bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blastoid and Pleomorphic Mantle Cell Lymphoma Demonstrate Distinct Clinicopathologic and Genetic Features
Authors: Khanlari Mahsa , Mo Huan , Kim Do Hwan , Sakhdari Ali , Young Ken H. , Jain Preetesh , Wang Michael , Li Shaoying , Kanagal-Shamanna Rashmi , Miranda Roberto N. , Vega Francisco , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Ok Chi Young
Published: June 2023

The blastoid (B) and pleomorphic (P) variants of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) are associated with aggressive clinical behavior. In this study, we collected 102 cases of B-MCL and P-MCL from untreated patients. We reviewed clinical data, analyzed morphologic features using an image analysis tool (ImageJ) and we assessed mutational and gene expression profiles. The chromatin pattern of lymphoma cells was assessed quantitatively by the pixel value. Cases of B-MCL showed a greater median pixel value with lower variation compared with P-MCL, indicating a homogeneously euchromatin-rich pattern in B-MCL. In addition, the Feret diameter of the nuclei was significantly smaller (median 6.92 vs. 8.49 µm per nucleus, P<0.001) and had a lesser degree of variation in B-MCL compared with P-MCL, indicating that B-MCL cells have smaller cells with a more monomorphic appearance. B-MCL showed a significantly higher median Ki-67 proliferation rate (60% vs. 40%, P=0.003), and affected patients had poorer overall survival compared with those with P-MCL (median overall survival: 3.1 vs. 8.8 y, respectively, P=0.038). NOTCH1 mutation was significantly more frequent in B-MCL compared with P-MCL (33% and 0%, respectively, P=0.004). Gene expression profiling showed 14 genes overexpressed in B-MCL cases and gene set enrichment assay for the overexpressed genes showed significant enrichment in the cell cycle and mitotic transition pathways. We also report a subset of MCL cases that has blastoid chromatin but a higher degree of pleomorphism in nuclear size and shape, designated here as hybrid MCL. Hybrid MCL cases had a similar Ki-67 proliferation rate, mutation profile, and clinical outcome to B-MCL and distinct from P-MCL. In summary, these data suggest biological differences between B-MCL and P-MCL cases justifying their separate designation when possible.
Developing and Implementing Racial Health Equity Plans in Four Large US Cities: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Castaneda Yvette , Jacobs Jacquelyn , Margellos-Anast Helen , De Maio Fernando G. , Nunez-Montelongo Lubia , Mettetal Eric , Benjamins Maureen R.
Published: June 2023

Context:

Local health departments (LHDs) and their partners are critical components of the fight for racial health equity, particularly given the variation in levels of, and pathways to, inequities at the local level.

Objective:

To inform continued progress in this area, we qualitatively examined the development and implementation of equity-related plans and initiatives of LHDs within 4 large US cities: Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, and Philadelphia.

Design and Measures:

We conducted 15 semistructured interviews with 21 members of LHDs, academic institutions, health systems, and community-based organizations involved with health equity strategies or activities in their respective cities. Outcomes included perceptions of the effectiveness of the local health equity plan, participation in other equity-related initiatives, stakeholder engagement, and best practices.

Results:

We contacted 49 individuals, of whom 2 declined and 21 accepted our interview invitation. Recruitment was stopped after we reached saturation. Thematic analysis identified 5 themes across interviews: (1) organizations were flexible in reallocating resources to address racial and health equity; (2) multidisciplinary teams are necessary for effective development and implementation of health equity plans; (3) community collaboration is required for meaningful and sustainable change; (4) there is a direct relationship between racism, structural inequities, and health outcomes; and (5) health departments have prioritized health equity plan development, but further work is required to address root causes.

Conclusions:

In the United States, health departments have begun to develop and implement strategic health plans focused on equity. However, the extent to which these plans result in actual initiatives (both internal and external) varied across cities. The current study increases our understanding of how different partners are working to implement structural changes, programs, and policies to reach equity-related goals in our largest urban areas, providing valuable insight for urban health advocates across the country.
Understanding Health Equity in Public Health Practice in the United States
Authors: Brownson Ross C. , Mazzucca-Ragan Stephanie , Jacob Rebekah R. , Brownson Carol A. , Hohman Katherine H. , Alongi Jeanne , Macchi Marti , Valko Cheryl , Eyler Amy A.
Published: June 2023

Context:

Understanding the extent to which equity-focused work is occurring in public health departments (eg, in chronic disease programs) can identify areas of success and what is needed to move the needle on health equity.

Objective:

The study objective was to characterize the patterns and correlates of equity-related practices in US state and territorial public health practice.

Design:

The design was a multimethod (quantitative and qualitative), cross-sectional study.

Setting:

The setting included US state and territorial public health departments.

Participants:

Chronic disease prevention practitioners (N = 600) completed self-report surveys in July 2022 through August 2022 (analyzed in September 2022 through December 2022).

Main Outcome Measures:

Health equity data were obtained across 4 domains: (1) staff skills, (2) work unit practices, (3) organizational priorities and values, and (4) partnerships and networks.

Results:

There was a wide range in self-reported performance across the health equity variables. The highest values (those agreeing and strongly agreeing) were related to staff skills (eg, the ability to describe the causes of inequities [82%]). Low agreement was reported for multiple items, indicating the lack of systems for tracking progress on health equity (32%), the lack of hiring of staff members who represent disadvantaged communities (33%), and limited use of principles for community engagement (eg, sharing decision-making authority with partners [34%]). Qualitative data provided tangible examples showing how practitioners and their agencies are turning an array of health equity concepts into actions.

Conclusions:

There is urgency in addressing health equity and our data suggest considerable room for enhancing health equity practices in state and territorial public health. To support these activities, our findings provide some of the first information on areas of progress, gaps in practice, and where to target technical assistance, capacity building efforts, and accreditation planning.
Successful Treatment and Long-Term Follow-Up of Parry-Romberg Syndrome with Anterolateral Thigh Adipofascial Flap
Authors: Zhao Jingyi , Guo Xiaoshuang , Lai Chenzhi , Song Guodong , Zong Xianlei , Jin Xiaolei
Published: June 2023

Background:

Anterolateral thigh adipofascial free flap transfer is a frequently used method to reconstruct facial symmetry and restore facial soft-tissue contour in patients with Parry-Romberg syndrome, but long-term prognosis and outcomes are unclear.

Method:

The authors report their treatment experience with 42 patients between 2001 and 2017 using microsurgical free anterolateral thigh adipofascial flap transfer. Long-term follow-up results and final reconstructive outcomes were evaluated.

Results:

A total of 42 patients were included. The follow-up ranged from 5 to 21 years. All patients were satisfied with the surgery. Photographic evaluation revealed significant enhancement of postoperative appearance. Numbness or hypesthesia of the local area was the most common symptom noted in long-term follow-up.

Conclusions:

This study evaluated the long-term results of treating Parry-Romberg disease with microsurgery using ALT free flap in the authors’ department. Over 20 years of experience and the significant enhancement in overall appearance indicate a long-lasting, excellent outcome.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Vertical Appearance of Urinary Bladder on Bone Scintigraphy Might Not Always Suggest Adjacent Pathology
Authors: Hao Min , Deng Zhiping , Shao Fuqiang
Published: June 2023

Previous publications suggested that vertical appearance of the urinary bladder on 99mTc-MDP whole-body bone scintigraphy was likely due to an adjacent abnormality. Here we report bone scan findings of a vertical appearance of the urinary bladder in a 66-year-old man with lung cancer without corresponding pathology nearby.
Radioembolization Planning With Dual-Isotope Acquisition of 166Ho-Labeled Microparticles and 99mTc-Mebrofenin
Authors: Czibor Sándor , Bibok András , Horváthy Dénes , Fábián Krisztián , Györke Tamás
Published: June 2023

A 76-year-old man with hepatocellular carcinoma was referred for liver radioembolization. Given a prior left hemihepatectomy, it was clinically important to consider potentially irradiated healthy liver at planning. Thus, at the SPECT/CT imaging of the scout dose 166Ho-microparticles before injected superselectively in the right hepatic artery, 99mTc-mebrofenin was injected intravenously, and functional volumetry SPECT was performed simultaneously. Based on the 2 image sets, the nonirradiated healthy liver was calculated as 1589 mL (functional liver reserve of 85.5% on 99mTc-mebrofenin SPECT). Posttreatment dosimetry calculations showed optimal normal tissue and tumor absorbed doses, and the patient is clinically well after 3 months.
Does Manual Abdominal Pressure During Colonoscopy Put Endoscopy Staff and Patients at Risk? Experiences of Endoscopy Nurses and Technicians
Authors: Costello Bridget , James Tamara , Hall Connie , Shergill Amandeep , Schlossberg Nancy
Published: June 2023

Endoscopy staff suffer work-related musculoskeletal disorders at a rate greater than or comparable to nurses and technicians in other subspecialities, which may be attributable to the widespread use of manual pressure and repositioning during colonoscopy. In addition to negatively impacting staff health and job performance, colonoscopy-related musculoskeletal disorder injuries may also signal potential risks to patient safety. To assess the prevalence of staff injury and perceived patient harm relating to the use of manual pressure and repositioning techniques during colonoscopy, 185 attendees of a recent national meeting of the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates were asked to recall experiencing injuries to themselves or observing injuries to other staff or patients during colonoscopy. A majority of respondents (84.9%, n = 157) reported either experiencing or observing staff injury, whereas 25.9% (n = 48) reported observing patient complications. Among respondents who perform manual repositioning and apply manual pressure during colonoscopy (57.3%, n = 106), 85.8% (n = 91) reported experiencing musculoskeletal disorders from performing these tasks; 81.1% (n = 150) reported no awareness of colonoscopy-specific ergonomics policies at their facility. Results highlight the relationship between the physical job requirements of endoscopy nurses and technicians, staff musculoskeletal disorders, and patient complications, and suggest that implementation of staff safety protocols may benefit patients as well as endoscopy staff.
Proximal Instructions for Use Violations in Elective Endovascular Aneurysm Repair in the Vascular Quality Initiative: Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Ramirez Joel L , Govsyeyev Nicholas , Sorber Rebecca , Iannuzzi James C , Schanzer Andres S , Hicks Caitlin W , Malas Mahmoud B , Zarkowsky Devin S
Published: June 2023

Background:

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is often attempted in patients with marginal anatomy. These patients’ mid-term outcomes are available in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) for analysis.

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data in the VQI from patients who underwent elective infrarenal EVAR between 2011 and 2018. Each EVAR was identified as on- or off-instructions for use (IFU) based on aortic neck criteria. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess associations between aneurysm sac enlargement, reintervention, and Type 1a endoleak with IFU status. Kaplan-Meier time-to-event models estimated reintervention, aneurysm sac enlargement, and overall survival.

Results:

We identified 5,488 patients with at least one follow-up recorded. Those treated off-IFU included 1,236 patients (23%) (mean follow-up, 401 days), in comparison to 4,252 (77%) treated on-IFU (mean follow-up, 406 days). There was no evidence of significant differences in crude 30-day survival (96% vs 97%; p=0.28) or estimated 2 year survival (97% vs 97%; log-rank p=0.28). Crude Type 1a endoleak frequency was greater in patients treated off-IFU (2% vs. 1%; p=0.03). Off-IFU EVAR was associated with Type 1a endoleak on multivariable regression model (odds ratio [OR] 1.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–2.76; p=0.003). Patients treated off-IFU vs on-IFU experienced increased risk of reintervention within 2 years (7% vs. 5%; log-rank p=0.02), a finding consistent with results from the Cox modeling (Hazard ratio [HR] 1.38, 95% CI: 1.06–1.81, p=0.02).

Conclusions:

Patients treated off-IFU were at greater risk for Type 1a endoleak and reintervention, although they had similar 2-year survival compared to those treated on-IFU. Patients with anatomy outside IFU should be considered for open surgery or complex endovascular repair to reduce the probability for revision.
Detection of multiple extensively-drug resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae clones from patients with ventilator-associated pneumonia in Egypt
Authors: Elzeny Hadeel , Mohamed Wegdan , Daef Enas , El-Badawy Omnia , Shaaban Lamiaa , Osman Naglaa S. , Hadiya Safy , Aly Sherine
Published: June 2023

Graphical Abstract

Emergence of XDR-hvKP as the predominant

K. pneumoniae

pathotype responsible for ventilator associated pneumonia in Assiut, Egypt.
Characterisation of key genotypic and phenotypic traits of clinical cystic fibrosis Staphylococcus aureus isolates
Authors: Mossop Micaela , Robinson Luca , Jiang Jhih-Hang , Peleg Anton Y. , Blakeway Luke V. , Macesic Nenad , Perry Audrey , Bourke Stephen , Ulhuq Fatima R. , Palmer Tracy
Published: June 2023

Introduction. One third of people with CF in the UK are co-infected by both

Staphylococcus aureus

and

Pseudomonas aeruginosa

. Chronic bacterial infection in CF contributes to the gradual destruction of lung tissue, and eventually respiratory failure in this group.

Gap Statement. The contribution of

S. aureus

to cystic fibrosis (CF) lung decline in the presence or absence of

P. aeruginosa

is unclear. Defining the molecular and phenotypic characteristics of a range of

S. aureus

clinical isolates will help further understand its pathogenic capabilities.

Aim. Our objective was to use molecular and phenotypic tools to characterise twenty-five clinical

S. aureus

isolates collected from mono- and coinfection with

P. aeruginosa

from people with CF at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Methodology. Genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced. Multilocus sequence typing was used to construct phylogeny from the seven housekeeping genes. A pangenome was calculated using Roary, and cluster of Orthologous groups were assigned using eggNOG-mapper which were used to determine differences within core, accessory, and unique genomes. Characterisation of sequence type, clonal complex, agr and spa types was carried out using PubMLST, eBURST, AgrVATE and spaTyper, respectively. Antibiotic resistance was determined using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion tests. Phenotypic testing of haemolysis was carried out using ovine red blood cell agar plates and mucoid phenotypes visualised using Congo red agar.

Results. Clinical strains clustered closely based on agr type, sequence type and clonal complex. COG analysis revealed statistically significant enrichment of COG families between core, accessory and unique pangenome groups. The unique genome was significantly enriched for replication, recombination and repair, and defence mechanisms. The presence of known virulence genes and toxins were high within this group, and unique genes were identified in 11 strains. Strains which were isolated from the same patient all surpassed average nucleotide identity thresholds, however, differed in phenotypic traits. Antimicrobial resistance to macrolides was significantly higher in the coinfection group.

Conclusion. There is huge variation in genetic and phenotypic capabilities of

S. aureus

strains. Further studies on how these may differ in relation to other species in the CF lung may give insight into inter-species interactions.
Predictive power of wastewater for nowcasting infectious disease transmission: a retrospective case study of five sewershed areas in Louisville, Kentucky
Authors: Klaassen Fayette , Holm Rochelle H. , Smith Ted , Cohen Ted , Bhatnagar Aruni , Menzies Nicolas A.
Published: June 2023

Background

Epidemiological nowcasting traditionally relies on count surveillance data. The availability and quality of such data may vary over time, limiting their representation of true infections. Wastewater data correlates with traditional surveillance data and may provide additional value for nowcasting disease trends.

Methods

We obtained SARS-CoV-2 case, death, wastewater, and serosurvey data for Jefferson County, Kentucky, between August 2020 and March 2021, and parameterized an existing nowcasting model using combinations of these data. We assessed the predictive performance and variability at the sewershed level and compared the effects of adding or replacing wastewater data to case and death reports.

Findings

Adding wastewater data minimally improved the predictive performance of nowcasts compared to a model fitted to case and death data (Weighted Interval Score (WIS) 0·208 versus 0·223), and reduced the predictive performance compared to a model fitted to deaths data (WIS 0·517 versus 0·500). Adding wastewater data to deaths data improved the nowcasts agreement to estimates from models using cases and deaths data. These findings were consistent across individual sewersheds as well as for models fit to the aggregated data of all 5 sewersheds. Retrospective reconstructions of epidemiological dynamics created using different combinations of data were in general agreement (coverage > 75%).

Interpretation

These findings show that wastewater data may be valuable for infectious disease nowcasting when clinical surveillance data are absent, such as early in a pandemic or in low-resource settings where systematic collection of epidemiologic data is difficult.

Funding

CDC, Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government, and other funders.
SparseRNAFolD: Sparse RNA pseudoknot-free Folding including Dangles
Authors: Gray Mateo , Will Sebastian , Jabbari Hosna
Published: June 2023

Motivation

Computational RNA secondary structure prediction by free energy minimization is indispensable for analyzing structural RNAs and their interactions. These methods find the structure with the minimum free energy (MFE) among exponentially many possible structures and have a restrictive time and space complexity (O(n3) time andO(n2) space for pseudoknot-free structures) for longer RNA sequences. Furthermore, accurate free energy calculations including dangles contributions can be difficult and costly to implement, particularly when optimizing for time and space requirements.

Results

Here we introduce a fast and efficient sparsified MFE pseudoknot-free structure prediction algorithm, SparseRNAFolD, that utilizes an accurate energy model that accounts for dangles contributions. While sparsification technique was previously employed to improve time and space complexity of a pseudoknot-free structure prediction method with a realistic energy model, SparseMFEFold, it was not extended to include dangles contributions due to complexity of computation. This may be at the cost of prediction accuracy. In this work, we compare three different sparsified implementations for dangles contributions and provide pros and cons of each method. As well, we compare our algorithm to LinearFold, a linear time and space algorithm, where we find in practice, SparseRNAFolD has lower memory consumption across all lengths of sequence and a faster time for lengths up to 1000 bases.

Conclusion

Our SparseRNAFolD algorithm is an MFE-based algorithm that guarantees optimality of result and employs the most general energy model including dangles contributions. We provide basis for applying dangles to sparsified recursion in a pseudoknot-free model which has the ability to be extended to pseudoknots.

Availability

SparseRNAFolD’s algorithm and detailed results are available athttps://github.com/mateog4712/SparseRNAFolD.
Haplotype-resolved, chromosome-level assembly of white clover (Trifolium repensL., Fabaceae)
Authors: Santangelo James S. , Battlay Paul , Hendrickson Brandon T. , Kuo Wen-Hsi , Olsen Kenneth M. , Kooyers Nicholas J. , Johnson Marc T.J. , Hodgins Kathryn A. , Ness Rob. W.
Published: June 2023

Background

White clover (Trifolium repensL.; Fabaceae) is an important forage and cover crop in agricultural pastures around the world, and is increasingly used in evolutionary ecology and genetics to understand the genetic basis of adaptation. Historically, improvements in white clover breeding practices and assessments of genetic variation in nature have been hampered by a lack of high-quality genomic resources for this species, owing in part to its high heterozygosity and allotetraploid hybrid origin.

Findings

Here, we use PacBio HiFi and chromosome conformation capture (Omni-C) technologies to generate a chromosome-level, haplotype-resolved genome assembly for white clover totaling 998 Mbp (scaffold N50 = 59.3 Mbp) and 1 Gbp (scaffold N50 = 58.6 Mbp) for haplotypes 1 and 2, respectively, with each haplotype arranged into 16 chromosomes (8 per subgenome). We additionally provide a functionally annotated haploid mapping assembly (968 Mbp, scaffold N50 = 59.9 Mbp), which drastically improves on the existing reference assembly in both contiguity and assembly accuracy. We annotated 78,174 protein-coding genes, resulting in protein BUSCO completeness scores of 99.6% and 99.3% against the embryophyta_odb10 and fabales_odb10 lineage datasets, respectively.

Conclusions

We provide two white clover genome assemblies as part of this project: (1) a haplotype-resolved, chromosome-level assembly, and (2) a functionally annotated haploid mapping assembly. These assemblies place white clover among the best sequenced legumes to date, and one of the best assemblies for a plant of recent polyploid origins. This work promises to facilitate ongoing and future work in agricultural and evolutionary genetics in this agronomically and ecologically important species.
Modeling the Structure and DAP5 Binding Site of a Cap-Independent Translational Enhancer mRNA
Authors: Whittaker Amanda , Goss Dixie J.
Published: June 2023

Cap-independent translation initiation in eukaryotes involves initiation factor (eIF) binding to a transcript’s 5’ untranslated region (UTR). Internal-ribosome-entry-site (IRES)-like cap-independent translation initiation does not require a free 5’ end for eIF binding, as eIFs recruit the ribosome to or near the start codon. For viral mRNA, recruitment usually utilizes RNA structure, such as a pseudoknot. However, for cellular mRNA cap-independent translation, no consensus RNA structures or sequences have yet been identified for eIF binding. Fibroblast-growth factor 9 (FGF-9) is a member of a subset of mRNA that are cap-independently upregulated in breast and colorectal cancer cells using this IRES-like method. Death-associated factor 5 (DAP5), an eIF4GI homolog, binds directly to the FGF-9 5’ UTR to initiate translation. However, the DAP5 binding site within the FGF-9 5’ UTR is unknown. Moreover, DAP5 binds to other, dissimilar 5’ UTRs, some of which need a free 5’ end to stimulate cap-independent translation. We propose that a particular RNA structure involving tertiary folding, rather than a conserved sequence or secondary structure, acts as a DAP5 binding site. Using SHAPE-seq, we modeled the FGF-9 5’ UTR RNA’s complex secondary and tertiary structure in vitro. Further, DAP5 footprinting and toeprinting experiments show DAP5’s preference for one face of this structure. DAP5 binding appears to stabilize a higher-energy RNA fold that frees the 5’ end to solvent and brings the start codon close to the recruited ribosome. Our findings offer a fresh perspective in the hunt for cap-independent translational enhancers. Structural, rather than sequence-specific, eIF binding sites may act as attractive chemotherapeutic targets or as dosage tools for mRNA-based therapies.
Prokaryotic winged helix domains as dsDNA adenine methylation sensors
Authors: Helbrecht Igor , Heiter Daniel , Yang Weiwei , Lutz Thomas , Ettwiller Laurence , Bochtler Matthias , Xu Shuang-yong
Published: June 2023

Winged helix (wH) domains, also termed winged helix-turn-helix (wHTH) domains, are widespread in all kingdoms of life, and have diverse roles. In the context of DNA binding and DNA modification sensing, some eukaryotic wH domains are known as sensors of non-methylated CpG. In contrast, the prokaryotic wH domains in DpnI and phi.HhiV4I act as sensors of adenine methylation in 6mApT (6mA = N6mA) context. DNA binding modes and interactions with the probed dinucleotide are vastly different in the two cases. Here, we show that the role of the wH domain as a sensor of adenine methylation is widespread in prokaryotes. We present previously uncharacterized examples of PD-(D/E)XK—wH (FcyTI, Psp4BI), PUA—wH—HNH (HtuIII, Hsa13891I), wH—GIY-YIG (Ahi29725I, Apa233I) and PLD—wH (Aba4572I, CbaI) fusion endonucleases that sense adenine methylation in the Dam G6mATC, and possibly other, slightly more relaxed contexts. Representatives of the wH domain endonuclease fusion families with the exception of the PLD—wH family could be purified, and anin vitropreference for adenine methylation in the Dam context could be demonstrated. Like most other MDREs, the new fusion endonucleases except those in the PD-(D/E)XK—wH family cleave close to, but outside the recognition sequence. Taken together, our data illustrate the widespread combinatorial use of prokaryotic wH domains as adenine methylation sensors.
METTL16 Controls Kaposi’s Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Replication by RegulatingS-Adenosylmethionine Cycle
Authors: Zhang Xinquan , Meng Wen , Feng Jian , Gao Xinghong , Qin Chao , Feng Pinghui , Huang Yufei , Gao Shou-Jiang
Published: June 2023

Oncogenic Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) consists of latent and lytic replication phases, both of which are important for the development of KSHV- related cancers. As one of the most abundant RNA modifications,N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and its related complexes regulate KSHV life cycle. However, the role of METTL16, a new RNA methyltransferase, in KSHV life cycle remains unknown. In this study, we have identified a suppressive role of METTL16 in KSHV lytic replication. METTL16 knockdown increased while METTL16 overexpression reduced KSHV lytic replication. METTL16 binding to and writing of m6A on MAT2A transcript are essential for its splicing, maturation and expression. As a rate-limiting enzyme in the methionine-S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) cycle, MAT2A catalyzes the conversion of L-methionine to SAM required for the transmethylation of protein, DNA and RNA, transamination of polyamines, and transsulfuration of cystathionine. Consequently, knockdown or chemical inhibition of MAT2A reduced intracellular SAM level and enhanced KSHV lytic replication. In contrast, SAM treatment was sufficient to inhibit KSHV lytic replication and reverse the effect of the enhanced KSHV lytic program caused by METTL16 or MAT2A knockdown. Mechanistically, METTL16 or MAT2A knockdown increased while SAM treatment decreased the intracellular reactive oxygen species level by altering glutathione level, which is essential for efficient KSHV lytic replication. These findings demonstrate that METTL16 suppresses KSHV lytic replication by modulating the SAM cycle to maintain intracellular SAM level and redox homeostasis, thus illustrating the linkage of KSHV life cycle with specific m6A modifications, and cellular metabolic and oxidative conditions.
Ribosomal quality control factors inhibit repeat-associated non-AUG translation from GC-rich repeats
Authors: Tseng Yi-Ju , Malik Indranil , Deng Xiexiong , Krans Amy , Jansen-West Karen , Tank Elizabeth M.H. , Gomez Nicolas B. , Sher Roger , Petrucelli Leonard , Barmada Sami J. , Todd Peter K.
Published: June 2023

A GGGGCC (G4C2) hexanucleotide repeat expansion inC9ORF72causes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia (C9ALS/FTD), while a CGG trinucleotide repeat expansion inFMR1leads to the neurodegenerative disorder Fragile X-associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS). These GC-rich repeats form RNA secondary structures that support repeat-associated non-AUG (RAN) translation of toxic proteins that contribute to disease pathogenesis. Here we assessed whether these same repeats might trigger stalling and interfere with translational elongation. We find that depletion of ribosome-associated quality control (RQC) factors NEMF, LTN1, and ANKZF1 markedly boost RAN translation product accumulation from both G4C2 and CGG repeats while overexpression of these factors reduces RAN production in both reporter cell lines and C9ALS/FTD patient iPSC-derived neurons. We also detected partially made products from both G4C2 and CGG repeats whose abundance increased with RQC factor depletion. Repeat RNA sequence, rather than amino acid content, is central to the impact of RQC factor depletion on RAN translation - suggesting a role for RNA secondary structure in these processes. Together, these findings suggest that ribosomal stalling and RQC pathway activation during RAN translation elongation inhibits the generation of toxic RAN products. We propose augmenting RQC activity as a therapeutic strategy in GC-rich repeat expansion disorders.

Graphical Abstract
Trends shaping sustainable post-pandemic development of the V4 region in turbulent times until 2030
Authors: Gáspár Judit , Gubová Klaudia , Hideg Eva , Jagaciak Maciej Piotr , Mackova Lucie , Márton András , Rafał Weronika , Sacio-Szymańska Anna , Šerá Komlossyová Eva
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The paper evaluates trends shaping the post-pandemic reality. The framework adopted is a case study of the V4 region (Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary) that illustrates broader trends, their direction of change and their influence on the entire region. This paper aims to identify key trends and analyse how they can facilitate or hinder sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a multidisciplinary literature review and an online real-time Delphi study carried out across four European countries.

Findings

The results indicate that the influence of negative trends on sustainability is much stronger than that of positive ones. Concerning the trends’ driving factors, the blockers of negative trends have a much higher influence on sustainability than the blockers of positive ones. The study shows that the most significant trends affecting sustainability are distributed throughout various fields of human activity, including geopolitics, social issues, education, the environment, technology and health.

Practical implications

The findings presented below can be used primarily by decision makers from the V4 region, who are responsible for crafting strategies regarding post-COVID recovery. The study illustrates trends that V4 countries and other European Union member states might be facing in the future and analyses how they relate to sustainability. The conclusions indicate that the most effective path to the desired level of sustainability is one that incorporates policies built around the blockers of negative trends.

Originality/value

The importance of this study lies in its focus on countries that had previously received little attention in scientific analyses. The paper shows their possible developmental pathways and sheds light on the framework of integrated foresight and its applications in sustainability-related areas.
Women in uniform breaking the glass ceiling? An exploratory study of female officers in leadership positions in Ghana’s Security Services
Authors: Markwei Ummu , Attiogbe Esther Julia , Asomaning Antwi Abena , Boafo Georgina Korkor
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine how women become leaders in the Security Services in Ghana and the challenges they face in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative phenomenological approach was adopted to explore the intentions and opinions of the participants, interpret their worlds through their lived experiences and present a clearer understanding of their stories.

Findings

The study revealed that women deliberately positioned themselves to be considered for leadership placements in their male-dominated professions. The study’s findings also suggest that although both men and women are considered equal in the service, women were faced with challenges in their daily experiences as leaders due to their gender. The gender barriers created a strenuous situation for women to rise to top leadership placements in the Security Services.

Originality/value

This research is one of the first studies that explored the experiences of women in middle and top leadership positions in the national Security Services in Ghana. It contributes to the literature by presenting how female leaders in the Security Services successfully navigate into leadership placements, the challenges and their strategies in excelling in their duties. The study is important in bridging the gender gap in leadership positions in the Security Services.
Ride-sharing customers’ self-protection motivation in the post-COVID-19 world
Authors: Cheng Xusen , Bao Ying , de Vreede Triparna , de Vreede Gert-Jan , Gu Junhan
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has generated unprecedented public fear, impeding both individuals’ social life and the travel industry as a whole. China was one of the first major countries to experience the COVID-19 outbreaks and recovery from the pandemic. The demand for outings is increasing in the post-COVID-19 world, leading to the recovery of the ride-sharing industry. Integrating protection motivation theory and the theory of reasoned action, this study aims to investigate ride-sharing customers’ self-protection motivation to provide anti-pandemic measures and promote the resilience of ride-sharing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study followed a two-phase mixed-methods design. In the first phase, the authors executed a qualitative study with 30 interviews. In the second phase, the authors used the results of the interviews to inform the design of a survey, with which 272 responses were collected. Both studies were conducted in China.

Findings

The present results indicate that customers’ perceived vulnerability of COVID-19 and perceived COVID protection efficacy (self-efficacy and response efficacy) are positively correlated with their attitude toward self-protection, thus leading to their self-protection motivation during the rides. Moreover, subjective norms and customers’ distrust appear to also impact their self-protection motivation during the ride-sharing service.

Originality/value

The present research provides one of the first in-depth studies, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, on customers’ protection motivation in ride-sharing services in the new normal. The empirical evidence provides important insights for ride-sharing service providers and managers in the post-pandemic world and promote the resilience of ride-sharing industry.
Impact of decentralized long-term rental apartments on the value of community housing--taking Tianjin, China, as an example
Authors: Liu Guangping , Zhang Guo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of decentralized long-term rental apartments on the value of in-community housing from two perspectives of housing price and rent.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the hedonic model to identify the factors affecting the housing value, and the influence of distributed long-rented apartments on the housing value in the community is analyzed from two aspects of housing price and rent by using the ordinary least square method and propensity score matching method.

Findings

The primary finding indicates that decentralized long-term rental apartments increase housing prices while decreasing general rental housing rents in the community, with the average degree of increase ranging from 0.93% to 2.59% and the average degree of decrease ranging from 2.23% to 4.34%. According to additional research, the prices of houses within communities rise by 0.042% for every 1% increase in the share of decentralized long-term rentals, while the rents for other types of rental property fall by 0.162%.

Practical implications

The government can regulate the housing market by regulating the access and layout of distributed long-rent apartments.

Originality/value

The findings of this study indicate that the existence and share of distributed long-rent apartments have a heterogeneous impact on the housing price and rent in the community, respectively.
Sources of incentive and entrenchment effects in family firms: balancing self-dealings with operating efficiencies
Authors: Saurabh Kinshuk
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine how operating efficiencies from incentive alignment compensate for rent extraction in family firms. The author asks whether ownership (1) improves operating efficiencies to increase firm value, (2) positively affects related-party transactions (RPTs), or (3) destroys firm value. Finally, the author assesses whether the incentive effect dominates the entrenchment effect.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a panel of 333 listed family firms (and 185 nonfamily firms) and handles endogeneity using a dynamic panel system GMM and panel VAR.

Findings

Ownership decreases discretionary expenses and increases asset utilization to add firm value. The efficiency gains generate more value in family firms, especially majority-held ones, than in nonmajority ones. However, ownership is also related to increased RPTs (especially dubious loans/guarantees), reducing firm value. RPTs destroy value more severely in the family (or group) firms than in nonfamily (nongroup) firms. It could be why ownership's positive impact on value is lower in family firms than in nonfamily firms. Overall, the incentive effect dominates the entrenchment effect and is robust to controlling private benefits of control in the dynamic ownership-value model.

Research limitations/implications

(1) A family firm's ownership may not be optimal. (2) The firm's long-term commitment as a dynasty limits the scale of expropriation yet sustains impetus for long-term value creation. The paradox partly explains why large family holdings and firm-specific investments endure over generations. (3) This way, large ownership substitutes weak investor protection in India despite tunneling as skin in the game provides necessary investor confidence. (4) Future studies can examine whether extraction varies with family generations and how family characteristics affect the incentive effects.

Practical implications

(1) Concentrated ownership may not be a wrong policy choice in emerging markets to draw firm-specific investments. (2) Investors, auditors, or creditors must pay closer attention to loans/guarantees. (3) More vigorous enforcement, auditor scrutiny, and board oversight are needed.

Social implications

Family firms are not necessarily a bad organization type that destroys investor wealth. They can be valuably efficient due to their ownership and wealth concentration, and frugality. They matter in the economic growth of a developing market like India.

Originality/value

(1) Extends ownership-performance research to family firms and shows that although ownership facilitates tunneling, the incentive effect dominates; (2) family ownership is not impacted by firm value; (3) family ownership levels reduce discretionary expenses and increase asset utilization to create added value, especially in majority-held family firms; (4) RPTs and loans/guarantees increase with ownership; (5) value erosion from RPTs is higher in family (group) firms than in other firms.
Impact of participative and authoritarian leadership on employee creativity: organizational citizenship behavior as a mediator
Authors: Hanaysha Jalal Rajeh
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is twofold; to test the effects of participative and authoritarian leadership styles on employee creativity; and to examine whether organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) mediates the relationship between these leadership styles and employee creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey tool was employed in this research for data collection from the staff at higher education institutions in Malaysia. The collected data were analyzed via PLS-SEM to verify research hypotheses and reach at conclusions.

Findings

The outcomes verified that participative leadership positively affects OCB as well as employee creativity. The findings also demonstrated that authoritarian leadership does not really have any impact on the creativity and OCB of employees. Finally, the results demonstrated that OCB mediates the connection between a leader's participative approach and employee creativity, while its mediating effect among authoritarian leadership and employee creativity is not supported.

Originality/value

This paper addresses research gaps in the existing literature with regards to the role of participative and authoritarian leadership in predicting employee creativity through OCB. There are also scarce research studies on the linkages among the chosen constructs, particularly in higher education context.
A censored regression analysis of household-level demand for pastured eggs in the United States
Authors: Bakhtavoryan Rafael , Hovhannisyan Vardges , Djidonou Desire
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper empirically investigates the demand for pastured eggs in the United States and evaluates the welfare consequences of Japan's egg import tariff reductions for the US consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using household-level Nielsen Homescan panel data, a fixed-effects Heckman two-stage sample selection model is estimated.

Findings

The estimation results ascertain the importance of a set of household socioeconomic characteristics, which are found to influence both the purchase probabilities and the consumption amounts associated with pastured eggs. In addition, demand for pastured eggs is estimated to be inelastic, and pastured eggs are found to be a normal good, more specifically a luxury.

Research limitations/implications

The dataset used in this study reflect purchases only for at-home consumption, lacking information on away-from-home purchases.

Originality/value

Building upon previous research, this study makes the following distinct contributions to the current literature. To the best of our knowledge, it constitutes the first study to empirically examine the demand for pastured eggs, using household-level panel data and an estimation model that not only allows for left-censoring but also controls for regional and time fixed effects. Second, the present study reflects a unique effort in analyzing the adverse welfare consequences of the increased egg prices in the United States brought by a reduction of Japanese import tariffs on US-supplied eggs, focusing specifically on pastured eggs.
A tri-level optimization model for facility location-protection problem considering design and redesign decisions under disruption
Authors: Alavi Sarasadat , Bozorgi-Amiri Ali , Seyedhosseini Seyed Mohammad
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Fortification-interdiction models provide system designers with a broader perspective to identify and protect vital components. Based on this concept, the authors examine how disruptions impact critical supply systems and propose the most effective protection strategies based on three levels of decision-makers. This paper aims to investigate location and fortification decisions at the first level. Moreover, a redesign problem is presented in the third level to locate backup facilities and reallocate undisrupted facilities following the realization of the disruptive agent decisions at the second level.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this problem, the authors develop a tri-level planner-attacker-defender optimization model. The model minimizes investment and demand satisfaction costs and alleviates maximal post-disruption costs. While decisions are decentralized at different levels, the authors develop an integrated solution algorithm to solve the model using the column-and-constraint generation (CCG) method.

Findings

The model and the solution approach are tested on a real supply system consisting of several hospitals and demand areas in a region in Iran. Results indicate that incorporating redesign decisions at the third level reduces maximum disruption costs.

Originality/value

The paper makes the following contributions: presenting a novel tri-level optimization model to formulate facility location and interdiction problems simultaneously, considering corrective measures at the third level to reconfigure the system after interdiction, creating a resilient supply system that can fulfill all demands after disruptions, employing a nested CCG method to solve the model.
“If I had had a me”: the benefits and challenges of involving children with lived experience in youth justice services
Authors: Porteous David , Goodman Anthony
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to present the findings from an ongoing evaluation of a partnership project between a youth justice service and an independent charity that supports the involvement of children with lived experience of youth justice services in work with other young people who have offended and with policy makers and service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involved the secondary analysis of project records and 15 semi-structured interviews with youth justice managers and practitioners and the charity’s staff as well as representatives from external organisations with whom it has worked. The analysis focuses on the nature of activities undertaken, the “theory of change” driving these activities, the perceived benefits of the work as well as some of the challenges involved.

Findings

The findings suggest positive outcomes for children in terms of increased engagement and participation, improvements in confidence and self-esteem and the development of personal, social, health and educational skills. The project represents a compelling example of what child-first diversion looks like in practice.

Originality/value

The article adds to existing knowledge of the benefits and challenges of involving children with recent experience of the youth justice system in service delivery and in co-production work with policy makers and service providers. It also offers insights into recent changes in youth justice policy in England and Wales, in particular the commitment to treating children as children first.