bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streamlined and sensitive mono- and diribosome profiling in yeast and human cells
Authors: Ferguson Lucas , Upton Heather E. , Pimentel Sydney C. , Mok Amanda , Lareau Liana F. , Collins Kathleen , Ingolia Nicholas T.
Published: February 2023

Ribosome profiling has unveiled diverse regulations and perturbations of translation through a transcriptome-wide survey of ribosome occupancy, read out by sequencing of ribosome-protected mRNA fragments. Generation of ribosome footprints and their conversion into sequencing libraries is technically demanding and sensitive to biases that distort the representation of physiological ribosome occupancy. We address these challenges by producing ribosome footprints with P1 nuclease rather than RNase I and replacing RNA ligation with Ordered Two-Template Relay, a single-tube protocol for sequencing library preparation that incorporates adapters by reverse transcription. Our streamlined approach reduced sequence bias and enhanced enrichment of ribosome footprints relative to ribosomal RNA. Furthermore, P1 nuclease preserved a myriad of distinct juxtaposed ribosome complexes informative about yeast and human ribosome fates during translation initiation, stalling, and termination. Our optimized methods for mRNA footprint generation and capture provides a richer translatome profile using lower input and fewer technical challenges.
Administration ofBifidobacterium animalissubsp.lactisStrain BB-12®in Healthy Children: Characterization, Functional Composition, and Metabolism of the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Vizioli Carlotta , Jaime-Lara Rosario , Daniel Scott G. , Franks Alexis , Diallo Ana F. , Bittinger Kyle , Tan Tina P. , Merenstein Daniel J. , Brooks Brianna , Joseph Paule V. , Maki Katherine A.
Published: February 2023

The consumption of probiotics may influence children’s gut microbiome and metabolome, which may reflect shifts in gut microbial diversity composition and metabolism. These potential changes might have a beneficial impact on health. However, there is a lack of evidence investigating the effect of probiotics on the gut microbiome and metabolome of children. We aimed to examine the potential impact of a two (Streptococcus thermophilusandLactobacillus delbrueckii; S2)vs. three (S2 +Bifidobacterium animalissubsp.lactisstrain BB-12) strain-supplemented yogurt. Included in this study were 59 participants, aged one to five years old, recruited to phase I of a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Fecal samples were collected at baseline, after the intervention, and at twenty days post-intervention discontinuation, and untargeted metabolomics and shotgun metagenomics were performed. Shotgun metagenomics and metabolomic analyses showed no global changes in either intervention group’s gut microbiome alpha or beta diversity indices. The relative abundance of the two and three intervention bacteria increased in the S2 and S2 + BB12 groups, respectively, fromDay 0toDay 10. In the S2+BB12 group, the abundance of several fecal metabolites was reduced atDay 10, including alanine, glycine, lysine, phenylalanine, serine, and valine. These fecal metabolite changes did not occur in the S2 group. Future research using longer probiotic intervention durations and in children at risk for gastrointestinal disorders may elucidate if functional metabolite changes confer a protective gastrointestinal effect.
Concurrent 3D super resolution on intensity and segmentation maps improves detection of structural effects in neurodegenerative disease
Authors: avants brian , Tustison Nicholas J , McMillan Corey T , Gosselin Taylor , Gunn Roger , Hesterman Jacob
Published: February 2023

We propose a new perceptual super resolution (PSR) method for 3D neuroimaging and evaluate its performance in detecting brain changes due to neurodegenerative disease. The method, concurrent super resolution and segmentation (CSRS), is trained on volumetric brain data to consistently upsample both an image intensity channel and associated segmentation labels. The simultaneous nature of the method improves not only the resolution of the images but also the resolution of associated segmentations thereby making the approach directly applicable to existing labeled datasets. One challenge to real world evaluation of SR methods such as CSRS is the lack of high resolution ground truth in the target application data: clinical neuroimages. We therefore evaluate CSRS effectiveness in an adjacent, clinically relevant signal detection problem: quantifying cross-sectional and longitudinal change across a set of phenotypically heterogeneous but related disorders that exhibit known and differentiable patterns of brain atrophy. We contrast several 3D PSR loss functions in this paradigm and show that CSRS consistently increases the ability to detect regional atrophy both longitudinally and cross-sectionally in each of five related diseases.
Identifying and prioritizing demersal fisheries restricted areas based on combined ecological and fisheries criteria: the western Mediterranean
Authors: Ortega Miquel , Castro-Cadenas María D. , Steenbeek Jeroen , Coll Marta
Published: February 2023

The western Mediterranean basin is a high marine biodiversity area under severe pressure by changing climate and intense human activities. Beyond national jurisdictions, international institutions such as the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) work towards canalizing a regional consensus that fishing practices should evolve to better support the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In this context, Fisheries Restricted Areas (FRA) are proposed as effective management measures to contribute towards increasing fisheries sustainability in the region that can be considered, under some conditions, as Nature-based Solutions (NbS); however, how to operationalize their framework remains unclear. In this study, based on combined ecological and fisheries criteria, we identify and prioritize six potential priority areas for management (PAMs) in the western Mediterranean Sea. They are specifically aimed at the protection and recovery of Essential Fish Habitats and the conservation of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems, whilst requiring limited adaptation of fisheries practices due to their relative low fishing pressure. We compare the identified areas to those that are currently under protection, and to areas that have been proposed for protection at the GFCM. Our results show that the FRAs and other spatial management measures introduced in the last years marginally contribute to the protection PAMs in the western Mediterranean region. However, the adoption of FRAs that are currently under discussion at the GFCM could contribute significantly to improve the situation. FRAs could also contribute to operationalize NbS in the western Mediterranean Sea when properly designed and implemented.

Highlights

Based on combined ecological and fisheries criteria, six priority areas for management (PAMs) in the western Mediterranean Sea have being identified, with multiple ecological values and relative low trawling.

Current spatial management measures implemented have little contribution on PAMs protection.

Fisheries Restricted Areas currently under discussion at the GFCM can significantly increase the protection level of high priority PAMs.
Cancer relevance of circulating antibodies against LINE-1 antigens in humans
Authors: Vylegzhanina Alexandra V. , Bespalov Ivan A. , Novototskaya-Vlasova Ksenia A. , Hall Brandon M. , Gleiberman Anatoli S. , Yu Han , Leontieva Olga V. , Leonova Katerina I. , Kurnasov Oleg V. , Osterman Andrei L. , Dy Grace K. , Komissarov Alexey A. , Vasilieva Elena , Gehlhausen Jeff , Iwasaki Akiko , Ambrosone Christine B. , Tsuji Takemasa , Matsuzaki Junko , Odunsi Kunle , Andrianova Ekaterina L. , Gudkov Andrei V.
Published: February 2023

LINE-1 (L1), the most abundant family of autonomous retrotransposons occupying over 17% of human DNA, is epigenetically silenced in normal tissues but frequently derepressed in cancer, suggesting that L1-encoded proteins may act as tumor-associated antigens recognized by the immune system. Here, we established an immunoassay for detecting circulating autoantibodies against L1 proteins in human blood. Using this assay in >3,000 individuals with or without cancer, we observed significantly higher IgG titers against L1-encoded ORF1p and ORF2p in patients with lung, pancreatic, ovarian, esophageal, and liver cancers compared to healthy individuals. Remarkably, elevated levels of anti-ORF1p-reactive IgG were observed in cancer patients with disease stages 1 and 2, indicating that immune response to L1 antigens can occur at early phases of carcinogenesis. We conclude that the antibody response against L1 antigens could contribute to the diagnosis and determination of immunoreactivity of tumors among cancer types that frequently escape early detection.
Evolution of a fatty acyl-CoA elongase underlies desert adaptation inDrosophila
Authors: Wang Zinan , Pu Jian , Richards Cole , Giannetti Elaina , Cong Haosu , Lin Zhenguo , Chung Henry
Published: February 2023

To survive in extreme environments such as hot-arid deserts, desert-dwelling species have evolved physiological traits to withstand the high temperatures and low aridity beyond the physiologically tolerable ranges of most species. Such traits which include reducing water loss have independently evolved in multiple taxa. However, the genetic and evolutionary mechanisms underlying these traits have thus far not been elucidated. Here we show thatDrosophila mojavensis, a fruitfly species endemic to the Sonoran and Mojave deserts, had evolved extremely high desiccation resistance, by producing very long chained methylbranched cuticular hydrocarbons (mbCHCs) that contributes to a cuticular waterproofing lipid layer reducing water loss. We show that the ability to synthesize these longer mbCHCs is due to evolutionary changes in a fatty acyl-CoA elongase (mElo). CRISPR/Cas9 knockout ofmEloinD. mojavensisled to loss of longer mbCHC production and significant reduction of desiccation resistance at high temperatures but did not affect mortality at high temperatures or desiccating conditions individually, indicating that this gene is crucial for desert adaptation. Phylogenetic analysis showed thatmElois aDrosophilaspecific gene with no clear ortholog outside Diptera. This suggests that while the physiological mechanisms underlying desert adaptation are general, the genetic mechanisms may be lineage-specific.
Mapping the genetic evolutionary timeline of human neural and cognitive traits
Authors: Libedinsky Ilan , Wei Yongbin , de Leeuw Christiaan , Rilling James K. , Posthuma Danielle , van den Heuvel Martijn P.
Published: February 2023

Human evolution is characterised by extensive changes of body and brain, with perhaps one of the core developments being the fast increase in cranial capacity and brain volume. Paleontological records are the most direct method to study such changes, but they can unfortunately provide a limited view of how ‘soft traits’ such as brain function and cognitive abilities have evolved in humans. A potential complementary approach is to identify when particular genetic variants associated with human phenotypes (such as height, body mass index, intelligence, and also disease) have emerged in the 6-7 million years since we diverged from chimpanzees. In this study, we combine data from genome-wide association studies on human brain and cognitive traits with estimates of human genome dating. We systematically analyse the temporal emergence of genetic variants associated with modern-day human brain and cognitive phenotypes over the last five million years. Our analysis provides evidence that genetic variants related to neocortex structure (e.g., area, thickness; median evolutionary age = 400,170 years old), cognition (e.g., fluid intelligence; median age = 459,465), education (median age = 637,646), and psychiatric disorders (median age = 412,639) have emerged more recently in human evolution than expected by chance. In contrast, variants related to other physical traits, such as height (median age = 811,305) and body mass index (median age = 794,265), emerged relatively later. We further show that genes containing recent evolutionary modifications (from around 54,000 to 4,000 years ago) are linked to intelligence (P= 2 × 10−6) and neocortical surface area (P= 6.7 × 10−4), and that these genes tend to be highly expressed in cortical areas involved in language and speech (pars triangularis,P= 6.2 × 10−4). Elucidating the temporal dynamics of genetic variants associated with brain and cognition is another source of evidence to advance our understanding of human evolution.
Identification of the novel role of sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) in mechanotransduction and intraocular pressure regulation
Authors: Wang Ting , Soundararajan Avinash , Rabinowitz Jeffery , Jaiswal Anant , Osborne Timothy , Pattabiraman Padmanabhan Paranji
Published: February 2023

Trabecular meshwork (TM) cells are highly contractile and mechanosensitive to aid in maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) homeostasis. Lipids are attributed to modulating TM contractility with poor mechanistic understanding. In this study using human TM cells, we identify the mechanosensing role of the transcription factors sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) involved in lipogenesis. By constitutively activating SREBPs and pharmacologically inactivating SREBPs, we have mechanistically deciphered the attributes of SREBPs in regulating the contractile properties of TM. The pharmacological inhibition of SREBPs by fatostatin and molecular inactivation of SREBPsex vivoandin vivorespectively results in significant IOP lowering. As a proof of concept, fatostatin significantly decreased the SREBPs responsive genes and enzymes involved in lipogenic pathways as well as the levels of the phospholipid, cholesterol, and triglyceride. Further, we show that fatostatin mitigated actin polymerization machinery and stabilization, and decreased ECM synthesis and secretion. We thus postulate that lowering lipogenesis in the TM outflow pathway can hold the key to lowering IOP by modifying the TM biomechanics.

Synopsis

In this study, we show the role of lipogenic transcription factors sterol regulatory element binding proteins (SREBPs) in the regulation of intraocular pressure (IOP). (Synopsis Figure -Created using Biorender.com)

SREBPs are involved in the sensing of changes in mechanical stress on the trabecular meshwork (TM). SREBPs aid in transducing the mechanical signals to induce actin polymerization and filopodia/lamellipodia formation.

SREBPs inactivation lowered genes and enzymes involved in lipogenesis and modified lipid levels in TM.

SREBPs activity is a critical regulator of ECM engagement to the matrix sites.

Inactivation of SCAP-SREBP pathway lowered IOP via actin relaxation and decreasing ECM production and deposition in TM outflow pathway signifying a novel relationship between SREBP activation status and achieving IOP homeostasis.
Simultaneous Electrophysiology and Optogenetic Perturbation of the Same Neurons in Chronically Implanted Animals using μLED Silicon Probes
Authors: Kinsky Nathaniel R. , Vöröslakos Mihály , Ruiz Jose Roberto Lopez , Watkins de Jong Laurel , Slager Nathan , McKenzie Sam , Yoon Euisik , Diba Kamran
Published: February 2023

Optogenetics are a powerful tool for testing how a neural circuit influences neural activity, cognition, and behavior. Accordingly, the number of studies employing optogenetic perturbation has grown exponentially over the last decade. However, recent studies have highlighted that the impact of optogenetic stimulation/silencing can vary depending on the construct used, the local microcircuit connectivity, extent/power of illumination, and neuron types perturbed. Despite these caveats, the majority of studies employ optogenetics without simultaneously recording neural activity in the circuit that is being perturbed. This dearth of simultaneously recorded neural data is due in part to technical difficulties in combining optogenetics and extracellular electrophysiology. The recent introduction of μLED silicon probes, which feature independently controllable miniature LEDs embedded at several levels of each of multiple shanks of silicon probes, provides a tractable method for temporally and spatially precise interrogation of neural circuits. Here, we provide a protocol addressing how to perform chronic recordings using μLED probes. This protocol provides a schematic for performing causal and reproducible interrogations of neural circuits and addresses all phases of the recording process: introduction of optogenetic construct, implantation of the μLED probe, performing simultaneous optogenetics and electrophysiologyin vivo, and post-processing of recorded data.

This method allows a researcher to simultaneously perturb neural activity and record electrophysiological signal from the same neurons with high spatial specificity using silicon probes with integrated μLEDs. We outline a procedure detailing all stages of the process for performing reliable μLED experiments in chronically implanted rodents.
Mob4 is essential for spermatogenesis inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Santos Inês B. , Wainman Alan , Garrido-Maraver Juan , Pires Vanessa , Riparbelli Maria Giovanna , Kovács Levente , Callaini Giuliano , Glover David M. , Tavares Álvaro A.
Published: February 2023

Gamete formation is essential for sexual reproduction in metazoans. In males, spermatogenesis gives rise to interconnected spermatids that have to differentiate and individualize into mature sperm. InDrosophila melanogaster, individualization of spermatids requires the formation of individualization complexes that synchronously move along the sperm bundles. Here, we show that Mob4, a member of the Mps-one binder family, is essential for male fertility but has no detectable role on female fertility. We describe the function of Mob4 during spermatid individualization, showing that Mob4 is required for proper axonemal structure and that the loss of Mob4 leads to male sterility associated with defective spermatid individualization and absence of mature sperm in the seminal vesicles. Transmission electron micrographs of Mob4RNAideveloping spermatids revealed defects in axoneme structure and abnormal mitochondria biogenesis. Importantly, we find that male fertility is impaired upon depletion of other STRIPAK components, suggesting that Mob4 acts through STRIPAK to support spermiogenesis. As we show that expression of the human Mob4 gene effectively rescues all phenotypes of Mob4 downregulation, the gene is not only evolutionary but also functionally conserved. We propose that Mob4 plays a role in regulating the microtubule- and actin-cytoskeleton during spermatogenesis. This study advances our understanding of male infertility by uncovering Mob4 as a novel gene required for sperm individualization.
Phylogenetically conservative trait correlation: quantification and interpretation
Authors: Westoby Mark , Yates Luke , Holland Barbara , Halliwell Ben
Published: February 2023

Correlation across species between two quantitative traits, or between a trait and a habitat property, can suggest that a trait value is effective in sustaining populations in some contexts but not others. It is widely held that such correlations should be controlled for phylogeny, via phylogenetically independent contrasts PICs or phylogenetic generalised least squares PGLS.

Two weaknesses of this idea are discussed. First, the phylogenetically conservative share of the correlation ought not to be excluded from consideration as potentially ecologically functional. Second, PGLS does not yield a complete or accurate breakdown of A-B covariation, because it corresponds to a generating model where B predicts variation in A but not the reverse.

Multi-response mixed models using phylogenetic covariance matrices can quantify conservative trait correlation CTC, a share of covariation between traits A and B that is phylogenetically conservative. Because the evidence is from correlative data, it is not possible to split CTC into causation by phylogenetic history versus causation by continuing reciprocal selection between A and B. Moreover, it is quite likely biologically that the two influences have acted in concert, through phylogenetic niche conservatism.

Synthesis: The CTC concept treats phylogenetic conservatism as a conjoint interpretation alongside ongoing influence of other traits. CTC can be quantified via multi-response phylogenetic mixed models.
Mitochondrial Complex I activity is inhibited by changes in the abundance of phosphatidylinositol and phosphatidylserine in wheat plants exposed to high temperatures
Authors: Malone Aygul , Rupasinghe Thusitha W. , Roessner Ute , Taylor Nicolas L.
Published: February 2023

Identifying the molecular basis of thermotolerance in crops is becoming increasingly important with the changing climatic conditions that challenge future food security. Sustaining cellular energy production under heat stress is vital in maintaining an uninterrupted growth cycle, and thus the mitochondria is instrumental in facilitating the overall heat-tolerance of a crop plant. Using targeted mass spectrometry, the changes in abundance of the lipo-protein network in mitochondrial membranes following a short episode of extremely high temperature were analysed in two wheat cultivars of differing thermotolerance. The results indicated that membrane lipids remodel in favour of shorter fatty acyl tails, and an increase in the abundance of phosphatidylinositol, while specific to the heat-tolerant cultivar was an increase in the abundance of phosphatidylserine. The differences between the lipid profiles of the two cultivars is a likely explanation for the decrease in Complex I NADH dehydrogenase activity in the heat-sensitive cultivar. Further metabolite analysis by LC-MS revealed malate accumulation, indicating that the disruption in Complex I activity impacts the catabolism of reducing equivalents. The measured increase in the total amount of phosphatidylserine in the heat-tolerant cultivar suggests a potential role in conveying thermotolerance for this minor membrane constituent, and highlights that a focus on membrane lipid composition during thermal stress will be essential for the breeding of future heat tolerant crops.

We evaluated changes to the lipo-protein network of wheat mitochondria of differing heat tolerance in response to heat shock.

Using targeted mass spectrometry, candidate transitions were selected to quantify changes in membrane lipids and the embedded protein components of the electron transport chain, which play a vital role in maintaining respiration.

A significant increase in phosphatidylserine was exclusive to the mitochondria of the heat-tolerant wheat cultivar. In the absence of this, the heat-sensitive cultivar displayed a reduced Complex I activity.

The minor membrane constituent phosphatidylserine plays a role in conveying thermotolerance, making this membrane lipid a focal point for the breeding of future heat tolerant crops.
A Rapid review on the COVID-19 Pandemic’s Global Impact on Breast Cancer Screening Participation Rates and Volumes from January-December 2020
Authors: Lee Reagan , Xu Wei , Dozier Marshall , McQuillan Ruth , Theodoratou Evropi , Figueroa Jonine D.
Published: February 2023

Background

COVID-19 has strained population breast mammography screening programs that aim to diagnose and treat breast cancers earlier. As the pandemic has affected countries differently, we aimed to quantify changes in breast screening volume and uptake during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We systematically searched Medline, the WHO (World Health Organization) COVID-19 database, and governmental databases. Studies covering January 2020 to March 2022 were included. We extracted and analyzed data regarding study methodology, screening volume and uptake. To assess for risk-of-bias, we used the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool.

Results

Twenty-six cross-sectional descriptive studies were included out of 935 independent records. Reductions in screening volume and uptake rates were observed among eight countries. Changes in screening participation volume in five countries with national population-based screening ranged from -13% to –31%. Among two countries with limited population-based programs the decline ranged from -61% to -41%. Within the USA, population participation volumes varied ranging from +18% to -39% with suggestion of differences by insurance status (HMO, Medicare, and low-income programs). Almost all studies had high risk-of-bias due to insufficient statistical analysis and confounding factors.

Discussion and Conclusion

Extent of COVID-19-induced reduction in breast screening participation volume differed by region and data suggested potential differences by healthcare setting (e.g., national health insurance vs private health care). Recovery efforts should monitor access to screening and early diagnosis to determine if prevention services need strengthening to increase coverage of marginalized groups and reduce disparities.
Durga: An R package for effect size estimation and visualisation
Authors: Khan Md Kawsar , McLean Donald James
Published: February 2023

Statistical analysis and data visualisation are integral parts of science communication. One of the major issues in current data analysis practice is an over-dependency on – and misuse of –p-values. Researchers have been advocating for the estimation and reporting of effect sizes for quantitative research to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of data analysis. Reporting effect sizes in scientific publications has until now been mainly limited to numeric tables, even though effect size plotting is a more effective means of communicating results, however, statistical software for plotting effect sizes is currently limited.

We have developed the Durga R package to estimate and plot effect sizes. Durga allows users to estimate unstandardised and standardised effect sizes and bootstrapped confidence intervals of the effect sizes. The central functionality of Durga is to combine effect size visualisations with traditional plotting methods.

Durga is a powerful statistical and data visualisation package that is easy to use, providing the flexibility to estimate effect sizes of paired and unpaired data using different statistical methods. Durga provides a plethora of options for plotting effect size, which allows users to plot data in the most informative and aesthetic way.

Here, we introduce the package and its various functions. We further describe a workflow for estimating and plotting effect sizes using example data sets.
Constitutive protein degradation induces acute cell death via proteolysis products
Authors: Chen Si-Han , Prakash Sumit , Helgason Elizabeth , Gilchrist Caroline L. , Kenner Lillian R. , Srinivasan Rajini , Sterne-Weiler Tim , Hafner Marc , Piskol Robert , Dueber Erin C. , Hamidi Habib , Endres Nicholas , Ye Xin , Fairbrother Wayne J. , Wertz Ingrid E.
Published: February 2023

Modulation of proteolysis is an emerging therapeutic mainstay. The clinical success of thalidomide and analogs has inspired development of rationally-designed therapeutics that repurpose endogenous degradation machinery to target pathogenic proteins. However, it is unknown whether target removal is the critical effect that drives degrader-induced efficacy. Here we report that proteasome-generated peptides actively initiate degrader-induced cell death. Utilizing BET family degraders as exemplars, we find that induced proteasomal degradation of the BRD4-long isoform (BRD4-L) generates neo-amino-terminal peptides that neutralize Inhibitor of Apoptosis (IAP) proteins to precipitate cell death. Depletion of BRD4-L paradoxically suppresses caspase activation induced by numerous BET degraders. An unbiased screen revealed that other degrader compounds, including clinical CELMoDs, rely on the same mechanism to potentiate caspase activation and apoptosis. Finally, in the context of constitutive immunoglobulin proteostasis within multiple myeloma cells, we report that therapeutic proteasomal protease inhibition alters the peptide repertoire to neutralize IAPs, thus contributing to the clinical efficacy of bortezomib. Together, these findings clarify the counterintuitive clinical benefit achieved by combining thalidomide analogs with proteasome inhibitors. Our study reveals a previously unrealized pro-apoptotic function of the peptides generated by a variety of proteolysis-modulating compounds, that provide design considerations to maximize therapeutic benefit.
Oviposition-related behaviours ofLimenitis camillain a common garden experiment
Authors: Marcantonio M. , Vodă R. , Da Re D. , Igot Q , Dennis R.L.H. , Vielfaure A. , Vanwambeke S.O. , Nieberding C.M
Published: February 2023

Human induced environmental changes are accelerating at an unprecedented pace, forcing organisms to rapidly adjust their behaviours. There is broad evidence that the main driver of the ongoing biodiversity crisis is land-use change, that reduces and fragments natural habitats. However, the consequence of habitat fragmentation on behavioural responses of fitness-related traits such as oviposition site selection in insects, which represent about 50% of \ Earth’s species diversity, have been so far understudied. In herbivorous insects, oviposition-related behaviours determine larval food access, and thus the fate of the next generation. We present a pilot study to assess differences in oviposition-related behaviours inLimenitis camillabutterflies from Wallonia (Belgium), one of the most fragmented regions in Europe. We first quantified variation in functional habitat connectivity forL. camillaacross Wallonia and found that fragmented habitats had more abundant, but less evenly distributedLonicera periclymenum, the host plant ofL. camilla. Secondly, we compared in a semi-natural experimental setting the behaviours of field-caughtL. camillafemales originating from habitats with contrasted landscape connectivity. We found differences in behaviours related to flight investment: butterflies from fragmented woodlands spent more time in non-compass orientation flight, which we associated with dispersal, than butterflies from homogenous woodlands, whereL. periclymenumwas less abundant and more evenly distributed. Although results from this study should be interpreted with caution given the limited sample size, they provide valuable insights for the advancement of behavioral research that aims to assess the effects of global changes on insects.
Insulin signaling regulatesPink1mRNA localization via modulation of AMPK activity to support PINK1 function in neurons
Authors: Hees J. Tabitha , Harbauer Angelika B.
Published: February 2023

Mitochondrial quality control failure is frequently observed in neurodegenerative diseases. The detection of damaged mitochondria by stabilization of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) requires transport ofPink1mRNA by tethering it to the mitochondrial surface. Here, we report that inhibition of AMPK by activation of the insulin signaling cascade preventsPink1mRNA binding to mitochondria. Mechanistically, AMPK phosphorylates the RNA anchor complex subunit SYNJ2BP within its PDZ domain, a phosphorylation site that is necessary for its interaction with the RNA-binding protein SYNJ2. Interestingly, loss of mitochondrialPink1mRNA association upon insulin addition is required for PINK1 protein activation and its function as a ubiquitin kinase in the mitophagy pathway, thus placing PINK1 function under metabolic control. Induction of insulin-resistancein vitroby the key genetic Alzheimer-risk factor apolipoprotein E4 retainsPink1mRNA at the mitochondria and prevents proper PINK1 activity especially in neurites. Our results thus identify a metabolic switch controllingPink1mRNA localization and PINK1 activity via insulin and AMPK signaling in neurons and propose a mechanistic connection between insulin resistance and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Plastic and sustainability: a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer and CiteSpace
Authors: Zhang Jiale , Quoquab Farzana , Mohammad Jihad
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to present a comprehensive knowledge mapping and an in-depth analysis of plastic and sustainability research to understand better global trends and directions in this field that emerged between 1995 and 2022.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a visual analysis of 1933 research articles listed in the Web of Science (WoS) databases between the years 1995 and 2022 related to plastic and sustainability. The knowledge mapping based on CiteSpace and VOSviewer presents the current research status, which contains the analysis of the collaboration network, co-citation network, references with citation bursts and keyword analysis.

Findings

The results reveal that China and the USA are the most prominent countries in exploring the notion of sustainability and plastic. The Chinese Academy of Science is the most prominent institution. Chai Qiang, Friedrich Daniel, Sahajwalla Veena and Ok Yong Sik are the most prolific authors in this field. Furthermore, circular economy, bioplastic, sustainable development, polyester and bioplastics are the highly discussed issues in recent years. Not surprisingly, COVID-19 is the latest topic of discussion started in 2021 due to its negative impact on plastic pollution and the challenges it posed to sustainability.

Originality/value

This study is among the pioneers to shed light on the current research status of plastic and sustainability using the bibliometric method and the newest data. This study also suggests that collaborations between scholars and institutions require to be enhanced for better management of plastic pollution and to contribute to sustainable development.
Eco-innovation of food processing and manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Riaz Adil , Ali Fouzia , Ashfaq Khurram , Bhatti Anam , Rehman Shafique Ur
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of green shared vision (GSV) and green knowledge sharing (GKS) on eco-innovation types and further investigates the impact of these types on sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) and sustainable business performance (SBP) within the food manufacturing and food processing small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) of a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least square structural equation modeling technique was used to test the hypotheses. Simple random sampling was used, and data were collected from 312 owners/managers of food manufacturing and processing SMEs.

Findings

The results reveal a significant positive relationship between GSV, GKS and eco-innovation types. Furthermore, it was revealed that all three types of eco-innovation are significantly related to SCA and SBP.

Practical implications

The results of this research will assist food manufacturing and food processing SMEs in reducing their eco-footprint to gain SCA and SBP. Furthermore, policymakers and governing bodies may implement strong regulations to curtail eco-pollution.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that incorporates the concept of eco-innovation in food processing and food manufacturing SMEs of a developing country in the light of the natural resource orchestration theory.
Processors' understanding of process quality: a qualitative interview study with employees of organic dairies in Germany and Switzerland
Authors: Borghoff Lisa Marie , Strassner Carola , Herzig Christian
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Organic food processing must include organic principles to be authentic. This qualitative study aims to understand the processors' understanding of organic food processing quality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on semi-structured expert interviews with eight employees of six purely or partly organic dairies from Germany and Switzerland. Interview themes are (1) quality of organic milk processing in general, (2) assessment of specific processing techniques, (3) product quality of organic milk and (4) flow of information between producer and consumer. The interviews have been audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed.

Findings

(1) Experts prefer minimal processing; some prefer artisanal processing, whilst others stress the advantages of mechanisation. (2) High temperature short time (HTST) pasteurisation and mechanical processing techniques are accepted; ultra-high-temperature (UHT) milk processing is partly rejected. (3) Traditional taste and valuable ingredients should be present in the final product. Natural variances are judged positively. (4) Consumers' low level of food technology literacy is challenging for communication.

Research limitations/implications

The results cannot be generalised due to the qualitative study design. Further studies, e.g. qualitative case analyses and studies with a quantitative design, are necessary to deepen the results.

Practical implications

The paper shows which processing technologies experts consider suitable or unsuitable for organic milk. The paper also identifies opportunities to bridge the perceived gap between processors' and consumers' demands.

Originality/value

The study shows the challenges of processors in expressing the processors' understanding of process quality.
Social media sensing framework for urban infrastructure management: a Philippine case study
Authors: Do Sy Tien , Nguyen Viet Thanh , Banlasan Denver
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to use social media data mining to revitalize and support existing urban infrastructure monitoring strategies by extracting valuable insights from public opinion, as current strategies struggle with issues such as adaptability to changing conditions, public engagement and cost effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Twitter messages or “Tweets” about public infrastructure in the Philippines were gathered and analyzed to discover reoccurring concerns in public infrastructure, emerging topics in public debates and the people’s general view of infrastructure services.

Findings

This study proposes a topic model for extracting dominating subjects from aggregated social media data, as well as a sentiment analysis model for determining public opinion sentiment toward various urban infrastructure components.

Originality/value

The findings of this study highlight the potential of social media data mining to go beyond the limitations of traditional data collection techniques, as well as the importance of public opinion as a key driver for more user-involved infrastructure management and as an important social aspect that can be used to support planning and response strategies in routine maintenance, preservation and improvement of urban infrastructure systems.
From EAP to BHAP: a conceptual framework to develop and implement a comprehensive behavioral health access program within the fire service
Authors: ODare Kellie , Bator Chris , Butler Lance , Orrange Jeffrey , Porter Lauren , Rehbein Michelle , Dilks John , Dillard Dana R. , King Erin , Herzog Joseph , Rotunda Robert
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to articulate the results of a comprehensive literature review and grassroots outreach with first responder organizations to present an operationalized framework for organizations to utilize as a blueprint in developing customized behavioral health access program (BHAP) programs.

Design/methodology/approach

Historically, authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ)over fire service organizations have primarily offered behavioral health interventions through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or commercial insurance carriers. These programs are necessary but may prove insufficient to meet the scope and needs of trauma-exposed firefighters and the firefighters' families.

Findings

A BHAP is a comprehensive and operationalized plan which clearly specifies the mental health services fire department members and families need, where those services are available within their communities and levels and standards of care that are expected in the provision of these services.

Originality/value

The BHAP is becoming a world standard of behavioral health care for first responders. While some fire service agencies are beginning to create BHAP guides, developing and implementing a BHAP can be time consuming and overwhelming, particularly for departments with limited internal and external resources. While the results of this review focus on BHAP within the fire service, this framework is applicable across all first responder professions.
Ensuring sustainability in internationalisation efforts at higher education institutions
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Viera Trevisan Laís , Dinis Maria Alzira Pimenta , Sivapalan Subarna , Wahaj Zujaja , Liakh Olena
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Higher education institutions (HEIs) around the world are engaged in internationalisation efforts. Yet internationalisation per se is associated with significant pressures on the environment and environmental resources, which need to be addressed. This study aims to assess the opportunities, benefits and challenges associated with the internationalisation of universities at a global level.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 27 relevant case studies were extracted from the literature to illustrate how HEIs worldwide are ensuring sustainability in their internationalisation efforts.

Findings

Through case studies of international HEIs, the study lists the opportunities, benefits and challenges associated with the internationalisation of universities at a global level and some of the measures that may be deployed to reduce the environmental impacts of their international activities.

Originality/value

This study provides a welcome contribution to the literature because it outlines some of the works taking place at universities, where matters related to sustainable development are considered against a background of internationalisation efforts.
Delineating protective boundaries using the HUL approach a case study: heritage waterways of Isfahan
Authors: Chitsazzadeh Elnaz , Chizfahm Daneshmandian Mahsa , Jahani Najmeh , Tahsildoost Mohammad
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The UNESCO recommendation under the historic urban landscapes (HUL) title and Operational Guidelines (OPG) were used to create dynamic protective boundaries to maintain the integrity and authenticity of Isfahan's heritage waterways. Accordingly, by using GIS and Isfahan urban layers, three protective zones were proposed and evaluated; the central zone, the functional zone and the visual zone.

Design/methodology/approach

Heritage waterways in historic cities are not adequately protected against the negative impacts of urban development, and there is a lack of a dynamic protective system to protect their integrity and authenticity. The problem can be observed in Isfahan, a historic Iranian city, where the boundaries of urban heritage waterways (Madi canals) are usually rigid and arbitrary. This study aims to develop a practicable paradigm for determining protection boundaries for Isfahan's Jolfa Madi, an urban heritage waterway.

Findings

Compared to the current protective boundaries, the authors found that proposed protective boundaries create a greater amount of protection space, which makes a strong connection among the ecological, historical and socio-economic characteristics of the urban context. Furthermore, the protective zones based on the HUL approach give Isfahan's urban planning policy the opportunity to consider participatory tools, financial tools and regulatory systems.

Originality/value

Many studies have emphasized a fixed-width buffer or an arbitrary distance from the urban waterway's axis (urban heritage) or its banks. Although these protections include technical conservation or setting restrictions on the adjacent buildings and blocks, studying crucial concepts such as urban dynamic, urban heritage context and producing a particular technique for protected boundaries has not been investigated. In this article three dynamic boundaries are delineated with various functions in order to provide urban heritage with dynamic preservation and sustainable development for the historic urban landscapes.
The initial survival of the Unicorns: a behavioral perspective of Snapchat
Authors: Cristofaro Matteo , Giannetti Federico , Abatecola Gianpaolo
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Unicorn companies, such as Facebook, Uber, and Airbnb, significantly impact our economies. This happens although they had a dramatic initial start – at least in terms of financial performance – that would have let any other “conventional” business close. In other words, Unicorns challenge the start-ups’ problems traditionally associated with early failure (liability of newness). This paper aims to understand what helps Unicorn firms initially survive despite huge losses.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting a behavioral lens, this historical case study article focuses on key strategic decisions regarding the famous social media Unicorn Snapchat from 2011 to 2022. The case combines secondary data and a thematic analysis of Snapchat founders’ and investors’ interviews/comments to identify the behavioral antecedents leading to Snapchat’s honeymoon.

Findings

Snapchat network effect triggered cognitive biases of Snapchat founders’ and investors’ decisions, leading them to provide initial assets (i.e. beliefs/goodwill, trust, financial resources and psychological commitment) to the nascent Unicorn. Therefore, the network effect and biases resulted in significant antecedents for Snapchat’s honeymoon.

Originality/value

The authors propose a general, theoretical framework advancing the possible impact of biases on Unicorns’ initial survival. The authors argue that some biases of the Unicorns’ founders and investors can positively support a honeymoon period for these new ventures. This is one of the first case studies drawing on a behavioral approach in general and on biases in particular to investigate the liability of newness in the Unicorns’ context.
A failure location technology for SiP devices based on TDR nondestructive testing method
Authors: Xiao Hui , Guo Xiaotong , Chen Fangzhou , Zhang Weiwei , Liu Hao , Chen Zejian , Liu Jiahao
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Traditional nondestructive failure localization techniques are increasingly difficult to meet the requirements of high density and integration of system in package (SIP) devices in terms of resolution and accuracy. Time domain reflection (TDR) is recognized as a novel positioning analysis technology gradually being used in the electronics industry because of the good compatibility, high accuracy and high efficiency. However, there are limited reports focus on the application of TDR technology to SiP devices.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors used the TDR technique to locate the failure of SiP devices, and the results showed that the TDR technique can accurately locate the cracking of internal solder joints of SiP devices.

Findings

The measured transmission rate of electromagnetic wave signal was 9.56 × 107 m/s in the experimental SiP devices. In addition, the TDR technique successfully located the failure point, which was mainly caused by the cracking of the solder joint at the edge of the SiP device after 1,500 thermal cycles.

Originality/value

TDR technology is creatively applied to SiP device failure location, and quantitative analysis is realized.