bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlating single-molecule characteristics of the yeast aquaglyceroporin Fps1 with environmental perturbations directly in living cells
Authors: Shashkova Sviatlana , Andersson Mikael , Hohmann Stefan , Leake Mark C
Published: February 2020

Membrane proteins play key roles at the interface between the cell and its environment by mediating selective import and export of molecules via plasma membrane channels. Despite a multitude of studies on transmembrane channels, understanding of their dynamics directly within living systems is limited. To address this, we correlated molecular scale information from living cells with real time changes to their microenvironment. We employed super-resolved millisecond fluorescence microscopy with a single-molecule sensitivity, to track labelled molecules of interest in real time. We use as example the aquaglyceroporin Fps1 in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeto dissect and correlate its stoichiometry and molecular turnover kinetics with various extracellular conditions. In this way we shed new light on aspects of architecture and dynamics of glycerol-permeable plasma membrane channels.
Unveiling Crucivirus Diversity by Mining Metagenomic Data
Authors: de la Higuera Ignacio , Kasun George W. , Torrance Ellis L. , Pratt Alyssa A. , Maluenda Amberlee , Colombet Jonathan , Bisseux Maxime , Ravet Viviane , Dayaram Anisha , Stainton Daisy , Kraberger Simona , Zawar-Reza Peyman , Goldstien Sharyn , Briskie James V. , White Robyn , Taylor Helen , Gomez Christopher , Ainley David G. , Harding Jon S. , Fontenele Rafaela S. , Schreck Joshua , Ribeiro Simone G. , Oswald Stephen A. , Arnold Jennifer M. , Enault François , Varsani Arvind , Stedman Kenneth M.
Published: February 2020

The discovery of cruciviruses revealed the most explicit example of a common protein homologue between DNA and RNA viruses to date. Cruciviruses are a novel group of circular Rep-encoding ssDNA (CRESS-DNA) viruses that encode capsid proteins (CPs) that are most closely related to those encoded by RNA viruses in the familyTombusviridae. The apparent chimeric nature of the two core proteins encoded by crucivirus genomes suggests horizontal gene transfer of CP genes between DNA and RNA viruses. Here, we identified and characterized 451 new crucivirus genomes and ten CP-encoding circular genetic elements throughde novoassembly and mining of metagenomic data. These genomes are highly diverse, as demonstrated by sequence comparisons and phylogenetic analysis of subsets of the protein sequences they encode. Most of the variation is reflected in the replication associated protein (Rep) sequences, and much of the sequence diversity appears to be due to recombination. Our results suggest that recombination tends to occur more frequently among groups of cruciviruses with relatively similar capsid proteins, and that the exchange of Rep protein domains between cruciviruses is rarer than gene exchange. Altogether, we provide a comprehensive and descriptive characterization of cruciviruses.

IMPORTANCE

Viruses are the most abundant biological entities on Earth. In addition to their impact on animal and plant health, viruses have important roles in ecosystem dynamics as well as in the evolution of the biosphere. Circular Rep-encoding single-stranded (CRESS) DNA viruses are ubiquitous in nature, many are agriculturally important, and are viruses that appear to have multiple origins from prokaryotic plasmids. CRESS-DNA viruses such as the cruciviruses, have homologues of capsid proteins (CPs) encoded by RNA viruses. The genetic structure of cruciviruses attests to the transfer of capsid genes between disparate groups of viruses. However, the evolutionary history of cruciviruses is still unclear. By collecting and analyzing cruciviral sequence data, we provide a deeper insight into the evolutionary intricacies of cruciviruses. Our results reveal an unexpected diversity of this virus group, with frequent recombination as an important determinant of variability.
Decomposing Loss Aversion from Gaze Allocation and Pupil Dilation
Authors: Sheng Feng , Ramakrishnan Arjun , Seok Darsol , Zhao Wenjia Joyce , Thelaus Samuel , Cen Puti , Platt Michael Louis
Published: February 2020

Loss-averse decisions, in which one avoids losses at the expense of gains, are highly prevalent. However, the underlying mechanisms remain controversial. The prevailing account highlights a valuation bias that overweighs losses relative to gains, but an alternative view stresses a response bias to avoid choices involving potential losses. Here we couple a computational process model with eye-tracking and pupillometry to develop a physiologicallygrounded framework for the decision process leading to accepting or rejecting gambles with equal odds of winning and losing money. Overall, loss-averse decisions were accompanied by preferential gaze towards losses and increased pupil dilation for accepting gambles. Using our model, we found gaze allocation selectively indexed valuation bias, and pupil dilation selectively indexed response bias. Finally, we demonstrated that our computational model and physiological biomarkers can identify distinct types of loss-averse decision-makers who would otherwise be indistinguishable using conventional approaches. Our study provides an integrative framework for the cognitive processes that drive loss-averse decisions and highlights the biological heterogeneity of loss aversion across individuals.

Significance Statement

We revisit the concept of loss aversion by synthesizing distinct views into an integrative framework and by probing physiological biomarkers associated with the behavior. The framework decomposes loss aversion into a valuation bias, which weighs losses over gains, and a response bias, which avoids loss-related choices altogether. Further, we revealed a double dissociation in physiology underlying the decision process. Valuation bias was associated with preferential gaze allocation to losses whereas response bias was associated with pupillary dilation. Our framework exposed biological heterogeneity underlying loss aversion and distinguishes different loss-averse decision makers who are otherwise indistinguishable using conventional approaches. Our integrative approach provides a deeper analysis of the mechanisms underlying loss aversion and incorporates distinct views within a unified biological framework.
Differential Synaptic Input to External Globus Pallidus Neuronal SubpopulationsIn Vivo
Authors: Ketzef Maya , Silberberg Gilad
Published: February 2020

The rodent external Globus Pallidus (GPe) contains two main neuronal subpopulations, prototypic and arkypallidal cells, which differ in their cellular properties. Their functional synaptic connectivity is, however, largely unknown. Here, we studied the membrane properties and synaptic inputs to these subpopulations in the mouse GPe. We obtained in vivo whole-cell recordings from identified GPe neurons and used optogenetic stimulation to dissect their afferent inputs from the striatum and subthalamic nucleus (STN). All GPe neurons received barrages of excitatory and inhibitory input during slow wave activity. The modulation of their activity was cell-type specific and shaped by their respective membrane properties and afferent inputs. Both GPe subpopulations received synaptic input from STN and striatal projection neurons (MSNs). STN and indirect pathway MSNs strongly targeted prototypic cells while direct pathway MSNs selectively inhibited arkypallidal cells. We show that GPe subtypes are differently embedded in the basal ganglia network, supporting distinct functional roles.
RNA-protein interaction mapping via MS2 or Cas13-based APEX targeting
Authors: Han Shuo , Zhao Boxuan Simen , Myers Samuel A. , Carr Steven A. , He Chuan , Ting Alice Y.
Published: February 2020

RNA-protein interactions underlie a wide range of cellular processes. Improved methods are needed to systematically map RNA-protein interactions in living cells in an unbiased manner. Capitalizing on the ability of the engineered peroxidase APEX2 to identify protein interaction partners via proximity-dependent biotinylation, we used two approaches to target APEX2 to specific cellular RNAs. Both an MS2-MCP system and an engineered CRISPR-Cas13 system were able to deliver APEX2 to the human telomerase RNA hTR with high specificity. One-minute proximity biotinylation captured endogenous protein interaction partners of hTR, including more than a dozen proteins not previously linked to hTR. We validated the unexpected interaction between hTR and theN6-methyladenosine (m6A) demethylase ALKBH5. Further investigation showed that endogenous hTR is modified by m6A, which can be erased by ALKBH5, and that ALKBH5 influences both telomerase complex assembly and activity. These results highlight the ability of MS2- and Cas13-targeted APEX2 to identify novel RNA-protein interactions in living cells.
Many but not all lineage-specific genes can be explained by homology detection failure
Authors: Weisman Caroline M. , Murray Andrew W. , Eddy Sean R.
Published: February 2020

Genes for which homologs can be detected only in a limited group of evolutionarily related species, called “lineage-specific genes,” are pervasive: essentially every lineage has them, and they often comprise a sizable fraction of the group’s total genes. Lineage-specific genes are often interpreted as “novel” genes, representing genetic novelty born anew within that lineage. Here, we develop a simple method to test an alternative null hypothesis: that lineage-specific genes do have homologs outside of the lineage that, even while evolving at a constant rate in a novelty-free manner, have merely become undetectable by search algorithms used to infer homology. We show that this null hypothesis is sufficient to explain the lack of detected homologs of a large number of lineage-specific genes in fungi and insects. However, we also find that a minority of lineage-specific genes in both clades are not well-explained by this novelty-free model. The method provides a simple way of identifying which lineage-specific genes call for special explanations beyond homology detection failure, highlighting them as interesting candidates for further study.
Automated measurement of long-term bower behaviors in Lake Malawi cichlids using depth sensing and action recognition
Authors: Johnson Zachary V , Long Lijiang , Li Junyu , Sharma Arrojwala Manu Tej , Aljapur Vineeth , Lee Tyrone , Lowder Mark C , Gu Karen , Lancaster Tucker J , Stockert Joseph I , Moorman Jean M , Lecesne Rachel L , Streelman Jeffrey T , McGrath Patrick T
Published: February 2020

Measuring naturalistic behaviors in laboratory settings is difficult, and this hinders progress in understanding decision-making in response to ecologically-relevant stimuli. In the wild, many animals manipulate their environment to create architectural constructions, which represent a type of extended phenotype affecting survival and/or reproduction, and these behaviors are excellent models of goal-directed decision-making. Here, we describe an automated system for measuring bower construction in Lake Malawi cichlid fishes, whereby males construct sand structures to attract mates through the accumulated actions of thousands of individual sand manipulation decisions over the course of many days. The system integrates two orthogonal methods, depth sensing and action recognition, to simultaneously measure the developing bower structure and classify the sand manipulation decisions through which it is constructed. We show that action recognition accurately (>85%) classifies ten sand manipulation behaviors across three different species and distinguishes between scooping and spitting events that occur during bower construction versus feeding. Registration of depth and video data streams enables topographical mapping of these behaviors onto a dynamic 3D sand surface. The hardware required for this setup is inexpensive (<$250 per setup), allowing for the simultaneous recording from many independent aquariums. We further show that bower construction behaviors are non-uniform in time, non-uniform in space, and spatially repeatable across trials. We also quantify a unique behavioral phenotype in interspecies hybrids, wherein males sequentially express both phenotypes of behaviorally-divergent parental species. Our work demonstrates that simultaneously tracking both structure and behavior provides an integrated picture of long-term goal-directed decision-making in a naturalistic, dynamic, and social environment.
Distinct organization of two cortico-cortical feedback pathways
Authors: Shen Shan , Jiang Xiaolong , Scala Federico , Fu Jiakun , Fahey Paul , Kobak Dimitry , Tan Zhenghuan , Reimer Jacob , Sinz Fabian , Tolias Andreas S.
Published: February 2020

Neocortical feedback is critical for processes like attention, prediction, and learning. A mechanistic understanding of its function requires deciphering its cell-type wiring logic. Recent studies revealed a disinhibitory circuit between motor and sensory areas in mice, where feedback preferentially targets vasointestinal peptide-expressing interneurons, in addition to pyramidal cells. It is unknown whether this circuit motif is a general cortico-cortical feedback organizing principle. Combining multiple simultaneous whole-cell recordings with optogenetics we found that in contrast to this wiring rule, feedback between the hierarchically organized visual areas (lateral-medial to V1) preferentially activated somatostatin-expressing interneurons. Functionally, both feedback circuits temporally sharpened feed-forward excitation by eliciting a transient increase followed by a prolonged decrease in pyramidal firing rate under sustained feed-forward input. However, under feed-forward transient input, the motor-sensory feedback facilitated pyramidal cell bursting while visual feedback increased spike time precision. Our findings argue for multiple feedback motifs implementing different dynamic non-linear operations.
Cellular and structural basis of synthesis of the unique intermediate dehydro-F420-0 in mycobacteria
Authors: Grinter Rhys , Ney Blair , Brammananth Rajini , Barlow Christopher K. , Cordero Paul R.F. , Gillett David L. , Izoré Thierry , Cryle Max J. , Harold Liam K. , Cook Gregory M. , Taiaroa George , Williamson Deborah A. , Warden Andrew C. , Oakeshott John G. , Taylor Matthew C. , Crellin Paul K. , Jackson Colin J. , Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Coppel Ross L. , Greening Chris
Published: February 2020

F420is a low-potential redox cofactor used by diverse bacteria and archaea. In mycobacteria, this cofactor has multiple roles, including adaptation to redox stress, cell wall biosynthesis, and activation of the clinical antitubercular prodrugs pretomanid and delamanid. A recent biochemical study proposed a revised biosynthesis pathway for F420in mycobacteria; it was suggested that phosphoenolpyruvate served as a metabolic precursor for this pathway, rather than 2-phospholactate as long proposed, but these findings were subsequently challenged. In this work, we combined metabolomic, genetic, and structural analyses to resolve these discrepancies and determine the basis of F420biosynthesis in mycobacterial cells. We show that, in whole cells ofMycobacterium smegmatis, phosphoenolpyruvate rather than 2-phospholactate stimulates F420biosynthesis. Analysis of F420biosynthesis intermediates present inM. smegmatiscells harboring genetic deletions at each step of the biosynthetic pathway confirmed that phosphoenolpyruvate is then used to produce the novel precursor compound dehydro-F420-0. To determine the structural basis of dehydro-F420-0 production, we solved high-resolution crystal structures of the enzyme responsible (FbiA) in apo, substrate, and product bound forms. These data show the essential role of a single divalent cation in coordinating the catalytic pre-complex of this enzyme and demonstrate that dehydro-F420-0 synthesis occurs through a direct substrate transfer mechanism. Together, these findings resolve the biosynthetic pathway of F420in mycobacteria and have significant implications for understanding the emergence of antitubercular prodrug resistance.
JACKIE: Fast enumeration of genomic single- and multi-copy target sites and their off-targets for CRISPR and other engineered nuclease systems
Authors: Zhu Jacqueline Jufen , Cheng Albert Wu
Published: February 2020

ZFP-, TALE-, and CRISPR-based methods for genome, epigenome editing and imaging have provided powerful tools to interrogate functions of genomes. Targeting sequence design is vital to the success of these experiments. While existing design software mainly focus on designing target sequence for specific elements, we report here the implementation of JACKIE (Jackie and Albert’s Comprehensive K-mer Instances Enumerator), a suite of software for enumerating all single- and multi-copy sites in the genome that can be incorporated for genome-scale designs as well as loaded onto genome browsers alongside other tracks for convenient web-based graphic-user-interface (GUI)-enabled design. We also implement fast algorithms to identify sequence neighborhoods or off-target counts of targeting sequences so that designs with low probability of off-target can be identified among millions of design sequences in reasonable time. We demonstrate the application of JACKIE-designed CRISPR site clusters for genome imaging.
Mechanisms preventing Break-Induced Replication during repair of two-ended DNA double-strand breaks
Authors: Pham Nhung , Yan Zhenxin , Malkova Anna , Haber James E. , Ira Grzegorz
Published: February 2020

DNA synthesis during homologous recombination (HR) is highly mutagenic and prone to template switches. Two-ended DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are usually repaired by gene conversion with a short patch of DNA synthesis, thus limiting the mutation load to the vicinity of the DSB. Single-ended DSBs are repaired by Break-Induced Replication (BIR) that involve extensive and mutagenic DNA synthesis spanning even hundreds of kilobases. It remains unknown how mutagenic BIR is suppressed at two-ended DSBs. Here we demonstrate that BIR is suppressed at two-ended DSBs by several proteins coordinating the usage of both DSB ends: ssDNA annealing protein Rad52 and Rad59, D-loop unwinding helicase Mph1, and DSB ends tethering Mre11-Rad50-Xrs2 complex. Finally, BIR is also suppressed when a normally heterochromatic repair template is silenced by Sir2. These findings suggest several mechanisms restricting mutagenic BIR during repair of two-ended DSBs.
Crystal structure of 1-[(4-methylbenzene)sulfonyl]pyrrolidine
Authors: Stenfors Brock A. , Staples Richard J. , Biros Shannon M. , Ngassa Felix N.
Published: February 2020

The molecular structure of the title compound, C11H15NO2S, features a sulfonamide group with S=O bond lengths of 1.4357 (16) and 1.4349 (16) Å, an S—N bond length of 1.625 (2) Å, and an S—C bond length of 1.770 (2) Å. When viewing the molecule down the S—N bond, both N—C bonds of the pyrrolidine ring are oriented gauche to the S—C bond with torsion angles of −65.6 (2)° and 76.2 (2)°. The crystal structure features both intra- and intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds, as well as intermolecular C—H...π and π–π interactions, leading to the formation of sheets parallel to the ac plane.
The use of local structural similarity of distant homologues for crystallographic model building from a molecular-replacement solution
Authors: Chojnowski Grzegorz , Choudhury Koushik , Heuser Philipp , Sobolev Egor , Pereira Joana , Oezugurel Umut , Lamzin Victor S.
Published: February 2020

The performance of automated protein model building usually decreases with resolution, mainly owing to the lower information content of the experimental data. This calls for a more elaborate use of the available structural information about macromolecules. Here, a new method is presented that uses structural homologues to improve the quality of protein models automatically constructed using ARP/wARP. The method uses local structural similarity between deposited models and the model being built, and results in longer main-chain fragments that in turn can be more reliably docked to the protein sequence. The application of the homology-based model extension method to the example of a CFA synthase at 2.7 Å resolution resulted in a more complete model with almost all of the residues correctly built and docked to the sequence. The method was also evaluated on 1493 molecular-replacement solutions at a resolution of 4.0 Å and better that were submitted to the ARP/wARP web service for model building. A significant improvement in the completeness and sequence coverage of the built models has been observed.
[(1R*,3S*,4S*)-3-(2-Hydroxybenzoyl)-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1,4-epoxynaphthalen-1-yl]methyl 4-nitrobenzoate
Authors: Lough Alan J. , Ho Angel , Tam William
Published: February 2020

The relative stereo- and regiochemistry of the racemic title compound, C25H19NO7, were established from the crystal structure. The fused benzene ring forms dihedral angles of 77.3 (1) and 60.3 (1)° with the hydroxy-substituted benzene ring and the nitro-substituted benzene ring, respectively. The dihedral angle between the hydroxy-substituted benzene ring and the nitro-substituted benzene ring is 76.4 (1)°. An intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond closes an S(6) ring. In the crystal, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds connect the molecules, forming layers parallel to (100). Within these layers, there are weak π–π stacking interactions with a ring centroid–ring centroid distance of 3.555 (1) Å.
Promotional phrases as analogical questions: inferential fluency and persuasion
Authors: Ku Hsuan-Hsuan , Chen Mei-Ju
Published: February 2020

Purpose

As an alternative to straight rhetorical questions, questions using analogies that invite the reader to think about the frame of reference to answer the target have been used in advertising to persuade. This paper aims to investigate consumer responses to the use of analogical questions in ads for incrementally new products and the important variables moderating those responses.

Design/methodology/approach

Four between-subjects experiments examined how product evaluations in response to analogical questions differ from non-analogical variants as a function of consumers’ persuasion awareness (Studies 1 and 2) and also tested if the effectiveness of an analogical question among potential consumers who are more aware of persuasion attempts might be enhanced only when it is proposed with a strong rather than a weak frame of reference (Study 3), and when the frame of reference and the target share underlying similarities (Study 4).

Findings

Analogical questions are more persuasive than non-analogical variants for participants who are more aware of persuasion attempts. Inferential fluency mediates the results. Furthermore, the positive impact of analogical questions for participants high in persuasion awareness is diminished when the frame of reference is weak or from a dissimilar domain. The same patterns are not evident for participants who are less aware of persuasion attempts.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing on the concepts of inferential fluency, this study offers an empirically-based view of how the analogical questions in advertising may bias the responses exhibited by individuals who demonstrate either a high or low level of persuasion awareness.

Practical implications

The inclusion of an analogy can lower consumers’ tendency to behave in a defensive manner by facilitating inferences about intended claims that are implicitly stated in a rhetorical question and achieve higher levels of persuasion.

Originality/value

This study contributes to prior study on rhetorical questions within a persuasion communication by adopting inferential fluency as an underlying mechanism for analyzing the impact of analogical questions and individual’s awareness of persuasion.
A codified executive education custom client engagement process
Authors: Haskins Mark E. , Hicks Jennifer S. , Centini Luciano
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This article describes the motivations for, and the process of, creating an executive education (EE) custom client engagement service template to foster closer, more effective working relationships between EE custom clients and service providers. The outcome of that endeavor is presented in the form of a robust, final, client engagement template along with a discussion of benefits gained from its use.

Design/methodology/approach

From a case study perspective, this paper chronicles the actual process one leading business school undertook in order to craft a robust EE custom client engagement process template. That task is linked to the key literature on EE, client service, reflective practice, and collaboration.

Findings

The EE custom client engagement process template presented was found to be robust and useful in working with custom EE clients.

Practical implications

The EE custom client engagement process template presented is immediately and easily used by others interested in (1) a process for monitoring and improving existing custom EE client engagements, (2) guidance on building a world-class process for acquiring and serving custom EE clients, and/or (3) adapting it to other university-based service functions.

Originality/value

The specific, detailed, and comprehensive nature of the EE custom client engagement process template presented is a new addition to the literature pertaining to managing and serving custom EE client relationships.
Capacity development for innovation in the public sector
Authors: Palm Klas
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The public sector seems to have a culture and structure for control and improvement of ongoing activities but lacks the culture and structures for innovation. Thus, capacity development among public sector employees can be an important method for the development of better conditions for innovation. The purpose of this paper is to identify key factors affecting the achievement of good results when municipal and regional organisations carry out capacity development of employees with the aim of creating greater leeway for innovation in their organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study behind this paper has looked at four different concrete cases, which have applied essentially different methods for capacity building for innovation issues. A qualitative research method was used. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with 39 respondents. The analysis of the information revealed in the interviews was carried out through a thematic analysis in three steps.

Findings

The study shows that action learning makes it easier for employees to turn knowledge generated through action into reality. The study also shows that it seems difficult to work from a digital communication platform if the platform is not combined with physical meetings. The study shows that committed and hands-on leadership is very important, that there is a need for strategic communication related to the capacity development effort including clarification and definition of what innovation means in the local context.

Originality/value

This paper shows a number of important aspects to consider when municipalities and regional organisations plan their capacity development initiatives in innovation. By taking these into account increases the ability of public organisations to develop and adapt their operations and deliver high quality and value-adding services to the citizens.
Assessing Brazilian electric power transmission auctions
Authors: Silva Washington Martins , Candido Osvaldo
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to assess all the Brazilian electric power transmission line auctions occurred between 1999 and 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

A copula-based Roy/endogenous switching regression model is used. The suitability of this model is twofold: it takes into account the selection bias problem involving auctions data and it allows more flexibility in modeling the joint distribution between the unobserved components of the selection and outcome equations; thus, normal distribution assumptions are not needed.

Findings

The main results suggest that stated-owned companies have the highest probability of winning an auction, and there is a non-competitive behavior among the players in the auction. The results also suggest some departure from joint normality in the data.

Originality/value

The copula-based sample selection approach used in this paper is consistent under non-normality and allows one to address different types of nonlinearities in the data such as asymmetry and heavy tails.
Nuclear energy promotion using collectable cards aimed at children
Authors: Aramendia-Muneta Maria Elena
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how an innovative concept was introduced to a new market segment through varied marketing techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

Newspapers from 1958 were reviewed to assess the impact of a chocolate company advertising campaign targeting children. The paper examines the interpretation of the campaign message and the information contained in an album of collectable cards.

Findings

Parents leave the teaching role in the hands of companies when they do not clearly understand new technologies such as nuclear energy. Companies can take advantage of what governments introduce into the market to increase their sales.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the examination of collectable cards as a means of researching marketing history and contributes to the study of market segmentation, particularly in the case of children, focussing on nuclear energy.
The implementation of dynamic capabilities for SMEs in creating innovation
Authors: Hermawati Adya
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the adaptation process of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to volatile environment supported with learning, knowledge and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an inductive approach to analyse qualitative data obtained from an SME operating in the international market. Various data collection methods, including interview, focus group discussion and observation, were used to allow the researchers to undertake triangulation.

Findings

This study demonstrates that managers should be eager to adjust their innovation to a changing environment and continually update pre-determined plans. Learning is an ongoing process required for innovation, requiring up-to-date support from knowledge produced via learning. For this reason, learning is required in all dynamic capability processes.

Originality/value

This study offers insight to relatively empirical evidence on how firms respond and adjust to volatile environments using an integrative perspective covering learning, knowledge and innovation. In addition, this offers insight regarding how knowledge can be developed based on learning from the environment and converted into innovation through dynamic capabilities.
Effects of managerial coaching on critical reflection: mediating role of learning goal orientation
Authors: Matsuo Makoto , Arai Kohei , Matsuo Takami
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the direct and indirect effects of managerial coaching on critical reflection mediated through learning goal orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a questionnaire survey of 169 employees in 53 teams at an IT firm in Japan. The data were examined using multi-level analyses.

Findings

Managerial coaching has a direct positive effect on critical reflection, and the relationship is mediated by learning goal orientation.

Research limitations/implications

The characteristics of the sample may limit the generalization of the findings. Future research should verify the model in other industries and countries.

Practical implications

The organizations should note that managerial coaching is useful not only for facilitating employees’ problem-solving but also for enhancing their critical reflection. It should also be noted that employees can reflect critically on their beliefs and work routines when they have learning goals.

Originality/value

Although few quantitative studies have investigated the determinants of critical reflection, the present research reveals the overlooked functions of managerial coaching in promoting employees’ learning.
Recruitment and retention strategies of LIS students and professionals from underrepresented groups in the United States
Authors: Harper Lindsey M.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The American Library Association has worked for decades to increase its diversity of individuals from underrepresented groups; however, existing diversity programs in the United States yield just enough new library and information science professionals to replace those retiring or leaving the profession prematurely.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper involved performing a review of the literature to assess recruitment and retention strategies of individuals from underrepresented groups within the LIS profession.

Findings

This article examines the problems with existing diversity initiatives within the profession and suggests how the field can recruit both students and employees from underrepresented groups. This article offers new ways to recruit students and employees (e.g. how to create job postings and interview questions) and speaks about strategies for retaining LIS students and employees from underrepresented groups (e.g. formal and informal mentoring networks). Finally, this article offers some suggestions to create a more inclusive environment for LIS students and professionals alike.

Originality/value

This paper offers practical suggestions to increase representation of individuals from underrepresented groups that LIS programs and libraries alike can implement. Suggestions for how to create an inclusive work environment are also presented.
Exploring product–service systems in the digital era: a socio-technical systems perspective
Authors: Li Ai Qiang , Rich Nicholas , Found Pauline , Kumar Maneesh , Brown Steve
Published: February 2020

Purpose

In the age of Industry 4.0, digital advancement is reshaping manufacturing models towards product–service systems (PSS). The drivers, readiness and challenges to move to a PSS model are not well understood, and the exploitation of the digital era presents the gap of this research.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted using semi-structured interviews in six manufacturers. Two forum debates were also conducted to supplement and validate the findings.

Findings

Social and economic motivations rather than environmental considerations were driving the change to PSS. Digital technologies could be an important driver if manufacturers reached a certain PSS maturity level. A high level of technical readiness was offset by a low level of social investments and the strategic development of human resources. Value co-creation was a main challenge though manufacturers had the advantage of digital connectivity, which indicated new human requirements; the greater the enabling power of digital technologies, the greater the need for advanced human skills.

Practical implications

Human resource management has underpinned lean models; yet, the role of employees within PSS is underdeveloped despite the impact of staff in exploiting digitalisation and value co-creation. A “learning organisation” and socio-technical fit are required for the “diffusion of innovation” of PSS.

Originality/value

This research attempted to explore drivers, readiness and challenges for PSS from a socio-technical systems (STS) perspective. Three levels of PSS maturity with STS features were derived from the research, providing guidance for manufacturers.
Ontogenetic differences in the chemical defence of flea beetles influence their predation risk
Authors: Sporer Theresa , Körnig Johannes , Beran Franziska
Published: February 2020

Several insect species have evolved two‐component chemical defences that enable the rapid release of deterrent or toxic metabolites upon predator attack. However, whether these chemical defences vary across insect ontogeny and how this affects the predation risk of different life stages has rarely been addressed.

The horseradish flea beetle Phyllotreta armoraciae possesses a two‐component chemical defence that consists of sequestered glucosinolates and an insect myrosinase capable of converting the non‐toxic glucosinolates to deterrent isothiocyanates. Here, we show that the levels of sequestered glucosinolates only varied 2‐fold across beetle ontogeny, but that insect myrosinase activity differed up to 43‐fold among ontogenetic stages.

Specifically, glucosinolate levels were 1.5‐fold lower in the larvae of P. armoraciae than in pupae, but they showed 43.4‐fold higher levels of myrosinase activity. Consistent with the distinct levels of myrosinase activity in larvae and pupae, only larvae released high amounts of toxic isothiocyanates when they were attacked by the generalist predator Harmonia axyridis. P. armoraciae larvae deterred the predator and survived one attack, whereas pupae were killed.

Feeding of P. armoraciae larvae on plants that differed in glucosinolates and plant myrosinase activity influenced the accumulation of glucosinolates in larvae and their subsequent interaction with H. axyridis. Larvae with low levels of sequestered glucosinolates were much more susceptible to predation than larvae containing high glucosinolate levels.

Our results demonstrate that sequestered plant defence metabolites selectively protect specific ontogenetic stages of P. armoraciae from predation. The strong influence of plant defensive chemistry on sequestration indicates that predators have played an important role in the evolution of host use in this specialist herbivore. The distinct life styles of flea beetle life stages and their strategies to prevent predation by biologically relevant predator communities deserve further investigations.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Above‐ and below‐ground biodiversity jointly regulate temperate forest multifunctionality along a local‐scale environmental gradient
Authors: Yuan Zuoqiang , Ali Arshad , Ruiz‐Benito Paloma , Jucker Tommaso , Mori Akira S. , Wang Shaopeng , Zhang Xiaoke , Li Hui , Hao Zhanqing , Wang Xugao , Loreau Michel
Published: February 2020

Tree diversity has been shown to promote a broad range of ecosystem functions in forests. However, how important these effects are in driving ecosystem multifunctionality in natural forests, relative to other drivers, such as below‐ground biodiversity (e.g. soil microbial diversity), community‐level functional traits and environmental conditions, remains poorly understood. Here, we hypothesize that tree species or phylogenetic diversity (PD), stand structure, functional traits and soil microbial diversity jointly regulate temperate forest multifunctionality (FM) along a local‐scale environmental gradient.

Using repeated census data from a 25‐ha old‐growth temperate forest, we first quantified eight ecosystem functions and properties related to above‐ and below‐ground nutrient cycling. We then used these to estimate ecosystem multifunctionality using both averaging and multiple threshold (50%, 75% and 95%) approaches. Finally, we used structural equation models to explore how different facets of tree (tree species, functional and PD) and soil (bacteria, fungi and nematode diversity) biodiversity influence ecosystem multifunctionality, as well as how these relationships are modulated by stand structural attributes and environmental conditions (topography and soil nutrients).

Forest multifunctionality was positively related to stand structural complexity but negatively related to acquisitive traits (i.e. community‐weighted mean of specific leaf area). Plant PD had no significant direct effect on FM, but it had a significant indirect effect via increased stand structural complexity. The effect of soil microbial diversity on FM increased with increasing threshold levels of FM and outperformed tree diversity and environmental conditions at the highest threshold level (i.e. 95%). Forests on steep slopes had lower levels of ecosystem multifunctionality due to decreased stand structural complexity. Soil nutrients were responsible for regulating FM via plant trait composition and, to a lesser extent, via tree diversity, stand structure and soil microbial diversity.

Synthesis. Plant PD, stand structure and soil microbial diversity jointly regulated FM, and these effects were influenced by local‐scale changes in environmental conditions. Soil microbial diversity was a key driver of highly multifunctional forests, whereas conservation of complex stand structure and conservative trait dominance could enhance mean values of multiple functions.
Interactive effects of global change factors on terrestrial net primary productivity are treatment length and intensity dependent
Authors: Ma Zilong , Chen Han Y. H. , Li Yongchun , Chang Scott X.
Published: February 2020

Individual effects of co‐occurring global change factors on net primary productivity (NPP) have been widely studied; however, their interactive effects remain highly debated.

Here, we conducted a global meta‐analysis based on 919 multifactor observations from 120 published studies to examine the interactive effects on NPP of global change factors including elevated [CO2], warming, nitrogen addition, irrigation, drought and changes in species diversity.

On average, of the factors studied, six pairs of factors had additive and two pairs had synergistic interactions. Importantly, some of those interaction types changed over time and with treatment intensity. The synergistic interaction between elevated [CO2] and nitrogen addition became additive at high nitrogen addition rates, whereas the synergistic interaction between irrigation and warming diminished at higher temperatures. Over time, the additive effect between elevated [CO2] and increased species richness switched to synergistic. Other global change factor pairs—including elevated [CO2] and warming, nitrogen addition and increased richness, irrigation and N addition, as well as drought and increased richness—remained additive regardless of their treatment intensity or experimental duration. Interaction types of those global change factor pairs did not vary with ecosystem types assessed in our study.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that the assumptions of static effects through time or ignoring treatment intensity effects will provide inaccurate predictions of the interactive effects of global change factors on terrestrial NPP. Understanding the context‐dependent nature of interactive effects is crucial for validating Earth system models and predicting future NPP responses to co‐occurring global change drivers.
Consumer involvement in emergency medicine research: Lessons from engaging sepsis survivors
Authors: Sills Rachel L , Macdonald Stephen PJ , Williams Briony G , Burcham Jonathon D , McCutcheon David , Cordingley Anne E , Fatovich Daniel M
Published: February 2020

Collaboration with consumers is an emerging focus for medical researchers worldwide. Public involvement is increasingly encouraged, and in some cases stipulated by funding bodies, in order to secure financial support. While consumer involvement could be viewed as another hurdle in the funding application process, it can add immense value to research outcomes. However, given the diverse and transient nature of our consumer group, how can we develop meaningful public engagement in emergency medicine research?
Consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of hepatic fibrosis (2019)
Authors:   Chinese Society of Hepatology, Chinese Medical Association; Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Chinese Medical Association; Chinese Society of Infectious Diseases, Chinese Medical Association
Published: February 2020

Hepatic fibrosis is a reparative response of diffuse over‐deposition and abnormal distribution of extracellular matrix (collagen, glycoprotein and proteoglycans) after exposure to various kinds of liver injuries, and is a key step in the developmental process of various chronic liver diseases leading to cirrhosis. Recently, many advances in our understanding of hepatic fibrosis have been obtained through basic and clinical research. Therefore, this consensus summarizes and offers 15 evidence‐based recommendations on the diagnosis and evaluation of hepatic fibrosis, its treatment, drug development and applications.
Moving eDNA surveys onto land: Strategies for active eDNA aggregation to detect invasive forest insects
Authors: Valentin Rafael E. , Fonseca Dina M. , Gable Sydney , Kyle Kathleen E. , Hamilton George C. , Nielsen Anne L. , Lockwood Julie L.
Published: February 2020

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys to monitor terrestrial species has been relatively limited, with successful implementations still confined to sampling DNA from natural or artificial water bodies and soil. Sampling water for eDNA depends on proximity to or availability of water, whereas eDNA from soil is limited in its spatial scale due to the large quantities necessary for processing and difficulty in doing so. These challenges limit the widespread use of eDNA in several systems, such as surveying forests for invasive insects. We developed two new eDNA aggregation approaches that overcome the challenges of above‐ground terrestrial sampling and eliminate the dependency on creating or utilizing pre‐existing water bodies to conduct eDNA sampling. The first, “spray aggregation,” uses spray action to remove eDNA from surface substrates and was developed for shrubs and other understorey vegetation, while the second, “tree rolling,” uses physical transfer via a roller to remove eDNA from the surface of tree trunks and large branches. We tested these approaches by surveying for spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, a recent invasive pest of northeastern USA that is considered a significant ecological and economic threat to forests and agriculture. We found that our terrestrial eDNA surveys matched visual surveys, but also detected L. delicatula presence ahead of visual surveys, indicating increased sensitivity of terrestrial eDNA surveys over currently used methodology. The terrestrial eDNA approaches we describe can be adapted for use in surveying a variety of forest insects and represent a novel strategy for surveying terrestrial biodiversity.
Genetic basis of relapsing polychondritis revealed by family‐based whole‐exome sequencing
Authors: Feng Junmei , Zuo Xiaoyu , Gui Lian , Qi Jun , Guo Xinghua , Lv Qing , Zhang Yanli , Fang Linkai , Zhang Xi , Gu Jieruo , Lin Zhiming
Published: February 2020

Aim

Genetic factors are believed to be implicated in the pathogenesis of relapsing polychondritis (RP). However, the molecular genetic determinants remain to be elucidated. This study aimed to detect the susceptibility genes of RP with whole‐exome sequencing (WES) in a Chinese family and deepen our understanding of the pathogenesis of RP thereafter.

Method

A 32‐year‐old Chinese female proband with RP and her family including her mother with RP were enrolled in the study. The genomic DNA of 6 human subjects was extracted from peripheral blood and then gene allele mutations were identified using WES. Candidate variants with low frequency (<0.1%) in the general population and predicted deleterious effects on gene function were identified. Sanger sequencing was applied subsequently to confirm the analyzed gene variants in 12 human blood samples.

Results

Nine single nucleotide polymorphism variants from different genes were identified to associate with RP by WES and further confirmed by Sanger sequencing, including Ring finger protein 207 (RNF207), collagen type XXII alpha 1 chain (COL22A1) rs200464636, glycosylphosphatidylinositol anchor attachment 1 (GPAA1) rs201424010, recQ like helicase 4 (RECQL4) rs757703895, folliculin (FLCN) NM_144606: c.G838A: p.E280K, DNA ligase 3 (LIG3) rs761808558, NM_207396: c.T425C:p.I142T, myosin heavy chain 15 (MYH15) NM_014981: c.G4462A: p.A1488T, purkinje cell protein 2 (PCP2) rs144974437 and coiled‐coil domain containing 61 (CCDC61) rs777816675.

Conclusions

This study suggests that coinheritance of multigene mutation may contribute to RP predisposition. The candidate genes mutated which we discovered are potential targets for in‐depth functional studies.