bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 2022 avian H5N1 influenza A virus from clade 2.3.4.4b attaches to and replicates better in human respiratory epithelium than a 2005 H5N1 virus from clade 2.3.2.1
Authors: Bauer Lisa , Leijten Lonneke , Iervolino Matteo , Chopra Varun , van Dijk Laura , Power Mark , Spronken Monique , Rijnink Willemijn , Funk Mathis , de Vries Rory D. , Richard Mathilde , Kuiken Thijs , van Riel Debby
Published: November 2024

Background

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 viruses of the A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996 (GsGd) lineage pose significant global risks to wildlife, domestic animals, and humans. Recent cross-species transmission events to mammals, including humans, highlight this risk. Critical determinants for cross-species and intra-species transmission include the ability to attach to and replicate in respiratory epithelial cells. Although these factors have been studied for HPAI H5N1 viruses in the past, limited studies are available for currently circulating strains.

Methods

We compared level of adaptation to human respiratory tract of a HPAI H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b (H5N12022) virus with those of well characterized HPAI H5N1 clade 2.1.3.2 (H5N12005) and seasonal H3N22003viruses by three methods. First, we compared pattern of virus attachment by virus histochemistry. Second, we compared efficiency of infection and replication, as well as innate immune responses in human respiratory epitheliumin vitro. Lastly, we compared polymerase complex activity in a minigenome assay.

Findings

The H5N12022virus attached more abundantly to and replicated more efficiently in cells of the human respiratory tract compared to H5N12005and H3N2 viruses. This increased replication was not associated with an increased polymerase activity of H5N12022virus compared to H3N22003virus. The efficient replication of H5N12022virus infection induced a robust innate immune response almost comparable to H3N22003.

Interpretation

The pattern of virus attachment and replication efficiency of a HPAI H5N12022virus resembled that of H3N22003virus more closely than a HPAI H5N12005. This could contribute to an increased risk for both human infection and virus adaptations to humans.

Funding

The Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development

Research in context

Evidence before this study

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5 viruses of the A/Goose/Guangdong/1/1996 (GsGd) lineage (clade 2.3.4.4b) have the ability to spread to a wide range of domesticated and wild mammalian species, including humans. Cross species transmission and transmission among humans requires— among other factors—efficient infection of epithelial cells in the respiratory epithelium of the upper respiratory tract.

Added value of this study

In our study we show that a recent clade 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1 virus attached to and replicated more efficiently in respiratory epithelium than a clade 2.1.3.2 H5N1 virus that circulated in 2005.

Implications of all the available data

These data suggest that there might be an increased risk of human infections with the currently circulating 2.3.4.4b HPAI H5N1 viruses, which might facilitate opportunities for human adaptation.
Genomic characterization and functional insights of multidrug-resistantKlebsiella pneumoniaestrain BCSIR-JUMIID
Authors: Faruk Mohammad Omar , Sarkar Md. Murshed Hasan , Hossain MD Ismail , Shabuj Abdullah Al-Mamun , Bhim Manotush , Mehzabin Kaniz , Chowdhury Sanjana Fatema , Naser Showti Raheel , Mumtaz Tabassum , Ahmed Md Firoz
Published: November 2024

Klebsiella pneumoniaeis a prominent opportunistic pathogen associated with multidrug resistance (MDR) and high morbidity and mortality rates in healthcare settings. The emergence of strains resistant to last-resort antibiotics, such as colistin and carbapenems, poses significant therapeutic challenges. This study presents the complete genome analysis of the MDR strainK. pneumoniaeBCSIR-JUMIID to elucidate its genetic architecture, resistance mechanisms, and virulence factors. The genome ofK. pneumoniaeBCSIR-JUMIID, isolated from a pharmaceutical wastewater in Dhaka, Bangladesh, was sequenced using next-generation sequencing technologies. Bioinformatics tools were employed for genome assembly, annotation, and functional analysis. Phylogenetic relationships were established through whole-genome comparisons. Antibiotic resistance genes, virulence factors, and mobile genetic elements were identified using the Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD), ResFinder-4.5.0, Virulence Factors Database (VFDB), and various phage identification tools. The genome ofK. pneumoniaeBCSIR-JUMIID consists of 5,769,218 bp with a G+C content of 56.79%, assembled into 343 contigs. A total of 6,062 coding sequences (CDS), including 1,087 hypothetical proteins, 49 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes, were identified. Key loci involved in capsular polysaccharide and O-antigen biosynthesis (KL150, KL107-D1, O3b) were detected. A diverse array of antibiotic resistance genes was uncovered, including those conferring resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, and colistin. Phage analysis revealed the presence of multiple dsDNA bacteriophages, and CRISPR-Cas systems indicated robust phage defense mechanisms. The genomic analysis ofK. pneumoniaeBCSIR-JUMIID provides a detailed understanding of its resistance and virulence mechanisms, highlighting its potential for horizontal gene transfer and rapid adaptation. These findings underscore the necessity for continued surveillance and novel therapeutic strategies to combat MDRK. pneumoniaeinfections effectively.
The swarming behaviors of Vorticella
Authors: Tabata Tetsuya , Maeyama Yuko
Published: November 2024

Two Vorticella species undergo a synchronous transition from sessile zooids to motile telotrochs, which swarm enveloped in secreted mucus, subsequently forming dense aggregations on substrates and reverting to the zooid form. This cyclical process recurs on a daily basis. Each species exhibits a unique mode of swarming behavior. We hypothesize that these behaviors may serve to facilitate efficient feeding while concurrently acting as a mechanism for predator avoidance.
RewiringEscherichia colito Transform Formate into Methyl Groups
Authors: Mohr Michael K. F. , Satanowski Ari , Lindner Steffen N. , Erb Tobias J. , Andexer Jennifer N.
Published: November 2024

Background

Biotechnological applications are steadily growing and have become an important tool to reinvent the synthesis of chemicals and pharmaceuticals for lower dependence on fossil resources. In order to sustain this progression, new feedstocks for biotechnological hosts have to be explored. One-carbon (C1-)compounds, including formate, derived from CO2or organic waste are accessible in large quantities with renewable energy, making them promising candidates. Previous studies showed that introduction of the formate assimilation machinery fromMethylorubrum extorquensintoEscherichia coliallows assimilation of formate into the established biotechnological host. Applying this established route for formate assimilation, we here investigated utilisation of formate for the production of value-added building blocks inE. coli using S-adenosylmethionine (SAM)-dependent methyltransferases.

Results

We first analysed methylation activity inE. coliBL21with a two-vector system to produce three different methyltransferases together with the formate assimilation machinery.Feeding isotopically labelled formate, products with 51 – 81%13C-labelling could be obtained by maintainingin vivomethylation activity. Focussing on improvement ofin vivomethylation, we analysed two furtherE. colistrains with an engineered C1-metabolism and, following condition optimisation, achieved a doubled methylation activity with a share of more than 70% formate-derived methyl groups.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the efficient transformation of formate into methyl groups inE. coli. Our findings support that feeding formate can improve the availability of usable C1-compounds and, as a result, increasein vivomethylation activity in engineeredE. coli.
Unexplored Yeast diversity in Seed Microbiota
Authors: Marchi Muriel , Bosc-Bierne Anaïs , Lerenard Thomas , Le Corff Josiane , Aligon Sophie , Rolland Aurélia , Simonin Marie , Marais Coralie , Briand Martial , Cordovez Viviane , Gouka Linda , Guillemette Thomas , Simoneau Philippe , Guschinskaya Natalia
Published: November 2024

Yeasts are known to be fantastic biotechnological resources for medical, food, and industrial applications, but their potential remains untapped in agriculture, especially for plant biostimulation and biocontrol. In particular, yeasts have been reported as part of the core microbiome of seeds using next generation sequencing methods, but their diversity and functional roles remain largely undescribed. This study aimed to fill this knowledge gap by characterizing the diversity of seed-associated yeasts across nine plant species (crops and non-cultivated species) using culturomics, microscopy, and metabarcoding.

Our results show that seed-associated yeasts largely belong to Basidiomycota phylum and more particularly to the Tremellomycetes class. This yeast collection covers 15 genera (2 of Ascomycota and 13 of Basidiomycota). Out of the 219 isolates described, the most frequently isolated yeasts wereHoltermaniella, Vishniacozyma, Filobasidium, NaganishiaandSporobolomyces. The yeasts from these dominant genera were isolated from multiple plant species (4 to 8), except forNaganishiawhich only originated fromSolanum lycopersicum L.. These results are also consistent with the fact that these dominant taxa were recently identified as members of the core seed microbiome, indicating their high prevalence and abundance across diverse plant hosts and environments. Compared to previous plant yeast diversity surveys, the members from Ascomycota are less frequent in seeds and only represented here by theAureobasidiumandTaphrinagenera. Altogether, these results suggest that yeasts are generally well-adapted to the aboveground habitats of plants, but seeds represent a specific habitat that diverse Basidiomycota yeasts can colonize.

Take away message

219 yeasts isolated from seeds and seedlings of diverse plant species

Most isolates are Basidiomycota yeasts, especially of the Tremellomycetes class

Ascomycota yeasts are rarely isolated from the seed environment

The most frequently isolated yeasts belong toHoltermaniella, Vishniacozyma, FilobasidiumandSporobolomycesgenera

The collection is representative of taxa found in seed microbiota of multiple plant species
Metabolic Adaptability and Nutrient Scavenging in Toxoplasma gondii: Insights from Ingestion Pathway-Deficient Mutants
Authors: Rimple Patrick A. , Olafsson Einar B. , Markus Benedikt M. , Wang Fengrong , Augusto Leonardo , Lourido Sebastian , Carruthers Vern B.
Published: November 2024

The obligate intracellular parasiteToxoplasma gondiireplicates within a specialized compartment called the parasitophorous vacuole (PV). Recent work showed that despite living within a PV,Toxoplasmaendocytoses proteins from the cytosol of infected host cells via a so-called ingestion pathway. The ingestion pathway is initiated by dense granule protein GRA14, which binds host ESCRT machinery to bud vesicles into the lumen of the PV. The protein-containing vesicles are internalized by the parasite and trafficked to the Plant Vacuole-like compartment (PLVAC), where cathepsin protease L (CPL) degrades the cargo and the chloroquine resistance transporter (CRT) exports the resulting peptides and amino acids to the parasite cytosol. However, although the ingestion pathway was proposed to be a conduit for nutrients, there is limited evidence for this hypothesis. We reasoned that ifToxoplasmauses the ingestion pathway to acquire nutrients, then parasites lacking GRA14, CPL, or CRT should rely more on biosynthetic pathways or alternative scavenging pathways. To explore this, we conducted a genome-wide CRISPR screen in wild-type (WT) parasites and Δgra14, Δcpl, and Δcrtmutants to identify genes that become more fitness conferring in ingestion-deficient parasites. Our screen revealed a significant overlap of genes that become more fitness conferring in the ingestion mutants compared to WT. Pathway analysis indicated that Δcpland Δcrtmutants relied more on pyrimidine biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, TCA cycle, and lysine degradation. Bulk metabolomic analysis showed reduced levels of glycolytic intermediates and amino acids in the ingestion mutants compared to WT, highlighting the pathway’s potential role in host resource scavenging. Interestingly, ingestion mutants showed an exacerbated growth defect when grown in amino acid-depleted media, suggesting a role for theToxoplasmaingestion pathway during nutrient scarcity.

Importance

Toxoplasma gondiiis an obligate intracellular pathogen that infects virtually any nucleated cell in most warm-blooded animals. Infections are asymptomatic in most cases but people with weakened immunity can experience severe disease. For the parasite to replicate within the host, it must efficiently acquire essential nutrients, especially as it is unable to make several key metabolites. Understanding the mechanisms by whichToxoplasmascavenges nutrients from the host is crucial for identifying potential therapeutic targets. Our study highlights the function of the ingestion pathway in sustaining parasite metabolites and contributes to parasite replication under amino acid limiting conditions. This work advances our understanding of the metabolic adaptability ofToxoplasma.
Cooperative Role of PACT and ADAR1 in Preventing Aberrant PKR Activation by Self-Derived Double-Stranded RNA
Authors: Manjunath Lavanya , Santiago Gisselle , Ortega Pedro , Sanchez Ambrocio , Oh Sunwoo , Garcia Alexander , Bournique Elodie , Bouin Alexis , Semler Bert L. , Setiaputra Dheva , Buisson Rémi
Published: November 2024

Double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) produced during viral infections are recognized by the innate immune sensor protein kinase R (PKR), triggering a host translation shutoff that inhibits viral replication and propagation. Given the harmful effects of uncontrolled PKR activation, cells must tightly regulate PKR to ensure that its activation occurs only in response to viral infections, not endogenous dsRNAs. Here, we use CRISPR-Translate, a FACS-based genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening method that exploits translation levels as a readout and identifies PACT as a key inhibitor of PKR during viral infection. We find that cells deficient for PACT hyperactivate PKR in response to several different RNA viruses, raising the question of why cells need to limit PKR activity. Our results demonstrate that PACT cooperates with ADAR1 to suppress PKR activation from self-dsRNAs in uninfected cells. The simultaneous deletion of PACT and ADAR1 results in synthetic lethality, which can be fully rescued in PKR-deficient cells. We propose that both PACT and ADAR1 act as essential barriers against PKR, creating a threshold of tolerable levels to endogenous dsRNA in cells without activating PKR-mediated translation shutdown and cell death.
Cycles in Seizure Duration and Their Underlying Dynamics in the Tetanus Toxin Rat Model
Authors: Eskikand Parvin Zarei , Kazemi Sepehr , Cook Mark J. , Burkitt Anthony N. , Grayden David B.
Published: November 2024

Seizure duration, a characteristic of epilepsy that is understudied in relation to its relationship with rhythmic cycles, provides critical insights into the severity and temporal dynamics of seizures. This study investigates the rhythmic patterns of seizure duration in the Tetanus Toxin (TT) rat model of epilepsy. Our analysis shows significant cyclical patterns in seizure durations, with periods ranging from 4 to 8 days across rats. The synchronization index and circular-linear correlations revealed phase-locked relationships between seizure durations and cycles, suggesting non-random, predictable temporal dynamics. Further analyses examined the relationship between seizure durations, inter-seizure intervals, and dominant EEG power. The findings highlight that seizure durations exhibit predictable rhythms, which could transform seizure prediction and enable time-based intervention strategies, ultimately improving epilepsy management and patient outcomes. These insights lay the groundwork for personalized, rhythm-aware therapeutic approaches.
Assessing the feasibility of a new approach to measure the full spectrum of CSF dynamics within the human brain using MRI: insights from a simulation study
Authors: van der Voort E.C. , van der Plas M.C.E. , Zwanenburg J.J.M.
Published: November 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics are essential in waste clearance of the brain. Disruptions in CSF flow are linked to various neurological conditions, highlighting the need for accurate measurement of its dynamics. Current methods typically capture limited aspects of CSF movement or focus on a single anatomical region, presenting challenges for comprehensive analysis. This study proposes a novel approach using Displacement Encoding with Stimulated Echoes (DENSE) MRI to assess the full spectrum of CSF motion within the brain. Through simulations, we evaluated the feasibility of disentangling distinct CSF motion components, including heartbeat- and respiration-driven flows, as well as a net velocity component due to continuous CSF turnover, and tested the performance of our method under incorrect assumptions about the underlying model of CSF motion. Results demonstrate that DENSE MRI can accurately separate these components, and reliably estimated a net velocity, even when periodic physiological motions vary over time. The method proved to be robust for including low frequency components (LFO), incorrect assumption on the nature of the net velocity component and missing CSF components in the model. This approach offers a comprehensive measurement technique for quantifying CSF dynamics, advancing our understanding of the relative role of various drivers of CSF dynamics in brain clearance.
Lamin B1-dependent regulation of human separase in mitosis
Authors: Picotto Julien , Cipressa Francesca , Busso Didier , Cenci Giovanni , Bertrand Pascale , Pennarun Gaëlle
Published: November 2024

Separase plays a central role in chromosome separation during mitosis and in centrosome cycle. Tight control of separase activity is required to prevent unscheduled resolution of sister chromatid cohesion and centrosome aberrations, thereby preserving genome stability. In mammals, despite their disassembly in early mitosis, some nuclear envelope components possess mitotic roles, but links with separase activity remain unexplored. Here, we uncover a new mechanism of separase regulation involving lamin B1, a key nuclear envelope factor. We show that separase and lamin B1 associate preferentially during early stages of mitosis. Importantly, lamin B1 depletion leads to an increase in separase recruitment on chromosomes together with premature chromatid separation, a phenotype reminiscent of separase overexpression. Conversely, similar to separase depletion, lamin B1 overexpression induces formation of diplochromosomes- resulting from chromatid separation failure-, in association with centrosome amplification. Importantly, increasing separase level prevents lamin B1-induced centrosome aberrations, suggesting a separase defect at their origin. Indeed, we show that overexpression of lamin B1 leads to a decrease in the recruitment of separase to the chromosome and a delay in its activity. Taken together, this study unveils a novel mechanism of separase regulation involving the nuclear envelope factor lamin B1, that is crucial for genome integrity maintenance.
Isoliquiritigenin attenuated cognitive impairment, cerebral tau phosphorylation and oxidative stress in a streptozotocin-induced mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Tang Zhi , Sha Ting , Wang Yuanshang , Xiao Yan , Ding Yuanting , Ni Ruiqing , Qi Xiaolan
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Tau hyperphosphorylation, mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress play important roles in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Isoliquiritigenin, a natural flavonoid isolated from the root of liquorice, has been shown to exert inhibitory effects on oxidative stress. Here, we assessed the neuroprotective effects of isoliquiritigenin on a streptozotocin-injected mouse model.

Method

Molecular docking analysis performed for isoliquiritigenin with mTOR and ERK2. The mice (n = 27, male) were intracerebroventricularly injected with streptozotocin, treated with isoliquiritigenin (intraperitoneal, 2 days) and assessed using the Morris water maze. Oxidative stress, tau phosphorylation, mitochondrial dysfunction and synaptic impairment were evaluated in the cortex and hippocampal tissues of the mice by using biochemical assays and immunofluorescence staining.

Results

Isoliquiritigenin treatment mitigated the spatial memory capacity of streptozotocin-injected mice and alleviated tau phosphorylation at Ser396; the production of reactive oxygen species; the mitochondrial fission proteins Mfn1 and Mfn2; neuronal loss; and synaptic impairment (PSD95, SNAP25). Isoliquiritigenin treatment reduced the levels of mTOR Ser2448 and ERK1/2 T202/Y204 and upregulated the level of GSK-3βSer9 in the cortex and hippocampus of streptozotocin-injected mice.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our findings suggest that isoliquiritigenin ameliorates streptozotocin-induced cognitive impairment, hyperphosphorylated tau, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction and synaptic impairment by decreasing mTOR and ERK activity and increasing GSK-3β activity.
Syntheses and crystal structures of (R,R)- and (S,S)-bis(acetonitrile-κN)[N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)cyclohexane-1,2-diamine-κ4
N]iron(II) bis(hexafluoroantimonate)
Authors: Bibik Yurii S. , Yulakh Iryna M. , Shishkina Svitlana V. , Khomenko Dmytro M. , Doroshchuk Roman O. , Raspertova Ilona V. , Lampeka Rostyslav D.
Published: November 2024

Two enantiomeric non-heme iron complexes [Fe(R,R-BPMCN)(CH3CN)2](SbF6)2 and [Fe(S,S-BPMCN)(CH3CN)2](SbF6)2 (BPMCM = N,N′-dimethyl-N,N′-bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)-cyclohexane-1,2-diamine, C22H28N4) were obtained in parallel syntheses starting from the enantiomerically pure R,R and S,S BPMCN ligands. The FeII cations have a distorted octahedral FeN6 geometry formed by a chelating N,N,N,N-tetradentate BPMCN ligand and two molecules of acetonitrile. The ligand adopts a cis-α topology with the two pyridine groups coordinated trans to each other. In the crystals, a system of C—H...F hydrogen bonds links the cations to the hexafluoroantimonate anions, resulting in a three-dimensional architecture.
What does your i-deal mean? Mediation of relative deprivation in the relationship between coworkers’ i-deals and employees’ voice behaviors
Authors: Li Kunlin , Sun Xin , Cheng Jin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study examines the impact of perceptions of coworkers’ developmental i-deals on employees’ pro-organizational (POV) and self-interested voice (SIV) behaviors in high-tech companies, exploring the mediating role of perceived relative deprivation and the moderating role of psychological entitlement in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducted a multi-wave, multi-source questionnaire survey among 409 employees in China. Statistical analyses were conducted using AMOS 22 and the PROCESS macro in SPSS 26.

Findings

The results suggest that perceptions of coworkers’ developmental i-deals decreased employees’ POV behaviors and increased SIV behaviors through focal employees’ perceived relative deprivation. In addition, employees’ psychological entitlement reinforced the effects of perceptions of coworkers’ developmental i-deals on employees’ perceived relative deprivation.

Originality/value

Utilizing relative deprivation theory, this study discovered a new mediating mechanism (i.e. perceived relative deprivation) that links perceptions of coworkers’ developmental i-deals to focal employees’ POV behaviors and SIV behaviors. In addition, this study also revealed the moderating role of psychological entitlement in the relationship between perceptions of coworkers’ developmental i-deals and the focal employee’s relative deprivation.
Willingness to disclose information in mobile banking apps: how to tackle privacy concerns?
Authors: Luo Dan , Ni Xiewen , Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Tan Garry Wei-Han
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose and validate a research framework pertaining to the willingness to disclose information in the context of mobile banking apps. The interrelationships between privacy protection, perceived personalization, social presence, design aesthetics, consumer empowerment, parasocial interactions and privacy concerns are assessed as antecedents of willingness to disclose information.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a self-administered survey, this study gathered data from 450 Chinese consumers. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling via SmartPLS 4 software.

Findings

The findings indicate that (1) privacy concerns are negatively related to willingness to disclose information, (2) parasocial interaction reduces privacy concerns, (3) consumer empowerment is positively influenced by privacy protection and perceived personalization and (4) social presence and design aesthetics positively contribute to the formation of parasocial interaction.

Originality/value

The current study serves to reinforce a theoretical understanding of the willingness to disclose information in mobile banking apps, which is underresearched. The findings offer alternative psychological mechanisms (i.e. consumer empowerment and parasocial interaction) and relevant mobile banking app attributes to explain the willingness to disclose information.
Does the fuzzy logic model explains more? Moderating effect of personality on the relationship between SR-HRM and job performance
Authors: Ozkan-Canbolat Ela , Kalemci R. Arzu , Kalemci-Tuzun Ipek
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the moderating effect of personality traits on social responsibility-oriented human resources management (SR-HRM) practices and job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of the study consists of 442 employees working in firms developing knowledge and innovation-based systems in Ankara (Turkey). The strengths of this study stem from its methodology, which contributes to the literature in terms of analysis comparing linear and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analyzes (fsQCA).

Findings

Both linear analyses and fsQCA results show the moderating effect of conscientiousness on the relationship between job performance and SR-HRM. Both models demonstrate the impact of agreeableness on business performance. Study results indicate that linear and fsQCA examine the moderating effect of conscientiousness in the same way as the literature. The linear analysis results differ from fsQCA, which examined the moderating effect of compatibility in this study. The fsQCA results of this study show that SR-HRM affects job performance when extraversion and conscientiousness are taken into account.

Research limitations/implications

Further research may compare linear and fuzzy logic models about moderating and mediating effects. Future researchers may highlight the increasing importance of linear and fsQCA in any organizational behavior or organizational theory subject.

Practical implications

The main implication is that managers should consider the significant impacts of effective SR-HRM development on employees’ job performance. Personality traits should be taken into account in HRM processes such as recruitment and retention.

Social implications

The main contribution of the current study is the insight it provides into the moderating effects of the big five personality traits on the relationship between job performance and SR-HRM and how they differ in the linear model and fsQCA.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the relevant literature by presenting the research design and questions. Using a multi-method approach, this research provides a better understanding of patterns between variables and contributes to the existing literature.
The role of athlete brands for the international marketing of professional sports leagues: a case study of the German Bundesliga in Asia
Authors: Anderski Matthias , Stegmann Pascal , Dickson Geoff , Ströbel Tim
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the role of athlete brands for the international marketing of professional sports leagues by examining how athlete brands contribute to initiatives of football leagues.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a single case study of the German Bundesliga underpinned by 17 semi-structured interviews with league, club and media executives, we identify specific brand co-creation opportunities of athlete brands and the sports league brand.

Findings

Our findings reveal that athlete brands play a significant role in enhancing league visibility, engaging global audiences and unlocking new markets. Moreover, we identify specific opportunities for co-creating league brand meaning through strategic partnerships and athlete endorsements.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature by highlighting the importance of athlete brands in sports league marketing and offering insights for practitioners on innovative marketing strategies. Using a multi-actor perspective, this study provides valuable insights by revealing how sports leagues can pursue innovative marketing strategies by considering the role of athlete brands, thereby offering new ways for fans and sponsors to engage with the sports league.
Authentic leadership: Taylor’s version
Authors: Woods Kathryn , Kates Melissa Anne
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this manuscript is to explore an assignment given to students in an online survey of leadership theory and practice graduate course to help them learn and apply information on authentic leadership theory and critically examine the literature on this theory through a feminist lens.

Design/methodology/approach

After studying authentic leadership theory, students were prompted to examine Taylor Swift’s public statements, actions and impact on her industry and society and how her words and actions support or refute her status as an authentic leader. Students were challenged to examine how Swift’s gender impacts her status as an authentic leader and to critically examine how the demographics of the authors who developed this theory could affect its application.

Findings

Students critically engaged with the concept of authentic leadership, thoughtfully applied their knowledge to a real-world case study, and displayed an understanding of the interplay of gender and authentic leadership.

Originality/value

Recommendations are provided to inspire new ideas for leadership educators who seek to prepare students to understand (the often gender-influenced) applications of authentic leadership in a modern setting.
Examining the complementary relationship between peer-to-peer lending and traditional banks in the USA
Authors: Cuadros Carrion Maria Belen , Czarnik Zofia Joanna , Lemke Robert J. , Tao Ran
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The study aims to determine whether P2P lending serves as a complement or substitute to traditional bank lending, particularly in the context of decreasing bank branch availability. This research investigates how local banking competition, and demographic factors influence P2P loan activity. We aim to provide insight into the potential of P2P lending to enhance access to credit and present new evidence through 2023.

Design/methodology/approach

We utilize a unique, comprehensive dataset that integrates data from the Census, financial institutions, and peer-to-peer (P2P) loans issued by Prosper, the first marketplace lending platform in the USA. This dataset covers over 5,000 US cities from 2018 to 2023. AI (ChatGPT) is employed to help merge approximately 166,000 P2P loans per year with the other datasets. Our analysis considers local banking market access and competition, demographics and P2P loan usage. We apply panel fixed-effect models to control for both city-specific and year-specific effects.

Findings

We find that access to financial institutions is positively related to P2P borrowing, with more Prosper loans issued in competitive banking markets and areas with a greater presence of small banks. P2P lending complements traditional bank lending, but it does not significantly benefit the lowest-income households or areas with high unemployment rates. P2P activity increases with income up to a median threshold of $75,000 and is not significantly affected by cities’ racial, educational and age compositions or population sizes. These findings suggest maintaining a competitive banking market that includes both traditional and P2P lending to promote broader credit access.

Originality/value

This research offers original insights by analyzing the interplay between traditional banking and peer-to-peer (P2P) lending. Prior research in this area is limited. Furthermore, we provide new evidence on the dynamics of this relationship through 2023. Utilizing a comprehensive dataset from Prosper, financial institutions and the Census, this study uniquely explores how local banking competition and demographic factors influence P2P loan activity. The study contributes to existing literature by highlighting that P2P lending complements, rather than substitutes for, traditional banking. Our findings underscore the importance of maintaining a competitive banking market that includes both traditional and Fintech lenders to enhance credit access.
Behavioural biases in sell-side equity analysts’ decision-making: a South African emerging market perspective
Authors: Sebastian Avani , Seetharam Yudhvir
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Sell-side equity analysts are key information intermediaries, although prior literature has found that they exhibit behavioural biases. The aim of this study is to describe the process followed by analysts in formulating recommendations and to identify the behavioural biases that are likely to influence the process.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 sell-side equity analysts in an emerging market. This direct interaction allowed the researchers to gain insights into analysts’ use of information, related challenges and proclivity for biases.

Findings

The authors find evidence of intentional and spurious herding, availability, overconfidence and the disposition effect. In spite of the volume of information in corporate reports, a key source of new information is direct interaction with management, where analysts use their intuition or “gut feel”. Weary of the possibility of financial misstatement, they use these direct interactions to assess management’s trustworthiness. The authors find reputational motivations for the safety of herding around the broker consensus. Declining coverage of JSE-listed companies is therefore concerning for the analysts.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the limited qualitative research on analyst bias in the emerging South African economy. In addition, the focus on the information context of analysts juxtaposes corporate reporting and behavioural finance research to provide insights on the use of various sources of information for decision-making.
Habitat edges decrease plant reproductive output in fragmented landscapes
Authors: Hulting Katherine A. , Brudvig Lars A. , Damschen Ellen I. , Levey Douglas J. , Resasco Julian , Tewksbury Joshua J. , Haddad Nick M.
Published: November 2024

Habitat loss is a major threat to biodiversity, but the effects of habitat fragmentation are less clear. Examining drivers of key demographic processes, such as reproduction, will clarify species‐level responses to fragmentation and broader effects on biodiversity. Yet, understanding how fragmentation affects demography has been challenging due to the many ways landscapes are altered by co‐occurring habitat loss and fragmentation, coupled with the rarity of experiments to disentangle these effects.

In a large, replicated fragmentation experiment with open savanna habitats surrounded by pine plantation forests, we tested the effects of inter‐patch connectivity, patch edge‐to‐area ratio, and within‐patch distance from an edge on plant reproductive output. Using five experimentally planted species of restoration interest—three wind‐pollinated grass species and two insect‐pollinated forb species—we measured plant flowering, pollination rate, and seed production.

All plant species were more likely to flower and produce more flowering structures farther from the forest edge. Connectivity and distance from an edge, however, had no effect on the pollination rate (regardless of pollination mode). Despite no influence of fragmentation on pollination, plant seed production increased farther from the edge for four of five species, driven by the increase in flower production.

Synthesis. Altogether, we demonstrate that plant reproductive output (seed production) is decreased by habitat fragmentation through edge effects on flowering. Our work provides evidence that an important contributor to plant demography, reproductive output, is altered by edge effects in fragmented patches. These species‐level impacts of fragmentation may provide insight into the mechanisms of fragmentation effects on community‐level changes in biodiversity.
Craft in an age of creativity: disengagement as a new mode of craftsmanship among traditional potters in Japan
Authors: Lee Shilla
Published: November 2024

Embedded within Japan's demographic and economic stagnation, traditional craftsmanship unexpectedly aligns with the discourse of creativity. This study delves into the intricacies of this convergence through ethnographic details, shedding light on how endeavours to preserve local crafts intertwine with the burgeoning discourse of creativity within public policy frameworks, thereby shaping a nuanced understanding of craftsmanship. The study draws on fieldwork conducted in 2018‐19 in Tamba Sasayama, Japan, focusing on the participation of Tamba potters in a regional revitalization initiative promoting the slogan of rural creativity. Initially, promotional activities were perceived as distractions hindering their ability to maintain the pace of their work, such as monitoring the changing state of the clay through various stages of the craft (i.e. throwing, drying, and firing), an aspect they considered fundamental to craftsmanship. However, the growing acknowledgement of public support accompanying their engagement prompted a reassessment, transforming distraction into a skill emblematic of flexible ‘disengagement’. The analysis of disengagement as a new virtue of craftsmanship reveals the pragmatic approach the potters uphold and the creative trajectory of traditional craftsmanship amidst the demographic crisis.
Effect of Transferrin‐Modified Fe3O4 Nanoparticle Targeted Delivery miR‐15a‐5p Combined With Photothermal Therapy on Lung Cancer
Authors: Lan Xiaoxu , Wang Xiao , Shao Liying , An Jiayue , Rong Simin , Yang Xiancong , Sun Hongfang , Liang Yan , Wang Ranran , Xie Shuyang , Li Youjie
Published: November 2024

Background

Existing studies have shown that transferrin receptor (TfR) is highly expressed on the surface of lung cancer cells, and nanoparticles (NPs) have been widely used as delivery vehicles. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the targeted delivery of Fe3O4 NPs modified with transferrin (Tf) compared with photothermal treatment for lung cancer.

Methods

The morphology and properties of Fe3O4 NPs modified with Tf were tested by internal morphological characterization experiments including transmission electron microscopy, particle size meter infrared spectrometer and other experiments. The delivery of materials was investigated by cell proliferation and apoptosis experiments, and western blot experiment was used to detect yes‐associated protein 1(YAP1) protein expression changes after delivering miR‐15a‐5p. In addition, animal models were constructed to further explore the targeting properties of the material.

Results

The results demonstrated that the nanomaterial has good stability and targeting properties. Meanwhile, we also discovered that the miR‐15a‐5p carried by NPs can inhibit cell growth after its entry to the lung cancer cells. The effect became more evident when the nanomaterials were assisted with laser therapy, as verified by in vivo and in vitro experiments. In terms of the related mechanism, miR‐15a‐5p inhibited YAP1 expression, which affected cell proliferation and apoptosis.

Conclusion

In this study, Fe3O4 NPs modified with Tf delivered miR‐15a‐5p in combination with photothermal therapy for lung cancer. In future research, the targeted delivery of Tf and the photothermal synergy of nanomaterials will provide a theoretical basis for cancer treatment.
Epigenetic age acceleration predicts subject‐specific white matter degeneration in the human brain
Authors: Newman Benjamin T. , Danoff Joshua S. , Lynch Morgan E. , Giamberardino Stephanie N. , Gregory Simon G. , Connelly Jessica J. , Druzgal T. Jason , Morris James P.
Published: November 2024

Epigenetic clocks provide powerful tools for estimating health and lifespan but their ability to predict brain degeneration and neuronal damage during the aging process is unknown. In this study, we use GrimAge, an epigenetic clock correlated to several blood plasma proteins, to longitudinally investigate brain cellular microstructure in axonal white matter from a cohort of healthy aging individuals. A specific focus was made on white matter hyperintensities, a visible neurological manifestation of small vessel disease, and the axonal pathways throughout each individual's brain affected by their unique white matter hyperintensity location and volume. 98 subjects over 55 years of age were scanned at baseline with 41 returning for a follow‐up scan 2 years later. Using diffusion MRI lesionometry, we reconstructed subject‐specific networks of affected axonal tracts and examined the diffusion cellular microstructure composition of these areas, both at baseline and longitudinally, for evidence of cellular degeneration. A chronological age‐adjusted version of GrimAge was significantly correlated with baseline WMH volume and markers of neuronal decline, indicated by increased extracellular free water, increased intracellular signal, and decreased axonal signal within WMH. By isolating subject‐specific axonal regions “lesioned” by crossing through a WMH, age‐adjusted GrimAge was also able to predict longitudinal development of similar patterns of neuronal decline throughout the brain. This study is the first to demonstrate WMH lesionometry as a subject‐specific precision imaging technique to study degeneration in aging and the first to establish a relationship between accelerated epigenetic GrimAge and brain cellular microstructure in humans.
No Bullshit!: Balibo 1976 and Bob Hawke's Diplomatic Masterclass
Authors: Smith Shannon L.
Published: November 2024

During Indonesian territorial incursions into Portuguese Timor in late 1975, five newsmen working for Australian media were killed. It became a major domestic political issue in Australia, and had potential to cause a diplomatic crisis with Indonesia. Australian diplomats needed to uncover what happened to the newsmen, while avoiding further bilateral fall‐out. They sought to confirm the deaths and to recover their remains, and when the information surrounding the cause of their deaths proved contestable, they endeavoured to conduct a further enquiry to settle the issue. But to achieve this they required Indonesian cooperation to access now Indonesian‐occupied East Timor. For 50 years, the circumstances of how that enquiry in April 1976 eventuated have been kept secret. That was because it was accomplished by two non‐diplomats—Clive Williams, Indonesian President Soeharto's close confidant, and Bob Hawke, leader of Australia's peak trade union body. Hawke was not an emissary for the Australian Government, he was representing the more than 50% of working‐age Australians who held a union membership. Williams and Hawke came to an understanding that was to the satisfaction of the Australian and Indonesian governments. This was a rare occurrence: when an unofficial exchange succeeded where diplomats failed.
Ultrasound visualization and blood flow velocity measurements of the adrenal arteries in the fetus
Authors: Bergøy Øystein , Kiserud Torvid , Kessler Jørg , Dalen Ingvild , Økland Kristine Moi , Sande Ragnar Kvie
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Detection and surveillance of fetal growth restriction (FGR) is well established, but there is still room for improvement. Animal studies indicate that compromised fetuses increase adrenal blood flow. Modern ultrasound equipment allows us to measure vascular impedance in the fetal adrenal arteries despite their modest size. However, extensive anatomical variance is a challenge to standardizing measurements. We set out to improve this.

Material and Methods

We included 75 low‐risk pregnant women in a prospective cross‐sectional study aiming to develop a reliable technique to visualize and measure flow velocity in human fetal adrenal arteries. We used commercially available ultrasound equipment: a GE Voluson 10 2019 with a C2‐9 probe (GE Healthcare, Zipf, Austria), and a Philips Epiq Elite with a V9‐2 probe (Philips Medical Systems International B.V., Best, The Netherlands), exploiting the modern sensitive power Doppler modes in both scanners to visualize small vessels.

Results

Among 72 fetuses, the inferior adrenal artery was the most consistently visualized and measured artery to the gland. Doppler velocimetry was achieved in 66 (92%) participants. We found the anatomical variation described previously but were able to develop visualization strategies to identify the common arteries and use a consistent Doppler technique for the second half of pregnancy.

Conclusions

It is possible to visualize and measure flow velocity in the adrenal arteries of human fetuses. The success rate was highest for the inferior adrenal artery making this vessel a candidate for clinical studies.
Impact of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease on the Survival of People Living With HIV
Authors: Macias Juan , Frias Mario , Pineda Juan Antonio , Corona‐Mata Diana , Corma‐Gomez Anais , Rivero‐Juarez Antonio , Santos Marta , García‐Deltoro Miguel , Rivero Antonio , Ricart‐Olmos Carmen , Gonzalez‐Serna Alejandro , Real Luis Miguel
Published: November 2024

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasing concern for people living with HIV (PLWH). However, information on the impact of NAFLD on the prognosis of PLWH is very scarce.

Aims

To investigate the influence of NAFLD on the overall and liver‐related mortality in PLWH.

Methods

PLWH followed in three Spanish centres were included in a prospective cohort at the date of the first transient elastography evaluation. Survival data were recorded, and the causes of death were centrally monitored. The risk of all‐cause death and liver‐related death was evaluated by applying time‐to‐event analyses.

Results

A total of 2151 PLWH were included in the cohort and followed for a median (Q1–Q3) of 7.3 (3.5–10.4) years. There were 174 (8.1%) deaths. The probability of overall death and liver‐related death was associated with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and with FibroScan‐AST (FAST) score. Among 844 PLWH with potential for NALFD, LSM was independently associated with all‐cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], by 1 kPa increase: 1.06; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.04–1.08; p < 0.001). In a separate model and after adjustment, FAST score ≥ 0.67 was related to survival (AHR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.40–2.50; p < 0.001). The AUROC (95% CI) of the models were based on LSM, 0.812 (0.739–0.885); and FAST, 0.825 (0.753–0.897) (p = 0.386).

Conclusions

For PLWH, advanced liver fibrosis increases the risk of overall death and liver‐related death. LSM and the FAST score are similar predictors of survival for PLWH with potential for NAFLD.