bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of cognate recombination directionality factors for large serine recombinases by virtual pulldown
Authors: Shin Heewhan , Holland Alexandria , Alsaleh Abdulrazak , Retiz Alyssa D. , Pigli Ying Z. , Taiwo-Aiyerin Oluwateniola T. , Reyes Tania Peña , Bello Adebayo J. , Olorunniji Femi J. , Rice Phoebe A.
Published: June 2024

Integrases from the “large serine” family are simple, highly directional site-specific DNA recombinases that have great promise as synthetic biology and genome editing tools. Integrative recombination (mimicking phage or mobile element insertion) requires only integrase and two short (∼40 – 50) DNA sites. The reverse reaction, excisive recombination, does not occur until it is triggered by the presence of a second protein termed a Recombination Directionality Factor (RDF), which binds specifically to its cognate integrase. Identification of RDFs has been hampered due to their lack of sequence conservation and lack of synteny with the phage integrase gene. Here we use Alphafold2-multimer to identify putative RDFs for more than half of a test set of 98 large serine recombinases, and experimental methods to verify predicted RDFs for 4 of 5 integrases chosen as test cases. We find no universally conserved structural motifs among known and predicted RDFs, yet they are all predicted to bind a similar location on their cognate integrase, suggesting convergent evolution of function. Our methodology greatly expands the available genetic toolkit of cognate integrase – RDF pairs.
Differential growth enhancement followed by notable microbiota modulation in growing-finishing pigs byBacillus subtilisstrains ps4060, ps4100, and a 50:50 strain mixture
Authors: Song Jun Ho , Park Sung-Su , Kim In Ho , Cho Yangrae
Published: June 2024

A 50:50 blend of twoBacillus subtilisstrains positively impacted the productivity of finishing pigs. Given this observed effect, we hypothesized that each strain has distinct effects on weight gain and their influence on gut microbiota. In a 16-week test, 160 pigs were divided into four groups: basal diet,B. subtilisps4100,B. subtilisps4060, and 50:50 mixture supplemented. Subsequently, we compared body weight and fecal microbiota. Among the supplements, ps4100, ps4060, and the 50:50 mix yielded respective average daily weight gains (ADG) of 3.6%, 4.6%, and 3.9% by the 6th week. The weight difference was maintained through the 16th week. At the 11th week, the difference in α-diversity among the fecal microbiota was marginal, and 17 of 229 genera showed differential abundance between the control and either of the treatment groups. A total of 12 of the 17 genera, includingLactobacillus, showed differential abundance between the ps4100 and ps4060-fed groups, and onlyEubacteriumconsistently decreased in abundance in both the ps4100 and ps4060 groups. In comparison, microbial diversity was significantly different at the 16th week (p< 0.05), with 96 out of 229 genera exhibiting differential abundance. A total of 42 of the 96 genera exhibited similar patterns in both the ps4100 and ps4060 groups compared to the control group. Additionally, 236 of 687 microbial enzymes with differential abundance deduced from 16S rRNA reads showed similar differential abundance in both groups compared to the control group. We concluded that the overall microbial balance, rather than the dominance or significant decrease of a few specific genera, likely caused the enhanced ADG until the 11th week. Substantial changes in microbiota manifested at the 16th week did not cause dramatically increased ADG but were a consequence of weight gain and could positively affect animal physiology and health afterward.
Centrosome positioning independently of microtubule-based forces
Authors: Schaeffer Alexandre , Gazzola Morgan , Gelin Matthieu , Vianay Benoit , de Pascalis Chiara , Blanchoin Laurent , Théry Manuel
Published: June 2024

The regulation of centrosome position is central to the establishment of polarized cell functions. This process is thought to rely on the generation of mechanical forces along microtubules, the balance of which determines centrosome position. By studying these forces in adherent cells in culture, we found that neither pushing nor pulling forces propagate along microtubules to the centrosome. Inhibiting dyneins or disassembling microtubules did not disrupt the maintenance of the centrosome at the center of the cell. In contrast, the actomyosin contractile network appears to be responsible for the generation of a centripetal flow that drives the centrosome towards the center of the cell independently of the microtubules. Furthermore, we found that centering of the centrosome depends more on the reorganization of cell shape around the centrosome than on an effective centrosome displacement throughout the cytoplasm. Interestingly, despite their lack of mechanical role, microtubules appear to direct this remodeling of cell shape. This revised view of centrosome positioning offers a new perspective for understanding the establishment of cell polarity.
Cyclical MinD membrane affinity differences are not necessary for MinD gradient formation inBacillus subtilis
Authors: Bohorquez Laura C. , Strahl Henrik , Marenduzzo Davide , Thiele Martin J. , Bürmann Frank , Hamoen Leendert W.
Published: June 2024

Proteins can diffuse micrometers in seconds, yet bacterial cells are able to maintain stable protein gradients. The best studied bacterial protein gradient is the Min system ofEscherichia coli. In rod-shaped bacteria the MinCD proteins prevent formation of minicells by inhibiting FtsZ polymerization close to the cell poles. InE. colithese proteins oscillate between cell poles within a minute, resulting in an increased MinCD concentration at the poles. This oscillation is caused by the interaction between MinD and the protein MinE, which form an ATP-driven reaction-diffusion system, whereby the ATPase MinD cycles between a monomeric cytosolic and a dimeric membrane attached states.Bacillus subtilisalso has MinCD, but lacks MinE. In this case MinCD form a static gradient that requires the transmembrane protein MinJ, located at cell poles and cell division sites. A recent reaction-diffusion model was successful in recreating the MinD gradient inB. subtilis, assuming that MinD cycles between cytosol and membrane, like inE. coli. Here we show that the monomeric and dimeric states ofB. subtilisMinD have comparable membrane affinities, that MinD interacts with MinJ as a dimer, and that MinJ is not required for membrane localization of MinD. Based on these new findings we tested different models, using kinetic Monte Carlo simulations, and found that a difference in diffusion rate between the monomer and dimer, rather than a difference in membrane affinity, is important forB. subtilisMinCD gradient formation.

IMPORTANCE

Proteins can diffuse micrometers in seconds, yet bacterial cells are able to maintain stable protein gradients. One of the best studied examples is the membrane associated MinD protein gradient inEscherichia coli. This oscillating gradient requires cycling of MinD between a monomeric cytosolic and a dimeric membrane attached state.Bacillus subtilisalso has a Min system, but in this case MinD forms a static gradient. Mathematical models have been successful in recreating the MinD gradient inB. subtilis, using anE. coli-like membrane attachment cycle of MinD. Here we show that, in contrast to theE. colisituation, the monomeric and dimeric state ofB. subtilisMinD have comparable membrane affinities. Using this and other information, we tested Monte Carlo simulations and found that a difference in diffusion rate between MinD monomer and dimer, rather than a difference in membrane affinity, is important for MinD gradient formation inB. subtilis.
The interplay between Mobilome and Resistome inStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Contarin Rachel , Drapeau Antoine , François Pauline , Madec Jean-Yves , Haenni Marisa , Dordet-Frisoni Emilie
Published: June 2024

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) inStaphylococcus aureuscan disseminate vertically through successful clones, but also horizontally through the transfer of genes conveyed by mobile genetic elements (MGEs). The underexplored MGE/ARG associations in S. aureusfavor the emergence of multidrug-resistant clones, posing a significant threat to human and animal health.

This study investigated the interplay between the mobilome, encompassing MGEs, and the resistome, the collection of ARGs, in more than 10,000S. aureusgenomes from human and animal sources. The analysis revealed a remarkable diversity of MGEs and ARGs, with plasmids and transposons being the main carriers of resistance genes. Numerous MGE/ARG associations were identified, suggesting that MGEs play a critical role in the dissemination of resistance. A high degree of similaritywas observed in MGE/ARG associations between human and animal isolates, highlighting the potential for unrestricted spread of ARGs between hosts. While clonal expansion is a major driver of resistance dissemination inS. aureus, our results showed that MGEs and their associated ARGs can spread across different strain types (STs), favoring the evolution of these clones and their adaptation in selective environments. The high variability of MGE/ARG associations within individual STs and the ir spread across several STs highlight the crucial role of MGEs in shaping theS. aureusresistome.

Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between MGEs and ARGs inS. aureus, emphasizing the need to elucidate the mechanisms governing the epidemic success of MGEs, particularly those implicated in ARG transfer.

Importance

The research presented in this article highlights the crucial importance of understanding the interactions between mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) carried byStaphylococcus aureus, a versatile bacterium that can be both a harmless commensal and a dangerous pathogen for humans and animals.S. aureusstrains represent a major threat due to their ability to rapidly acquire and disseminate ARGs. By analyzing a large dataset ofS. aureusgenomes, we highlighted the substantial role of MGEs, in particular plasmids and transposons, in the dissemination of ARGs within and betweenS. aureuspopulations, bypassing the host barrier. Given that multidrug-resistantS. aureusstrains are classified as a high-prioritypathogenby global health organizations, this knowledge is crucial for understanding the complex dynamics of transmission of antibiotic resistance in this species.
Reading Outside the Lines: A Systematic Approach for Detecting Bias in Scientific Communications
Authors: Osborne Melisa , McKenna TJ , Crawford Felicity , Rueger Theresa , Shah Barkha , Gott Mae Rose , Labadorf Adam
Published: June 2024

Consciousness of the social impact of science and the potential biases of its authors is critical to understanding, interpreting, and using scientific findings responsibly. This is especially true for sciences concerned with human health and behavior, where societal and unconscious biases may reinforce existing inequities and discriminatory practices. Considering backgrounds and biases, we may notice bias influencing scientists’ methodological choices and conclusions, even when a work is otherwise scientifically sound. To this end, we created the pedagogical tool Finding inEquity in LIterature and eXperimentation (FELIX). FELIX is a tool that systematizes the detection of bias and subjectivity in scientific communications by using a three-phase progression of (i) Annotation, (ii) Analysis and (iii) Synthesis, where students form a unified argument about the text with a focus on its relationship to social or ethical context. Results from a mixed methods approach indicated the efficacy of our approach in supporting student learning related to reading comprehension, critical thinking skills, and in understanding the social and ethical implications of the research they were reading. We put forward FELIX as a universal method for training students in the reading of scientific communications and as a tool for addressing systemic inequities in science and science education.
Salience signaling and stimulus scaling of ventral tegmental area glutamate neuron subtypes
Authors: McGovern Dillon J. , Phillips Alysabeth , Ly Annie , Prévost Emily D. , Ward Lucy , Siletti Kayla , Kim Yoon Seok , Fenno Lief E. , Ramakrishnan Charu , Deisseroth Karl , Ford Christopher P. , Root David H.
Published: June 2024

Ventral tegmental area (VTA) glutamatergic neurons participate in reward, aversion, drug-seeking, and stress. Subsets of VTA VGluT2+ neurons are capable of co-transmitting glutamate and GABA (VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons), transmitting glutamate without GABA (VGluT2+VGaT- neurons), or co-transmitting glutamate and dopamine (VGluT2+TH+ neurons), but whether these molecularly distinct subpopulations show behavior-related differences is not wholly understood. We identified that neuronal activity of each VGluT2+ subpopulation is sensitive to reward value but signaled this in different ways. The phasic maximum activity of VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons increased with sucrose concentration, whereas VGluT2+VGaT- neurons increased maximum and sustained activity with sucrose concentration, and VGluT2+TH+ neurons increased sustained but not maximum activity with sucrose concentration. Additionally, VGluT2+ subpopulations signaled consummatory preferences in different ways. VGluT2+VGaT- neurons and VGluT2+TH+ neurons showed a signaling preference for a behaviorally-preferred fat reward over sucrose, but in temporally-distinct ways. In contrast, VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons uniquely signaled a less behaviorally-preferred sucrose reward compared with fat. Further experiments suggested that VGluT2+VGaT+ consummatory reward-related activity was related to sweetness, partially modulated by hunger state, and not dependent on caloric content or behavioral preference. All VGluT2+ subtypes increased neuronal activity following aversive stimuli but VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons uniquely scaled their magnitude and sustained activity with footshock intensity. Optogenetic activation of VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons during low intensity footshock enhanced fear-related behavior without inducing place preference or aversion. We interpret these data such that VTA glutamatergic subpopulations signal different elements of rewarding and aversive experiences and highlight the unique role of VTA VGluT2+VGaT+ neurons in enhancing the salience of behavioral experiences.
Field, frequency, and temperature dependencies of the surface resistance of nitrogen diffused niobium superconducting radio frequency cavities
Authors: Dhakal P. , Khanal B. D. , Gurevich A. , Ciovati G.
Published: June 2024

We investigate the rf performance of several single-cell superconducting radio-frequency cavities subjected to low temperature heat treatment in nitrogen environment. The cavities were treated at temperature 120–165 °C for an extended period of time (24–48 h) either in high vacuum or in a low partial pressure of ultrapure nitrogen. The improvement in Q0 with a Q rise was observed when nitrogen gas was injected at ∼300 °C during the cavity cooldown from 800 °C and held at 165 °C, without any degradation in accelerating gradient over the baseline performance. The treatment was applied to several elliptical cavities with frequency ranging from 0.75 to 3.0 GHz, showing an improved quality factor as a result of low temperature nitrogen treatments. The Q rise feature is similar to that achieved by nitrogen alloying Nb cavities at higher temperature, followed by material removal by electropolishing. The surface modification was confirmed by the change in electronic mean free path and tuned with the temperature and duration of heat treatment. The decrease of the temperature-dependent surface resistance with increasing rf field, resulting in a Q rise, becomes stronger with increasing frequency and decreasing temperature. The data suggest a crossover frequency of ∼0.95  GHz above that the Q rise phenomenon occurs at 2 K. Some of these results can be explained qualitatively with an existing model of intrinsic field-dependence of the surface resistance with both equilibrium and nonequilibrium quasiparticle distribution functions. The change in the Q slope below 0.95 GHz may result from masking contribution of trapped magnetic flux to the residual surface resistance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Nuclear-matter saturation and symmetry energy within
Δ
-full chiral effective field theory
Authors: Jiang W. G. , Forssén C. , Djärv T. , Hagen G.
Published: June 2024

Nuclear saturation and the symmetry energy are key properties of low-energy nuclear physics that depend on fine details of the nuclear interaction. The equation of state around saturation is also an important anchor for extrapolations to higher densities and studies of neutron stars. Here we develop a unified statistical framework that uses realistic nuclear forces to link the theoretical modeling of finite nuclei and infinite nuclear matter. We construct fast and accurate emulators for nuclear-matter observables and employ an iterative history-matching approach to explore and reduce the enormous parameter domain of Δ-full chiral interactions. We perform rigorous uncertainty quantification and find that model calibration including O16 observables gives saturation predictions that are more precise than those that only use few-body data.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Representation of women and people of color on nonprofit boards and CEO gender and race
Authors: Lee Young-joo
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examines how the representation of women and people of color on nonprofit boards relates to CEO gender and race.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the 2020 data of 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in a Southeastern U.S. state. It employs the seemingly unrelated bivariate probit regression to simultaneously estimate the two equations for CEO gender and race.

Findings

The findings show that the proportion of board members of color is positively associated with having a CEO of color and a female CEO. The proportion of female board members is positively associated with having a female CEO, but not with having a CEO of color.

Practical implications

The lack of a positive connection between women’s representation on the board and having a CEO of color may be attributable to the pervasive and systematic Whiteness in nonprofit leadership. The findings suggest that nonprofit boards reflect on the current executive hiring policies and practices to address existing racial biases or barriers.

Originality/value

This study’s findings reveal that the descriptive representation of women and people of color in the governing board is closely linked to their substantive representation in the form of selecting a woman or a person of color as the CEO. The findings also suggest an interconnection between the representation of people of color on the board and having a female CEO. However, women’s representation on the board is not related to having a CEO of color.
The influence of human resource management policies on employee behaviour related outcomes and organisational resilience during COVID-19
Authors: Baird Kevin , Tung Amy , Phan Thanh , Bhuyan Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examines the effect of Human Resource Management (HRM) policies in respect to workplace flexibility and employee empowerment on two employee behaviour related outcomes (employee organisational commitment (EOC) and collegiality) and organisational resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using an online survey questionnaire managed by Qualtrics. The questionnaire was distributed to the lower, middle and senior managers of 1,000 Australian organisations with 337 responses used in the analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate that workplace flexibility exhibits a direct and indirect (through collegiality) significant positive association with organisational resilience, and employee empowerment exhibits a direct and indirect (through both EOC and collegiality) significant positive association with organisational resilience.

Originality/value

The results highlight the importance of implementing desirable HRM policies in respect to empowering employees and enhancing workplace flexibility due to their role in facilitating organisational resilience both directly and indirectly through their influence on employee behaviour related outcomes, specifically EOC and collegiality.
Is it possible to broaden women's inclusive rights by improving their participation in the labor market? A new perspective at the global level
Authors: Naveed Amjad , Ahmad Nisar , Aslam Aribah , Choudhry Misbah Tanveer , Bekdash-Muellers Hania
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The objectives of this study are twofold: (1) to investigate whether the increase in FLFP enriches women's inclusive rights (economic, social, and political), (2) whether the effect of FLFP on inclusive rights is different across different economics (developed vs developing).

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilizes panel data encompassing 188 countries spanning the years 1981–2011. Discrete choice models, namely ordered probit and ordered logit, are employed, while also controlling for observable heterogeneity across countries, including factors such as inflation, income inequality, education, and human rights.

Findings

We find a positive association between FLFP and all aspects of women's rights (economic, social, and political). The results related to developed and underdeveloped countries are robust for women's political rights; however, the effect of FLFP on women's social and economic rights is insignificant for developing countries.

Originality/value

The need for continuous policy commitment to gender equality may be needed to bring about equality of inclusive rights (economic, social, and political rights) and to fulfill the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Therefore, the current study particularly adds value in existing research by investigating (empirically) the link between FLFP and different dimensions of women's inclusive rights.
Feasibility and acceptability of an acceptance and commitment therapy for caregivers of dementia: a single arm trial emphasizing adult protection
Authors: Gul Mahvia , Kanwal Aniqa , Chaudhry Husnain Ali
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Caregivers for older adults play a crucial role in protecting those diagnosed with dementia. These caregivers often experience heightened anxiety, depression and burdens associated with their responsibilities. Sufficient support and efficient coping mechanisms alleviate distress and caregiving burdens, thereby enhancing and protecting adults. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) fosters acceptance of internal experiences and promotes behaviors aligned with personal values. This single-arm pilot study aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary effects of an online ACT intervention (Online Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Intervention for Caregivers [OACTIC]) on well-being aspects among dementia caregivers, emphasizing the importance of tailored interventions to protect older adults and their caregivers.

Design/methodology/approach

The caregiver must be ≥21 years of age (i.e. a parent, spouse, partner, sibling or adult child), or they must be the primary caregiver of older adults with dementia for ≥12 months and have scores that indicate moderate or higher on the scale of anxiety, depression and poor quality of life. Participants received an online-based ACT over six weekly 1-h sessions. The following outcome measures were administered at baseline (T1), immediately post-intervention (T2) and three-month follow-up (T3): Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Zarit Burden Interview, The Experience of Suffering Measure and Acceptance and Action Questionnaire-II.

Findings

All 45 participants completed the study, with 93.3% rating their OACTIC experience as “completely satisfied.”

Originality/value

OACTIC (Trial Registration# AEARCTR-0012366) is a novel study conducted in Pakistan, offering a cost-effective and time-efficient treatment approach that enhances the psychological well-being and protects older adults and their caregivers.
Exploring the relationships between importance–performance analysis (IPA) rankings and satisfaction and loyalty among English as the medium of instruction (EMI) students
Authors: Nguyen Hoai Than , Nguyen Tan Thanh , Nguyen Thi Vinh Tran , Nguyen Thi Thanh Truc
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study sought to investigate the attitudes of Vietnamese undergraduate business students towards English-Medium Instruction (EMI) courses.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through purposive sampling using structured questionnaires, resulting in a dataset comprising 291 responses. This study employs a combination of Importance–Performance Analysis (IPA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to evaluate students' perceptions of effectiveness of EMI courses, their satisfaction and loyalty.

Findings

The study’s findings revealed a noteworthy pattern: students assigned higher levels of importance to various aspects of EMI courses than the actual performance levels of these elements. Additionally, the analysis identified specific attributes that fell into different IPA quadrants, shedding light on their relative significance. Notably, the students placed their teachers' professional expertise and English proficiency in the “keep up the good work” quadrant, indicating the strengths of these attributes. In contrast, learning assessment techniques, course learning materials and electronic teaching platforms were situated in the “concentrate here” quadrant, implying room for improvement in these areas. Furthermore, it was observed that attributes falling within the “keep up the good work” quadrant had a positive effect on students' overall satisfaction and loyalty, while other characteristics did not significantly contribute to predicting these outcomes.

Originality/value

Based on these findings, the study offers recommendations for educational institutions and educators concerning the planning and implementation of EMI courses.
Charting progress: a cultural odyssey through eco-heritage transformations
Authors: Tater Neha Goyal , Toor Garima , Chandra Tarush
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper provides a comprehensive exploration of the historical evolution and contemporary transformations inherent in cultural landscapes, framed within the narrative of a cultural odyssey. The concept of cultural landscapes extends beyond the physical arrangement of landscape elements, encompassing social and cultural customs and economic dynamics in both tangible and intangible aspects of heritage. Instead of being confined to a linear evolutionary model of sacred-historic landscape development, these sites are understood to exist across different historical periods such as ancient, medieval, etc. reflecting their multifaceted nature.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilizes a thorough and systematic examination of existing literature, covering several disciplines such as cultural studies, anthropology and environmental studies. The methodology prioritizes a holistic approach by including succinct discussion of many locations to improve the analysis. The collection of qualitative data on the cultural importance of eco-heritage involves conducting participant observations and focus group talks to capture a diverse range of perspectives.

Findings

The paper highlights the importance of preserving and interpreting cultural landscapes as living, evolving entities. By recognizing diverse layers of history and cultural significance within these sites, research suggests strategies for integrating sustainable practices in the management of cultural landscapes.

Originality/value

This work makes a substantial contribution to the academic field by examining the intersection where cultural heritage and eco-transformations converge. By embarking on a cultural odyssey, the paper not only charts the progress of societies but also sheds light on the transformative impact of eco-heritage interactions. The novel perspectives offer a new framework for scholars, policymakers and practitioners to analyze and value the complex interrelationships between cultural legacy and ecological changes.
Are the synergy of stable energy supply, robust financial service and strong economic growth achievable? Evidence from 134 countries
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Pham Thien , Nghiem Son , Bhati Abhishek Singh
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study tests convergence in energy diversification, per-capita income and financial development and explores their interrelationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Club convergence tests, Granger tests and panel regressions are employed on 134 countries from 1995 to 2019.

Findings

While overall convergence is absent across the entire sample, countries have converged within specific clubs. Low- and lower-middle-income countries show convergence in energy diversification and per-capita income. Positive bidirectional relationships are found between energy diversification and per-capita income, and between financial development and per-capita income. A U-shaped relationship between oil prices and energy diversification is identified.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that achieving a shared equilibrium in energy diversification, economic prosperity and financial development is feasible through technological progress within convergence clubs. Investments in human capital and technology are crucial prerequisites for sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study pioneers testing energy diversification, per-capita income and financial development convergence, investigating the tri-directional relationship between them, and exploring the U-shaped relationship between oil prices and energy diversification.
Measuring teacher entrepreneurial behavior: a scale development and validation study
Authors: Ho Chun Sing Maxwell , Lu Jiafang
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate a scale to measure Teacher Entrepreneurial Behavior (TEB), which encapsulates the behaviors teachers employ to identify and amplify innovation in schools. TEB are catalysts for innovation, navigating their peers through risks and building trust, which empowers the collective to transcend structural constraints and pioneer new educational initiatives. Despite the importance of TEB, there is a notable absence of a well-validated measurement instrument.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on existing empirical TEB studies, this study conducts four interconnected studies following scale-development procedures. The content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, and external validity of the proposed scale were assessed using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, invariance analysis, and regression analysis.

Findings

The result is a multidimensional TEB model featuring 15 items with a good model fit. The TEB scale comprises four factors: Advocating Innovation, Seeking Resources, Cultivating Cohesiveness, and Mitigating Risk.

Originality/value

This study represents a rigorous attempt to develop and validate a reliable instrument for measuring TEB. It provides a validated tool for future research aimed at understanding the nature of TEB as an independent construct and associated dynamics. Accurate measurement is important for the robustness and replicability of research. Furthermore, the insights gained on TEB scale can significantly inform both the preparation and evaluation of teacher leaders by emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurial behaviors in promoting teachers’ collaboration and actualizing innovative initiative.
How can digital technology deployment empower supply chain financing? A resource orchestration perspective
Authors: Lu Qiang , Jiang Yu , Wang Yu
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Digital technologies (DTs) are one of the most important and beneficial ways to enhance the effectiveness of supply chain finance activities. Based on resource orchestration theory, the purpose of this study is to apply the “resources-capability-performance” framework to investigate how DT deployment (in terms of both breadth and depth) impacts supply chain financing performance (SCFP).

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical regression analysis was applied in the theoretical modeling examination. Through the sample of 380 survey questionnaires from the Chinese manufacturing industry, this study empirically validated the proposed model.

Findings

Results of this study present that both the breadth and depth of DT deployment positively impact SCFP, whereas supply chain transparency (SCT) acts as a mediator between them. Moreover, financing alignment positively moderates the relationship between the breadth of DT deployment and SCT.

Originality/value

From an integrated perspective, this study highlights the dual deployment ways of DTs to improve SCFP. Moreover, this research further enriches and extends the application of resource orchestration theory by providing theoretical mechanisms for the mediating role of SCT and elucidating the moderating role of financing alignment.
Enhancing the seismic response of faults by using a deep learning‐based method
Authors: Yan Hao , Yan Zhe , Jing Jiankun , Zhang Zheng , Li Haiying , Gu Hanming , Liu Shaoyong
Published: June 2024

The accuracy of fault interpretation is generally influenced by the quality of seismic images. Because of the blurring effect of the migration process, faults with small throws may not be clearly imaged in seismic images, which will impose limitations on the fault detection. To address this issue, we propose a deep learning‐based method to enhance faults in poststack seismic images. We generate abundant training samples by convolving the three‐dimensional point‐spread functions with the noisy reflectivity models. The corresponding labels are synthesized using the one‐dimensional seismic wavelet convolution method, simulating conditions with perfect illumination. To train the network for optimal performance, we investigate the impact of different loss functions. Ultimately, we employ a mixed loss function combining structural similarity index measure and gradient difference loss, since the gradient difference loss focuses more on geological edge information, and the structural similarity index measure possesses excellent image perceptual capability and optimization property. Results from one synthetic seismic image and three real seismic data demonstrate that our proposed method can effectively restore the sharpness of fault surfaces, particularly for faults with small displacements. Compared to the structural smoothing method, the network we trained achieves optimal fault enhancement. Furthermore, coherence‐based fault images indicate that seismic images enhanced using our method can improve the accuracy of fault interpretation and yield more continuous fault maps.
RNAi‐mediated pest control targeting the Troponin I (wupA) gene in sweet potato weevil, Cylas formicarius
Authors: Zhang Mengjun , Zhang Xiaxuan , Chen Tingting , Liao Yonglin , Yang Bin , Wang Guirong
Published: June 2024

The sweet potato weevil (Cylas formicarius) is a critical pest producing enormous global losses in sweet potato crops. Traditional pest management approaches for sweet potato weevil, primarily using chemical pesticides, causes pollution, food safety issues, and harming natural enemies. While RNA interference (RNAi) is a promising environmentally friendly approach to pest control, its efficacy in controlling the sweet potato weevil has not been extensively studied. In this study, we selected a potential target for controlling C. formicarius, the Troponin I gene (wupA), which is essential for musculature composition and crucial for fundamental life activities. We determined that wupA is abundantly expressed throughout all developmental stages of the sweet potato weevil. We evaluated the efficiency of double‐stranded RNAs in silencing the wupA gene via microinjection and oral feeding of sweet potato weevil larvae at different ages. Our findings demonstrate that both approaches significantly reduced the expression of wupA and produced high mortality. Moreover, the 1st instar larvae administered dswupA exhibited significant growth inhibition. We assessed the toxicity of dswupA on the no‐target insect silkworm and assessed its safety. Our study indicates that wupA knockdown can inhibit the growth and development of C. formicarius and offer a potential target gene for environmentally friendly control.
LysJEP8: A promising novel endolysin for combating multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria
Authors: Carratalá Jose Vicente , Ferrer‐Miralles Neus , Garcia‐Fruitós Elena , Arís Anna
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is an escalating global health crisis, driven by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics. Multidrug‐resistant Gram‐negative bacteria, such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, are particularly concerning due to their high morbidity and mortality rates. In this context, endolysins, derived from bacteriophages, offer a promising alternative to traditional antibiotics. This study introduces LysJEP8, a novel endolysin derived from Escherichia phage JEP8, which exhibits remarkable antimicrobial activity against key Gram‐negative members of the ESKAPE group. Comparative assessments highlight LysJEP8's superior performance in reducing bacterial survival rates compared to previously described endolysins, with the most significant impact observed against P. aeruginosa, and notable effects on A. baumannii and K. pneumoniae. The study found that LysJEP8, as predicted by in silico analysis, worked best at lower pH values but lost its effectiveness at salt concentrations close to physiological levels. Importantly, LysJEP8 exhibited remarkable efficacy in the disruption of P. aeruginosa biofilms. This research underscores the potential of LysJEP8 as a valuable candidate for the development of innovative antibacterial agents, particularly against Gram‐negative pathogens, and highlights opportunities for further engineering and optimization to address AMR effectively.
Remote “Helicopter Bosses”: Employee Perceptions of the Effects of Supervisory Controls and Remote Work During the COVID‐19 Pandemic*
Authors: Kelly Khim , LaMothe Ethan , Baudot Lisa
Published: June 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic precipitated an extensive involuntary shift to remote work and has since dramatically reshaped work and its supervision. We examine how employees' perceived productivity is associated with remote work during the pandemic, how supervisory controls moderate this relationship, and how remote work and perceived productivity impact employee preference for post‐pandemic remote work. We survey 589 workers in June 2020 via Mechanical Turk and find a directionally positive but nonsignificant association between remote work and perceived productivity. Additional analysis, however, indicates an indirect positive effect of remote work on perceived productivity through more hours worked. We further find supervisory monitoring intensity (SMI) is positively associated with perceived productivity, and the association between remote work and perceived productivity is more negative with more intense supervisory monitoring. Outcome‐based evaluation is also positively associated with perceived productivity, but it does not moderate the relationship between remote work and perceived productivity. Supervisor‐based evaluation has no significant association with perceived productivity, nor does it moderate the relationship between remote work and perceived productivity. Overall, our results suggest the main effect of remote work on perceived productivity during the pandemic is weak at best, and SMI is less compatible with remote work supervision than outcome‐based evaluation. Finally, we find increased remote work and perceived productivity improvement during the pandemic are positively associated with preference for post‐pandemic remote work, and we find a marginal positive interaction effect between them. These findings provide empirical evidence of the pandemic's repercussions on the post‐pandemic work environment.
Amylin‐like immunoreactivity in the extra‐islet peptide YY‐producing and glucagon‐immunoreactive cells in Japanese quail pancreas
Authors: Yanagida Bonten , Yamamoto Toshiharu , Suzuki Hirohumi
Published: June 2024

In this study, we investigated amylin‐like substance distribution in the pancreas of Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) using a specific anti‐rat amylin serum. We detected amylin‐immunoreactive cells dispersed in the pancreatic extra‐islet region but not in the islet region. The synthetic rat amylin‐containing serum pre‐absorption abolished the staining profile. Almost all amylin‐immunoreactive cells were immuno‐positive for peptide YY (PYY). In addition, certain amylin‐immunoreactive cells stained immuno‐positive for glucagon. Amylin and PYY co‐secreted from the extra‐islet cells might participate in the insulin and glucagon release regulation in the pancreas and food intake modulation through the central nervous system.
Allergic inflammation triggers dyslipidemia via IgG signalling
Authors: Fernández‐Gallego Nieves , Castillo‐González Raquel , Moreno‐Serna Lucía , García‐Cívico Antonio J. , Sánchez‐Martínez Elisa , López‐Sanz Celia , Fontes Ana Luiza , Pimentel Lígia L. , Gradillas Ana , Obeso David , Neuhaus René , Ramírez‐Huesca Marta , Ruiz‐Fernández Ignacio , Nuñez‐Borque Emilio , Carrasco Yolanda R. , Ibáñez Borja , Martín Pilar , Blanco Carlos , Barbas Coral , Barber Domingo , Rodríguez‐Alcalá Luis M. , Villaseñor Alma , Esteban Vanesa , Sánchez‐Madrid Francisco , Jiménez‐Saiz Rodrigo
Published: June 2024

Background

Allergic diseases begin early in life and are often chronic, thus creating an inflammatory environment that may precede or exacerbate other pathologies. In this regard, allergy has been associated to metabolic disorders and with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, but the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood.

Methods

We used a murine model of allergy and atherosclerosis, different diets and sensitization methods, and cell‐depleting strategies to ascertain the contribution of acute and late phase inflammation to dyslipidemia. Untargeted lipidomic analyses were applied to define the lipid fingerprint of allergic inflammation at different phases of allergic pathology. Expression of genes related to lipid metabolism was assessed in liver and adipose tissue at different times post‐allergen challenge. Also, changes in serum triglycerides (TGs) were evaluated in a group of 59 patients ≥14 days after the onset of an allergic reaction.

Results

We found that allergic inflammation induces a unique lipid signature that is characterized by increased serum TGs and changes in the expression of genes related to lipid metabolism in liver and adipose tissue. Alterations in blood TGs following an allergic reaction are independent of T‐cell‐driven late phase inflammation. On the contrary, the IgG‐mediated alternative pathway of anaphylaxis is sufficient to induce a TG increase and a unique lipid profile. Lastly, we demonstrated an increase in serum TGs in 59 patients after undergoing an allergic reaction.

Conclusion

Overall, this study reveals that IgG‐mediated allergic inflammation regulates lipid metabolism.
Microglia Caspase11 non‐canonical inflammasome drives fever
Authors: Yu Ping , Li Yuangeng , Fu Wenwen , Yu Xiaofeng , Sui Dayun , Xu Huali , Sun Weilun
Published: June 2024

Aim

Animals exhibit physiological changes designed to eliminate the perceived danger, provoking similar symptoms of fever. However, a high‐grade fever indicates poor clinical outcomes. Caspase11 (Casp11) is involved in many inflammatory diseases. Whether Casp11 leads to fever remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the role of the preoptic area of the hypothalamus (PO/AH) microglia Casp11 in fever.

Methods

We perform experiments using a rat model of LPS‐induced fever. We measure body temperature and explore the functions of peripheral macrophages and PO/AH microglia in fever signaling by ELISA, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, macrophage depletion, protein blotting, and RNA‐seq. Then, the effects of macrophages on microglia in a hyperthermic environment are observed in vitro. Finally, adeno‐associated viruses are used to knockdown or overexpress microglia Casp11 in PO/AH to determine the role of Casp11 in fever.

Results

We find peripheral macrophages and PO/AH microglia play important roles in the process of fever, which is proved by macrophage and microglia depletion. By RNA‐seq analysis, we find Casp11 expression in PO/AH is significantly increased during fever. Co‐culture and conditioned‐culture simulate the induction of microglia Casp11 activation by macrophages in a non‐contact manner. Microglia Casp11 knockdown decreases body temperature, pyrogenic factors, and inflammasome, and vice versa.

Conclusion

We report that Casp11 drives fever. Mechanistically, peripheral macrophages transmit immune signals via cytokines to microglia in PO/AH, which activate the Casp11 non‐canonical inflammasome. Our findings identify a novel player, the microglia Casp11, in the control of fever, providing an explanation for the transmission and amplification of fever immune signaling.
Continuing or stopping 5‐aminosalicylates in patients with inflammatory bowel disease on anti‐TNF therapy: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Seo Jeongkuk , Kim Seonok , Hong Seung Wook , Hwang Sung Wook , Park Sang Hyoung , Yang Dong‐Hoon , Byeon Jeong‐Sik , Myung Seung‐Jae , Yang Suk‐Kyun , Kim Ye‐Jee , Ye Byong Duk
Published: June 2024

Background

The impact of continuing or stopping 5‐aminosalicylates (5‐ASA) after commencing anti‐tumour necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains unclear.

Aims

To compare the outcomes of patients with IBD who stopped or continued 5‐ASA after starting anti‐TNF therapy.

Methods

We analysed data from the Korean National Health Insurance claims database between 2007 and 2020. We compared the clinical outcomes of patients who stopped or continued 5‐ASA within 90 days of anti‐TNF initiation. The primary outcome was any adverse clinical event defined as a composite of new corticosteroid use, IBD‐related hospitalisation, or intestinal surgery.

Results

Among 7442 patients included for analysis (4479 [60.2%] with Crohn's disease [CD] and 2963 [39.8%] with ulcerative colitis [UC]), 1037 (13.9%) discontinued 5‐ASA within 90 days of starting anti‐TNF therapy. During a median 4.3‐year follow‐up, discontinuation of 5‐ASA was not associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical events (adjusted hazard ratio 1.01, 95% confidence interval 0.93–1.10). The cumulative incidence of each adverse clinical event and the composite outcome were not significantly different between groups (all, p > 0.05). Additionally, separate analyses in CD and UC cohorts revealed no differences in adverse clinical outcomes between the 5‐ASA continuation and discontinuation groups. Subgroup analyses by presumed risk factors for disease relapse showed no significant differences in the risk of adverse events between groups.

Conclusions

In this nationwide population‐based study, discontinuing 5‐ASA after starting anti‐TNF therapy was not associated with an increased risk of adverse events in patients with IBD.