bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 6-yr evaluation of prescribed-fire timing on yearling cattle growth performance and plant community dynamics on native tallgrass prairie in the Kansas Flint Hills
Authors: Duncan Z M , Tajchman A J , Lemmon J , Hollenbeck W R , Blasi D A , Fick W H , Olson K C
Published: November 2023

A 6-yr experiment was conducted to determine the effects of prescribed-fire season on stocker cattle growth performance and rangeland plant community characteristics in the Kansas Flint Hills. Eighteen pastures were grouped by watershed and each watershed was randomly assigned to 1 of 3 prescribed-fire treatments: spring (11 April ± 5.7 d), summer (25 August ± 6.2 d), or autumn (2 October ± 9.0 d). All burns were applied prior to grazing in years 1, 2, 3, and 5; however, no burns were applied in year 4 because of unfavorable burn conditions. Over 5 consecutive grazing seasons, 1,939 yearling stocker calves (initial BW = 281 ± 58.9 kg) were grazed from May to August at a targeted stocking density of 280 kg live-weight + ha−1. Beginning in June of 2018 (pretreatment), a permanent 100-m transect was established in each pasture and was used to determine plant-species composition using a modified step-point method. Forage biomass accumulation and root carbohydrate concentrations of 4 native tallgrass plant species were also measured. All data were analyzed as a completely randomized design using a mixed model. Average daily gain (ADG) was 0.05 to 0.07 kg greater (P = 0.02) for calves grazing spring-burned pastures compared with calves grazing summer- or autumn-burned pastures; however, ADG did not differ (P ≥ 0.55) between calves assigned to the summer or autumn prescribed-fire treatments. Basal cover of all graminoids and all forbs did not differ (P ≥ 0.30) among prescribed-fire treatments; however, basal cover of C3 grasses tended (P = 0.06) to be greater while basal cover of C4 grasses tended (P = 0.08) to be less in autumn-burned pastures compared with spring-burned pastures. Forage biomass accumulation did not differ (P = 0.58) among treatments. In addition, root starch or root water-soluble carbohydrate concentrations in big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii), little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Indiangrass (Sorghastrum nutans), or purple prairieclover (Dalea purpurea) did not differ (P ≥ 0.26) among prescribed-fire treatments. Overall, we interpreted these data to suggest that prescribed-fire timing had small influences on yearling stocker cattle growth performance and rangeland plant composition but did not influence forage biomass accumulation or root carbohydrate concentrations of key native tallgrass plant species in the Kansas Flint Hills.
Fantastic beasts and how to delimit them: an integrative approach using multispecies coalescent methods reveals two new, endemic Dugesia species (Platyhelminthes: Tricladida) from Corsica and Sardinia
Authors: Dols-Serrate Daniel , Stocchino Giacinta Angela , Sluys Ronald , Riutort Marta
Published: November 2023

Dugesia hepta and D. benazzii are two species found in Sardinia and Corsica. Previous studies have been unable to resolve their evolutionary relationships and there was doubt about the monophyly of D. benazzii. This study used molecular and morphological data to develop a rigorous species-delimitation procedure within an integrative framework. Three different species discovery methods (ABGD, GMYC, and mPTP) were applied on single-locus data to formulate primary species hypotheses. Secondary species hypotheses were proposed based on two Bayesian species-validation methods (BPP and BFD), morphological, and karyological traits. This study presents evidence supporting the recognition of two new species: Dugesia mariae from Corsica and Dugesia hoidi from Sardinia. A redescription of D. benazzii is also reported. The phylogenetic relationships between these four species were resolved with high support, except for D. hoidi. The performance of the different molecular-delimitation methodologies is discussed, as well as the presence of ciliate parasites in D. benazzii and D. mariae.
Obesity Increases Risk for Wound Complications After Pediatric Foot Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Review Using the NSQIP-Pediatric Database
Authors: Farahani Farzam , Rodriguez Joel A. , Wukich Dane K. , Zide Jacob R. , Riccio Anthony I.
Published: November 2023

Background:

As the incidence of childhood obesity continues to rise, so too does the number of obese children who undergo foot surgery. As the childhood obesity epidemic rolls on, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons will encounter obese patients with even greater frequency. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with obesity is valuable to maximize patient safety. The purpose of this study is to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between obesity and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing pediatric foot surgery across multiple institutions using a large national database.

Methods:

Pediatric patients who had undergone foot surgery were retrospectively identified using the American College of Surgeons 2012-2017 Pediatric National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS-NSQIP-Pediatric) database by cross-referencing reconstructive foot-specific CPT codes with ICD-9/ICD-10 diagnosis codes. Center for Disease Control BMI-to-age growth charts were used to stratify patients into normal-weight and obese cohorts. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to describe and assess outcomes in obese compared with normal-weight patients.

Results:

Of the 3924 patients identified, 1063 (27.1%) were obese. Compared with normal-weight patients, obese patients were more often male (64.7% vs. 58.7%; P=0.001) and taller (56.3 vs. 51.3 inches; P<0.001). Obese patients had significantly higher rates of overall postoperative complications (3.01% vs. 1.32%; P=0.001) and wound dehiscence (1.41% vs. 0.59%; P=0.039). Multivariate analysis found that obesity was an independent predictor of both wound dehiscence [adjusted odds ratio (OR)=2.16; 95% CI=1.05-4.50; P=0.037] and surgical site infection (adjusted OR=3.03; 95% CI=1.39-6.61; P=0.005). Subgroup analysis of patients undergoing clubfoot capsular release procedures identified that obese patients had a higher rate of wound dehiscence (3.39% vs. 0.51%; P=0.039) compared with normal-weight patients. In multivariate analysis, obesity was an independent predictor of dehiscence (adjusted OR=5.71; 95% CI=1.46-22.31; P=0.012) in this procedure group. There were no differences in complication rates between obese and normal-weight patients in a subgroup analysis of tarsal coalition procedures or clubfoot tibialis anterior tendon transfer procedures.

Conclusion:

Obese children undergoing foot surgery had higher overall complication rates, wound complications, and surgical site infections compared with children of normal weight. As the incidence of childhood obesity continues to rise, this information may be useful in assessing and discussing surgical risks with patients and their families.

Level of Evidence:

III.
Tel-Aviv Protocol for Postrefractive Surgery Corneal Ectasia: A Case Series
Authors: Masarwa Dua , Blockstein Keren , Sela Tzahi , Munzer Gur , Kaiserman Igor
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to describe the safety and efficacy of the Tel-Aviv Protocol (epithelial photorefractive keratectomy and corneal cross-linking) as a treatment for postrefractive surgery corneal ectasia.

Methods:

This study includes 8 eyes from 7 patients, each diagnosed with postrefractive surgery ectasia years after refractive surgery and treated with the Tel-Aviv Protocol. The procedure included transepithelial PRK using the EX500 excimer laser, a 50-μm laser ablation of the epithelium and anterior stroma, delivered on the visual axis with cyclotorsion correction, treating up to 50% of refractive astigmatism. After the epithelial photorefractive keratectomy, all patients underwent corneal cross-linking.

Results:

The mean keratometry (K) and maximal K both decreased [from 43.37 ± 2.23 to 41.84 ± 2.01 (P = 0.03) and from 44.95 ± 3.08 to 42.78 ± 2.19 (P = 0.03), respectively]. Astigmatism was significantly reduced (from 3.53 ± 2.36 to 0.88 ± 0.89 diopter; P = 0.02). Uncorrected visual acuity improved significantly in all patients from a mean of 0.56 ± 0.32 to 0.15 ± 0.14 logMAR (P = 0.01). Best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.22 ± 0.24 to 0.06 ± 0.06 logMAR (P = 0.07; 1-tail P = 0.04). All patients maintained visual acuity during the follow-up period, up to 25 months, mean = 329 days. The Tel-Aviv Protocol was found to be safe [mean safety index: 1.63 ± 1.03 (range: 1.00–4)] and effective [mean efficacy index: 1.29 ± 0.66 (range: 0.71–2.1)].

Conclusions:

The Tel-Aviv Protocol, developed initially for keratoconus treatment, is a safe and promising procedure to stop postrefractive surgery ectasia progression while significantly improving vision, thereby avoiding keratoplasty.
Velopharyngeal Insufficiency Following Furlow Versus Straight Line Repair With Intravelar Veloplasty: A Single-institution Experience
Authors: Davis Matthew J. , Roy Michelle G. , Burns Heather R. , Yim Nicholas , Wilson Kristina D. , Moore Ellen E. , Buchanan Edward P. , Monson Laura A.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Measurements of postoperative velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) can be used to determine the efficacy of a palatoplasty operation. Hypernasality and audible nasal air emission are typical manifestations of VPD during speech. We aimed to longitudinally compare VPD outcomes in postpalatoplasty patients who underwent Furlow repair versus straight line repair with intravelar veloplasty (IVVP). Additionally, we examined the relationship between VPD outcomes and select pre-existing patient characteristics.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review was performed to identify primary palatoplasty patients treated from April 2012 to March 2021. Variables collected included gender, syndromic status, primary language, Veau cleft type, type of speech assessment, age at time of surgery, degree of hypernasality, presence of audible nasal air emission, and overall adequacy of velopharyngeal function. Pearson χ2 test and multivariable t tests were used to analyze variables. Logistic regression was used to control for statistically significant variables.

Results:

Of the 118 patients included, 38 received a Furlow procedure and 80 received a straight line with IVVP procedure. Audible nasal air emission was present in 57.3% of straight line with IVVP patients and 42.9% of Furlow patients, with no statistically significant difference between groups. Clinically significant hypernasality was present in 42.1% of straight line with IVVP patients and 22.9% of Furlow patients (P=0.05). Velopharyngeal function was classified as adequate in 63.5% of straight line with IVVP patients and 83.3% of Furlow patients (P=0.03). However, after stratifying by syndromic versus nonsyndromic status, there was no statistically significant difference between straight line with IVVP and Furlow patients for postoperative hypernasality and velopharyngeal function.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that there are no statistically significant differences between straight line with IVVP and Furlow palatoplasty techniques regarding speech outcomes including hypernasality, audible nasal air emission, and overall VP function. Furthermore, select patient characteristics such as gender, primary language, syndromic status, age at repair, and Veau cleft type do not significantly impact postoperative speech outcomes.
Surgical Treatment of Craniofacial Fibrous Dysplasia With TP53 Gene Mutation
Authors: Chen Lang , Chen YuJing , Xiao Kai , Hu Fei , Wang HuanMing , Shao Qiang
Published: November 2023

Background:

To report the surgical treatment of craniofacial fibrous dysplasia (CFD) with TP53 gene mutation.

Methods:

The patient was diagnosed with CFD by surgery at the age of 14 years. At the age of 35 years, the tumor recurred, and the patient took active treatment. The tumor was resected 4 times by neuroendoscopy due to recurrence in a short period. Meanwhile, genetic tests were performed on the patient. The patient’s postoperative pathology indicated leiomyosarcoma and genetic testing indicated TP53 gene mutation.

Results:

Despite the active surgical treatment, the patient finally died of a malignant tumor. The prognosis of patients with CFD malignancy accompanied by TP53 gene mutation is poor, and its treatment is difficult.

Conclusions:

The prognostic benefit of surgical treatment for patients with CFD malignancy is limited. It is hoped that more genetic mutations will be identified and reported in patients with CFD malignancy, and long-term follow-up is necessary for patients with current fibrous dysplasia or CFD.
Reconstruction of Large Periorbital Defect With a Pre-expanded Retrograde Postauricular Island Flap: Our 13-Year Experiences
Authors: Fan Jincai , Yang Jifan , Han Bing , Huang Rong , Guo Rui , Zhang Tiran , Song Jipeng
Published: November 2023

The clinical application of the retrograde postauricular island flap has been widely restricted because of its limited size and high morbidity of venous congestion. Thus, in this article, we introduced a pre-expanded retrograde postauricular island flap to reconstruct the large periorbital defect. A total of 13 patients with periorbital lesions who had undergone the treatment of our flap were enrolled in the study. The whole series of operations was divided into 3 parts, including expander implantation in the postauricular region, a series of expander inflations, and flap transferring, and special incisions were also designed in the procedure. In the end, all the flaps survived without serious complications. The mean size of the harvested flaps was 2.65 times larger than that of our nonexpanded cases. The reconstructed periorbital region showed a functional and aesthetic repair outcome after a follow-up of 3 to 30 months. To conclude, the pre-expanded retrograde postauricular island flap was a safe way to reconstruct a larger periorbital defect.
A decision-making tool to navigate through Extracellular Vesicle research and product development
Authors: Loria Francesca , Picciotto Sabrina , Adamo Giorgia , Zendrini Andrea , Raccosta Samuele , Manno Mauro , Bergese Paolo , Liguori Giovanna L. , Bongiovanni Antonella , Zarovni Nataša
Published: November 2023

Due to their intercellular communication properties and their involvement in a wide range of biological processes, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increasingly being studied and exploited for different applications. Nevertheless, their complex nature and heterogeneity, as well as the challenges related to their isolation, purification and characterization procedures, require cautious assessment of the quality and quantity parameters to monitor. This translates into a multitude of choices and putative solutions that lie in front of any EV researcher, in both research and translational environments, resembling a labyrinth with multiple paths to cross and, possibly, more than one exit. In this respect, decision-making tools might represent our modern Ariadne’s string to follow not to get lost or distracted along the journey, to choose the shorter and best-fit-to-source EV application(s) andvice versa. Here, we present the implementation of a multi-criteria EV decision-making grid (EV-DMG) as a novel, customizable, efficient and easy-to-use tool to support responsible EV research and innovation. By identifying and weighting key assessment criteria for comparing distinct EV-based preparations and/or processes, our EV-DMG may assist any EV community member in making informed, transparent and reproducible decisions regarding the EV sources and/or samples to be managed, as well as the most suitable production and/or analytical pipelines to be adopted for targeting a defined aim or application.
‘Drifting’Buchneragenomes track the microevolutionary trajectories of their aphid hosts
Authors: Thia Joshua A. , Zhan Dongwu , Robinson Katie , Umina Paul A. , Hoffmann Ary A. , Yang Qiong
Published: November 2023

Evolution ofBuchnera–aphid host symbioses is often studied among species at macroevolutionary scales. Investigations within species offer a different perspective about how eco-evolutionary processes shape patterns of genetic variation at microevolutionary scales. Our study leverages new and publicly available whole-genome sequencing data to studyBuchnera–aphid host evolution inMyzus persicae, the peach potato aphid, a globally invasive and polyphagous pest. Across 43 different asexual, clonally reproducing isofemale strains, we examined patterns of genomic covariation betweenBuchneraand their aphid host and considered the distribution of mutations in protein-coding regions of theBuchneragenome. We foundBuchnerapolymorphisms within aphid strains, suggesting the presence of genetically differentBuchnerastrains within the same clonal lineage. Genetic distance between pairs ofBuchnerasamples was positively correlated to genetic distance between their aphid hosts, indicating shared evolutionary histories. However, there was no segregation in the genetic variation of bothM. persicaeandBuchnerawith plant host (Brassicaceae and non-tobacco Solanaceae) and no associations between genetic and geographic distance at global or regional spatial scales. Abundance patterns of non-synonymous mutations were similar to synonymous mutations in theBuchneragenome, and both mutation classes had similar site frequency spectra. We hypothesize that a predominance of neutral processes results in theBuchneraofM. persicaeto simply ‘drift’ with the evolutionary trajectory of their aphid hosts. Our study presents a unique microevolutionary characterisation ofBuchnera–aphid host genomic covariation across multiple aphid clones. This provides a new perspective on the eco-evolutionary processes generating and maintaining polymorphisms in a major pest aphid species and its obligate primary endosymbiont.
Targeting pediatric High-Grade Gliomas withOAcGD2-CAR Vδ2 T cells
Authors: Thomas Pauline , Veerasamy Maëva , Devinat Marine , Guiet Elodie , Ollier Jocelyn , Paris Pierre , Entz-Werlé Natacha , Gratas Catherine , Clémenceau Béatrice , Birklé Stéphane , Paris François , Pecqueur Claire , Fougeray Sophie
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Pediatric high-grade gliomas (pHGG) belong to a family of rare children’s cancers which are treated with radiotherapy, based on adult high-grade glioma standard of care. However, new treatments are definitively required since actual ones are unable to extend survival by more than a few months in most patients. In this study, we investigate a Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR)-T cell immunotherapy targeting theOAcGD2 ganglioside, using either conventional αβ or Vδ2 T cells as effectors.

Materials and methods

Using relevant human primary models of pHGG, we first characterized the innate Vδ2 T cell immunoreactivity. Then, following the validation ofOAcGD2 expression in these tumor cells, we evaluated both αβ and Vδ2OAcGD2-CAR-T cell immunoreactivity using various methods including videomicroscopy, FACS and cytotoxicity assays.

Results

We showed that pHGG primary cells are not spontaneously recognized and killed by Vδ2 T cells but significantly expressed theOAcGD2 ganglioside. Accordingly, both αβ and Vδ2 T cells engineered to express a CAR against theOAcGD2 efficiently killed pHGG cells in 2D and 3D models. Importantly, only Vδ2 T cells transduced with the completeOAcGD2-CAR eliminated pHGG cells, in contrast to conventional αβ CAR-T cells that killed tumor cells even in the absence of CAR expression, highlighting the allogeneic potential of Vδ2 CAR-T cells.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the preclinical relevance of targetingOAcGD2 in pHGG using CAR-T cells. Furthermore, we also clearly demonstrate the clinical benefits of using Vδ2 T cells as CAR effectors in allogeneic settings allowing an off-the-shelf immunotherapy.
The cuticular wax compositions and crystal coverage of leaves and petals differ in a consistent manner between plant species
Authors: Tunstad Sverre A. , Bull Ian D. , Rands Sean A. , Whitney Heather M.
Published: November 2023

1

Both leaves and petals are covered in a cuticle, which itself contains and is covered by, cuticular waxes. The waxes perform various roles in plants’ lives, and the cuticular composition of leaves has received much attention. To date, the cuticular composition of petals has been largely ignored. Being the outermost boundary between the plant and the environment, the cuticle is the first point of contact between a flower and a pollinator, yet we know little about how plant-pollinator interactions shape its chemical composition. Here, we investigate the general structure and composition of floral cuticular waxes by analysing the cuticular composition of leaves and petals of 49 plant species, representing 19 orders and 27 families. We show that the flowers of plants from across the phylogenetic range are nearly devoid of wax crystals, and that the total wax load of leaves in 90% of the species is higher than that of petals. The proportion of alkanes is higher, and the chain-lengths of the aliphatic compounds are shorter in petals than in leaves. We argue these differences are a result of the adaptation to the different roles leaves and petals play in plant biology.
Efficient and sustained optogenetic control of sensory and cardiac systems
Authors: Alekseev Alexey , Hunniford Victoria , Zerche Maria , Jeschke Marcus , May Fadhel El , Vavakou Anna , Siegenthaler Dominique , Hüser Marc A. , Kiehn Svenja M. , Garrido-Charles Aida , Meyer Alexander , Rambousky Adrian , Alvanos Theocharis , Witzke Isabel , Rojas-Garcia Keila Dara , Draband Martin , Cyganek Lukas , Klein Eric , Ruther Patrick , Huet Antoine , Trenholm Stuart , Macé Emilie , Kusch Kathrin , Bruegmann Tobias , Wolf Bettina J. , Mager Thomas , Moser Tobias
Published: November 2023

Optogenetic control of cells is a key life sciences method and promises novel therapies. Here we report on ChReef, an improved variant of the channelrhodopsin ChRmine. ChReef offers minimal photocurrent desensitization, a unitary conductance of 80 fS and closing kinetics of 30 ms, which together enable reliable optogenetic control of cells at low light levels (nano-Joule) with good temporal fidelity and allows sustained stimulation. We demonstrate efficient and reliable red-light pacing and depolarization block of ChReef-expressing cardiomyocyte clusters. Towards clinical application we used AAV-based gene transfer to express ChReef in retinal ganglion cells where it restores visual function in blind mice with light sources as weak as an iPad screen. Toward optogenetic hearing restoration, ChReef enables stimulation of the auditory pathway in rodents and non-human primates with nano-Joule threshold enabling efficient and frequency-specific stimulation by LED-based optical cochlear implants. Thus, ChReef bears great potential for life sciences and clinical application.
Determinants of spring migration departure dates in a New World sparrow: weather variables reign supreme
Authors: Byrd Allison J. , Talbott Katherine M. , Smiley Tara M. , Verrett Taylor B. , Gross Michael S. , Hladik Michelle L. , Ketterson Ellen D. , Becker Daniel J.
Published: November 2023

Numerous factors influence the timing of spring migration in birds, yet the relative importance of intrinsic and extrinsic variables on migration initiation remains unclear. To test for interactions among weather, migration distance, parasitism, and physiology in determining spring departure date, we used Dark-eyed Juncos (Junco hyemalis hyemalis) as a model migratory species known to harbor diverse and common haemosporidian parasites. Prior to spring migration departure from their wintering grounds in Indiana, USA, we quantified the intrinsic variables of fat, body condition (i.e., mass∼tarsus residuals), physiological stress (i.e., ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes), cellular immunity (i.e., leukocyte composition and total count), migration distance (i.e., distance to the breeding grounds) using stable isotopes of hydrogen from feathers, and haemosporidian parasite intensity. We then attached nanotags to determine the timing of spring migration departure date using the Motus Wildlife Tracking System. We used additive Cox proportional hazard mixed models to test how risk of spring migratory departure was predicted by the combined intrinsic measures, along with meteorological predictors on the evening of departure (i.e., average wind speed and direction, relative humidity, and temperature). Model comparisons found that the best predictor of spring departure date was average nightly wind direction and a principal component combining relative humidity and temperature. Juncos were more likely to depart for spring migration on nights with largely southwestern winds and on warmer and drier evenings (relative to cooler and more humid evenings). Our results indicate that weather conditions at take-off are more critical to departure decisions than the measured physiological and parasitism variables.
Microglia undergo transcriptional, translational and functional adaptations to dark and light phases in laboratory mice
Authors: Mattei Daniele , Ivanov Andranik , Hammer Jacqueline , Ugursu Bilge , Schalbetter Sina , Richetto Juliet , Weber-Stadelbauer Ulrike , Mueller Flavia , Scarborough Joseph , Wolf Susanne A , Kettenmann Helmut , Wollscheid Bernd , Beule Dieter , Meyer Urs
Published: November 2023

Microglia cells are increasingly recognized to contribute to brain health and disease. Preclinical studies using laboratory rodents are essential to advance our understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological functions of these cells in the central nervous system. Rodents are nocturnal animals, and they are mostly maintained in a defined light–dark cycle within animal facilities, with many laboratories investigating microglial molecular and functional profiles during the animals’ light (sleep) phase. However, only a few studies have considered possible differences in microglial functions between the active and sleep phases. Based on initial evidence suggesting that microglial intrinsic clock genes can affect their phenotype, we sought to investigate differences in transcriptional, proteotype and functional profiles of microglia between light (sleep) and dark (active) phases, and how these changes are affected in pathological models. We found marked transcriptional and proteotype differences between microglia harvested during the light or dark phase. Amongst others, these differences related to genes and proteins associated with immune responses, motility, and phagocytosis, which were reflected by functional alterations in microglial synaptic pruning and response to bacterial stimuli. Possibly accounting for such circadian changes, we found RNA and protein regulation in SWI/SNF and NuRD chromatin remodeling complexes between light and dark phases. Importantly, we show that microglial circadian transcriptional changes are impaired in a model of immune-mediated neurodevelopmental disorders. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering circadian factors in studying microglial cells and indicate that implementing a circadian perspective is pivotal for advancing our understanding of their physiological and pathophysiological roles in brain health and disease. This may also open novel avenues towards therapeutic strategies for modulating microglial functions during specific windows of the active or sleep phase.
A nuclear architecture screen inDrosophilaidentifies Stonewall as a link between chromatin position at the nuclear periphery and germline stem cell fate
Authors: Chavan Ankita , Isenhart Randi , Nguyen Son C. , Kotb Noor , Harke Jailynn , Sintsova Anna , Ulukaya Gulay , Uliana Federico , Ashiono Caroline , Kutay Ulrike , Pegoraro Gianluca , Rangan Prashanth , Joyce Eric F. , Jagannathan Madhav
Published: November 2023

The association of genomic loci to the nuclear periphery is proposed to facilitate cell-type specific gene repression and influence cell fate decisions. However, the interplay between gene position and expression remains incompletely understood, in part because the proteins that position genomic loci at the nuclear periphery remain unidentified. Here, we used an Oligopaint-based HiDRO screen targeting ∼1000 genes to discover novel regulators of nuclear architecture inDrosophilacells. We identified the heterochromatin-associated protein, Stonewall (Stwl), as a factor promoting perinuclear chromatin positioning. In female germline stem cells (GSCs), Stwl binds and positions chromatin loci, including GSC differentiation genes, at the nuclear periphery. Strikingly, Stwl-dependent perinuclear positioning is associated with transcriptional repression, highlighting a likely mechanism for Stwl’s known role in GSC maintenance and ovary homeostasis. Thus, our study identifies perinuclear anchors inDrosophilaand demonstrates the importance of gene repression at the nuclear periphery for cell fate.
IFIH1 (MDA5) is required for innate immune detection of intron-containing RNA expressed from the HIV-1 provirus
Authors: Guney Mehmet Hakan , Nagalekshmi Karthika , McCauley Sean Matthew , Carbone Claudia , Aydemir Ozkan , Luban Jeremy
Published: November 2023

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses HIV-1 viremia and prevents progression to AIDS. Nonetheless, chronic inflammation is a common problem for people living with HIV-1 on ART. One possible cause of inflammation is ongoing transcription from HIV-1 proviruses, whether or not the sequences are competent for replication. Previous work has shown that intron-containing RNA expressed from the HIV-1 provirus in primary human blood cells, including CD4+T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells, activates type 1 interferon. This activation required HIV-1revand was blocked by the XPO1 (CRM1)-inhibitor leptomycin. To identify the innate immune receptor required for detection of intron-containing RNA expressed from the HIV-1 provirus, a loss-of-function screen was performed with shRNA-expressing lentivectors targeting twenty-one candidate genes in human monocyte derived dendritic cells. Among the candidate genes tested, only knockdown of XPO1 (CRM1), IFIH1 (MDA5), or MAVS prevented activation of the IFN-stimulated gene ISG15. The importance of IFIH1 protein was demonstrated by rescue of the knockdown with non-targetable IFIH1 coding sequence. Inhibition of HIV-1-induced ISG15 by the IFIH1-specific Nipah virus V protein, and by IFIH1-transdominant inhibitory CARD-deletion or phosphomimetic point mutations, indicates that IFIH1 filament formation, dephosphorylation, and association with MAVS, are all required for innate immune activation in response to HIV-1 transduction. Since both IFIH1 and DDX58 (RIG-I) signal via MAVS, the specificity of HIV-1 RNA detection by IFIH1 was demonstrated by the fact that DDX58 knockdown had no effect on activation. RNA-Seq showed that IFIH1-knockdown in dendritic cells globally disrupted the induction of IFN-stimulated genes. Finally, specific enrichment of unspliced HIV-1 RNA by IFIH1 was revealed by formaldehyde crosslinking immunoprecipitation (f-CLIP). These results demonstrate that IFIH1 is required for innate immune activation by intron-containing RNA from the HIV-1 provirus, and potentially contributes to chronic inflammation in people living with HIV-1.
Long-distance communication can enable collective migration in a dynamic seascape
Authors: Dodson Stephanie , Oestreich William K. , Savoca Matthew S. , Hazen Elliott L. , Bograd Steven J. , Ryan John P. , Fiechter Jerome , Abrahms Briana
Published: November 2023

Social information is predicted to enhance migratory performance, but the relative benefits of social information in the long-range movements of marine megafauna are unknown. In particular, whether and how migrants use nonlocal information gained through social communication at the extreme spatial scale of oceanic ecosystems remains unclear. Here we combine long-term acoustic recordings of foraging and migratory blue whales, oceanographic and prey data, and individual-based modeling to discern the cues underlying timing of blue whales’ breeding migration in the Northeast Pacific. We find that individual whales rely on both personal and social sources of information about forage availability in deciding when to depart from their vast and dynamic foraging habitat and initiate breeding migration. Empirical patterns of migratory phenology can only be reproduced by models in which individuals use long-distance social information about conspecifics’ behavioral state, which is known to be encoded in the patterning of their widely-propagating songs. Further, social communication improves pre-migration seasonal foraging performance by over 60% relative to asocial movement mechanisms. Our results suggest that long-range communication enhances the perceptual ranges of migrating whales beyond that of any individual, resulting in increased foraging performance. These findings indicate the value of nonlocal social information in an oceanic migrant and highlight the importance of long-distance acoustic communication in the collective migration of wide-ranging marine megafauna.
Topographical and cell type-specific connectivity of rostral and caudal forelimb corticospinal neuron populations
Authors: Carmona Lina Marcela , Thomas ET , Smith Kimberly , Tasic Bosiljka , Costa Rui M. , Nelson Anders
Published: November 2023

Corticospinal neurons (CSNs) synapse directly on spinal neurons, a diverse group of neurons with unique structural and functional properties necessary for body movements. CSNs modulating forelimb behavior fractionate into caudal forelimb area (CFA) and rostral forelimb area (RFA) motor cortical populations. Despite their prominence, no studies have mapped the diversity of spinal cell types targeted by CSNs, let alone compare CFA and RFA populations. Here we use anatomical and RNA-sequencing methods to show that CSNs synapse onto a remarkably selective group of spinal cell types, favoring inhibitory populations that regulate motoneuron activity and gate sensory feedback. CFA and RFA CSNs target similar spinal cell types, with notable exceptions that suggest these populations differ in how they influence behavior. Finally, axon collaterals of CFA and RFA CSNs target similar brain regions yet receive surprisingly divergent inputs. These results detail the rules of CSN connectivity throughout the brain and spinal cord for two regions critical for forelimb behavior.
A novel approach for a pre-assessment of textile innovation process: innovation gap finder model (IGFM)
Authors: Altuntas Fatma
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The textile industry is a labor-intensive industry in which where innovation-oriented studies are conducted intensively. However, identifying potential innovation gaps for a firm operating in the textile industry is not easy and greatly influences the firm's future success. To this end, this study aims to propose a novel integrated approach for the pre-assessment of the firm-level innovation process.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed approach uses two important tools: the technology capability audit tool and innovation audit tool. The proposed approach integrates these tools to discover possible innovation opportunities for firms. The proposed approach is called the innovation gap finder model (IGFM).

Findings

A real case study in the textile industry is conducted to show how IGFM works in practice. The results of this study show that decision-makers can easily identify existing innovation gaps using IGFM.

Originality/value

Firms must first identify innovation gaps in order to initiate achievable projects in line with their current situation. Addressing a firm-level pre-assessment of the textile innovation process helps achieve growth and enables the firm to know what it should do in the near future. By identifying innovation gaps by considering the innovation processes at the firm level, it is also easier to prepare an action plan on what and how to do in accordance with the firm's own culture. There is no specific tool developed to discover potential innovation gaps in the literature. To fill this gap, a novel integrated approach is proposed for a pre-assessment of firm level innovation process in this study. The proposed approach can also accelerate the establishment of the “idea-invention-innovation” path within the firm.
A DFT-based finite element model to study the elastic, buckling and vibrational characteristics of monolayer bismuthene
Authors: Aghdasi Peyman , Yousefi Shayesteh , Ansari Reza
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In this paper, based on the density functional theory (DFT) and finite element method (FEM), the elastic, buckling and vibrational behaviors of the monolayer bismuthene are studied.

Design/methodology/approach

The computed elastic properties based on DFT are used to develop a finite element (FE) model for the monolayer bismuthene in which the Bi-Bi bonds are simulated by beam elements. Furthermore, mass elements are used to model the Bi atoms. The developed FE model is used to compute Young's modulus of monolayer bismuthene. The model is then used to evaluate the buckling force and fundamental natural frequency of the monolayer bismuthene with different geometrical parameters.

Findings

Comparing the results of the FEM and DFT, it is shown that the proposed model can predict Young's modulus of the monolayer bismuthene with an acceptable accuracy. It is also shown that the influence of the vertical side length on the fundamental natural frequency of the monolayer bismuthene is not significant. However, vibrational characteristics of the bismuthene are significantly affected by the horizontal side length.

Originality/value

DFT and FEM are used to study the elastic, vibrational and buckling properties of the monolayer bismuthene. The developed model can be used to predict Young's modulus of the monolayer bismuthene accurately. Effect of the vertical side length on the fundamental natural frequency is negligible. However, vibrational characteristics are significantly affected by the horizontal side length.
Jewish and Arab teachers' views on school communications, innovation and commitment after COVID-19: sector of education as a moderator
Authors: Masry-Herzallah Asmahan , Dor-haim Peleg
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The study investigated the correlation between school communication and teachers' perceptions of the school's innovative climate in the Israeli education system during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. Furthermore, this study examined the role of affective commitment and the role of sector (Arab or Jewish) in these correlations.

Design/methodology/approach

First, Arab and Jewish teachers studying toward their MA degree were randomly selected from 2 higher education institutes in Israel, and then other teachers were selected using the snowball method through teacher groups on the Facebook social network and WhatsApp groups (N = 383).

Findings

The findings revealed major differences between Arab and Jewish teachers. Among Arab teachers, the correlation between school communications and an innovative climate was found to be mediated through affective commitment, whereas among Jewish teachers, a direct correlation was found between the first two variables. The correlation between school communications and affective commitment was found to be stronger among Arab teachers than among Jewish teachers.

Originality/value

The study results confirmed that school communication and affective commitment hold a significant predictive value in school innovation and highlight the importance of affective commitment in supporting innovation. The study adds to the body of research directed at identifying antecedents to innovative climate as well as studies examining the effects of school communications on affective commitment and innovative climate in a multicultural society, both in regular and emergency situations. The findings can also provide valuable insights for culturally sensitive and relevant education policy design and management in the post-COVID-19 period.
The effect of tighter tax loss offsetting rules on firms' innovation: evidence from South Korea
Authors: Sim Jae Yeon , Kim Natalie Kyung Won , Kim Jeong-Taek
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study investigates how the introduction of a stricter loss carryforward offset rule affects firms' innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the overall impact of a Korean tax reform that introduced a tighter loss deduction through a difference-in-differences approach and regression discontinuity design.

Findings

This study finds that firms subject to the more restrictive tax loss offset provisions tend to file fewer patents than firms not subject to the provision. The authors further find that this effect is more pronounced for firms with high R&D intensity, more investment opportunities and weaker monitoring mechanisms.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study suggest that more restrictive loss carryforward provisions may deter firms from innovation. This study contributes to the literature on the impact of tax loss rules, the effect of tax policies on investments and the real effects of corporate taxation.

Practical implications

This study sheds light on the debate of the consequences of a Korean tax reform. Specifically, the authors examine whether a stricter tax loss offset policy indeed dampens corporate innovation.

Originality/value

This study exploits a unique and infrequent exogenous tax policy change. The South Korean tax reform creates a treatment group of large firms that were affected by the tax reform, and a control group of small and medium-sized firms that were unaffected. This study takes advantage of this setting to examine the research question.
Understanding the relationship between reviews, search and sales: a study of the Indian car market
Authors: Prabhala Madhuri , Bose Indranil
Published: November 2023

Purpose

While there has been extensive research on understanding the effects of online reviews on product sales, there is not enough investigation of the inter-relationships between online reviews, online search and product sales. The study attempts to address this gap in the context of the Indian car market.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses text mining and considers six important review features volume, valence, length, deviation of valence, sentiment and readability within the heuristic and systematic model of information processing. Panel data regression is used along with mediation analysis to study the inter-relationships between features of reviews, online search and sales.

Findings

The study finds that numerical heuristic features significantly affect sales and online search, numerical systematic feature affects sales and the textual heuristic and systematic features do not affect sales or online search in the Indian car market. Further, online search mediates the association between features of reviews and sales of cars.

Research limitations/implications

Although only car sales data from India is considered in this research, similar relationships between review features, online search and sales could exist for the car market of other countries as well.

Originality/value

This research uncovers the unique role of online search as a mediator between review features and sales, whereas prior literature has considered review features and online search as independent variables that affect sales.
Mandatory CSR spending, ESG and firm performance: evidence from Bombay stock exchange
Authors: Dahal Mahesh , Sangma Amit , Das Joy , Ray Paulami
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The study attempts to examine the impact of mandatory corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending and inclusion of firms into the environment, social and governance (ESG) index of BSE India on the performance of firms constituting firms under the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) 100 Index.

Design/methodology/approach

The stock prices of the firms were collected from the official website of BSE India for a total of 32 firms and the System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) model was utilized for analyzing the data for the present study.

Findings

The study found that the investors in the Indian market do consider the CSR spending and ESG listing as a factor while framing the investment strategy; however, ESG listing is least preferred. Among the other variables, AGE, DPS, EPS and BVPS have a significant positive bearing on the firm's performance, while SIZE has a significant negative impact on the firm's performance.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigation is needed to understand the factors that influence investment decision-making, including why investors tend to overlook CSR and environmental protection. Future research can identify ways to increase the importance of these factors in investment decision-making. Future research can explore the long-term impact of investing in socially responsible companies, including whether such investments lead to better long-term performance.

Practical implications

There is a need for increased awareness of the importance of CSR among investors. Educational programs and campaigns can be used to inform investors about the potential benefits of considering social responsibility factors in investment decision-making. Companies that prioritize CSR and environmental protection should distinguish themselves from competitors in the eyes of investors. This can lead to higher investment and potentially higher returns for these companies.

Originality/value

Since mandatory CSR expenditure and the launch of the ESG index by the BSE have been introduced in India recently, hardly any study in India has examined the impact of the same on the firm's performance.
Comparison of active and passive back-support exoskeletons for construction work: range of motion, discomfort, usability, exertion and cognitive load assessments
Authors: Okunola Akinwale , Akanmu Abiola Abosede , Yusuf Anthony Olukayode
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Low back disorders are more predominant among construction trade workers than their counterparts in other industry sectors. Floor layers are among the top artisans that are severely affected by low back disorders. Exoskeletons are increasingly being perceived as ergonomic solutions. This study aims to compare the efficacy of passive and active back-support exoskeletons by measuring range of motion, perceived discomfort, usability, perceived rate of exertion and cognitive load during a simulated flooring task experiment.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study eight participants were engaged in a repetitive timber flooring task performed with passive and active back-support exoskeletons. Subjective and objective data were collected to assess the risks associated with using both exoskeletons. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Scheirer-Ray-Hare test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were adopted to compare the exoskeleton conditions.

Findings

The results show no significant differences in the range of motion (except for a lifting cycle), perceived level of discomfort and perceived level of exertion between the two exoskeletons. Significant difference in overall cognitive load was observed. The usability results show that the active back-support exoskeleton made task execution easier with less restriction on movement.

Research limitations/implications

The flooring task is simulated in a laboratory environment with only eight male participants.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the scarce body of knowledge on the usage comparison of passive and active exoskeletons for construction work.