bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of urbanization on the health of American Robins (Turdus migratorus) in Chicagoland
Authors: Riccardi Anna , Douglass Kimberly R. , Jackson Vera Soloview , Dehnert Gavin K. , Herbst Hannah , Grewe Felix , Walker Morgan , Magle Seth , Murray Maureen H. , Adams Henry , Brook Cara E. , Ruhs Emily Cornelius
Published: November 2024

Wild animals in urbanized environments face several unique challenges, including increased anthropogenic stressors, decreased natural food availability and quality, and increased pollutant exposure. While some work has shown that individual urbanization stressors can have negative impacts on aspects of wild bird physiology, other studies have demonstrated ambiguous or sometimes positive interactions. As such, the impact of multiple, coincident urban stressors on avian health still needs to be fully understood. Here, we addressed this knowledge gap by holistically measuring multiple physiological markers of American robin (Turdus migratorius) health across a gradient of urbanization throughout Chicagoland. We predicted that birds using highly urbanized habitats would experience higher heavy metal contamination, higher oxidative stress, lower body condition, higher avian malaria burden, and decreased measures of immune response compared to exurban birds in the Chicagoland area. Multiple linear models revealed that robins in more urbanized areas exhibited higher levels of heavy metal contamination and slightly elevated levels of associated physiological impairments compared to their counterparts in exurban sites. Additionally, noise and light pollution were significantly associated with oxidative stress and infection status, respectively, albeit in different directions. Overall, our findings underscore how the complex environmental changes that accompany urbanization can impact the health of urban bird populations.
Evidence for non-optimal codon choice in highly transcribed sex-biased genes ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Whittle Carrie A. , Extavour Cassandra G.
Published: November 2024

Biases in synonymous codon use occur across multicellular organisms. Optimal codons, defined as those most commonly used in highly transcribed genes, are thought to arise from selection for cost-efficient translation, which would favor codons with abundant matching tRNAs. Such presumed selection is described as optimal codon choice. Non-optimal codons, defined as those least commonly used in highly transcribed genes, may in principle also play important roles, including regulating protein folding or mRNA translation. However, the dynamics of non-optimal codon use remain understudied. Here we rigorously examine non-optimal codon use, using sex-biased genes expressed in the gonads ofDrosophila melanogasteras a case study. Using this model, we show that as genes evolve sex-biased expression, they tend to evolve a preference for non-optimal codon use, and that this preference is stronger for testis-biased genes than for ovary-biased genes. Further, from thorough analyses of each of 18 degenerate amino acids, we found evidence that the use of non-optimal codons is not random. Instead, specific non-optimal codons are favored over their synonymous non-optimal codons, an effect again especially pronounced in testis-biased genes. Moreover, we found that non-optimal codon use is positively linked to elevated disorder of the encoded proteins, a pattern most consequential in testis-biased genes. Remarkably, all 18 degenerate amino acids were associated with higher disorder when they were encoded by the identified primary non-optimal codon, than when encoded by its sister optimal codon. We hypothesize that selection may have acted to promote non-optimal codon choice to regulate translation. We discuss the putative roles of tRNA gene copy numbers, pleiotropy, and sex-biased expression in the evolution of this level of gene regulation.

Classification:Research Report, Genetics
Testing the peak-end rule in bumblebees: lack of preference for a higher-reward sequence when the final reward is disappointing
Authors: Armand Melissa , Riemer Pauline , Hagn Sophia , Schweiger Jana , Czaczkes Tomer J.
Published: November 2024

The peak-end rule describes the tendency to evaluate experiences by their most intense and final moments, rather than considering the entire experience as a whole. While this cognitive bias is well-established in humans, studies on nonhuman animals are very limited. Bumblebees make foraging decisions largely based on past experiences, but whether peak-end effects influence their subsequent flower choices is still unknown. Here, we trained individualBombus terrestrisworkers on two artificial flower types, blue and yellow, over 12 consecutive foraging bouts. One flower type offered a sequence of three high-quality rewards (25 μL drops of 50% w/w sucrose solution:consistentsequence), while the other provided the same sequence but ended with an additional, lower-quality reward (25 μL drop of 20% w/w sucrose solution:poor endsequence). We then tested the bees' flower type preference in a final binary choice. Bees showed a strong preference for blue flowers, both in their initial and overall visits. Across all visits during a 1-minute period, they also favoured flowers associated with the consistent sequence, though this preference was significant only when these flowers were yellow. Interestingly, despite offering more sucrose per foraging bout, bees did not favour the poor end sequence flower. This study is, to our knowledge, the first to investigate peak-end effects in an insect. How bees evaluate sequential rewards when foraging remains largely unexplored, yet could provide valuable insights into nectar distribution and plant-pollinator co-evolution.
Glutaminolysis promotes the function of follicular helper T cells in lupus-prone mice
Authors: Choi Seung-Chul , Ge Yong , Joshi Milind V. , Jimenez Damian , Padilla Lauren T. , LaPlante Cassandra , Rathmell Jeffery C. , Mohamadzadeh Mansour , Morel Laurence
Published: November 2024

Glutamine metabolism is essential for T cell activation and functions. The inhibition of glutaminolysis impairs Th17 cell differentiation and alters Th1 cell functions. There is evidence for an active glutaminolysis in the immune cells of lupus patients. Treatment of lupus-prone mice with glutaminolysis inhibitors ameliorated disease in association with a reduced frequency of Th17 cells. This study was performed to determine the role of glutaminolysis in murine Tfh cells, a critical subset of helper CD4+T cells in lupus that provide help to autoreactive B cells to produce autoantibodies. We showed that lupus Tfh present a high level of glutamine metabolism. The pharmacological inhibition of glutaminolysis with DON had little effect on the Tfh cells of healthy mice, but it reduced the expression of the critical costimulatory molecule ICOS on lupus Tfh cells, in association with a reduction of autoantibody production, germinal center B cell dynamics, as well as a reduction of the frequency of atypical age-related B cells and plasma cells. Accordingly, profound transcriptomic and metabolic changes, including an inhibition of glycolysis, were induced in lupus Tfh cells by DON, while healthy Tfh cells showed little changes. The T cell-specific inhibition of glutaminolysis by deletion of the gene encoding for the glutaminase enzyme GLS1 largely phenocopied the effects of DON on Tfh cells and B cells in an autoimmune genetic background with little effect in a congenic control background. These results were confirmed in an induced model of lupus. Finally, we showed that T cell-specificGls1deletion impaired T- dependent humoral responses in autoimmune mice as well as their Tfh response to a viral infection. Overall, these results demonstrated a greater intrinsic requirement of lupus Tfh cells for their helper functions, and they suggest that targeting glutaminolysis may be beneficial to treat lupus.
A Versatile Anti-CRISPR Platform for Opto- and Chemogenetic Control of CRISPR-Cas9 and Cas12 across a Wide Range of Orthologs
Authors: Brenker Luca , Aschenbrenner Sabine , Bubeck Felix , Staykov Kaloyan , Gebhardt Carolin , Wolf Benedict , Jendrusch Michael , Kröll Ann-Sophie , Mathony Jan , Niopek Dominik
Published: November 2024

CRISPR-Cas technologies have revolutionized life sciences by enabling programmable genome editing across diverse organisms. Achieving dynamic and precise control over CRISPR-Cas activity with exogenous triggers, such as light or chemical ligands, remains an important need. Existing tools for CRISPR-Cas control are often limited to specific Cas orthologs or selected applications, restricting their versatility. Anti-CRISPR (Acr) proteins, natural inhibitors of CRISPR-Cas systems, provide a flexible regulatory layer but are constitutively active in their native forms.

In this study, we built on our previously reported concept for optogenetic CRISPR-Cas control with engineered, light-switchable anti-CRISPR proteins and expanded it from ortholog-specific Acrs towards AcrIIA5 and AcrVA1, broad-spectrum inhibitors of CRISPR-Cas9 and -Cas12a, respectively. We then conceived and implemented a novel, chemogenetic anti-CRISPR platform based on engineered, circularly permuted ligand receptor domains of human origin, that together respond to six different, clinically-relevant drugs. The resulting toolbox achieves both optogenetic and chemogenetic control of genome editing in human cells with a wide range of CRISPR-Cas effectors, including type II-A and -C CRISPR-Cas9s, and -Cas12a. In sum, this work establishes a versatile platform for multidimensional control of CRISPR-Cas systems, with immediate applications in basic research and biotechnology and potential for therapeutic use in the future.
Absolute quantification of cerebral metabolites using 2D1H-MRSI with quantitative MRI-based water reference
Authors: Thomas Dennis C. , Alcicek Seyma , Manzhurtsev Andrei , Hattingen Elke , Wenger Katharina J. , Pilatus Ulrich
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Metabolite concentrations are valuable biomarkers in brain tumors (BT). However, correction of water relaxation effects often requires time-consuming quantitative MRI (qMRI) sequences on top of a lengthy spectroscopic water reference acquisition. The goal of this work was to develop and validate a fast metabolite quantification method where a 2D spectroscopic water reference acquisition is obtained using a fast qMRI protocol and single-voxel STEAM sequence.

Methods

A 2D sLASER sequence was acquired for MRSI. An 8-minute qMRI protocol was also acquired. A single-voxel unsuppressed water signal was acquired using a STEAM sequence. The H2O map, obtained from qMRI, was calibrated based on the STEAM-signal to obtain the spectroscopic water reference (proposed method). Five healthy volunteers and one BT patient were scanned at 3T. Concentrations obtained using the proposed and two reference methods, one where water relaxation effects were corrected using literature values (Reference method) and one where they were corrected using qMRI-derived values (Reference method with qMRI) were compared.

Results

In healthy subjects, WM metabolite concentrations obtained using water relaxation using literature values (Reference method) significantly differed from those using individual-specific corrections (Reference method with qMRI and proposed method). Bland-Altman analyses revealed a very low bias and SD of the differences between the ‘Reference method with qMRI’ and the ‘proposed-method’ (Bias<0.5% and SD<10%). The BT regions showed a ∼15% underestimation of metabolite concentrations using the ‘Reference method’.

Conclusion

For metabolite quantification, accurate water referencing with individual-specific corrections for water relaxation times was obtained in 8 minutes using the proposed method.
Inflammation in Areas of Fibrosis Precedes Loss of Kidney Function in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Malvica Silvia , Fenaroli Paride , Lee Chen-Yu , Louis Sarah , Celia Alessandra Ida , Bagnasco Serena , Yang Xiaoping , Hodgin Jeffrey B. , Buyon Jill , Magder Laurence , Petri Michelle ,   the Accelerating Medicines Partnership: RA/SLE Network, Rosenberg Avi , Fava Andrea
Published: November 2024

Background

Interstitial fibrosis in lupus nephritis (LN) is often infiltrated by immune cells but typically regarded as nonspecific “scar reaction.” This study aimed to investigate the relationship between inflammatory fibrosis and kidney disease progression in LN.

Methods

Interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) were scored in 124 LN kidney biopsies. Inflammation in areas of IFTA (i-IFTA) was graded 0-3 according to the Banff Classification of Allograft Pathology. Significant glomerular filtration rate (GFR) loss was defined as a decline of >15 ml/min at 3 years from biopsy. Immune cell phenotype was defined by serial immunohistochemistry (13-plex).

Results

IFTA was observed in 88/124 (71%) biopsies, and i-IFTA was identified in 76/88 (86%) cases. The distribution of i-IFTA grades was heterogenous across all IFTA grades. In patients with moderate-to-severe IFTA (>25%), the degree of i-IFTA was associated with a higher risk of significant GFR loss: 0/2 (0%), 1/3 (33%), 3/4 (75%), and 7/9 (78%) for i-IFTA grades 0, 1, 2, and 3, respectively (p = 0.028). Multiplexed histology revealed that i-IFTA was mostly composed of CD163+ macrophages and CD4 T cells, followed by CD8 T cells and granulocytes.

Conclusion

I-IFTA is frequently observed in LN and is dominated by macrophages and T cells. For patients with baseline IFTA >25%, the degree of i-IFTA emerged as a predictor of GFR loss. These data support the routine scoring of i-IFTA in LN due to its prognostic implications and nominate i-IFTA as a potential therapeutic target.

LAY SUMMARY

Scar tissue often contains immune cells, but we still do not fully understand their role. In lupus nephritis (LN), this is typically dismissed as “nonspecific inflammation”. However, our study analyzed kidney biopsies from 124 people with LN and found that inflammation in scarred areas may predict future kidney function loss. Specifically, we identified a type of immune cell, CD163+ macrophages, that may contribute to scarring and kidney damage. Our findings suggest that routinely assessing inflammation in scarred areas could help predict kidney health in LN patients and highlight a possible new target for therapies to prevent kidney damage.
Parp1deletion rescues cerebellar hypotrophy inxrcc1mutant zebrafish
Authors: Semenova Svetlana A. , Nammi Deepthi , Garrett Grace A. , Margolin Gennady , Sinclair Jennifer L. , Maroofian Reza , Caldecott Keith W. , Burgess Harold A.
Published: November 2024

Defects in DNA single-strand break repair are associated with neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. One such disorder is that resulting from mutations inXRCC1, a scaffold protein that plays a central role in DNA single-strand base repair. XRCC1 is recruited at sites of single-strand breaks by PARP1, a protein that detects and is activated by such breaks and is negatively regulated by XRCC1 to prevent excessive PARP binding and activity. Loss of XRCC1 leads to the toxic accumulation and activity of PARP1 at single-strand breaks leading to base excision repair defects, a mechanism that may underlie pathological changes in patients carrying deleteriousXRCC1mutations. Here, we demonstrate thatxrcc1knockdown impairs development of the cerebellar plate in zebrafish. In contrast,parp1knockdown alone does not significantly affect neural development, and instead rescues the cerebellar defects observed inxrcc1mutant larvae. These findings support the notion that PARP1 inhibition may be a viable therapeutic candidate in neurological disorders.
Unravelling the functional diversity of type III polyketide synthases in fungi
Authors: Sokolova Nika , Denisov Stepan S. , Hackl Thomas , Haslinger Kristina
Published: November 2024

Type III polyketide synthases (T3PKSs) are enzymes that produce diverse compounds of ecological and clinical importance. While well-studied in plants and bacteria, only a handful of T3PKSs from fungi have been characterised to date. Here, we developed a comprehensive workflow for kingdom-wide characterisation of T3PKSs. Using publicly available genomes, we mined more than 1000 putative enzymes and analysed their active site architecture and genomic neighbourhood. From there, we selected 37 representative PKS candidates for cell-free expression and prototyping with a diverse set of Coenzyme A activated substrates, revealing unique patterns in substrate and cyclisation specificity, as well as the preferred number of malonyl-Coenzyme A extensions. Using the 341 enzyme-substrate pairs generated in this study, we trained a machine learning model to predict T3PKS substrate specificity and experimentally validated it with an extended panel of non-natural substrates. We anticipate that the model will be useful forin silicoscreening of T3PKSs, while the insight into the product scope of these enzymes offers interesting starting points for further exploration.
Intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles inhibit inflammatory pyroptosis in 5XFAD mice brains
Authors: Bhuiyan Piplu , Zhang Wenjia , Chae Rebecca , Kim Kyulee , St. Louis Lauren , Wang Ying , Liang Ge , Wei Huafeng
Published: November 2024

Background

This study investigates the effects of intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles on inflammation and programmed cell death by pyroptosis in 5XFAD Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) mice.

Methods

5XFAD and wild type (WT) B6SJLF1/J mice were treated with intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles (5 mg/kg), daily, Monday to Friday, for 12 weeks continuously, starting at 9 months of age. Blood and brain were harvested at 13 months of age, one month after completion of 12 weeks intranasal dantrolene nanoparticle treatment. Blood biomarkers function of liver (Alanine transaminase, ALT), kidney (Creatinine), and thyroid (TSH: Thyroid-stimulating hormone) were measured using ELISA. The changes of whole brain tissue proteins on Ca2+release channels on membrane of endoplasmic reticulum (type 2 ryanodine and type 1 InsP3 receptors, RyR-2 and InsP3R-1), lipid peroxidation byproduct malondialdehyde (MDA)-modified proteins, 4-HNE, pyroptosis regulatory proteins (NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3), cleaved caspase-1, full length or N-terminal of Gasdermin D (GSDMD), cytotoxic (IL-1, IL-18, IL-6, TNF-a) and cytoprotective (IL-10) cytokines, astrogliosis (GFAP), microgliosis (IBA-1) and synapse proteins (PSD-95, Synapsin-1) were determined using immunoblotting. Body weights were monitored regularly.

Results

Intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles significantly inhibited the increase of RyR-2 and InsP3R-1 proteins, MDA-modified proteins, 4-NHE, pyroptosis regulatory proteins (NLRP3, cleaved caspase-1, N-terminal GSDMD), cytotoxic cytokine (IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6, TNF-α), biomarkers for astrogliosis (GFAP) and microgliosis (IBA-1), and the decrease of cytoprotective cytokine (IL-10) and synaptic proteins (PSD-95, synpasin-1). Intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles for 12 weeks did not affect blood biomarkers for function of liver, kidney, and thyroid, not did it change body weight significantly.

Conclusion

Intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles significantly inhibit the increase of RyR-2 and InsP3R-1 Ca2+channel receptor proteins, ameliorate activation of the pyroptosis pathway and pathological inflammation, and the associated loss of synapse proteins. Intranasal dantrolene nanoparticles for three months did not affect liver, kidney and thyroid functions or cause other side effects.
Enhanced Notch dependent gliogenesis and delayed physiological maturation underlie neurodevelopmental defects in Lowe syndrome
Authors: Sharma Yojet , Bhatia Priyanka , Rangappa Gagana , Saha Sankhanil , Raghu Padinjat
Published: November 2024

The activity of signaling pathways is required for coordinated cellular and physiological processes leading to normal development of brain structure and function. Mutations inOCRL, a phosphatidylinositol 4,5 bisphosphate [PIP2] 5-phosphatase leads to the neurodevelopmental disorder, Lowe Syndrome (LS). However, the mechanism by which mutations inOCRLleads to the brain phenotypes of LS is not understood. We find that on differentiation of LS patient derived iPSC, developing neural cultures show reduced excitability along with enhanced P levels of Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein. Multiomic single-nucleus RNA and ATAC seq analysis of neural stem cells generated from LS patient iPSC revealed an enhanced number of cells with a gliogenic cell state. RNA seq analysis also revealed increased levels ofDLK1, a non-canonical Notch ligand in LS patient NSC associated increased levels of cleaved Notch protein and elevation of its transcriptional targetHES5, indicating upregulated Notch signaling. Treatment of iPSC derived brain organoids with an inhibitor of PIP5K, the lipid kinase that synthesizes PIP2, was able to restore neuronal excitability and rescue Notch signaling defects in LS patient derived organoid cultures. Overall, our results demonstrate a role for PIP2dependent regulation of Notch signaling, cell fate specification and development of neuronal excitability regulated by OCRL activity.
Bwa, an ortholog of alkaline ceramidase-ACER2, promotes intestinal stem cell proliferation through pro-inflammatory cytokine signaling inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Rahman M. Mahidur , Kraft Chloe , Clark Collin , Nicholson Rebekah J. , Marchetti Marco , Williams Emily , Zhang Chenge , Holland Will L. , Summers Scott A. , Edgar Bruce A.
Published: November 2024

Sphingolipids, including ceramides, are an important component of high-fat diets. These molecules can regulate fatty acid oxidation and intestinal stem cell proliferation, predisposing the gut to tumorigenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms involved in ceramide metabolism-mediated intestinal stem cell (ISC) proliferation and tumorigenesis are poorly understood. To understand how changes in sphingolipid metabolite flux affect intestinal stem cells, we manipulated the activities of each of the enzymes of the ceramide synthetic pathway using cell type-specific over-expression or depletion of the corresponding mRNAs in each intestinal cell type of theDrosophilamidgut. We documented cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous effects, including alterations in cell size, number, differentiation, and proliferation. In our screen, the altered expression of several ceramide metabolism enzymes led to changes in ISC proliferation, cell sizes, and overall cellularity. Among other genes, over-expression of ceramidase homolog,Brain washing (bwa)in gut enteroblasts (EB) increased EB cell size and caused a non-cell-autonomous, 7-8-fold increase in ISC proliferation. Our analysis confirmed previous reports thatbwadoes not have ceramidase activity, and lipidomic studies indicated thatbwaincreases the saturation status of sphingolipids, free fatty acids, and other lipids. The pro-proliferative effects ofbwacould be counter-acted by depleting a serine palmitoyltransferase,Lace, or a sphingosine acyltransferase,Schlank, which are needed for ceramide synthesis, or by co-expressing a ceramide desaturase enzyme,ifc, indicating that increased saturated ceramides were causal for ISC proliferation and the disruption of gut homeostasis. Accumulating saturated sphingolipids and fatty acids induced inflammatory signaling in the gut, and activated ISC proliferation through the pro-inflammatory cytokines, Upd3 and Upd2. We propose that saturated sphingolipids promote ISC proliferation through pro-inflammatory pathways.
GRASP Integrated 3D Plotter: GRIP
Authors: Neves Paul M. , White Jonathan S.
Published: November 2024

In research on mesoscale structure and correlations, small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) is increasingly being employed to map fully three-dimensional distributions of scattered intensity at low momentum transfer. While traditionally SANS experiments and data analysis methods are designed to prioritize the determination of salient information in only one or two dimensions, the trend towards volumetric intensity mapping experiments calls for new software tools to assist with analyzing the resulting datasets. In this paper, we describe the development of a new software module, the GRASP Integrated 3D Plotter (GRIP). GRIP adds numerous features to GRASP, a widely used SANS analysis program that was written in MATLAB and developed at the Institut Laue–Langevin, France. The GRIP module provides multiple methods of three-dimensional SANS data visualization and new abilities to perform 1D and 2D cuts in various momentum-space coordinate systems, including reciprocal lattice units relevant for single-crystal studies. GRIP also includes the ability to fit diffraction peaks to a fully three-dimensional ellipsoidal Gaussian function to extract peak parameters including peak intensity, location and width, as well as a built-in calculator for estimating the resolution-deconvolved 3D coherence lengths in a sample. GRIP thus represents a significant addition to GRASP which extends the utility and application of SANS. Valuable advantages are provided, in particular, for `small-angle neutron diffraction' studies of mesoscale correlations in single crystals, such as those due to incommensurate magnetic spin textures like spirals and topological skyrmion lattices.
Frugal innovation in women-led family businesses in rural communities
Authors: Sánchez-Medina Patricia S. , Ramírez-Altamirano Dailín Alejandra , ´Reyes-Santiago María del Rosario , Melo-Monterrey Manuel de Jesús , Toledo-Morales Arendi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify a useful taxonomy of frugal innovation (FI) applied to women-led family businesses in rural communities in Oaxaca, Mexico when confronted with disruptive situations such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic, thus achieving a greater understanding of FI in this context to provide these businesses with strategies that allow them to face crises more effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was cross-sectional and quantitative. A scale was developed and applied to 160 family businesses run by women and located in four rural communities in Oaxaca, Mexico. A review of the literature from the period of 2018–2024 made it possible to identify the essential characteristics of FI.

Findings

Through an exploratory factorial analysis, four types of FIs were identified: new production and marketing models, new methods of operation, new financing methods and new organizational methods. Using a discriminant analysis to establish the functionality of the identified FIs, the authors found that shifting to new financing and organizational methods was more important for the survival of family businesses in times of crisis.

Originality/value

This study highlights the forms of FI that develop in small family businesses led by women; this is important for the survival of the family and the business. The research highlights innovation challenges and opportunities for women entrepreneurs in the global south.
Family roots, green shoots: exploring the impact of work–family interpersonal capitalization on employee green behavior
Authors: Wang Xuefei , Liu Yuxin , Chen Yun , Zhang Rongrong
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the influence of extra-workplace factors, specifically work−family interpersonal capitalization, on employee green behavior. Based on the conservation of resources theory, the research sought to understand how resources gained from positive family interactions spill over into the workplace, enhancing green behavior. In addition, the study investigated the mediating role of relational energy and the moderating effects of work green climate and environmental self-accountability, providing a nuanced understanding of the mechanisms involved.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a multiwave field study combined with an experimental study to investigate the impact of work−family interpersonal capitalization on employee green behavior. Data were collected in several phases to capture changes over time and to understand causal relationships. The multiwave design allowed for observing the dynamic interplay between family and work domains, while the experimental component provided controlled conditions to validate the findings. This approach ensured robust and comprehensive analysis, integrating both real-world and experimental data.

Findings

The study revealed that work−family interpersonal capitalization significantly enhances employee green behavior. Relational energy emerged as a crucial mediator in this relationship. Furthermore, the study found that both work green climate and environmental self-accountability positively moderated the relationship between relational energy and green behavior. Notably, the interaction of work green climate and environmental self-accountability further strengthened this relationship, ultimately influencing the indirect effect of relational energy on employee green behavior. These findings highlight the complex interplay between personal and organizational factors in promoting sustainable practices at work.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable insights into the spillover effects from family to work, emphasizing the importance of considering “nongreen” factors in understanding employee green behavior. By identifying relational energy as a key mediator and uncovering the moderating roles of work green climate and environmental self-accountability, the research contributes to the broader literature on environmental sustainability and organizational behavior. The findings suggest practical implications for organizations aiming to foster green behavior, highlighting the potential of enhancing family−work interactions and cultivating a supportive green work environment.
Quantification analysis of high-speed train aerodynamics with geometric uncertainty of streamlined shape
Authors: Liu Hongkang , Yu Qian , Li Yongheng , Zhang Yichao , Peng Kehui , Kong Zhiqiang , Zhao Yatian
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to get a better understanding of the impact of streamlined high-speed trains (HSTs) with geometric uncertainty on aerodynamic performance, as well as the identification of the key parameters responsible for this impact. To reveal the critical parameters, this study creates a methodology for evaluating the uncertainty and sensitivity of drag coefficient induced by design parameters of HST streamlined shapes.

Design/methodology/approach

Bézier curves are used to parameterize the streamlined shape of HSTs, and there are eight design parameters required to fit the streamlined shape, followed by a series of steady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations. Combining the preparation work with the nonintrusive polynomial chaos method results in a workflow for uncertainty quantification and global sensitivity analysis. Based on this framework, this study quantifies the uncertainty of drag, pressure, surface friction coefficient and wake flow characteristics within the defined ranges of streamline shape parameters, as well as the contribution of each design parameter.

Findings

The results show that the change in drag reaches a maximum deviation of 15.37% from the baseline, and the impact on the tail car is more significant, with a deviation of up to 23.98%. The streamlined shape of the upper surface and the length of the pilot (The device is mounted on the front of a train’s locomotive and primarily serves to remove obstacles from the tracks, thereby preventing potential derailment.) are responsible for the dominant factors of the uncertainty in the drag for HSTs. Linear regression results show a significant quadratic polynomial relationship between the length of the pilot and the drag coefficient. The drag declines as the length of the pilot enlarges. By analyzing the case with the lowest drag, the positive pressure area in the front of pilot is greatly reduced, while the nose tip pressure of the tail is enhanced by altering the vortices in the wake. The counter-rotating vortex pair is significantly attenuated. Accordingly, exerts the impacts caused by geometric uncertainty can be found on the wake flow region, with pressure differences of up to 900 Pa. The parameters associated with the shape of the upper surface contribute significantly to the uncertainty in the core of the wake separation region.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to a better understanding of the impact of streamlined HSTs with geometric uncertainty on aerodynamic performance, as well as the identification of the key parameters responsible for this impact. Based on this study, future research could delve into the detailed design of critical areas in the streamlined shape of HSTs, as well as the direction of shape optimization to more precisely and efficiently reduce train aerodynamic drag under typical conditions.
Zakat in metaverse? Evidence from cyberspace
Authors: Hudaefi Fahmi Ali
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the recent state of zakat metaverse innovation from unstructured data available in cyberspace, i.e. YouTube, Instagram, X (Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn and Google.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used “zakat metaverse” keywords to harvest unstructured data and analysed using a mixed-method approach. First step of the analysis applied quantitative text analytics via machine learning tool, followed by the final step of qualitative inductive analysis.

Findings

Quantitative text analytics identified keywords related to zakat metaverse innovation, whereas qualitative analysis explored the critical insights behind those keywords, presented in thematic interpretation.

Research limitations/implications

This study only used unstructured internet data, in which other relevant information may not be covered.

Practical implications

Shariah evaluation of zakat obligations from virtual assets requires the relevantisation of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) zakat, which opens future debates.

Social implications

Many zakat institutions operate in emerging economies where digital poverty occurs, and such zakat metaverse innovation would potentially contribute to this digital divide. The relevance of such innovation becomes a major question regarding its inclusivity.

Originality/value

This study combines machine learning analytics and qualitative analysis to explore the recent state of metaverse innovation in zakat administration.
Exploring the effect of transformational leadership and knowledge management in enhancing innovative performance: a mediating role of innovation capability
Authors: Harsono Teguh Widhi , Hidayat Kadarisman , Iqbal Mohammad , Abdillah Yusri
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In the highly competitive sector of state-owned enterprises in Indonesia, particularly within the electricity group, innovation is crucial for sustainability and growth. This study investigates the impact of transformational leadership and knowledge management on innovation performance, emphasizing the mediating role of innovation capability.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a quantitative approach, this research focuses on the upper management of 11 companies, gathering data from 196 out of 280 surveyed individuals through structured questionnaires. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized for analysis.

Findings

Our analysis reveals a dual role of transformational leadership; while it significantly enhances innovation capability, it unexpectedly detracts from innovation performance. Conversely, knowledge management boosts both innovation capability and performance. Significantly, innovation capability serves as a crucial mediator, amplifying the effects of both transformational leadership and knowledge management on innovation performance. These results highlight complex interdependencies within organizational leadership and knowledge frameworks.

Practical implications

These findings can guide organizations in refining leadership and knowledge management strategies to bolster innovation. By enhancing transformational leadership skills, implementing robust knowledge management systems and fostering innovation capabilities, companies can better navigate the complexities of the modern market. The adaptation of these strategies should consider specific organizational cultures and market dynamics to optimize performance.

Originality/value

This research extends the resource-based view (RBV) by detailing the interplay between key organizational variables, offering fresh insights into their collective impact on innovation within the context of state-owned enterprises in Indonesia.
Exploring the strategic nature of the SENCo's role and the management of education and health care plans since the Covid‐19 pandemic
Authors: Kilbride Debbie , Cotier Tanya , Malthouse Richard
Published: November 2024

This research identifies new approaches to education health and care plan (EHCP) provision since the start of the Covid‐19 (C‐19) pandemic (March 2020 to March 2021). This qualitative research was conducted after the C‐19 pandemic and used online questionnaires to identify the perceptions of 64 SENCos recruited from mainstream primary and secondary schools across southeast London and Essex in England. Thirteen of the 64 participants then consented to be interviewed. The findings show that where SENCos had the autonomy to act strategically, they could enact change for pupils with EHCPs as well as SEND. Furthermore, aspects of practice relating to staff SEND knowledge and understanding of SEND provision were enhanced during the pandemic, as was the SENCo's ability to adapt and allocate resources effectively.
GnuR Represses the Expression of Glucose and Gluconate Catabolism in Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Chen Wenbo , Ma Rao , Feng Yong , Xiao Yunzhu , Sekowska Agnieszka , Danchin Antoine , You Conghui
Published: November 2024

In Pseudomonas putida KT2440, a prime chassis for biotechnology, the clustered distribution of glucose catabolism genes and four related transcription factors (TFs) may facilitate the tight regulation of glucose catabolism. However, the genes under the direct control of these TFs remain unidentified, leaving their regulatory roles elusive. Furthermore, the carbon source gluconate was metabolised similarly to glucose in KT2440, but the responses of these catabolic and TF genes to gluconate were unclear. Here, these mysteries were unravelled through multi‐omics analysis integrated with physiological studies. First, we found that the expression of these catabolic and TF genes were significantly induced by both glucose and gluconate in KT2440. The independent responses of these genes to glucose and gluconate were differentiated in the gcd deletion mutant. We then defined the regulon of GnuR, one of the four related TFs, and discovered that GnuR directly repressed the expression of catabolic genes involved in the Entner–Doudoroff and the peripheral glucose and gluconate metabolism pathways. These results were further confirmed by physiological studies. Finally, a regulatory mode of an incoherent feedforward loop involving GnuR is proposed.
Rare Causes and Differential Diagnosis in Patients With Silver‐Russell Syndrome
Authors: Braga Barbara Leitao , da Cunha Scalco Renata , Homma Thais Kataoka , Freire Bruna Lucheze , Cellin Laurana De Polli , Canton Ana Pinheiro Machado , Lerario Antônio Marcondes , de Assis Funari Mariana Ferreira , de Souza Vinicius , Bertola Debora Romeo , Malaquias Alexsandra Christianne , Mendonca Berenice Bilharinho , de Lima Jorge Alexander Augusto
Published: November 2024

Silver‐Russell syndrome (SRS) is an imprinting disorder mainly characterized by pre‐ and postnatal growth restriction. Most SRS cases are due to 11p15.5 loss of methylation (11p15.5 LOM) or maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7 [UPD(7)mat], but several patients remain molecularly undiagnosed. This study describes the molecular investigation of children with a clinical diagnosis or suspicion of SRS at a tertiary center specialized in growth disorders. Thirty‐nine patients were evaluated with multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification, chromosomal microarray and/or massively parallel sequencing. The most common result was 11p15.5 LOM (n = 17; 43.5%), followed by UPD(7)mat (n = 2; 5.1%). Additionally, we found maternal duplications of the imprinting centers in 11p15.5 (n = 2; 5.1%), and genetic defects in SRS‐causing genes (IGF2 and HMGA2) (n = 3; 7.7%; two mutations and one deletion). Alternative molecular diagnoses included UPD(14)mat (n = 1; 2,6%), UPD(20)mat (n = 1;2,6%), copy number variants (n = 2; 5.1%), and mutations in genes associated with other growth disorders (n = 4; 10.3%), leading to diagnoses of Temple syndrome, Mulchandani‐Bhoj‐Conlin syndrome, IGF‐1 resistance (IGF1R), Bloom syndrome (BLM), Gabriele‐De Vries syndrome (YY1), Intellectual developmental disorder autosomal dominant 50 with behavioral abnormalities (NAA15), and Intellectual developmental disorder 64 (ZNF292). These findings underscore the importance of establishing the molecular diagnosis of SRS and its differential diagnoses to guide appropriate management and genetic counseling.
Ruminococcus gnavus in the gut: driver, contributor, or innocent bystander in steatotic liver disease?
Authors: Meadows Vik , Antonio Jayson M. , Ferraris Ronaldo P. , Gao Nan
Published: November 2024

The human gut microbiome plays a crucial role in regulating intestinal and systemic health, impacting host immune response and metabolic function. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome is linked to various diseases, including steatotic liver diseases. Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a chronic liver disease characterized by excess hepatic lipid content and impaired metabolism, is the leading cause of liver disease worldwide. Among the gut microbes, Ruminococcus gnavus (R. gnavus) has garnered attention for its association with inflammatory and metabolic diseases. While R. gnavus abundance correlates to liver fat accumulation, further research is needed to identify a causal role or therapeutic intervention in steatotic liver disease. This review surveys our current understanding of R. gnavus in the development and progression of steatotic liver diseases, highlighting its potential mechanisms through metabolite secretion, and emphasizes the need for comprehensive microbiome analyses and longitudinal studies to better understand R. gnavus' impact on liver health. This knowledge could pave the way for targeted interventions aimed at modulating gut microbiota to treat and prevent MASLD and its comorbidities.
Machine learning‐aided prediction of windstorm‐induced vibration responses of long‐span suspension bridges
Authors: Entezami Alireza , Sarmadi Hassan
Published: November 2024

Long‐span suspension bridges are significantly susceptible to windstorm‐induced vibrations, leading to critical challenges of field measurements along with multicollinearity and nonlinearity between wind features and bridge dynamic responses. To address these issues, this article proposes an innovative machine learning‐assisted predictive method by integrating a predictor selector developed from regularized neighborhood components analysis and kernel regression modeling through a regularized support vector machine adjusted by Bayesian hyperparameter optimization. The crux of the proposed method lies in advanced machine learning algorithms including metric learning, kernel learning, and hybrid learning integrated in a regularized framework. Utilizing the Hardanger Bridge subjected to different windstorms, the performance of the proposed method is validated and then compared with state‐of‐the‐art regression techniques. Results highlight the effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method with the minimum and maximum R‐squared rates of 89% and 98%, respectively. It also surpasses the state‐of‐the‐art regression techniques in predicting bridge dynamics under different windstorms.
Social virtual reality for L2 Spanish development: Learning how to interact with others in a high‐immersion virtual space
Authors: Taguchi Naoko , Hanks Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Research indicates that high‐immersion virtual reality (VR) has several unique affordances for language learning that contribute to learning outcomes, such as boosting learners’ confidence, engagement, and motivation. However, little is known about the extent to which VR promotes language skills, in particular learners’ verbal interaction using a second language (L2). The present study uses an intervention design to examine the impact of high‐immersion VR on L2 Spanish learners’ interactional development and perceptions of VR experience. Twenty‐six beginning‐level Spanish learners engaged in four social VR sessions over a 2‐week period. Learners’ perceptions of social VR were assessed through surveys and focus group interviews, and their changes in interaction‐involved language performance were evaluated. The results reinforce previous research in showing that learners felt a heightened sense of presence in VR and that interacting in Spanish in the immersive virtual space was more enjoyable and less nerve‐wracking than face‐to‐face conversation, albeit equally beneficial to learning. Quantitative analyses of learners’ interaction revealed significant improvement in terms of their engagement, clarity, and content appropriateness. However, participants reported that technical issues could at times limit the pedagogical usefulness of VR. These findings reinforce the use of social VR in L2 instruction and provide novel insights about performance gains and Spanish L2 pedagogy in a virtual space.
Rapidly Progressive Idiopathic Pyoderma Gangrenosum in a Pediatric Patient Successfully Treated With Infliximab
Authors: Perry Nikhita J. , Wang Stephanie , Smith Robert , Duffy Robert , Queenan Maria , Perman Marissa J. , Lerman Melissa A. , Larijani Mary
Published: November 2024

Pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare skin disorder with poorly understood pathophysiology. PG infrequently occurs in children, and approximately 4% of patients with PG are infants and children. First line therapy is topical and systemic corticosteroids, which typically yields rapid response. We report a case of rapidly progressive pediatric PG of unknown inciting cause that ultimately required multi‐modal therapy with systemic and topical corticosteroids, high‐dose infliximab, and colchicine.