bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulatory imbalance between LRRK2 kinase, PPM1H phosphatase, and ARF6 GTPase disrupts the axonal transport of autophagosomes
Authors: Dou Dan , Smith Erin M. , Evans Chantell S. , Boecker C. Alexander , Holzbaur Erika L.F.
Published: November 2022

Gain-of-function mutations in theLRRK2gene cause Parkinson’s disease (PD), increasing phosphorylation of RAB GTPases through hyperactive kinase activity. We found that LRRK2-hyperphosphorylated RABs disrupt the axonal transport of autophagosomes by perturbing the coordinated regulation of cytoplasmic dynein and kinesin motors. In iPSC-derived human neurons, knock-in of the strongly-hyperactiveLRRK2-p.R1441H mutation caused striking impairments in autophagosome transport, inducing frequent directional reversals and pauses. Knock-out of the opposing Protein Phosphatase 1H (PPM1H) phenocopied the effect of hyperactive LRRK2. Overexpression of ADP-ribosylation factor 6 (ARF6), a GTPase that acts as a switch for selective activation of dynein or kinesin, attenuated transport defects in both p.R1441H knock-in and PPM1H knock-out neurons. Together, these findings support a model where a regulatory imbalance between LRRK2-hyperphosphorylated RABs and ARF6 induces an unproductive “tug-of-war” between dynein and kinesin, disrupting processive autophagosome transport. This disruption may contribute to PD pathogenesis by impairing the essential homeostatic functions of axonal autophagy.
One-carbon Pathways and Methylation Potential in Glutamatergic Neurons Regulate Behavioral Alcohol Responses
Authors: Lathen Daniel , Merrill Collin , Ducker Gregory S. , Rodan Aylin R. , Rothenfluh Adrian
Published: November 2022

Despite the enormous harms of alcohol use disorders (AUDs), many mechanisms, as well as effective prevention or treatment strategies remain elusive. Genetic factors dictate a majority of AUD risk. These risk factors can manifest as reduced naïve sensitivity to alcohol’s intoxicating effects and increased functional tolerance, i.e., brain-mediated decreases in sensitivity upon repeat exposure. The underlying neurobiology of how AUD-associated genes alter these endophenotypes remains poorly understood. Genes implicated in AUDs include epigenetic modifiers, such as histone demethylases, includingKdm3. We previously showed that whole-body and neuronalKdm3strongly affect ethanol sensitivity and tolerance inDrosophila. Here, we investigate the mechanisms of these effects, and, by extension, mechanisms of sensitivity and tolerance. RNA-seq and pathway analysis onKdm3KOflies revealed disproportionate upregulation of genes involved in amino acid metabolism, including 1-carbon pathways. We show that acute amino acid feeding modulates sensitivity and tolerance in aKdm3-dependent manner. Global manipulation of 1-carbon genes, especially glycineN-methyltransferase (Gnmt), glycine decarboxylase (Gldc), and sarcosine dehydrogenase (Sardh), alters alcohol sensitivity and tolerance. These changes in alcohol responses are likely mediated by global glycine levels (a substrate of these enzymes) rather than by 1-carbon input. Conversely, neuronal manipulations of 1-carbon pathways change alcohol sensitivity and tolerance in a pattern that suggests a mechanism throughS-adenosyl methionine (SAM), a 1-carbon metabolite that is the universal methyl donor required for epigenetic methylation. Increasing SAM production specifically in glutamatergic neurons increases sensitivity and tolerance. Together, these findings reveal distinct mechanisms affecting alcohol sensitivity and tolerance globally (via glycine) and neuronally (via SAM), thus revealing an important and complex role of 1-carbon metabolism in mediating AUD phenotypes.
ESYT1 tethers the endoplasmic reticulum to mitochondria and is required for mitochondrial lipid and calcium homeostasis
Authors: Janer Alexandre , Morris Jordan L. , Krols Michiel , Antonicka Hana , Aaltonen Mari J. , Lin Zhen-Yuan , Gingras Anne-Claude , Prudent Julien , Shoubridge Eric A.
Published: November 2022

Mitochondria interact with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) at structurally and functionally specialized membrane contact sites known as mitochondria-ER contact sites (MERCs). MERCs are crucial for a myriad of physiological functions including lipid synthesis and transport, and calcium signaling. Alterations in the structure, composition or regulation of MERCs contribute to the aetiology of many pathologies including neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases. The proteins mediating the formation of MERCs have been extensively studied in yeast, where the ER-mitochondria encounter structure (ERMES) complex mediates the transport of lipids between the ER and mitochondria via three lipid binding SMP-domain proteins. However, none of the SMP proteins of the ERMES complex have orthologues in mammals suggesting that alternate pathways have evolved in metazoans. Combining proximity labelling (BioID), confocal microscopy and subcellular fractionation, we found that the ER resident SMP-domain containing protein ESYT1 was enriched at MERCs, where it forms a complex with the outer mitochondrial membrane protein SYNJ2BP. The deletion of ESYT1 or SYNJ2BP reduced the number and length of MERCs, indicating that the ESYT1-SYN2JBP complex plays a role in tethering ER and mitochondria. Loss of this complex impaired ER to mitochondria calcium flux and provoked a significant alteration of the mitochondrial lipidome, most prominently a reduction of cardiolipins and phosphatidylethanolamines. Both phenotypes were rescued by re-expression of wild-type ESYT1 as well as an artificial mitochondria-ER tether. Together, these results reveal a novel function of ESYT1 in mitochondrial and cellular homeostasis through its role in the regulation of MERCs.
An RNA interference (RNAi) toolkit and its utility for functional genetic analysis ofLeishmania (Viannia)
Authors: Lye Lon-Fye , Owens Katherine L. , Jang Soojin , Marcus Joseph E. , Brettmann Erin A. , Beverley Stephen M.
Published: November 2022

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful tool whose efficacy against a broad range of targets enables functional genetic tests individually or systematically. However, the RNAi pathway has been lost in evolution by a variety of eukaryotes including mostLeishmaniasp. RNAi was retained in species of theLeishmaniasubgenusViannia, and here we describe the development, optimization, and application of RNAi tools to the study ofL. (Viannia) braziliensis. We developed vectors facilitating generation of long-hairpin or “stem-loop” (StL) RNAi knockdown constructs, using Gateway™site-specific recombinase technology. A survey of applications of RNAi inL. braziliensisincluded genes interspersed within multigene tandem arrays such asQDPR, a potential target or modulator of antifolate sensitivity. Other tests include genes involved in cell differentiation and amastigote proliferation (A600), and essential genes of the intraflagellar transport (IFT) pathway. We tested a range of stem lengths targeting theL. braziliensishypoxanthine-guanine phosphoribosyltransferase (HGPRT) and reporter firefly luciferase (LUC) genes and found that the efficacy of RNAi increased with stem length, and fell off greatly below about 128 nt. We used the StL length dependency to establish a useful ‘hypomorphic’ approach not possible with other gene ablation strategies, with shorterIFT140stems yielding viable cells with compromised flagellar morphology. We showed that co-selection for RNAi against adenine phosphoryl transferase(APRT1)using 4-aminopyrazolpyrimidine (APP) could increase the efficacy of RNAi against reporter constructs, a useful tool that may facilitate improvements in future work. Thus, for many genes, RNAi provides a useful tool for studyingLeishmaniagene function with some unique advantages.
TORC1 regulation of dendrite regrowth after pruning is linked to actin and exocytosis
Authors: Sanal Neeraja , Keding Lorena , Gigengack Ulrike , Michalke Esther , Rumpf Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Neurite pruning and regrowth are important mechanisms to adapt neural circuits to distinct developmental stages. Neurite regrowth after pruning often depends on differential regulation of growth signaling pathways, but their precise mechanisms of action during regrowth are unclear. Here, we show that the PI3K/TORC1 pathway is required for dendrite regrowth after pruning in Drosophila peripheral neurons during metamorphosis. TORC1 impinges on translation initiation, and our analysis of 5’ untranslated regions (UTRs) of remodeling factor mRNAs linked to actin suggests that TOR selectively stimulates the translation of regrowth over pruning factors. Furthermore, we find that dendrite regrowth also requires the GTPase RalA and the exocyst complex as regulators of polarised secretion, and we provide evidence that this pathway is also regulated by TOR. We propose that TORC1 coordinates dendrite regrowth after pruning by coordinately stimulating the translation of regrowth factors involved in cytoskeletal regulation and secretion.

Author Summary

During development, neurons grow axons and dendrites that they use to make synaptic connections. Such connections are often fine-tuned through pruning and regrowth of axons and dendrites, but the coordination of the two processes is not well understood. It had previously been shown that hormone signaling suppresses the TORC1 growth pathway during pruning of Drosophila sensory neuron dendrites. We found that TORC1 is required for the subsequent regrowth of these dendrites. TORC1 activates protein biosynthesis, and our analyses suggest that it primarily targets neurite growth pathways, but not degenerative pathways. These growth pathways include the actin cytoskeleton and the secretion machinery with the small GTPase RalA. Thus, the TORC1 growth pathway is a major hub coordinating neurite pruning and regrowth.
Synthesis and crystal structure of di-μ-methoxo-bis(oxido{N′-[3-(oxidoimino)butan-2-ylidene]benzohydrazonato-κ3
O,N,O′}vanadium(V))
Authors: Saladi Nirupama , Srivastava Ankit Kumar
Published: November 2022

The structure of the dimeric oxomethoxovanadium(V) complex, [V2(CH3O)2(C11H11N3O3)2] or [VO(μ-OMe)(L)]2 (1), with N′-[3-(hydroxyimino)-butan-2-ylidene]benzohydrazide (H2
L, where 2 Hs represent the dissociable oxime and amide protons) is reported. The oximate functionality can coordinate through either the O or the N atom. In the present complex, it is coordinated through the O atom. Here, methoxo groups bridge the two VV centers with a V...V separation of 3.3275 (10) Å. Within the centrosymmetric edge-shared dioctahedral structure, each metal center is in a distorted octahedral NO5 environment, assembled by the O,N,O-donor L
2– ligand, bridging OMe− groups and the oxo group. The complex is diamagnetic in nature and brown in color. Solution electrical conductivity measurements confirmed its electrically non-conducting behavior.
The impact of technology readiness and use perceptions on students’ adoption of artificial intelligence: the moderating role of gender
Authors: Nouraldeen Rasha Mohammad
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of technology readiness (TR), perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) on the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) by accounting and auditing students. The moderating role of gender is also examined in this research.

Design/methodology/approach

The data of this study was collected through a questionnaire filled by 330 accounting and auditing students enrolled in the Lebanese private universities during the academic year 2021–2022. The hierarchical multiple regression analysis was conducted to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that TR and PU affect positively the adoption of AI; however, PEOU has an insignificant impact on the students’ decision to adopt AI. The outcomes also reveal that males tend more to adopt AI than females and gender moderates the associations between TR, PU, PEOU and adoption of AI.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that accounting educators should adjust the curricula of the accounting programs and prepare students to be well equipped with technological skills through training them on AI software.

Originality/value

According to the researcher’s knowledge, this study is the first that examines the moderating effect of gender on the associations between TR, use perceptions and AI adoption by accounting and auditing students. Besides, this research is the first that investigates the antecedents of AI adoption by students in Lebanese private universities. Furthermore, this study contributes to the limited literature that addresses this contemporary and vital issue in the Middle East.
Exploring employee well-being during the COVID-19 remote work: evidence from South Africa
Authors: Mahomed Fatima , Oba Pius , Sony Michael
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has rapidly accelerated a shift to remote working for previously office-based employees in South Africa, impacting employee outcomes such as well-being. The remote work trend is expected to continue even post the pandemic, necessitating for organizational understanding of the factors impacting employee well-being. Using the Job Demands–Resources model as the theoretical framework, this study aims to understand the role of job demands and resources as predictors of employee well-being in the pandemic context.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered online survey questionnaire was used to gather quantitative data about remote workers’ (n = 204) perceptions of specifically identified demands, resources and employee well-being. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation and moderated hierarchical regression were used to analyse the data.

Findings

This study found that job demands in the form of work–home conflict were associated with reduced employee well-being. Resources, namely, job autonomy, effective communication and social support were associated with increased employee well-being. Job autonomy was positively correlated to remote work frequency, and gender had a significant positive association to work–home conflict. Social support was found to moderate the relationship between work–home conflict and employee well-being. Findings suggest that organizations looking to enhance the well-being of their remote workforce should implement policies and practices that reduce the demands and increase the resources of their employees. The significant association of gender to work–home conflict suggests that greater interventions are required particularly for women. This study advances knowledge on the role of demands and resources as predictors of employee well-being of remote workforces during COVID-19 and beyond.

Originality/value

This paper provides insight on employee well-being during COVID-19 remote work. Further, the findings suggest that organizations looking to enhance the well-being of their remote workforce should implement policies and practices that reduce the demands and increase the resources of their employees. The significant association of gender to work–home conflict suggests that greater interventions are required particularly for women. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study carried out to explore the employee well-being during COVID-19 pandemic and will be beneficial to stakeholders for understanding the factors impacting employee well-being.
Entrepreneurial strategic posture and new technology ventures in an emerging economy
Authors: Amankwah-Amoah Joseph , Nyuur Richard B. , Hinson Robert , Kosiba John Paul , Al-Tabbaa Omar , Cunningham James A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Although start-ups have gained increasing scholarly attention, we lack sufficient understanding of their entrepreneurial strategic posture (ESP) in emerging economies. The purpose of this study is to examine the processes of ESP of new technology venture start-ups (NTVs) in an emerging market context.

Design/methodology/approach

In line with grounded theory guidelines and the inductive research traditions, the authors adopted a qualitative approach involving 42 in-depth semi-structured interviews with Ghanaian NTV entrepreneurs to gain a comprehensive analysis at the micro-level on the entrepreneurs' strategic posturing. A systematic procedure for data analysis was adopted.

Findings

From the authors' analysis of Ghanaian NTVs, the authors derived a three-stage model to elucidate the nature and process of ESP Phase 1 spotting and exploiting market opportunities, Phase II identifying initial advantages and Phase III ascertaining and responding to change.

Originality/value

The study contributes to advancing research on ESP by explicating the process through which informal ties and networks are utilised by NTVs and NTVs' founders to overcome extreme resource constraints and information vacuums in contexts of institutional voids. The authors depart from past studies in demonstrating how such ties can be harnessed in spotting and exploiting market opportunities by NTVs. On this basis, the paper makes original contributions to ESP theory and practice.
Social sustainability in supply chains: the role of local practices and informal networks
Authors: Lee Park Camila , Fracarolli Nunes Mauro , Machuca Jose A.D.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The study aims to investigate cultural aspects in supply chains, analysing the effect that local customs may have in the quality of buyer–supplier relationships. Building on the premisses of social exchange theory (SET), it concentrates on the impacts that suppliers’ use of local practices and informal networks may have in buyers’ attitudes and perceptions. The issues addressed and the empirical evidence provided represent initial, yet important steps in the fulfilment of the ‘cultural void’ within supply chain social sustainability (SCCS) literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a role-playing experiment applied to a total sample of 468 participants, the effects of Chinese guanxi, Russian blat, South Korean yongo and Brazilian jeitinho on buyers’ satisfaction, buyers’ commitment, trust and solution severity are measured by their use to access informal networks as solutions to both common (i.e. documentation irregularities) and extraordinary (i.e. modern slavery) supply chain problems.

Findings

Results show that, while the activation of informal networks may impact buyers’ perceptions, the use of some local practices by suppliers (i.e. Chinese guanxi and Brazilian jeitinho) cause greater variations in buyers’ attitudes and perceptions than others (i.e. South Korean yongo and Russian blat), with ethical offences (i.e. modern slavery) and higher levels of buyers’ dependency acting as catalysts of these processes.

Originality/value

The investigation of cultural practices typical of economically peripheral countries contributes to the understanding of new facets of buyer–supplier relationships, with the investigation of non-Northwestern practices being particularly important in this regard.
Fertilizer subsidy in Ghana: a gain or loss of cocoa productivity?
Authors: Amfo Bismark , Shafiwu Adinan Bahahudeen , Tanko Mohammed
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The authors investigated cocoa farmers' access to subsidized fertilizer in Ghana and implications on productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were sourced from 435 cocoa farmers. Cragg hurdle and two-step Tobit model with continuous endogenous regressors/covariates were applied for the drivers of cocoa farmers' participation in fertilizer subsidy programme and productivity. Propensity score matching (PSM), inverse-probability weights (IPW) and augmented inverse-probability weights (AIPW) were applied for productivity impact assessment of fertilizer subsidy.

Findings

All the farmers were aware of fertilizer subsidy for cocoa production in Ghana. Farmers became aware of fertilizer subsidy through extension officers, media and other farmers. Half of cocoa farmers benefitted from fertilizer subsidy. Averagely, cocoa farmers purchased 292 kg of subsidized fertilizer. Many socio-economic, farm-level characteristics and institutional factors determine cocoa farmers' participation in fertilizer subsidy programme, quantity of subsidized fertilizer obtained and productivity. Beneficiaries of fertilizer subsidy recorded higher cocoa productivity than non-beneficiaries. Hence, fertilizer subsidy for cocoa production in Ghana leads to a gain in productivity.

Practical implications

There should be more investments in fertilizer subsidy so that all cocoa farmers benefit and obtain the required quantities.

Originality/value

The authors provide new evidence on cocoa productivity gain or loss emanating from fertilizer subsidy by combining different impact assessment techniques for deeper analysis: PSM, IPW and AIPW.
Bank stability, performance and efficiency: an experience from West Asian countries
Authors: Shahriar Ahanaf , Mehzabin Saima , Ahmed Zobayer , Döngül Esra Sipahi , Azad Md. Abul Kalam
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The banking sector in West Asia has always experienced positive growth except for Palestine. Apart from some negligible outlying outcomes in some countries that have faced political crises and war, most West Asian countries have gained bank profitability and efficiency. However, the stability in the banking sector has been rarely examined in the literature. Hence, this study sheds light on examining bank stability by considering 12 countries in West Asia.

Design/methodology/approach

A fixed effect panel data regression analysis is employed on strongly balanced panel data using data from 2004 to 2018.

Findings

Results reveal that the net interest margin has a positive relationship with bank stability. The bank’s stability rises as the net interest margin improves. Furthermore, the non-interest income reveals a positive significant impact on the stability of banks, depicting that the increase in non-interest income increases the stability of banks. Additionally, the non-interest expense also reveals positive significant results with the stability of banks. Nevertheless, leverage ratio and long-term debt portray a negative significant impact on banks’ stability. The finding reveals that higher long-term debt and leverage ratios may decrease the stability of the banks in West Asia.

Practical implications

Overall, the authors’ findings add to the literature on the stability of the banks by providing some new but significant information. Some of the recommendations may be beneficial to the long-term success of 12 Western Asian countries’ banks.

Originality/value

The study examines the stability of banks by incorporating both profitability and operating efficiency along with net-interest income, which extends to the current literature’s insight.
A Yin-Yang dialectical systems theory of knowledge creation
Authors: Chin Tachia , Shi Yi , Palladino Rosa , Faggioni Francesca
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Cross-cultural cognitive paradoxes have frequently broken the existing boundaries of knowledge and stimulated demands for knowledge creation (KC), and such paradoxes have triggered and will continue to trigger novel risks in the context of international business (IB). Given the nascency of relevant issues, this study aims to develop a more comprehensive understanding of KC across cultures by proposing a Yin-Yang dialectical systems theory of KC as micro-foundation to more systematically frame the risk/paradox-resolving mechanism elicited by cultural collisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is conceptual in nature. The authors first critically review the literature to lay a broad theoretical foundation. Integrating the philosophy- and praxis-based views, the authors reposition knowledge as a Yin-Yang dialectical system of knowing, with yin representing the tacit while yang represents the explicit. Next, the authors justify the underling logic of realising KC through a contradiction-resolving process. On this basis, the authors draw upon the Yijing’s Later Heaven Sequence (LHS) as the source domain of a heuristic metaphor to reconceptualise KC as a dynamic capability in the IB context.

Findings

Using the LHS paradigm to metaphorically map the intricate patterns of interaction and interconnectivity among the involved individuals, organisations and all related stakeholders, this research identifies and theorises the overall dynamic capability of KC in the IB context, which comprises five sets of processes: contradiction, conflict, communication, compromise and conversion.

Practical implications

This research highlights that KC is simultaneously activated and constrained by human actions as well as by the socially constructed context in which it emerges, which helps individuals, organisations and policy makers more clearly frame the novel risks induced by cross-cultural cognitive conflicts in the IB context.

Originality/value

The authors synthesise Yin-Yang dialectics with the approach of collective phronesis, proposing a novel, praxis-oriented Yin-Yang dialectical systems theory of KC. It provides a deeper understanding of the epistemological paradox inherent in all knowledge, thus enabling KC to be rationalised by a sounder logical reasoning. By fusing the macro and micro perspectives on KC, the authors also enrich existing theory and future theory building in the domain of knowledge management.
Export intensity of foreign subsidiaries of multinational enterprises
Authors: Nguyen Quyen
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The author contributes to the theory of the multinational enterprise by examining subsidiary-specific capability in financial management, defined as the stock of knowledge and capability to plan, manage, control and direct financial resources effectively and efficiently, and the perceptions of subsidiary managers of host country financial development as drivers of export intensity (the share of sales that are exported) of foreign subsidiaries of multinational enterprises (MNEs). The author theorizes that subsidiary-specific capability in financial management is conceptually a valuable subsidiary-specific advantage and it is as important as other traditional competitive advantages, such as research and development and marketing intensity. Perceptions of subsidiary managers of host country financial development are argued to be largely related to the characteristics of the host country-specific advantages.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses a survey dataset of the foreign subsidiaries of Western multinational enterprises (MNEs) together with other public data sources.

Findings

The author provides empirical evidence to support for these arguments that export intensity of MNE foreign subsidiaries depends on subsidiary-specific advantages and host country specific advantages.

Originality/value

The study broadens the understanding of the relationships between subsidiary-specific advantage in financial management, host country specific advantage, and export intensity of MNE foreign subsidiaries. In this way, the author makes an original contribution to new internalization theory by emphasizing the internal capability building of subsidiaries. The author discusses the implications of the findings for MNE foreign subsidiary managers, and policy makers because exporting is critical to the overall strategy of foreign subsidiaries, and it also contributes to the balance of trade and economic development of host countries where foreign subsidiaries operate.
Text data-driven new product development: a systematic mapping review
Authors: Mohammadi Navid , Seyyedamiri Nader , Heshmati Saeed
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study/paper is conducting a Systematic mapping review, as a systematic literature review method for reviewing the literature of new product development by textmining and mapping the results of this review.

Design/methodology/approach

This research has been conducted with the aim of systematically reviewing the literature on the field of design and development of products based on textual data. This research wants to know, how text data and text mining methods, can use for the design and development of new products.

Findings

This review finds out what are the most popular algorithms in this field? What are the most popular areas in using these approaches? What types of data are used in this area? What software is used in this regard? And what are the research gaps in this area?

Originality/value

The contribution of this review is creating a macro and comprehensive map for research in this field of study from various aspects and identifying the pros and cons of this field of study by systematic mapping review.
Sharing in the gig economy: from equitable work relations to exploitative HRM
Authors: Le Brocq Sophie , Hughes Emma , Donnelly Rory
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine human resource management (HRM) in the gig economy through a moral economy lens and to uncover how sharing and firm ownership influences the (un)ethical use of HRM practices and worker treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual and empirical insights from contemporary HRM literature are synthesised through a systematic literature review to elucidate pressing challenges for research and practice.

Findings

The analysis reveals that the different ownership structures used by gig firms shape the nature and degree of sharing. The gig economy built on investor ownership leads to greater sharing with investors and tends to be more exploitative of workers, whereas platforms built on collaborative ownership engage in greater peer-to-peer sharing which is more equitable and leads to higher quality work relations and HRM.

Practical implications

The closer an organisation's alignment with the more equitable/relational end of the gig economy spectrum, the better the work relations and HRM.

Originality/value

A new integrated conceptual spectrum of sharing in the gig economy is advanced, which aids in understanding evolving developments in HRM theory and practice.
Trade openness, global competitiveness, and catching up between the European Union countries
Authors: Marčeta Milja , Bojnec Štefan
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to establish the position of the European Union (EU-28) countries in the dynamics of international trade openness linkages and the Global Competitiveness Index (GCI) in correlation with the gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, research and development (R&D) expenditures, innovation capability and information and communication technology (ICT) adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

In the panel data set, comparative analyses were applied to scatter diagrams, correlation and regression analyses and structural equation models using Eurostat and World Economic Forum (WEF) data for the EU-28 countries in the period 2008–2019.

Findings

The empirical results did not confirm the hypotheses that a positive correlation exists between GCI and trade openness indicators and between GDP per capita and GCI. The ICT adoption and innovation capability increase GCI, which affects GDP per capita.

Practical implications

The empirical results provide a better understanding of the importance of trade policies, particularly in terms of trade openness and trade shares of the EU-28 countries, as it could contribute to increasing the GCI of the EU-28 countries. Furthermore, the results of this study underline the importance of ICT adoption and innovation capability and the need for appropriate government policies that improve global competitiveness.

Originality/value

This study, through empirical analysis, demonstrates the existence of correlations between trade openness (exports as % of GDP, imports as % of GDP and export market shares as % of world trade), R&D expenditures, innovation capability, ICT adoption, GDP per capita and the GCI in the EU-28 countries. In addition, this study contributes managerial and policy-based implications on driving forces of global competitiveness.
Vehicle pollution is associated with elevated insect damage to street trees
Authors: Meineke Emily K. , Eng David S. , Karban Richard
Published: November 2022

Vehicle pollution is a pervasive aspect of anthropogenic change across rural and urban habitats. The most common emissions are carbon‐ or nitrogen‐based pollutants that may impact diverse interactions between plants and insect herbivores. However, the effects of vehicle pollution on plant‐insect interactions are poorly understood.

Here, we combine a city‐wide experiment across the Sacramento Metropolitan Area and a laboratory experiment to determine how vehicle emissions affect insect herbivory and leaf nutritional quality.

We demonstrate that leaf damage to a native oak species (Quercus lobata) commonly planted across the western US is substantially elevated on trees exposed to vehicle emissions. In the laboratory, caterpillars preferred leaves from highway‐adjacent trees and performed better on leaves from those same trees.

Synthesis and applications. Together, our studies demonstrate that the heterogeneity in vehicle emissions across cities may explain highly variable patterns of insect herbivory on street trees. Our results also indicate that trees next to highways are particularly vulnerable to multiple stressors, including insect damage. To combat these effects, urban foresters may consider planting trees that are less susceptible to insect herbivory along heavily travelled roadways.
The end of American exceptionalism: An enlightened corrections
Authors: Cullen Francis T.
Published: November 2022

Research Summary

The United States is at a turning point in the history of corrections. Suddenly and surprisingly, the era of mass incarceration ended around 2010. Since that time, prison populations, public punitiveness, and get‐tough rhetoric have declined. A challenging question remains, however: Now what? Doing more of the same is foolish but likely. Prison reform is inhibited by the twin realities that states have limited budgets and have existing prisons that are rarely shuttered. New thinking is needed to move beyond these restrictions. One guide for a cognitive shift is Steven Pinker'sEnlightenment Nowin which he argues that sustained improvement in human well‐being in the United States and across the globe is due to the Enlightenment principles of reason, science, humanism, and progress. In this context, an “enlightened corrections” is possible in which policies and practices are evaluated by the four ideals articulated by Pinker. As one example, mass imprisonment is shown to be irrational, unscientific, inhumane, and bereft of a future. By contrast, more promising policies seek to nourish offenders by offering redemption and by using community supervision to build quality relationships that provide a means for targeting risk factors for intervention.

Policy Implications

The key policy implication is the proposal to place prison reform within the Biden Administration's support for infrastructure improvement. Funded by the federal government, a “Build Back Better Prison Experiment” would be undertaken in which 10 experimental prisons—designed from a clean slate and selected through a competition—would be created and evaluated. The goal is to establish prisons that are rational in their planning, are evidence based, improve offenders’ lives, and foster a new era of progress in American corrections.
Partitioning of caffeine and quinine in oil‐in‐water emulsions and effects on bitterness
Authors: Tenney Kelsey , Hayes John E. , Bakke Alyssa J. , Elias Ryan J. , Coupland John N.
Published: November 2022

The bulk vegetable oil–water partition coefficient of caffeine and quinine was determined by a shake‐flask method as log Kow = −1.32 and 2.97. These values were consistent with the effect of oil concentration on the distribution of the bitterants in an oil‐in‐water emulsion (0–2 and 0–20 wt% oil stabilized with 0.125 and 1 wt% whey protein isolate, respectively). For example, in a 20% o/w emulsion, approximately 90% of the total caffeine remained in the aqueous phase, whereas in a 2% o/w emulsion, only ∼20% of the quinine remained in the aqueous phase. The intensity of the bitter taste of caffeine and quinine in emulsions was assessed by a large cohort (n = 100) of untrained participants. An increase in fat in the emulsions (from 0.5 wt% to 2 wt% oil emulsions stabilized with 0.125 wt% whey protein isolate) caused a significant decrease in perceived bitterness that was accompanied by a decrease in the aqueous concentration of the hydrophobic bitterant quinine Specifically, the bitterness of quinine was reduced ∼13% in the o/w emulsion with more fat, and this drop paralleled a drop in the aqueous concentration and was generally consistent with aqueous dose–response functions published elsewhere. For the hydrophilic bitterant caffeine, there was no significant change in the perceived bitterness or aqueous concentration with changing oil concentration. We conclude that the perceived bitterness of a hydrophobic bitterant like quinine in an emulsion depends on the aqueous concentration rather than the overall concentration.
Block freeze concentration by centrifugation and vacuum increases the content of lactose‐free milk macronutrients
Authors: Dantas Adriana , Orellana‐Palma Patricio , Kumar Dinesh , Hernandez Eduard , Prudencio Elane Schwinden
Published: November 2022

Lactose‐free milk is rising in popularity among consumers due to its claim to be a better digestible product compared to regular fluid milk. For that reason, concentrating on this food is a good alternative for increasing its versatility and usability in different dairy industry segments. Block freeze concentration (BFC) is a simple technology used to concentrate liquid foods through ice crystal formation and subsequent removal of water. Thus, this work aimed to test two variants of the BFC technique on lactose‐free milk concentration. In the first approach, it was investigated the centrifugation‐assisted BFC of skim lactose‐free milk by applying a factorial experimental design. Temperature, time, and rotation speed were the factors, and the response variables included the concentrate yield, concentration index, and efficiency of the process. Concentrate yield and concentration index were mainly affected by the centrifugation temperature. On the other hand, individual factors did not have a significant effect on the efficiency, only their interactions. In the case of centrifugation‐assisted BFC in a single step, the condition at 40°C, 70 min, and 4500 rpm was considered the best, given the highest values of efficiency and concentrate yield (80.87 and 67.02, respectively), and still an excellent value for concentration index (2.05). Conversely, the condition at 30°C, 45 min, and 3500 rpm was chosen to integrate a freeze concentration process in two stage. Then, the ice obtained from the first cycle was subjected to the vacuum‐assisted BFC, which consisted in the second cycle. The concentrate obtained from the vacuum‐assisted BFC presented contents of total solids, carbohydrates, and protein 2.95, 3.00, and 2.91 times more than the initial lactose‐free milk, respectively. Therefore, we believe that the concentrates obtained can be used for the development of innovative lactose‐free dairy products.

Practical Application

Using concentration processes in the dairy industry can significantly contribute to enhancing the overall efficiency of milk processing since huge quantities of water from milk can be reduced, increasing the total solids content. In turn, dairy products that provide a high amount of solids (especially protein) are gaining in popularity among consumers, with consequent interest from researchers. In addition, milk concentration shows advantages in terms of processing, packaging, transportation, and handling. Since most changes occur in an aqueous environment, the removal of some parts of water results in the preservation of milk. It is noteworthy that dairy industries are concerned principally with food preservation, green technologies, and the production of high‐quality products. Thus, concentration processes could favor the development of milk products rich in proteins to meet certain demands on functional and nutritional properties, for example in beverages and formulated food.
Mixotrophic chain elongation with syngas and lactate as electron donors
Authors: Baleeiro Flávio C. F. , Raab Jana , Kleinsteuber Sabine , Neumann Anke , Sträuber Heike
Published: November 2022

Feeding microbial communities with both organic and inorganic substrates can improve sustainability and feasibility of chain elongation processes. Sustainably produced H2, CO2, and CO can be co‐fed to microorganisms as a source for acetyl‐CoA, while a small amount of an ATP‐generating organic substrate helps overcome the kinetic hindrances associated with autotrophic carboxylate production. Here, we operated two semi‐continuous bioreactor systems with continuous recirculation of H2, CO2, and CO while co‐feeding an organic model feedstock (lactate and acetate) to understand how a mixotrophic community is shaped during carboxylate production. Contrary to the assumption that H2, CO2, and CO support chain elongation via ethanol production in open cultures, significant correlations (p < 0.01) indicated that relatives of Clostridium luticellarii and Eubacterium aggregans produced carboxylates (acetate to n‐caproate) while consuming H2, CO2, CO, and lactate themselves. After 100 days, the enriched community was dominated by these two bacteria coexisting in cyclic dynamics shaped by the CO partial pressure. Homoacetogenesis was strongest when the acetate concentration was low (3.2 g L−1), while heterotrophs had the following roles: Pseudoramibacter, Oscillibacter, and Colidextribacter contributed to n‐caproate production and Clostridium tyrobutyricum and Acidipropionibacterium spp. grew opportunistically producing n‐butyrate and propionate, respectively. The mixotrophic chain elongation community was more efficient in carboxylate production compared with the heterotrophic one and maintained average carbon fixation rates between 0.088 and 1.4 g CO2 equivalents L−1 days−1. The extra H2 and CO consumed routed 82% more electrons to carboxylates and 50% more electrons to carboxylates longer than acetate. This study shows for the first time long‐term, stable production of short‐ and medium‐chain carboxylates with a mixotrophic community.
White matter microstructure in habit and reward circuits in anorexia nervosa: Insights from a neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging study
Authors: Murray Stuart B. , Cabeen Ryan P. , Jann Kay , Tadayonnejad Reza , Strober Michael , Feusner Jamie D.
Published: November 2022

Background

Behavioral features of anorexia nervosa (AN) suggest abnormalities in reward and habit. Neuroimaging evidence suggests morphometric and functional perturbations within these circuits, although fewer studies have assessed white matter characteristics in AN, and no studies to date have assessed white matter microstructure in AN.

Methods

In this brain imaging study, 29 female adolescents with partially or fully weight‐restored AN and 27 healthy controls, all between 10 and 19 years, underwent whole‐brain multi‐shell diffusion tensor imaging. Utilizing neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging methods, we investigated group differences in white matter neurite density, orientation dispersion, and myelin density in tracts between prominent nodes of the reward circuit (ventral tegmental area (VTA) to nucleus accumbens (NAcc)) and the habit circuit (sensory motor area [SMA] to putamen).

Results

Findings revealed reduced neurite (F = 5.20, p = 0.027) and myelin density (F = 5.39, p = 0.025) in the left VTA‐NAcc tract, and reduced orientation dispersion in the left (F = 7.00, p = 0.011) and right (F = 6.77, p = 0.012) VTA‐NAcc tract. There were no significant group differences in the SMA‐putamen tract. Significant relationships, after corrections, were not evident between tract microstructure and reward responsiveness, compulsive behaviors, illness duration, or BMI.

Conclusions

Adolescents with AN exhibit less dense, undermyelinated, and less dispersed white matter tracts connecting prominent reward system nodes, which could potentially signify underutilization of this part of the reward circuit. These results provide a detailed examination of white matter microstructure in tracts underlying instrumental behavioral phenotypes contributing to illness in AN.
Outcome of root canal treatment using warm vertical compaction with bioceramic and resin‐based sealers: A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Hu Jinghao , Zhu Yunjie , Deng Shuli , Wang Zeji , He Fuming
Published: November 2022

This study aimed to compare the effect of a bioceramic sealer (iRoot SP) and a resin‐based sealer (AH Plus) on the outcome of root canal treatment in a 2‐year follow‐up. Seventy‐six teeth with irreversibly or necrotic pulp were recruited. After instrumentation and disinfection, the root canals were obturated using warm vertical compaction with iRoot SP (n = 43) or AH Plus (n = 33). Patients were followed up by clinical and radiographic examination at 6 12 and 24 months with recall rates of 84.2%, 65.8% and 48.7%, respectively. During each recall session, the success rates were 80%, 85.2% and 85% in the iRoot SP group and 82.8%, 91.3% and 88.2% in the AH Plus group. The success rates of the two groups did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). The bioceramic sealer resulted in a similar clinical performance and success rate to the resin‐based sealer in endodontic treatment during a 2‐year follow‐up.
Precision cut intestinal slices, a novel model of acute food allergic reactions
Authors: Hung Lisa , Celik Alper , Yin Xiaojun , Yu Kai , Berenjy Alireza , Kothari Akash , Obernolte Helena , Upton Julia E. M. , Lindholm Bøgh Katrine , Somers Gino R. , Siddiqui Iram , Grealish Martin , Quereshy Fayez A. , Sewald Katherina , Chiu Priscilla P. L. , Eiwegger Thomas
Published: November 2022

Background

Food allergy affects up to 10% of the pediatric population. Despite ongoing efforts, treatment options remain limited. Novel models of food allergy are needed to study response patterns downstream of IgE‐crosslinking and evaluate drugs modifying acute events. Here, we report a novel human ex vivo model that displays acute, allergen‐specific, IgE‐mediated smooth muscle contractions using precision cut intestinal slices (PCIS).

Methods

PCIS were generated using gut tissue samples from children who underwent clinically indicated surgery. Viability and metabolic activity were assessed from 0 to 24 h. Distribution of relevant cell subsets was confirmed using single nucleus RNA sequencing. PCIS were passively sensitized using plasma from peanut allergic donors or peanut‐sensitized non‐allergic donors, and exposed to various stimuli including serotonin, histamine, FcɛRI‐crosslinker, and food allergens. Smooth muscle contractions and mediator release functioned as readouts. A novel program designed to measure contractions was developed to quantify responses. The ability to demonstrate the impact of antihistamines and immunomodulation from peanut oral immunotherapy (OIT) was assessed.

Results

PCIS viability was maintained for 24 h. Cellular distribution confirmed the presence of key cell subsets including mast cells. The video analysis tool reliably quantified responses to different stimulatory conditions. Smooth muscle contractions were allergen‐specific and reflected the clinical phenotype of the plasma donor. Tryptase measurement confirmed IgE‐dependent mast cell‐derived mediator release. Antihistamines suppressed histamine‐induced contraction and plasma from successful peanut OIT suppressed peanut‐specific PCIS contraction.

Conclusion

PCIS represent a novel human tissue‐based model to study acute, IgE‐mediated food allergy and pharmaceutical impacts on allergic responses in the gut.