

Results

Females with hEDS/HSD were more likely to report constipation for ≥ 5 years (76.1% vs. 61.2%, p = 0.035), and a greater proportion had a high Cleveland Clinic constipation score (≥12: 97.0% vs. 87.3%; p = 0.027). The proportions with delayed whole‐gut transit were similar between groups (35.3% vs. 41.7%; p = 0.462), as were the proportions with functional or structural abnormalities on defaecography (functional: 47.8% vs. 36.6%; p = 0.127; structural: 65.7% vs. 66.4%; p = 0.916). However, rectal hyposensitivity was more common in those with hEDS/HSD (43.3% vs. 20.1%; p = 0.0006); this was confirmed in the validation cohort (rectal hyposensitivity: 45.8%).

Conclusions

Rectal hyposensitivity is a common pathophysiological factor in females with FC and hEDS/HSD as confirmed in two separate cohorts. The rectal hyposensitivity may be due to altered rectal biomechanics/neuronal pathway dysfunction. Management may be better focused on enhancement of sensory perception (e.g., sensory biofeedback).
“The home isn't like a safe space for them”—Ideals of home and family relationships in children's talk about family adversity and help‐seeking
Authors: Spånberger Weitz Ylva
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study is to explore how schoolchildren reflect on children's help‐seeking in the context of family adversity after participating in lessons about the child welfare services. A thematic narrative analysis was conducted, building on participating pupils' shared reflections on a fictitious story about two siblings living in adverse family circumstances. The analysis suggests that the pupils held a strong belief on children's rights to a safe home with supportive parental relationships, and they expressed an optimistic view on children's opportunities to receive help to achieve positive change when their rights regarding these issues were not met.
ThePI3K/AKTsignalling pathway in inflammation, cell death and glial scar formation after traumatic spinal cord injury: Mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: He Xuegang , Li Ying , Deng Bo , Lin Aixin , Zhang Guangzhi , Ma Miao , Wang Yonggang , Yang Yong , Kang Xuewen
Published: June 2022

Objects

Traumatic spinal cord injury (TSCI) causes neurological dysfunction below the injured segment of the spinal cord, which significantly impacts the quality of life in affected patients. The phosphoinositide 3kinase/serine‐threonine kinase (PI3K/AKT) signaling pathway offers a potential therapeutic target for the inhibition of secondary TSCI. This review summarizes updates concerning the role of the PI3K/AKT pathway in TSCI.

Materials and Methods

By searching articles related to the TSCI field and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, we summarized the mechanisms of secondary TSCI and the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway; we also discuss current and potential future treatment methods for TSCI based on the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.

Results

Early apoptosis and autophagy after TSCI protect the body against injury; a prolonged inflammatory response leads to the accumulation of pro‐inflammatory factors and excessive apoptosis, as well as excessive autophagy in the surrounding normal nerve cells, thus aggravating TSCI in the subacute stage of secondary injury. Initial glial scar formation in the subacute phase is a protective mechanism for TSCI, which limits the spread of damage and inflammation. However, mature scar tissue in the chronic phase hinders axon regeneration and prevents the recovery of nerve function. Activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway can inhibit the inflammatory response and apoptosis in the subacute phase after secondary TSCI; inhibiting this pathway in the chronic phase can reduce the formation of glial scar.

Conclusion

The PI3K/AKT signaling pathway has an important role in the recovery of spinal cord function after secondary injury. Inducing the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the subacute phase of secondary injury and inhibiting this pathway in the chronic phase may be one of the potential strategies for the treatment of TSCI.
Post‐neonatal cerebral palsy in Australia: Through the lens of intersectionality
Authors: Durkin Maureen S.
Published: June 2022

This commentary is on the original article by Waight et al. on pages 107‐116 of this issue.
Review of benefits and challenges of co‐supervision in doctoral education
Authors: Kálmán Orsolya , Horváth László , Kardos Dorottya , Kozma Borbála , Feyisa Mebrate Bekele , Rónay Zoltán
Published: June 2022

Co‐supervision is a widespread practice in doctoral education; however, little is known about its effective implementation. Co‐supervision is defined here as a form of collaborative supervision where two supervisors guide and support one supervisee's research work in a doctoral study. Four drivers that have contributed to the widespread practice of co‐supervision are identified. We refer to these four drivers as the four Is. The four Is represent emerging policy and institutional strategies focusing on (1) interdisciplinarity, (2) intersectoral collaboration, (3) internationalisation as well as (4) efforts to improve the quality of supervision. This review of research evidence focused on understanding the four Is as drivers of co‐supervision in doctoral education; specifically, by analysing benefits and challenges of co‐supervision. A systematic literature review was conducted using the PRISMA‐P protocol for peer‐reviewed articles between 2005 and 2020. Findings show that the drivers linked to improving the quality of supervision and interdisciplinarity usually coincide, while internationalisation was the least frequently mentioned driver. Although no clear patterns emerge between the four drivers identified and benefits and challenges, we observe that challenges related to co‐supervision are mainly addressed in articles that highlight efforts to improve doctoral education and in articles that addressed interdisciplinary drivers behind co‐supervision.
Can the use of antimicrobials in adult equine patients with acute colitis be justified in the era of antimicrobial stewardship?
Authors: Durie Inge , Galen Gaby van
Published: June 2022

The use of antimicrobials in adult horses with acute colitis is controversial and clear antimicrobial guidelines are lacking. It is generally accepted that antimicrobials should be reserved for patients with specific bacterial enterocolitis such asNeorickettsia risticiiorClostridium difficile; however, in practice, horses show similar clinical signs independently of the underlying aetiology. The clinician is therefore often confronted with the dilemma of rapid initiation of treatment to avoid mortality vs. delayed and selective targeted antimicrobial treatment based on faecal diagnostic testing. The risk of antibiotic associated diarrhoea and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance are other important considerations.
Critical thoughts about critical mass in representative bureaucracy: A theoretical exploration and empirical illustration
Authors: Meier Kenneth J. , Xu Xiaoyang
Published: June 2022

Studies of representative bureaucracy frequently reference the need for a critical mass before an underrepresented group can influence policy outputs or outcomes, but the empirical literature is modest and presents mixed findings. This article presents a theoretical exploration to illustrate how critical mass can link individual behavior to organizational contexts. By examining both active representation and symbolic representation at both the individual and organizational level and specifying the different microprocesses of active representation, a series of testable hypotheses are presented. The logic suggests that the concept of critical mass might also be a useful contextual variable to examine other aspects of administrative behavior. Based on the theory, two empirical illustrations from China are presented.
The 2021 eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcanic ridge on La Palma, Canary Islands
Authors: Carracedo Juan C. , Troll Valentin R. , Day James M. D. , Geiger Harri , Aulinas Meritxell , Soler Vicente , Deegan Frances M. , Perez‐Torrado Francisco J. , Gisbert Guillem , Gazel Esteban , Rodriguez‐Gonzalez Alejandro , Albert Helena
Published: June 2022

Almost exactly half a century after the eruption of the Teneguía Volcano on La Palma (26 October to 28 November 1971), a new eruption occurred on the island and lasted for 85 days from 19 September until 13 December 2021. This new eruption opened a volcanic vent complex on the western flank of the Cumbre Vieja rift zone, the N‐S elongated polygenetic volcanic ridge that has developed on La Palma over the last c. 125 ka. The Cumbre Vieja ridge is the volcanically active region of the island and the most active one of the Canary Islands, hosting half of all the historically recorded eruptive events in the archipelago. The 2021 La Palma eruption has seen no direct loss of human life, thanks to efficient early detection and sensible management of the volcanic crisis by the authorities, but more than 2800 buildings and almost 1000 hectares of plantations and farmland were affected by lava flows and pyroclastic deposits. Satellite surveillance enabled accurate mapping of the progressive buildup of the extensive and complex basaltic lava field, which together with monitoring of gas emissions informed the timely evacuation of local populations from affected areas. Lava flows that reached the sea constructed an extensive system of lava deltas and platforms, similar to events during earlier historical eruptions such as in 1712, 1949 and 1971. Long‐term challenges in the aftermath of the eruption include protection of drainage systems from potential redistribution of tephra during high rainfall events, the use of the large surplus quantities of ash in reconstruction of buildings and in agriculture, and the crucial concerns of where and how rebuilding should and could occur in the aftermath of the eruption. Finally, there remain strong financial concerns over insurance for properties consumed or damaged by the eruption in the light of future volcanic hazards from the Cumbre Vieja volcanic ridge.
Editorial to Part II: Revisioning, Rethinking, Restructuring Gender at Work: Contributors to Gender‐Role Stereotyping
Authors: Junker Nina M. , Hernandez Bark Alina S. , Kark Ronit , Morgenroth Thekla , Peus Claudia , van Dick Rolf
Published: June 2022

The papers in Part II of this Special Issue on “Revisioning, Rethinking, Restructuring Gender at Work” emphasize the factors contributing to gender stereotypes. These papers share the aim of understanding   the relevance of individual factors, boundary conditions, and of broadening the scope beyond heterosexual women and men. We summarize the papers of this Special Issue Part II and discuss the key takeaways from the whole Special Issue, including Part I “Revisioning, Rethinking, Restructuring Gender at Work: Quo Vadis Gender Stereotypes?” and Part II “Revisioning, Rethinking, Restructuring Gender at Work: Contributors to Gender‐Role Stereotyping”, and implications for future research.
Flipping writing metacognitive strategies and writing skills in an English as a foreign language collaborative writing context: a mixed‐methods study
Authors: Liu Gi‐Zen , Rahimi Masoud , Fathi Jalil
Published: June 2022

Background

The transition from teacher‐centred towards student‐centred approaches in English language teaching, accompanied by developments in educational technology, has attracted researchers' attention to reverse teaching or flipped class. The related literature asserts that this mode of instruction might influence instructors' and students' participation in the class.

Objectives

To shed more light on the role of flipped class in affecting language learning strategies and skills, this study applied a sequential explanatory mixed‐methods approach to explore the impact of flipped class on English as a foreign language (EFL) learners' writing metacognitive strategies and writing skills.

Methods

Forty‐six intermediate EFL learners with an age range of 21–27, studying at a private language institute, were randomly divided into two groups of 23 learners. The two groups were randomly assigned to a flipped class, which received writing metacognitive strategies and writing skills through video clips before the class time, and a non‐flipped class, which received writing metacognitive strategies and writing skills in a conventional way during the class time.

Results and Conclusions

The results revealed that both flipped and non‐flipped classes improved the EFL learners' writing metacognitive strategies, writing performance, writing content, and writing organisation. Furthermore, one‐way ANCOVA analyses indicated that the flipped class outperformed the non‐flipped class in writing metacognitive strategies, writing performance, writing content, and writing organisation. Thematic analyses, which were used to help analyse individual semi‐structured interviews, uncovered a number of categories and themes, signifying the flipped learners' positive perceptions towards the flipped class, such as enhancing motivation, self‐confidence, and writing collaboration.

Implications

Pedagogical implications were discussed for flipping writing metacognitive strategies and writing skills.
A socially polymorphicFormicaant species exhibits a novel distribution of social supergene genotypes
Authors: Pierce Daniel , Sun Penglin , Purcell Jessica , Brelsford Alan
Published: June 2022

Most supergenes discovered so far are young, occurring in one species or a few closely related species. An ancient supergene in the ant genusFormicapresents an unusual opportunity to compare supergene‐associated phenotypes and the factors that influence the persistence of polymorphism in different species. We investigate the genetic architecture of social organization inFormica francoeuri, an ant species native to low‐ and mid‐elevation semiarid regions of southern California, and describe an efficient technique for estimating mode of social organization using population genomic data. Using this technique, we show thatF. francoeuriexhibits polymorphism in colony social organization and that the phenotypic polymorphism is strongly associated with genotypes within theFormicasocial supergene region. The distribution of supergene haplotypes inF. francoeuridiffers from that of related speciesFormica selysiin that colonies with multiple queens contain almost exclusively workers that are heterozygous for alternative supergene haplotypes. Moreover, heterozygous workers exhibit allele‐specific expression of the polygyne‐associated haplotype at the candidate geneKnockout,which is thought to influence social organization. We also report geographic population structure and variation in worker size across a large fraction of the species range. Our results suggest that, although theFormicasupergene is conserved within the genus, the mechanisms that maintain the supergene and its associated polymorphisms differ among species.
How to Foster Effective Midwife–Obstetrician Collaboration on Labor and Birth Units: Qualitative Analysis of Experiences of Clinicians in the United States
Authors: Adeyemo Oluwatosin O. , Morelli Erin E. , Kennedy Holly Powell
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Effective collaboration between midwives and obstetricians on labor and birth units in hospitals has been shown to improve birth outcomes and quality of care. Guidelines for collaborative care in the United States exist; however, studies describing the actual lived experiences of midwives and obstetricians in collaborative practice are lacking. The goal of this study was to explore the experiences and perspectives of midwives and obstetricians working in collaborative practices on labor and birth units across the United States and to identify strategies that foster effective collaboration between them.

Methods

We performed qualitative analyses of open‐ended comments obtained in an instrument validation survey assessing collaboration between midwives and obstetricians on labor and birth in the United States. Certified nurse‐midwives, certified midwives, attending general obstetricians, maternal‐fetal medicine attending physicians, and fellows across the United States were included in this study, herein called midwives and obstetricians. The final sample in the original validation survey included 232 midwives and 471 obstetricians (n = 703). Of these, 79 midwives and 132 obstetricians (n = 211) provided narrative comments on their perspectives and experiences with collaborative practice on labor and birth units in the United States. The narrative comments were analyzed using inductive techniques derived from grounded theory.

Results

Four themes around how to foster effective collaboration were identified: (1) developing trust and respect, (2) promoting effective communication, (3) individual variability and need for clear guidelines, and (4) balancing autonomy. The midwives and obstetricians shared lived experiences that they perceived affected their work satisfaction and clinical outcomes in collaborative practices.

Discussion

These findings hold potential to inform clinicians and health care leaders on ways to foster effective collaboration between midwives and obstetricians on labor and birth units. This in turn can improve quality of care for birthing persons, perinatal outcomes and clinician job satisfaction.
Effect of community‐based nutritional education on dietary diversity and consumption of animal‐source foods among rural preschool‐aged children in the Ilu Abba Bor zone of southwest Ethiopia: Quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Bidira Kebebe , Tamiru Dessalegn , Belachew Tefere
Published: June 2022

Dietary diversity (DD) is a concern for poor people in developing countries, particularly in Africa. Most people's diets consist primarily of monotonous carbohydrate staples, with little or no animal products and few fresh fruits and vegetables. The aim of this intervention was to see how nutrition education delivered by trained health professionals improved preschool‐aged children's consumption of DD and animal‐sourced foods. The study used a quasi‐experimental design with 588 preschool‐aged children. Researchers used a multistage sample technique followed by a systematic random sampling technique. A χ2 test was used to determine the baseline differences in demographic and socioeconomic factors between the two groups, as well as the relationship between predictors and child DD and animal‐source foods (ASFs). The researchers used generalized estimating equations to assess the change in the difference in outcomes between the intervention and control groups, as well as the association between predictors and child DD and ASFs. The adjusted odds ratio with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals was reported to show the strength of the association. The findings of this study revealed that there was a highly significant difference in both DD scores (DDS) and ASFs between the control and intervention groups DDS (p < 0.003) and ASF (p < 0.001). According to the findings of this study, nutrition education can significantly improve DDS and ASF consumption among preschool‐aged children.