bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evidence that host-mediated epigenetic modifications regulate gene expression inWolbachia pipientis
Authors: Papaleo Stella , Panelli Simona , Bitar Ibrahim , Sterzi Lodovico , Nodari Riccardo , Comandatore Francesco 
Published: April 2024

AbstractWolbachia pipientisis an obligate intracellular bacterium, associated with several arthropods and filarial nematodes.Wolbachiaestablishes strict symbiotic relationships with its hosts, with the consequent loss of many genes and regulatory regions. Despite this, experimental studies show thatWolbachiagene expression is coordinated to host needs, but the mechanism is still unknown. The first published RNA-Seq study onWolbachiaevidenced a strong differential expression of a DNA methyltransferase (MTase). In bacteria, this enzyme methylates either adenines or cytosines on specific motifs, contributing to the regulation of gene expression. In this work, we tested the hypothesis that the activity of MTase modulates the expression ofWolbachiagenes. We first determined the methylation motif of theWolbachiaMTase by expressing it inEscherichia coli. Surprisingly, the experiment revealed that theWolbachiaMTase methylates both adenine and cytosine, without recognising highly specific motifs. Then, re-analysing data from six RNA-Seq studies, we found that the nucleotide content ofWolbachiagenes correlates with their expressions, with a pattern compatible to be a consequence of the DNA methylation. Lastly, we identified MTase as theWolbachiagene with the most conserved binding site for the Ccka/CtrA signalling transduction system, a mechanism likely involved the host-bacterium communication. Overall, these findings suggest a cascade mechanism in which the host activates theWolbachiaCcka/CtrA signalling system, thus inducing the expression of the MTase gene. Then, the subsequent DNA methylation will affect the expression of severalWolbachiagenes on the basis of their cytosine and adenine content.
E. colidivision machinery drives cocci development inside host cells
Authors: Pokhrel Alaska , Costas Ariana , Pittorino Matthew , Duggin Iain , Söderström Bill 
Published: April 2024

AbstractEscherichia coliis arguably one of the most studied bacterial model systems in modern biology. Under normal laboratory conditionsE. coliadopts its characteristic rod-shape. However, during stress conditionsE. colihas been shown to undergo conditional morphology changes to inhibit division and grow into highly elongated forms. Here, on the other end of the morphology spectra, using anin-vitroinfection model system combined with advanced imaging we show uropathogenicE. colirods dividing to form and proliferate as cocci inside human bladder epithelial cells. In these intracellular bacterial communities, the frequency of cell division outpaced the rate of cell growth, resulting in smaller cocci cells. This mechanism was guided by an active FtsZ-governed division machinery, directed to midcell by division-site placement systems. These results show how a previously uncharacterised level of morphological plasticity occurs in bacteria with traditionally well-defined rod shape.
Microglia aging in the hippocampus advances through intermediate states that drive activation and cognitive decline
Authors: Shea Jeremy M. , Villeda Saul A. 
Published: April 2024

SUMMARYDuring aging, microglia – the resident macrophages of the brain – exhibit altered phenotypes and contribute to age-related neuroinflammation. While numerous hallmarks of age-related microglia have been elucidated, the progression from homeostasis to dysfunction during the aging process remains unresolved. To bridge this gap in knowledge, we undertook complementary cellular and molecular analyses of microglia in the mouse hippocampus across the adult lifespan and in the experimental aging model of heterochronic parabiosis. Single-cell RNA-Seq and pseudotime analysis revealed age-related transcriptional heterogeneity in hippocampal microglia and identified intermediate states of microglial aging that also emerge following heterochronic parabiosis. We tested the functionality of intermediate stress response states via TGFα1 and translational states using pharmacological approachesin vitroto reveal their modulation of the progression to an activated state. Furthermore, we utilized single-cell RNA-Seq in conjunction within vivoadult microglia-specificTgfb1conditional genetic knockout mouse models, to demonstrate that microglia advancement through intermediate aging states drives transcriptional inflammatory activation and hippocampal-dependent cognitive decline.
Earnings management with the absence of income tax avoidance motivation: evidence from pre-, during, and post- global financial crisis
Authors: Atayah Osama , Marashdeh Hazem , Hamdan Allam 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis study aims to examines both accrual and real-based earnings management (EM) behavior of listed corporations in tax-free countries during different economic situations. It also addresses the link between firm- and country-level determinants of accrual and real-based EM and explores economic conditions' influence on these determinants.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines 1,608 firm-years, covers sixteen years (2004–2019), clustered into three periods according to the global financial crisis (GFC): four years prior (2004–2007), two years during (2008–2009), and ten years post the GFC (2010–2019). We employ the modified Jones model (performance-matched) developed by Kothari et al. (2005) to measure the accrual-based EM (positive and negative discretionary accrual EM) and the three levels model for Dechow et al. (1998) to measure the real-based EM (cash flow from operating, discretionary expenses and abnormal production cost).FindingsThe study finds a significant increase in EM practices in the listed corporations in tax-free countries during the economic downturn. These corporations are found to understate their earnings during the economic stress period. Simultaneously, the firm-level determinants of EM practices were at the same level of significance during different economic conditions in accrual-based EM. In contrast, the country-level EM determinants vary based on the economic conditions.Originality/valueFinancial reports' users gain a deep understanding of the quality of financial reports in the context of tax-free country. And, the study outcomes inspire policymakers to develop relevant legislation to mitigate financial reports' risk and adequately protect the financial reports' users.
Smart housing adaptations register with user matching functionalities for different mobility categories for the social housing sector
Authors: Oyegoke Adekunle Sabitu , Ajayi Saheed , Abbas Muhammad Azeem , Ogunlana Stephen 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThe lack of a proper register to store, match and display information on the adapted property has led to a waste of resources and prolonged delays in matching the disabled and elderly people with appropriate properties. This paper presents the development of a Housing Adaptations Register with user-matching functionalities for different mobility categories. The developed system accurately captures and documents adapted home information to facilitate the automated matching of disabled/aged applicants needing an adapted home with suitable property using banding, mobility and suitability index.Design/methodology/approachA theoretical review was conducted to identify parameters and develop adaptations register construct. A survey questionnaire approach to rate the 111 parameters in the register as either moderate, desirable or essential before system development and application. The system development relied on DSS modelling to support data-driven decision-making based on the decision table method to represent property information for implementing the decision process. The system is validated through a workshop, four brainstorming sessions and three focus group exercises.FindingsDevelopment of a choice-based system that enables the housing officers or the Housing Adaptations Register coordinators to know the level of adaptation to properties and match properties quickly with the applicants based on their mobility status. The merits of the automated system include the development of a register to capture in real-time adapted home information to facilitate the automated matching of disabled/aged applicants. A “choice-based” system that can map and suggest a property that can easily be adapted and upgraded from one mobility band to the other.Practical implicationsThe development of a housing adaptation register helps social housing landlords to have a real-time register to match, map and upgrade properties for the most vulnerable people in our society. It saves time and money for the housing associations and the local authorities through stable tenancy for adapted homes. Potentially, it will promote the independence of aged and disabled people and can reduce their dependence on social and healthcare services.Originality/valueThis system provides the local authorities with objective and practical tools that may be used to assess, score, prioritise and select qualified people for appropriate accommodation based on their needs and mobility status. It will provide a record of properties adapted with their features and ensure that matching and eligibility decisions are consistent and uniform.
From exploitation and exploration to exaptation? A logistics service provider's (LSP) perspective on building supply chain resilience capabilities during disruptions
Authors: Herold David M. , Prataviera Lorenzo Bruno , Nowicka Katarzyna 
Published: April 2024

PurposeDuring the supply chain disruptions caused by COVID-19, logistics service providers (LSPs) have invested heavily in innovations to enhance their supply chain resilience capabilities. However, only little attention has been given so far to the nature of these innovative capabilities, in particular to what extent LSPs were able to repurpose capabilities to build supply chain resilience. In response, using the concept of exaptation, this study identifies to what extent LSPs have discovered and utilized latent functions to build supply chain resilience capabilities during a disruptive event of high impact and low probability.Design/methodology/approachThis conceptual paper uses a theory building approach to advance the literature on supply chain resilience by delineating the relationship between exaptation and supply chain resilience capabilities in the context of COVID-19. To do so, we propose two frameworks: (1) to clarify the role of exaptation for supply chain resilience capabilities and (2) to depict four different exaptation dimensions for the supply chain resilience capabilities of LSPs.FindingsWe illustrate how LSPs have repurposed original functions into new products or services to build their supply chain resilience capabilities and combine the two critical concepts of exploitation and exploration capabilities to identify four exaptation dimensions in the context of LSPs, namely impeded exaptation, configurative exaptation, transformative exaptation and ambidextrous exaptation.Originality/valueAs one of the first studies linking exaptation and supply chain resilience, the framework and subsequent categorization advance the understanding of how LSPs can build exapt-driven supply chain resilience capabilities and synthesize the current literature to offer conceptual clarity regarding the varied implications and outcomes linked to the repurposing of capabilities.
Beyond templates: methodological reporting practices and their impact in qualitative service research
Authors: Valtakoski Aku , Glaa Besma 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThe study aims to promote the use of qualitative methods in service research by investigating how these methods are reported in service journals, how the level of reporting has evolved and whether methodological reporting influences the downloads or citations received by qualitative articles.Design/methodology/approachMethodological reporting practices were identified through content analysis of 318 qualitative articles published in three major service research journals and comparison with prior methodological literature. Regression analysis was used to test how the level of methodological reporting influences article downloads and citations.FindingsThe study identifies 29 reporting practices related to 9 key methodological reporting areas. The overall level of methodological reporting in published qualitative articles has increased over time. While differences in the level of reporting between service journals persist, they are narrowing. The level of methodological reporting did not influence downloads or citations of qualitative articles.Research limitations/implicationsService scholars using qualitative methods should pay attention to methodological reporting as it can improve the chances of being published. Factors such as theoretical contributions are likely to have a greater influence on article impact than methodological reporting.Originality/valueNo prior study has explored methodological reporting practices across different qualitative methodologies or how reporting influences article impact. For authors, reviewers and editors, the study provides an inventory of reporting practices relevant for evaluating qualitative articles, which should lower barriers for qualitative methods in service research by providing practical guidelines on what to focus on when reporting and assessing qualitative research.
Patient-led co-production in community mental health nursing practice: part 2
Authors: Mullen Jo 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide an example of patient-led co-production.

Design/methodology/approach
The New Economics Foundation’s six principles of co-production (nef, 2013) have been used to frame the activities undertaken during the author’s relationship with a community mental health nurse.

Findings
This paper describes a co-produced project between a patient and a community mental health nurse to create a range of resources and to deliver training, resulting in mutual benefit for both parties.

Practical implications
This paper invites policy makers to consider the unique role that community mental health nurses can play in supporting patients with long-term challenges that have developed because of an imbalance and an abuse of power within earlier relationships; by adopting a co-production approach, centred on the patient’s interests and skills, a working partnership can be achieved wherein both parties feel that they matter.

Originality/value
Co-production is usually used with groups of stakeholders working together in an equitable way to design or deliver a new service; this paper, however, seeks to demonstrate how the process can be effectively used when the project is patient-led within the context of a therapeutic relationship.
Exploring the relationship between character strengths and well-being in nursing students: an analysis
Authors: Malik Anjali , Sinha Neeta 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Nursing students encounter a combination of academic rigor, clinical demands and emotional hurdles. Juggling coursework, practical training and patient interaction can be stressful, and exposure to such situations may impact their psychological well-being. This study aims to highlight the top strengths among nursing students and identify the strengths associated with well-being.

Design/methodology/approach
Convenience sampling was used to select a sample of 150 nursing students studying in first, second and third year from colleges of Gujarat and Rajasthan. Students were administered the Values In Action character strengths inventory, the satisfaction with life scale and scale of positive and negative experience. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation.

Findings
Results show that among nursing students, kindness emerged as the foremost strength with the highest mean, followed by honesty, creativity, spirituality and teamwork, and the strengths of curiosity, gratitude, perseverance, self-regulation, social intelligence, and zest were positively associated with life satisfaction and positive emotions and negatively related to negative emotions.

Research limitations/implications
The small sample size was a limitation; however, this study has been conducted at different locations to improve generalizability.

Practical implications
This study has profound implications for nursing students, both in their personal development and their future roles as health-care professionals, as fostering these attributes can contribute to the students’ growth, well-being and effectiveness as compassionate and competent caregivers. Working on strengths is associated with well-being; therefore, using strengths identified by this study will have a beneficial effect on the students’ well-being.

Social implications
Curiosity and social intelligence, for instance, can help nurses better understand patient needs and emotions, developing strengths like perseverance and self-regulation can equip nursing students with tools to cope effectively with the challenges inherent in health-care settings. Traits such as gratitude and social intelligence can enhance communication and empathy which are vital skills for establishing rapport with patients and their families. Emphasizing teamwork as a strength aligns with the collaborative nature of health care. By embodying values like kindness and spirituality, nursing students can create a more compassionate and meaningful experience for patients, as well as themselves.

Originality/value
The research paper identifies and emphasizes the five character strengths that are most commonly observed in a sample of Indian nursing students. In addition, this study delves deeper into these identified strengths to understand how they relate to the overall well-being of nursing students within this specific population. The existing literature has not explored it exhaustively.
Through the eyes of non-vegans: using photovoice to explore the stigmatisation of vegans
Authors: Napoli Julie , Ouschan Robyn 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine how veganism is “seen” by young adult non-vegan consumers and how prevailing attitudes reinforce or challenge stigmas around veganism.

Design/methodology/approach
Photovoice methodology was used to explore young non-vegan consumers’ attitudes and beliefs towards veganism. Data was collected from students studying advertising at a major university in Australia, who produced images and narratives reflective of their own attitudes towards veganism. Polytextual thematic analysis of the resulting visual data was then undertaken to reveal the dominant themes underpinning participants’ attitudes. Participant narratives were then reviewed to confirm whether the ascribed meaning aligned with participants’ intended meaning.

Findings
Participant images were reflective of first, how they saw their world and their place within it, which showed the interplay and interconnectedness between humans, animals and nature, and second, how they saw vegans within this world, with both positive and negative attitudes expressed. Interestingly, vegans were simultaneously admired and condemned. By situating these attitudes along a spectrum of moral evaluation, bounded by stigmatisation and moral legitimacy, participants saw vegans as being either Radicals, Pretenders, Virtuous or Pragmatists. For veganism to become more widely accepted by non-vegans, there is an important role to be played by each vegan type.

Originality/value
This study offers a more nuanced understanding of how and why dissociative groups, such as vegans, become stigmatised, which has implications for messaging and marketing practices around veganism and associated products/services. Future research could use a similar methodology to understand why other minority groups in society are stereotyped and stigmatised, which has broader social implications.
Shade tree trait diversity and functions in agroforestry systems: A review of which traits matter
Authors: Isaac M. E. , Gagliardi S. , Ordoñez J. C. , Sauvadet M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Shade trees in agroforestry systems confer ecosystem services, such as enhanced soil fertility from diverse litter inputs, microclimate regulation via shade, and disease mitigation through trophic and abiotic interactions. With this thriving role of agroforestry in sustainable agriculture, particularly for tree crops, systematic and reliable methods to select shade trees for specific agroecosystem outcomes are crucial.

Plant functional traits offer a framework to describe, select and manage shade trees. Over the last decade, shade tree leaf functional traits and whole plant traits have been assessed in agroforestry systems. Yet, we lack amalgamated information on (i) what we know about shade tree trait relationships with functions to achieve desired agroecosystem outcomes, (ii) how decades of shade tree selection by farmers impacts agroforests inter‐ and intraspecific trait diversity, and (iii) which shade tree traits should be considered for achieving farmer priorities.

We consolidate literature on Coffea arabica (coffee) and Theobroma cacao (cocoa) agroforestry systems to summarize the role of shade tree functional traits in three key ecosystem functions: soil fertility, microclimate modification and crop productivity. We compile global and regional datasets on tree functional trait diversity to show the functional space of agroforestry tree species compared with the overall functional space observed in plants.

Despite, or maybe because of, high shade tree diversity, shade tree trait characterization remains coarse and commonly measured at the community scale in the literature. Based on published trait data, we show that farmers adjust the functional composition of shade trees to increase the recycling of soil nutrients (high leaf nitrogen), the production of wood (skewing towards lower wood densities) and the production of fruits (tendency towards high seed size). Common shade trees in coffee and cocoa systems fall in the mid‐range of leaf acquisitive to conservative strategies, providing evidence that expanding shade tree portfolios can improve, or even accelerate, functions.

Synthesis and applications: Based on the agroforestry literature and on trait‐environment relationships, we propose a matrix of shade tree traits that influence desirable agroecosystem outcomes for farmers, which can guide fine‐scale coordination of trait expression and agroforestry functions.
Unlocking Social Media Success: How Prosumers Drive Brand Engagement through Authentic Conversations with Consumers
Authors: Malodia Suresh , Filieri Raffaele , Otterbring Tobias , Dhir Amandeep 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThis research examines whether prosumer‐generated (vs. firm‐generated) content fosters consumer engagement through content relevance and perceived content sponsorship. Four between‐subjects experiments (N = 1048) show that prosumer‐led (vs. firm‐led) conversations, mediated by perceived content sponsorship and content relevance, generate higher engagement. Furthermore, consumer engagement increases significantly when prosumers share hedonic content and disclose information about their identity. A fifth study, a qualitative investigation with brand managers and marketing practitioners, further validates and extends these findings, providing nuanced insights in the form of four prosumer‐led engagement strategies for consumer engagement. These strategies have practical implications for companies seeking to leverage prosumers in social media marketing. Together, the current work broadens the research scope of prosumers from content co‐creators to drivers of brand engagement, while revealing the factors that increase the effectiveness of prosumer‐led social media content. Specifically, this research suggests that content type and authenticity are fundamental criteria for choosing a prosumer to engage social media brand followers. From a managerial viewpoint, the findings indicate that companies should identify, connect, and engage with online prosumers, as they will actively contribute towards improving consumer engagement levels.