bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vamos en bici: Study protocol of an investigation of cognitive and neural changes following language training, physical exercise training, or a combination of both
Authors: Wenger Elisabeth , Düzel Sandra , Polk Sarah E. , Bodammer Nils C. , Misgeld Carola , Porst Johanna , Wolfarth Bernd , Kühn Simone , Lindenberger Ulman
Published: February 2022

As the relative number of elderly people as well as the average life expectancy increases, identifying potential means to alter the ongoing trajectory of aging and specifically the trajectory of cognitive performance is of great importance. Some modifiable lifestyle factors, such as physical and cognitive activity, have shown positive effects on cognition and brain structure, and the combination of the two might even show a boosted, interactive effect. In this study protocol, we describe in detail our data which was acquired to explore how cognitive stimulation in the form of acquiring a new language, physical exercise on stationary bikes or the combination of the two interventions affect brain structure, cognitive performance, and psychosocial functioning. One-hundred and forty-two older healthy adults (63–78 years) were randomly assigned to one of four six-month intervention programs, comprising (a) foreign language learning, (b) physical exercise training on a bicycle ergometer, (c) a combination of language learning and physical exercise, or (d) a book club (serving as an active control condition). We collected a rich neuroimaging data set, comprising T1-weighted structural, resting state functional, high resolution hippocampal, myelin water fraction, diffusion-weighted, arterial spin labeling, and multi-parameter images. Using a cognitive battery, we collected data from the domains of episodic memory, working memory, perceptual speed, and fluid intelligence. We performed comprehensive physical assessments including cardiopulmonary exercise testing, and additionally collected data on psychosocial functioning (e.g., well-being, perceived stress, control beliefs). We assume that physical activity boosts brain plasticity per se by inducing structural and neurochemical changes in brain regions that are important for learning and memory and therefore may facilitate the effects of cognitive training. (269 words)
Constructing Causal Cytokine Networks for Autoimmune and Inflammatory Diseases Target Identification
Authors: Chen Yanqing
Published: February 2022

Cytokines are cell signaling proteins that act as inducers of physiological responses including the activation and differentiation of innate and adaptive immune cell types. In some cases, this mediates the initiation or progression of inflammatory and auto-immune diseases such as septic shock, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease. Many cytokines are pleiotropic, meaning that they can have effects on multiple cell types and play several distinct functions. On the other hand, multiple cytokines might have similar function and be redundant or degenerate. Some cytokines also regulate the expression and functions of other cytokines. Such complex cause-effect relationships can be modeled computationally by building “cytokine networks”. Those networks describe intricate interactions between different cytokines in their associated tissue environment and cell types. Here we propose a computational approach to find sensitive and “causal” nodes within a cytokine interaction network by identifying whether persistent positive feedback (self-loop) exists on that cytokine in its mRNA transcription network. Based upon two microarray gene expression datasets from immune stimulation experiments using up to 15 different cytokines, we identified TNFα as a “causal” cytokine in the colonic epithelial cell line HCT8, and IL-23, IL-1β and TGFβ as “causal” cytokines in primary myofibroblasts. We hypothesize that a cytokine with a persistent positive feedback loop that amplifies its transcription and secretion could be identified as “causal” for the transcriptional regulation of other cytokines and potentially, downstream disease phenotypes. The existence of such positive feedback loop may determine whether targeting suppression of such cytokine will result in clinical efficacy.
AI-assisted Discovery of an Ethnicity-influenced Driver of Cell Transformation in Esophageal and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Ghosh Pradipta , Campos Vinicius J. , Vo Daniella T. , Guccione Caitlin , Goheen-Holland Vanae , Tindle Courtney , Mazzini Guilherme S. , He Yudou , Alexandrov Ludmil , Lippman Scott M. , Gurski Richard R. , Das Soumita , Yadlapati Rena , Curtius Kit , Sahoo Debashis
Published: February 2022

Although Barrett’s metaplasia of the esophagus (BE) is the only known precursor lesion to esophageal adenocarcinomas (EACs), drivers of the metaplasia→dysplasia→neoplasia cascade in the esophagus remains incompletely understood. Using an AI-guided network transcriptomics approach, in which EAC initiation and progression is modeled as networks to simplify complex multi-cellular processes, we first predict cellular continuum states and disease driving processes with an unprecedented degree of precision. Key AI-guided predictions are subsequently validated in a human organoid model and patient-derived biopsies of BE, a case-control study of genomics of BE progression, and in a cross-sectional study of 113 patients with BE and EACs. We find that all EACs must originate from BE, pinpoint a CXCL8/IL8↔neutrophil immune microenvironment as a driver of cellular transformation in both EACs and gastroesophageal junction-ACs. This driver is prominent in Caucasians (Cau), but notably absent in African Americans (AAs). Network-derived gene signatures, independent signatures of neutrophil processes, CXCL8/IL8, and an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) are associated with risk of progression. SNPs associated with ethnic changes in ANC modify that risk. Thus, findings define a racially influenced immunological basis for cell transformation and suggest that benign ethnic neutropenia in AAs may serve as a deterrent to BE→EAC progression.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is a highly lethal cancer among Caucasians, while African Americans are somewhat protected; what factors drive transformation with racial disparity remain unknown. AI-enabled creation of the first computational map of neoplastic progression in the esophagus built and validated using transcriptomic datasets from diverse cohorts of human samples pinpointed CXCL8↔neutrophil tumor immune-microenvironment as a racially influenced driver of EACs and GEJ-ACs. Computational tools pinpoint a racially influenced driver of cell transformation during BE→EAC progression; in doing so, it reveals new novel biology, informs disease modeling, therapeutic strategies, and biomarkers.

LAY SUMMARY

By modeling diseases as networks, this work unravels a fundamental race-influenced immunologic driver of cell transformation in adenocarcinomas of the esophagus and the gastroesophageal junction.
Exploring the thermal limits of malaria transmission in the western Himalaya
Authors: Mozaffer Farhina , Menon Gautam I. , Ishtiaq Farah
Published: February 2022

Environmental temperature is a key driver of malaria transmission dynamics. Using detailed temperature records from four sites (1800-3200m) in the western Himalaya, we model how temperature regulates parasite development rate (the inverse of the extrinsic incubation period, EIP) in the wild. Using a Briére parametrization of the EIP, combined with Bayesian parameter inference, we study the thermal limits of transmission for avian (P. relictum) and human Plasmodium parasites (P. vivax and P. falciparum) as well as for two malaria-like avian parasites, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon. We demonstrate that temperature conditions can substantially alter the incubation period of parasites at high elevation sites (2600-3200m) leading to restricted parasite development or long transmission windows. We then compare estimates of EIP based on measures of mean temperature versus hourly temperatures to show that EIP days vary in cold versus warm environments. We found that human Plasmodium parasites experience a limited transmission window at 2600m. In contrast, for avian Plasmodium transmission was not possible between September to March at 2600m. In addition, temperature conditions suitable for both Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon transmission were obtained from June to August and in April, at 2600m. Finally, we use temperature projections from a suite of climate models to predict that by 2040, high elevation sites (~ 2600 m) will have a temperature range conducive for malaria transmission, albeit with a limited transmission window. Our study highlights the importance of accounting for fine-scale thermal effects in the expansion of the range of the malaria parasite with global climate change.
Neural network for the prediction of treatment response in Triple Negative Breast Cancer *
Authors: Naylor Peter , Lazard Tristan , Bataillon Guillaume , Lae Marick , Vincent-Salomon Anne , Hamy Anne-Sophie , Reyal Fabien , Walter Thomas
Published: February 2022

Abstract

The automatic analysis of stained histological sections is becoming increasingly popular. Deep Learning is today the method of choice for the computational analysis of such data, and has shown spectacular results for large datasets for a large variety of cancer types and prediction tasks. On the other hand, many scientific questions relate to small, highly specific cohorts. Such cohorts pose serious challenges for Deep Learning, typically trained on large datasets.

In this article, we propose a modification of the standard nested cross-validation procedure for hyper-parameter tuning and model selection, dedicated to the analysis of small cohorts. We also propose a new architecture for the particularly challenging question of treatment prediction, and apply this workflow to the prediction of response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy for Triple Negative Breast Cancer.
Constraint-based modeling identifies metabolic vulnerabilities during the epithelial to mesenchymal transition
Authors: Campit Scott , Keshamouni Venkateshwar G. , Chandrasekaran Sriram
Published: February 2022

Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a developmentally conserved cellular process critical for tumor metastasis. EMT enables malignant epithelial cells to acquire mesenchymal-like migratory and invasive phenotype. During EMT cancer cells undergo extensive metabolic reprogramming that correlates with the suppression of proliferation, and stimulation of the energy-intensive migratory behavior. However, the causal relationship between metabolic changes and coordinated physiological phenotypes that occur during EMT is still unclear. We used bulk time-course transcriptomics and proteomics, and single-cell transcriptomics from five independent EMT studies in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells to simulate metabolic network activity using constraint-based modeling. Model predictions were validated using literature mining, experimental studies and CRISPR-Cas9 essentiality screens.

We uncovered temporal metabolic dependencies in glycolysis and glutamine metabolism reactions, and experimentally validated isoform-specific dependency on Enolase3 for cell survival during EMT. Together, our approach uncovered temporally regulated cell-state-specific metabolic dependencies in cells undergoing EMT.
Discovery of novel therapeutic targets in cancer using patient-specific gene regulatory networks
Authors: Forbes Andre Neil , Xu Duo , Cohen Sandra , Pancholi Priya , Khurana Ekta
Published: February 2022

Most cancer types lack effective targeted therapeutic options and in cancers where first-line targeted therapies are available, treatment resistance is a huge challenge. Recent technological advances enable the use of ATAC-seq and RNA-seq on patient biopsies in a high-throughput manner. Here we present a computational approach that leverages these datasets to identify novel drug targets based on tumor lineage. We constructed patient-specific gene regulatory networks for 371 patients of 22 cancer types using machine learning approaches trained using three-dimensional genomic data for enhancer to promoter contacts. Next, we identify the key transcription factors (TFs) in these networks, which are used to identify therapeutic vulnerabilities either by direct targeting of TFs or proteins that they co-operate with. We validate four novel candidates identified for neuroendocrine, liver and renal cancers, which have a dismal prognosis with current therapeutic options. We present a novel approach to use the increasing amounts of functional genomics data from patient biospecimens for identification of novel drug targets.
Amyloid fibrils in frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TDP-43 inclusions are composed of TMEM106B, rather than TDP-43
Authors: Jiang Yi Xiao , Cao Qin , Sawaya Michael R. , Abskharon Romany , Ge Peng , DeTure Michael , Dickson Dennis W. , Fu Janine Y. , Ogorzalek Loo Rachel R. , Loo Joseph A. , Eisenberg David S.
Published: February 2022

FTLD is the third most common neurodegenerative condition, following only Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. FTLD typically presents in 45-64-year-olds with behavioral changes or progressive decline of language skills. The subtype FTLD-TDP is characterized by certain clinical symptoms and pathological neuronal inclusions detected by TDP-43 immunoreactivity. Here, we extracted amyloid fibrils from brains of four patients, representing four out of five FTLD-TDP subclasses and determined their near-atomic resolution structures by cryo-EM. Unexpectedly, all amyloid fibrils examined are composed of a 135-residue C-terminal fragment of TMEM106B, a lysosomal membrane protein previously implicated as a genetic risk factor for FTLD-TDP. In addition to TMEM106B fibrils, abundant non-fibrillar aggregated TDP-43 is present, as revealed by immunogold labeling. Our observations confirm that FTLD-TDP is an amyloid-involved disease and suggest that amyloid involvement in FTLD-TDP is of protein TMEM106B, rather than of TDP-43.
Analysis of secondary metabolite gene clusters and chitin biosynthesis pathways of Monascus purpureus with high production of pigment and citrinin based on whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Zhang Song , Zeng Xiaofang , Lin Qinlu , Liu Jun
Published: February 2022

Monascus is a filamentous fungus that is commonly used for producing Monascus pigments in the food industry in Southeast Asia. While the development of bioinformatics has helped elucidate the molecular mechanism underlying secondary metabolite biosynthesis of Monascus, the biological information on the metabolic engineering of Monascus morphology remains unclear. In this study, we sequenced the whole genome of Monascus purpureus CSU-M183 strain by using combined single-molecule real-time DNA sequencing and next-generation sequencing platforms. The length of the genome assembly was 23.75 Mb in size with a GC content of 49.13% and 69 genomic contigs and encoded 7305 putative predicted genes. Furthermore, we identified secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters and chitin synthesis pathways in the genome of the high pigment-producing M. purpureus CSU-M183 strain. And we confirmed that atmospheric room temperature plasma induced significant expression of the genes on Monascus pigments and citrinin biosynthetic gene cluster in M. purpureus CSU-M183 by RT-qPCR. These results provide a basis for understanding the secondary metabolite biosynthesis, the regulatory mechanisms of Monascus morphology, disrupting secondary metabolite biosynthesis in submerged fermentation, and the metabolic engineering of Monascus morphology.
High-resolution structural analysis of enterovirus-reactive polyclonal antibodies in complex with whole virions
Authors: Antanasijevic Aleksandar , Schulze Autumn J. , Reddy Vijay S. , Ward Andrew B.
Published: February 2022

Non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) cause serious illnesses in young children and neonates including aseptic meningitis, encephalitis, neonatal sepsis and inflammatory muscle disease, among others. Over 100 serotypes have been described to date but except for the EV-A71, there are no available vaccines or therapeutics against NPEVs. Efforts towards rationally designed pan-NPEV vaccines would greatly benefit from structural biology methods for rapid and comprehensive evaluation of vaccine candidates and elicited antibody responses. Towards this goal, we tested if electron-microscopy-based polyclonal epitope mapping (EMPEM), a method where structural analysis is performed using serum-derived polyclonal antibodies (pAbs), can be applied to an NPEV. EMPEM was performed on immune complexes featuring CV-A21 viral particles and CV-A21-specific pAbs isolated from mice. Notably, this is the first example of structural analysis of polyclonal immune complexes comprising whole virions. We introduce a data processing workflow that allows reconstruction of different pAbs at near-atomic resolution. The analysis resulted in identification of several antibodies targeting two immunodominant epitopes, near the 3-fold and 5-fold axis of symmetry; the latter overlapping with the receptor binding site. These results demonstrate that EMPEM can be applied to map broad-spectrum polyclonal immune responses against intact virions and define potentially cross-reactive epitopes.
Oo-site: A dashboard to visualize gene expression during Drosophila oogenesis reveals meiotic entry is regulated post-transcriptionally
Authors: Martin Elliot T. , Sarkar Kahini , McCarthy Alicia , Rangan Prashanth
Published: February 2022

Determining how stem cell differentiation is controlled has important implications for understanding the etiology of degenerative disease and designing regenerative therapies. In vivo analyses of stem cell model systems have revealed regulatory paradigms for stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. The germarium of the female Drosophila gonad, which houses both germline and somatic stem cells, is one such model system. Bulk mRNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell (sc) RNA-seq, and bulk translation efficiency of mRNAs are available for stem cells and their differentiating progeny within the Drosophila germarium. However, visualizing those data is hampered by the lack of a tool to spatially map gene expression and translational data in the germarium. Here, we have developed Oo-site (https://www.ranganlab.com/Oo-site), a tool for visualizing bulk RNA-seq, scRNA-seq, and translational efficiency data during different stages of germline differentiation, that makes these data accessible to non-bioinformaticians. Using this tool, we recapitulated previously reported expression patterns of developmentally regulated genes and discovered that meiotic genes, such as those that regulate the synaptonemal complex, are regulated at the level of translation.
Mathematical model of chromosomal dynamics during DNA double strand break repair in budding yeast
Authors: Nakahata Shinjiro , Fujii Masashi , Awazu Akinori
Published: February 2022

During the repair of double-strand breaks (DSBs) in DNA, active mobilizations for conformational changes in chromosomes have been widely observed in eukaryotes, from yeast to animal and plant cells. DSB-damaged loci in the yeast genome showed increased mobility and relocation to the nuclear periphery. However, the driving forces behind DSB-induced chromatin dynamics remain unclear. In this study, mathematical models of normal and DSB-damaged yeast chromosomes were developed to simulate their structural dynamics. The effects of histone degradation in the whole nucleus and the change in the physical properties of damaged loci due to the binding of SUMOylated repair proteins were considered in the model of DSB-induced chromosomes based on recent experimental results. The simulation results reproduced DSB-induced changes to structural and dynamical features by which the combination of whole nuclear histone degradation and the rigid structure formation of repair protein accumulations on damaged loci were suggested to be primary contributors to the process by which damaged loci are relocated to the nuclear periphery.
Clonal diversification and histogenesis of malignant germ cell tumours
Authors: Oliver Thomas R. W. , Chappell Lia , Sanghvi Rashesh , Deighton Lauren , Ansari-Pour Naser , Dentro Stefan C. , Young Matthew D. , Coorens Tim H. H. , Jung Hyunchul , Butler Tim , Neville Matthew D. C. , Leongamornlert Daniel , Sanders Mathijs , Hooks Yvette , Cagan Alex , Mitchell Thomas J. , Cortes-Ciriano Isidro , Warren Anne Y. , Wedge David C. , Heer Rakesh , Coleman Nicholas , Murray Matthew J. , Campbell Peter J. , Rahbari Raheleh , Behjati Sam
Published: February 2022

Germ cell tumours (GCTs) are a collection of benign and malignant neoplasms derived from primordial germ cells. They are uniquely able to recapitulate embryonic and extraembryonic tissues, which carries prognostic and therapeutic significance. The developmental pathways underpinning GCT initiation and histogenesis are incompletely understood. Here, we studied the relationship of histogenesis and clonal diversification in GCTs by analysing the genome and transcriptome of 547 microdissected histological units. We found that the extensive diversification of tissues and genetic subclones were not correlated. However, we identified unifying features including the retention of fetal developmental transcripts across tissues, expression changes on chromosome 12p, and a conserved somatic evolutionary sequence of whole genome duplication followed by clonal diversification. Whilst this pattern was preserved across all GCTs, the developmental timing of the duplication varied between prepubertal and postpubertal cases. In addition, tumours of younger children exhibited distinct substitution signatures, including a novel one, which may lend themselves as potential biomarkers for risk stratification. Our findings portray the extensive diversification of GCT tissues and genetic subclones as randomly distributed, whilst identifying overarching tissue and tumour transcriptional and genomic features.
Novel three-dimensional coordination polymer of 2-(1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphoniatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decan-7-yl)ethanoic acid with silver(I) tetrafluoroborate
Authors: Udvardy Antal , Kathó Ágnes , Papp Gábor , Joó Ferenc , Gál Gyula Tamás
Published: February 2022

An AgI-based coordination polymer (CP), namely, poly[[[μ3-2-(1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphoniatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decan-7-yl)ethanoate-κ4N:N′:O,O′]silver(I)] tetrafluoroborate], {[Ag(C9H16N3O2P)]BF4}n, was synthesized in an aqueous solution of zwitterionic 2-(1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphoniatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decan-7-yl)ethanoate (L) and AgBF4with exclusion of light at room temperature. The colourless and light-insensitive CP crystallized in the monoclinic space groupCc. The asymmetric unit consists of an AgIcation, the zwitterionicLligand and a BF4−counter-ion. Each AgIion is coordinated by two carboxylate oxygen atoms in a chelating coordination mode, as well as one of the nitrogen atoms of two neighbouringLligands. The crystal structure of the CP was classified as a unique three-dimensional arrangement. The CP was also characterized in aqueous solutions by multinuclear NMR and HRMS spectroscopies and elemental analysis.
Sustainable hydroelectric power project planning under socio-economic and environmental concerns using Index based approach
Authors: Roy Neha Chhabra , Roy N.G.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify and gauge the sustainability indicators (SUSIs) for sustainable Hydroelectric Power (HEP) project development. It examines major SUSIs under the social, economic and environmental (SEE) fronts and categorizes them under push and pull impacts which helps to identify challenges and opportunities associated with projects. Additionally, the study calculates an empirical sustainability index (SI) to assess the sustainability level of HEP. Finally, the study suggests mitigation measures across stakeholders, which will optimize government/developer/investor investments.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the interaction of sustainable HEP development with SUSIs using Uttarakhand as a study area. Additionally, SI has been developed quantitatively. For the indicator classification, the authors conducted a literature review and secondary survey of all affected parties, including investors, developers, NGOs and villagers. The fuzzy logic theory (FLT) is used to determine the SI of the study area and classify projects in their level of sustainability. On the basis of expert opinion and literature review, mitigation measures are proposed across stakeholders.

Findings

The authors found that there is a mixed effect of SUSIs on HEP development across various projects in Uttarakhand. Furthermore, the authors suggest that index-based assessment and planned collaboration play a significant role in sustainable HEP development. Mitigation measures should be suggested to all affected stakeholders based on specific project issues, i.e. collaborations, training, public awareness campaigns, and initiatives by the government that would improve sustainability conditions.

Research limitations/implications

In addition to supporting the ongoing and upcoming initiatives launched by the Government of India, including the Green Energy Corridor, independent power producers (IPPs); and the India-Renewable Resources Development Project with IDA and participates in Net zero target.

Practical implications

The structured, sustainable HEP planning suggested in the study will help to conserve society, economy, save resources and in parallel reduce the cost and time of developers and policymakers. This will also help to improve the socioeconomic status of the villagers and prolong the life of the project.

Originality/value

The innovative SI-based push-pull approach identifies a sustainable HEP project planning.
Generalized regression neural network application for fault type detection in distribution transformer windings considering statistical indices
Authors: Behkam Reza , Karami Hossein , Salay Naderi Mehdi , B. Gharehpetian Gevork
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to use frequency response analysis, a powerful tool to detect the location and types of transformer winding faults. Proposing an effective intelligent approach for interpreting the frequency responses is the most crucial problem of this method and has created many challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

Heat maps based on appropriate statistical indices have been supplied to depict the variations in the frequency responses associated with each fault type, fault location and fault extent along the windings. Also, after analyzing the results of artificial neural network (ANN) techniques, the generalized regression neural network method is introduced as the most effective solution for the classification of transformer winding faults.

Findings

Using a comparative approach, the performance of the used indices and ANN techniques are evaluated. The results showed the proper performance of Lin’s concordance coefficient (LCC) index and the amplitude (Amp) part of the frequency response. The proposed fitting percentage (FP) index can assist the intelligent classifiers in diagnosing the radial deformation (RD) fault with the highest accuracy considering all frequency response components in the classification procedure of winding faults.

Practical implications

Various ANN techniques are used to detect and determine the type of four important faults of transformer winding, i.e. axial displacement, RD, disc space variation and short circuit. Various statistical indices, such as cross-correlation factor, LCC, standard difference area, sum of errors, normalized root-mean-square deviation and FP, are used to extract the features of the frequency responses to consider as the ANN inputs. In addition, different components of the frequency response, such as Amp, argument, real and imaginary parts are examined in this paper. To implement the proposed procedure, step by step, various types of winding faults with different locations and extents are applied on the 20 kV winding of a 1.6 MVA distribution transformer.

Originality/value

Contributions have been made in identifying and diagnosing transformer winding defects through the use of appropriate algorithms for future research.
Evaluating construction delays using productivity-based resource reallocation for economic feasibility
Authors: Lee Chijoo
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Work crew productivity and the application of limited resources are necessary elements in construction duration delay analysis. This study thus proposes a method to analyze construction delays and resource reallocation based on work crew productivity and resource constraints. The study also presents an economic feasibility analysis that maximizes economic effect by reducing construction duration, the cost of resource reallocation, delay liquidated damages (DLDs) and incentives for reducing contractual duration.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method involved three steps. First, work crew characteristics such as productivity, unit price and workload helped analyze delay information, including delay duration, reducible duration and daily reduced cost. Next, a goal programming method assessed resource reallocation based on the priority (as determined by decision-makers) of each constraint condition, such as the available number of workers, cost, goal workload and statutory working hours. Lastly, the level of reallocation was analyzed based on the results of the economic feasibility analysis and decision-makers’ delay attitudes.

Findings

A case study was performed to test the proposed method's applicability. Its involved sensitivity analysis indicated proposing to decision-makers a scenario based on the prioritization of economic feasibility. The proposed method's applicability proved high for decision-makers, as they can determine whether to reduce construction duration per the proposed data.

Originality/value

The proposed method's main contribution is the reallocation of resources to reduce construction duration based on work crew productivity and the prioritization of limited resources. The proposed method can analyze the differences in productivity between the plan and actual progress, as well as calculate the necessary number of workers. Decision-makers can then reduce the appropriate level of contractual duration based on their own delay attitude, constraint condition prioritization and results from daily economic feasibility analyses.
GMR: grounded at the Maldives international airport
Authors: Singh Harvinder , Aggarwal Rashmi Kumar , Bansal Aakriti
Published: February 2022

Learning outcomes

The learning outcome of this paper is to understand the geopolitical aspects of international business. Assessing the political risk inherent in international investment projects. Maintaining a favorable corporate image in the host country despite apparent hostilities. Analyzing the risks associated with doing business in an emerging market.

Case overview/synopsis

In February 2019, local newspapers in the Maldives published unconfirmed reports that the Indian company GMR was reinvesting in the Maldives. GMR had secured a contract in 2010 for renovation/expansion of The Maldives International Airport. However, the contract created political turmoil, with opposition parties objecting to some clauses. People considered GMR closer to the incumbent President, Mohammed Nasheed. The unstable political scenario forced President Nasheed to resign amidst allegations of corruption. The new President showed hostility toward India and GMR while making overtures to China. He canceled the airport contract and awarded it to a Chinese company. GMR went to the international Tribunal in Singapore. The tribunal upheld the Maldivian government’s right to terminate the agreement but awarded GMR a compensation of US$270m. In 2019, a new government came to power in the Maldives, with Mohammed Nasheed enjoying a commanding position. The government pledged to accept the judgment of the Singapore International Tribunal. The local media discussed the possibility of the return of GMR to the Maldives after seeing some senior GMR officials in the Maldives. However, it was not clear whether it would be a good idea for GMR.

Complexity academic level

Master's level program.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CCS 11: Strategy.
Design and modeling of an on-site greywater treatment system for a hotel building
Authors: Kobeyev Sultan , Tokbolat Serik , Nazipov Farnush , Satyanaga Alfrendo
Published: February 2022

Purpose

As the United States is making a significant move toward rejoining the Paris Agreement on climate change, there is a high demand for sustainable solutions across various industries, including construction and hospitality sectors. The aim of this project was to design and model an on-site greywater treatment system for a hotel building for the effective reuse of sewage water. The study considered Los Angeles, California, as a case study location and referred to respective climate conditions and construction standards.

Design/methodology/approach

This study considered various options of greywater treatment plants such as membrane bioreactor (MBR), sequencing batch reactor and reverse osmosis with upflow anaerobic sludge blanket which were carefully reviewed and modeled using the GPS-X software. The design and modeling results were verified by hand calculations and were followed by the estimation of capital and operational expenses required for the implementation of the plants.

Findings

Having relatively low capital and operational expenditure requirements as well as superior technical performance, the MBR plant proved to be the most effective solution for the considered location and standards and was recommended for use in hotel buildings.

Practical implications

Designing and modeling several greywater treatment plants allowed selecting the most optimal option which in the long run will help to preserve the eco-system, stay compliant with the government laws and regulations and be financially sustainable.

Originality/value

The outcomes of the present study provide a detailed procedure for designing and modeling a greywater treatment plant for a hotel building that can be used for the localities with a similar climate. The most effective option selected as a result of cost-benefit analysis provides an efficient and viable solution for the relevant industry and the type of buildings.
Toward improved performance of reactive dyeing on cotton fabric using process sensitivity analysis
Authors: Zhang Ping , Zhu Wenju , Hossain Md. Yousuf , Sarker Shamima , Pervez Md. Nahid , Mondal Md. Ibrahim H. , Yan Chao , Cai Yingjie , Naddeo Vincenzo
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The conventional textile dyeing process requires various operational characteristics, and determining the most reliable factor in dyeing performance has always been a challenge for the textile industry. Thus, the present paper aimed to evaluate the process sensitivity of C. I. Reactive Blue 194 dyeing of cotton fabric using a statistical technique.

Design/methodology/approach

An L27 orthogonal array-based Taguchi's methodology was used with six parameters and three levels of each parameter. The signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and analysis of variance were studied using total fixation efficiency (T%) as the response of the process sensitivity.

Findings

Results showed that dyebath pH was the most influential factor on the process and total fixation efficiency (p-value = 0.00 and contribution percentage 45.03%), followed by dye-fixing temperature, dye mass, electrolyte concentration, dye-fixing time and material to liquor ratio.

Originality/value

Overall this study provides a foundation for the determination of dyeing process sensitivity that will be useful in textile industries toward further development.
Enabler toward successful implementation of Quality 4.0 in digital transformation era: a comprehensive review and future research agenda
Authors: Thekkoote Ramadas
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Quality 4.0 (Q4.0) is related to quality management in the era of Industry 4.0 (I4.0). In particular, it concentrates on digital techniques used to improve organizational capabilities and ensure the delivery of the best quality products and services to its customer. The aim of this research to examine the vital elements for the Q4.0 implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature was carried out to analyze past studies in this emerging research field.

Findings

This research identified ten factors that contribute to the successful implementation of Q4.0. The key factors are (1) data, (2) analytics, (3) connectivity, (4) collaboration, (5) development of APP, (6) scalability, (7) compliance, (8) organization culture, (9) leadership and (10) training for Q4.0.

Originality/value

As a result of the research, a new understanding of factors of successful implementation of Q4.0 in the digital transformation era can assist firms in developing new ways to implement Q4.0.
The impact of zakat in poverty alleviation and income inequality reduction from the perspective of gender in West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Ayuniyyah Qurroh , Pramanik Ataul Huq , Md Saad Norma , Ariffin Muhammad Irwan
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the role of zakat in poverty alleviation and income inequality reduction based on the gender of zakat recipients.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the Centre of Islamic Economic and Business Studies (CIBEST) model as a poverty measure and the Gini coefficient and Atkinson index as income inequality measures to analyse 1,300 zakat recipients in five different areas of West Java, Indonesia.

Findings

Based on the CIBEST model, zakat distribution programmes have better salutary effects on male-headed households in terms of material (0.215) and absolute (0.037) poverty indices, whereas female-headed households have better performance on the falah (0.438) and spiritual (0.022) poverty indices, with greater changes in these indices in female-headed households. According to the Gini coefficient and Atkinson index, female-headed households have better income distribution one-year after zakat distribution programmes, whereas the male-headed households have better performance in regards to welfare loss.

Research limitations/implications

The present study only used the poverty line standard published by the Central Board of Statistics from the Republic of Indonesia to identify respondents who live under the poverty line.

Practical implications

This paper can serve as a reference for zakat institutions in the implementation of zakat distribution programmes when the gender of zakat recipients is taken into consideration.

Originality/value

Not many studies have analysed the impact of gender in zakat distribution programmes despite gender being one of the most important determinants of poverty and income inequality. This study attempts to determine the economic impact of zakat from the perspective of gender.
An institutional analysis of gender (in)equalities, COVID-19 and governance of elite women's football in Australia, England and the USA
Authors: Clarkson Beth G. , Parry Keith D. , Culvin Alex , Pope Stacey
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Women's football faces an existential threat from COVID-19. Using case studies, the authors explore the COVID-19 responses of three highly ranked national football associations (Australia, England and the USA) and their professional women's football leagues to (a) compare and shed new insights into the wide range of phased responses and (b) establish recommendations for other nations to navigate major crises with their social and ethical responsibilities to women's football.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on institutional theory, a framework analysis was undertaken examining 71 articles to analyse the gendered global impacts of COVID-19 on women's football.

Findings

Results highlight several important recommendations for nations to consider during the pandemic: (1) maintain active communication with the community to allay worries about the future of women's football, (2) gather support from health and government officials, (3) seek out commercial and broadcasting partnerships to drive revenue, and (4) the interests of women's football are best served when responsibility for the elite women's league does not rest (solely) with national football associations.

Social implications

The authors argue that sport is an interwoven part of society and cannot be separated from gender equality issues irrespective of the pandemic.

Originality/value

The study is first to explore institutional pressures and football governing bodies during COVID-19 and provides a framework for nations to manage major crises.
Precipitation of greigite and pyrite induced by Thermococcales: an advantage to live in Fe‐ and S‐rich environments?
Authors: Gorlas A. , Mariotte T. , Morey L. , Truong C. , Bernard S. , Guigner J.‐M. , Oberto J. , Baudin F. , Landrot G. , Baya C. , Le Pape P. , Morin G. , Forterre P. , Guyot F.
Published: February 2022

Thermococcales, a major order of archaea inhabiting the iron‐ and sulfur‐rich anaerobic parts of hydrothermal deep‐sea vents, have been shown to rapidly produce abundant quantities of pyrite FeS2 in iron–sulfur‐rich fluids at 85°C, suggesting that they may contribute to the formation of ‘low temperature’ FeS2 in their ecosystem. We show that this process operates in Thermococcus kodakarensis only when zero‐valent sulfur is directly available as intracellular sulfur vesicles. Whether in the presence or absence of zero‐valent sulfur, significant amounts of Fe3S4 greigite nanocrystals are formed extracellularly. We also show that mineralization of iron sulfides induces massive cell mortality but that concomitantly with the formation of greigite and/or pyrite, a new generation of cells can grow. This phenomenon is observed for Fe concentrations of 5 mM but not higher suggesting that above a threshold in the iron pulse all cells are lysed. We hypothesize that iron sulfides precipitation on former cell materials might induce the release of nutrients in the mineralization medium further used by a fraction of surviving non‐mineralized cells allowing production of new alive cells. This suggests that biologically induced mineralization of iron‐sulfides could be part of a survival strategy employed by Thermococcales to cope with mineralizing high‐temperature hydrothermal environments.
Global diversity and distribution of mushroom‐inhabiting bacteria
Authors: Gohar Daniyal , Põldmaa Kadri , Tedersoo Leho , Aslani Farzad , Furneaux Brendan , Henkel Terry W. , Saar Irja , Smith Matthew E. , Bahram Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Mushroom‐forming fungi are important sources of food and medicine in many regions of the world, and their development and health are known to depend on various microbes. Recent studies have examined the structure of mushroom‐inhabiting bacterial (MIB) communities and their association with local environmental variables, but global‐scale diversity and determinants of these communities remain poorly understood. Here we examined the MIB global diversity and community composition in relation to climate, soil and host factors. We found a core global mushroom microbiome, accounting for 30% of sequence reads, while comprising a few bacterial genera such as Halomonas, Serratia, Bacillus, Cutibacterium, Bradyrhizobium and Burkholderia. Our analysis further revealed an important role of host phylogeny in shaping the communities of MIB, whereas the effects of climate and soil factors remained negligible. The results suggest that the communities of MIB and free‐living bacteria are structured by contrasting community assembly processes and that fungal–bacterial interactions are an important determinant of MIB community structure.
What influences the implementation of IFRS for SMEs? The Brazilian case
Authors: Gonçalves Flauzeliton José Aparecido , De Moura André Aroldo Freitas , Motoki Fabio Yoshio Suguri
Published: February 2022

We investigate factors influencing the implementation of IFRS for SMEs in Brazil. Accountants and accounting firms from all over the country received a questionnaire about the perceptions of IFRS for SMEs. A logit regression on the factors associated with non‐implementation using 426 valid observations suggests that inconsistencies and incomprehensibility issues are the main factors preventing implementation. However, further investigation indicates that once participants know the standard, ‘implementation myths’ are mitigated. Therefore, regulators should increase the availability of education programs, so accountants feel more secure and boost the standard’s implementation. We complement the findings of IASB’s Second Comprehensive Review of the standard.
Postglacial peatland vegetation succession in Store Mosse bog, south‐central Sweden: An exploration of factors driving species change
Authors: Ryberg Eleonor E. , Väliranta Minna , Martinez‐Cortizas Antonio , Ehrlén Johan , Sjöström Jenny K. , Kylander Malin E.
Published: February 2022

Boreal peatlands are facing significant changes in response to a warming climate. Sphagnum mosses are key species in these ecosystems and contribute substantially to carbon sequestration. Understanding the factors driving vegetation changes on longer time scales is therefore of high importance, yet challenging since species changes are typically affected by a range of internal and external processes acting simultaneously within the system. This study presents a high‐resolution macrofossil analysis of a peat core from Store Mosse bog (south‐central Sweden), dating back to nearly 10 000 cal. a BP. The aim is to identify factors driving species changes on multidecadal to millennial timescales considering internal autogenic, internal biotic and external allogenic processes. A set of independent proxy data was used as a comparison framework to estimate changes in the bog and regional effective humidity, nutrient input and cold periods. We found that Store Mosse largely follows the expected successional pathway for a boreal peatland (i.e. lake → fen → bog). However, the system has also been affected by other interlinked factors. Of interest, we note that external nutrient input (originating from dust deposition and climate processes) has had a negative effect on Sphagnum while favouring vascular plants, and increased fire activity (driven by allogenic and autogenic factors) typically caused post‐fire, floristic wet shifts. These effects interactively caused a floristic reversal and near disappearance of a once‐established Sphagnum community, during which climate acted as an indirect driver. Overall, this study highlights that the factors driving vegetation change within the peatland are multiple and complex. Consideration of the role of interlinked factors on Sphagnum is crucial for an improved understanding of the drivers of species change on short‐ and long‐term scales.
Silke Bochat and Jared Richardson
Authors: Bochat Silke , Richardson Jared
Published: February 2022

Despite the challenges, the Design team at Colgate has changed in positive ways, becoming more diverse and delivering greater value to the organization.