bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broadly reactive influenza antibodies are not limited by germinal center competition with high affinity antibodies
Authors: Keating Rachael , Johnson Jenny L. , Brice David C. , Labombarde Jocelyn G. , Dent Alexander L. , McGargill Maureen A.
Published: May 2020

Enhancing the generation of broadly reactive influenza antibodies is a pertinent goal towards developing a universal influenza vaccine. While antibodies that bind conserved influenza epitopes have been identified in humans, the frequency of these antibodies is typically very low. The predominant theory is that antibodies specific for conserved influenza epitopes are limited in germinal centers by competition with high affinity antibodies specific for the variable region of the virus. Here, we show that reducing germinal center formation and removing competition with high affinity antibodies was not sufficient to increase broadly reactive influenza antibodies or enhance protection against distinct influenza subtypes. These data disprove the prevailing hypothesis that broadly reactive influenza antibodies are rare due to competition in germinal centers. Additionally, levels of IgM antibodies specific for the variable region of HA persisted in mice in the absence of germinal centers, further demonstrating that immunodominance can be established independent of germinal centers. Our data also highlight the protective capacity of germinal center-independent IgM antibodies, which are not typically considered when testing correlates of protection, and offer an alternate target for delivering a universal influenza vaccine.

IMPORTANCE

It is estimated that 250,000 – 650,000 individuals worldwide die each year from seasonal influenza infections. Current vaccines provide little protection against newly emerging strains. Thus, considerable effort is focused on enhancing the generation of broadly reactive influenza antibodies in order to develop a universal influenza vaccine. However, broadly reactive antibodies are rare and the factors that limit their generation are not completely understood. Our data disprove the prevailing hypothesis that broadly reactive influenza antibodies are rare due to completion in the germinal centers with antibodies to the variable HA head. Understanding the factors limiting antibodies specific for conserved regions of the influenza virus is imperative for developing a universal vaccine, which could potentially circumvent a global pandemic
A spatially-explicit model of stabilizing selection for improving phylogenetic inference
Authors: Beaulieu Jeremy M. , O’Meara Brian C. , Gilchrist Michael A.
Published: May 2020

Ultraconserved elements (UCEs) are stretches of hundreds of nucleotides with highly conserved cores flanked by variable regions. Although the selective forces responsible for the preservation of UCEs are unknown, they are nonetheless believed to contain phylogenetically meaningful information from deep to shallow divergence events. Phylogenetic applications of UCEs assume the same degree of rate heterogeneity applies across the entire locus, including variable flanking regions. We present a Wright-Fisher model of selection on nucleotides (SelON) which includes the effects of mutation, drift, and spatially varying, stabilizing selection for an optimal nucleotide sequence. The SelON model assumes the strength of stabilizing selection follows a position dependent Gaussian function whose exact shape can vary between UCEs. We evaluate SelON by comparing its performance to a simpler and spatially invariant GTR+Γmodel using an empirical dataset of 400 vertebrate UCEs used to determine the phylogenetic position of turtles. We observe much improvement in model fit of SelON over the GTR+Γmodel, and support for turtles as sister to lepidosaurs. Overall, the UCE specific parameters SelON estimates provide a compact way of quantifying the strength and variation in selection within and across UCEs. SelON can also be extended to include more realistic mapping functions between sequence and stabilizing selection as well as allow for greater levels of rate heterogeneity. By more explicitly modeling the nature of selection on UCEs, SelON and similar approaches can be used to better understand the biological mechanisms responsible for their preservation across highly divergent taxa and long evolutionary time scales.
Antibody repertoire induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein immunogens
Authors: Ravichandran Supriya , Coyle Elizabeth M. , Klenow Laura , Tang Juanjie , Grubbs Gabrielle , Liu Shufeng , Wang Tony , Golding Hana , Khurana Surender
Published: May 2020

Multiple vaccine candidates against SARS-CoV-2 based on viral spike protein are under development. However, there is limited information on the quality of antibody response generated following vaccination by these vaccine modalities. To better understand antibody response induced by spike protein-based vaccines, we immunized rabbits with various SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antigens: S-ectodomain (S1+S2) (aa 16-1213), which lacks the cytoplasmic and transmembrane domains (CT-TM), the S1 domain (aa 16-685), the receptor-binding domain (RBD) (aa 319-541), and the S2 domain (aa 686-1213 as control). Antibody response was analyzed by ELISA, Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) against different Spike proteins in native conformation, and a pseudovirion neutralization assay to measure the quality and function of the antibodies elicited by the different Spike antigens. All three antigens (S1+S2 ectodomain, S1 domain, and RBD) generated strong neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2. Vaccination induced antibody repertoire was analyzed by SARS-CoV-2 spike Genome Fragment Phage Display Libraries (SARS-CoV-2 GFPDL), which identified immunodominant epitopes in the S1, S1-RBD and S2 domains. Furthermore, these analyses demonstrated that surprisingly the RBD immunogen elicited a higher antibody titer with 5-fold higher affinity antibodies to native spike antigens compared with other spike antigens. These findings may help guide rational vaccine design and facilitate development and evaluation of effective therapeutics and vaccines against COVID-19 disease.

One Sentence Summary

SARS-CoV-2 Spike induced immune response
CoV3D: A database and resource for high resolution coronavirus protein structures
Authors: Gowthaman Ragul , Guest Johnathan D. , Yin Rui , Adolf-Bryfogle Jared , Schief William R. , Pierce Brian G.
Published: May 2020

SARS-CoV-2, the etiologic agent behind COVID-19, exemplifies the general threat to global health posed by coronaviruses. The urgent need for effective vaccines and therapies is leading to a rapid rise in the number of high resolution structures of SARS-CoV-2 proteins that collectively reveal a map of virus vulnerabilities. To assist structure-based design of vaccines and therapeutics against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses, we have developed CoV3D, a database and resource for coronavirus protein structures, which is updated on a weekly basis. CoV3D provides users with comprehensive sets of structures of coronavirus proteins and their complexes with antibodies, receptors, and small molecules. Integrated molecular viewers allow users to visualize structures of the spike glycoprotein, which is the major target of neutralizing antibodies and vaccine design efforts, as well as sets of spike-antibody complexes, spike sequence variability, and known polymorphisms. In order to aid structure-based design and analysis of the spike glycoprotein, CoV3D permits visualization and download of spike structures with modeled N-glycosylation at known glycan sites, and contains structure-based classification of spike conformations, generated by unsupervised clustering. CoV3D can serve the research community as a centralized reference and resource for spike and other coronavirus protein structures, and is available at: https://cov3d.ibbr.umd.edu.
A Computational Toolset for Rapid Identification of SARS-CoV-2, other Viruses, and Microorganisms from Sequencing Data
Authors: Chen Shifu , He Changshou , Li Yingqiang , Li Zhicheng , Melançon Charles E
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we present a toolset and related resources for rapid identification of viruses and microorganisms from short-read or long-read sequencing data. We present fastv as an ultra-fast tool to detect microbial sequences present in sequencing data, identify target microorganisms, and visualize coverage of microbial genomes. This tool is based on the k-mer mapping and extension method. K-mer sets are generated by UniqueKMER, another tool provided in this toolset. UniqueKMER can generate complete sets of unique k-mers for each genome within a large set of viral or microbial genomes. For convenience, unique k-mers for microorganisms and common viruses that afflict humans have been generated and are provided with the tools. As a lightweight tool, fastv accepts FASTQ data as input, and directly outputs the results in both HTML and JSON formats. Prior to the k-mer analysis, fastv automatically performs adapter trimming, quality pruning, base correction, and other pre-processing to ensure the accuracy of k-mer analysis. Specifically, fastv provides built-in support for rapid SARS-CoV-2 identification and typing. Experimental results showed that fastv achieved 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting SARS-CoV-2 from sequencing data; and can distinguish SARS-CoV-2 from SARS, MERS, and other coronaviruses. This toolset is available at:https://github.com/OpenGene/fastv.
Laboratory validation of an RNA/DNA hybrid tagmentation based mNGS workflow on SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory RNA viruses detection
Authors: Wei Feili , Yu Yanhua , Hu Zhongjie , Wang Rui , Guo Xianghua , Jin Haiying , Guo Shan , Ouyang Yabo , Shi Ying , Jin Ronghua , Chen Dexi
Published: May 2020

Background: Acute respiratory infection caused by RNA viruses is still one of the main diseases all over the world such as SARS CoV 2 and Influenza A virus. mNGS was a powerful tool for ethological diagnosis. But there were some challenges during mNGS implementation in clinical settings such as time consuming manipulation and lack of comprehensive analytical validation. Methods: We set up CATCH that was a mNGS method based on RNA and DNA hybrid tagmentation via Tn5 transposon. Seven respiratory RNA viruses and three subtypes of Influenza A virus had been used to test capabilities of CATCH on detection and quantification. Analytical performance of SARS CoV 2 and Influenza A virus had been determined with reference standards. We compared accuracy of CATCH with quantitative real time PCR by using clinical 98 samples from 64 COVID19 patients. Results: We minimized the library preparation process to 3 hours and handling time to 35 minutes. Duplicate filtered RPM of 7 respiratory viruses and 3 Influenza A virus subtypes were highly correlated with viral concentration. LOD of SARS CoV 2 was 39.2 copies/test and of Influenza A virus was 278.1 copies/mL. Comparing with quantitative real time PCR, the overall accuracy of CATCH was 91.4%. Sensitivity was 84.5% and specificity was 100%. Meanwhile, there were significant difference of microbial profile in oropharyngeal swabs among critical, moderate patients and healthy controls. Conclusion: Although further optimization is needed before CATCH can be rolled out as a routine diagnostic test, we highlight the potential impact of it advancing molecular diagnostics for respiratory pathogens.
Elements at the 5′ end ofXistharbor SPEN-independent transcriptional antiterminator activity
Authors: Trotman Jackson B. , Lee David M. , Cherney Rachel E. , Kim Sue O. , Inoue Kaoru , Schertzer Megan D. , Bischoff Steven R. , Cowley Dale O. , Calabrese J. Mauro
Published: May 2020

TheXistlncRNA requires Repeat A, a conserved RNA element located in its 5′ end, to induce gene silencing during X-chromosome inactivation. Intriguingly, Repeat A is also required for the production ofXist. While silencing by Repeat A requires the protein SPEN, how Repeat A promotesXistproduction remains unclear. We report that in mouse embryonic stem cells, expression of a transgene comprising the first two kilobases ofXist(Xist-2kb) causes transcriptional readthrough of multiple downstream polyadenylation sequences. Readthrough required Repeat A and the ~750 nucleotides downstream but did not require SPEN. Despite associating with SPEN and chromatin,Xist-2kb did not robustly silence transcription, whereas a transgene comprisingXist’s first 5.5 kilobases robustly silenced transcription and read through its polyadenylation sequence. Longer, splicedXisttransgenes also induced robust silencing yet terminated efficiently. Thus, in contexts examined here,Xistrequires sequence elements beyond its first two kilobases to robustly silence transcription, and the 5′ end ofXistharbors SPEN-independent transcriptional antiterminator activity that can repress proximal cleavage and polyadenylation. In endogenous contexts, this antiterminator activity may help produce full-lengthXistRNA while rendering theXistlocus resistant to silencing by the same repressive complexes that the lncRNA recruits to other genes.
Phthiocerol dimycocerosates fromMycobacterium tuberculosisincrease the membrane activity of bacterial effectors and host receptors
Authors: Augenstreich Jacques , Haanappel Evert , Sayes Fadel , Simeone Roxane , Guillet Valérie , Mazeres Serge , Chalut Christian , Mourey Lionel , Brosch Roland , Guilhot Christophe , Astarie-Dequeker Catherine
Published: May 2020

Mycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) synthesizes a variety of atypical lipids that are exposed at the cell surface and help the bacterium infect macrophages and escape elimination by the cell’s immune responses. In the present study, we investigate the mechanism of action of one family of hydrophobic lipids, the phthiocerol dimycocerosates (DIM/PDIM), major lipid virulence factors. DIM are transferred from the envelope ofMtbto host membranes during infection. Using the polarity-sensitive fluorophore C-Laurdan, we visualized that DIM increase the membrane polarity of a supported lipid bilayer put in contact with mycobacteria, even beyond the site of contact. We observed that DIM activate the complement receptor 3, a predominant receptor for phagocytosis ofMtbby macrophages. DIM also increased the activity of membrane-permeabilizing effectors ofMtb, among which the virulence factor EsxA. This is consistent with previous observations that DIM helpMtbdisrupt host cell membranes. Taken together, our data show that transferred DIM spread within the target membrane, remodel lipid organization and increase the activity of host cell receptors and bacterial effectors, diverting in a nonspecific manner host cell functions. We therefore bring new insight into the molecular mechanisms by which DIM increaseMtb’scapability to escape the cell’s immune responses.
A single point mutation in thePlasmodium falciparum ftsh1metalloprotease confers actinonin resistance
Authors: Goodman Christopher D , Uddin Taher , Spillman Natalie J , McFadden Geoffrey I
Published: May 2020

The antibiotic actinonin kills malaria parasites (Plasmodium falciparum) by interfering with apicoplast function. Early evidence suggested that actinonin inhibited prokaryote-like post-translational modification in the apicoplast; mimicking its activity against bacteria. However, Amberg Johnson et al. (2017) identified the metalloproteaseTgFtsH1 as the target of actinonin in the related parasiteToxoplasma gondiiand implicated actinonin in the inhibition ofP. falciparumgrowth. The authors were not, however, able to recover actinonin resistant malaria parasites, leaving the specific target of actinonin uncertain. We generated actinonin resistantP. falciparumbyin vitroselection and identified a specific sequence change inPfftsH1associated with resistance. Re-Introduction of this point mutation using CRISPr-Cas9 allelic replacement was sufficient to confer actinonin resistance inP. falciparum. Our data unequivocally identifiesPfFtsH1 as the target of actinonin and suggests that actinonin should not be included in the highly valuable collection of “irresistible” drugs for combatting malaria.
A new paradigm for Prelamin A proteolytic processing by ZMPSTE24: the upstream SY^LL cleavage occurs first and there is no CaaX processing by ZMPSTE24
Authors: Nie Laiyin , Spear Eric , Babatz Timothy D. , Quigley Andrew , Dong Yin Yao , Chu Amy , Rotty Bérénice , Chalk Rod , Mukhopadhyay Shubhashish M.M. , Burgess-Brown Nicola A. , Pike Ashley C.W. , Young Stephen G. , Michaelis Susan , Carpenter Elisabeth P.
Published: May 2020

Human ZMPSTE24, an integral membrane zinc metalloprotease, is required for conversion of prelamin A to mature lamin A, a component of the nuclear lamina and failure of this processing causes premature ageing disorders. ZMPSTE24 has also been implicated in both type 2 diabetes mellitus and in viral-host response mechanisms, but to date its only confirmed substrate is the precursor for lamin A. Prelamin A is thought to undergo four C-terminal post-translational modifications in the following order: farnesylation, SIM tripeptide cleavage, carboxymethylation and upstream “SY^LL” cleavage. Here we present evidence that the sequence of events does not follow the accepted dogma. We assessed cleavage of long human prelamin A sequence peptides by purified human ZMPSTE24 combined with FRET and mass spectrometry to detect products. Surprisingly, we found that the “SY^LL” cleavage occurs before and independent of the C-terminal CSIM modifications. We also found that ZMPSTE24 does not perform the predicted C^SIM tripeptide cleavage, but rather it removes an IM dipeptide. ZMPSTE24 can perform a tripeptide cleavage with a canonical CaaX box (C: cysteine; a: aliphatic; X: any residue), but the C-terminus of prelamin A is not a true CaaX sequence. Regardless of the C-terminal modifications of prelamin A, ZMPSTE24 can perform upstream SY^LL cleavage, thus removing the unwanted farnesylated C-terminus. Therefore, it is failure of SY^LL cleavage, not the C-terminal processing that is the likely cause of progeroid disorders.
Delayed global feedback in the genesis and stability of spatiotemporal patterns in paced biological excitable media
Authors: Song Zhen , Qu Zhilin
Published: May 2020

A multi-scale approach was used to investigate the roles of delayed global feedback (DGF) in the genesis and stability of spatiotemporal patterns in periodically-paced excitable media. Patterns that are temporal period-2 (P2) and spatially concordant (in-phase) or discordant (out-of-phase) were investigated. First, simulations were carried out using a generic spatiotemporal model composed of coupled FitzHugh-Nagumo units with DGF. When DGF is absent, concordant and discordant P2 patterns occur depending on initial conditions. The discordant P2 patterns are spatially random. When the DGF is negative, only concordant P2 patterns exist. When the DGF is positive, both concordant and discordant P2 patterns can occur. The discordant P2 patterns are still spatially random, but they satisfy that the global signal exhibits a temporal period-1 behavior. Second, to validate the spatiotemporal dynamics in a biological system, simulations were carried out using a 3-dimensional physiologically detailed ventricular myocyte model. This model can well capture the intracellular calcium release patterns widely observed in experiments. The properties of DGF were altered by changing ionic currents or clamping voltage. The spatiotemporal pattern dynamics of calcium release in this model match precisely with those of the generic model. Finally, theoretical analyses were carried out using a coupled map lattice model with DGF, which reveals the instabilities and bifurcations leading to the spatiotemporal dynamics and provides a general mechanistic understanding of the role of DGF in the genesis, selection, and stability of spatiotemporal patterns in paced excitable media.

Author Summary

Understanding the mechanisms of pattern formation in biological systems is of great importance. Here we investigate the dynamical mechanisms by which delayed global feedback affects pattern formation and stability in periodically-paced biological excitable media, such as cardiac or neural cells and tissue. We focus on the formation and stability of the temporal period-2 and spatially in-phase and out-of-phase patterns. Using a multi-scale modeling approach, we show that when the delayed global feedback is negative, only the spatially in-phase patterns are stable; when the feedback is positive, both spatially in-phase and out-of-phase patterns are stable. Also, under the positive feedback, the out-of-phase patterns are spatially random but satisfy that the global signals are temporal period-1 solutions.
Towards a translationally-independent RNA-based synthetic oscillator using deactivated CRISPR-Cas
Authors: Kuo James , Yuan Ruoshi , Sánchez Carlos , Paulsson Johan , Silver Pamela A.
Published: May 2020

In synthetic circuits, CRISPR-Cas systems have been used effectively for endpoint changes from an initial state to a final state, such as in logic gates. Here, we use deactivated Cas9 (dCas9) and deactivated Cas12a (dCas12a) to construct dynamic RNA ring oscillators that cycle continuously between states over time in bacterial cells. While our dCas9 circuits using 103-nucleotide guide RNAs showed irregular fluctuations with a wide distribution of peak-to-peak period lengths averaging ∼9 generations, a dCas12a oscillator design with 40-nucleotide CRISPR RNAs performed much better, having a strongly repressed off-state, distinct autocorrelation function peaks, and an average peak-to-peak period length of ∼7.5 generations. Along with free-running oscillator circuits, we measure repression response times in open-loop systems with inducible RNA steps to compare with oscillator period times. We track thousands of cells for 24+ hours at the single-cell level using a microfluidic device. In creating a circuit with nearly translationally-independent behavior, as the RNAs control each others’ transcription, we present the possibility for a synthetic oscillator generalizable across many organisms and readily linkable for transcriptional control.
Structure variations within RSi2 and R
2Si3 silicides. Part II. Structure driving factors
Authors: Nentwich M. , Zschornak M. , Sonntag M. , Gumeniuk R. , Gemming S. , Leisegang T. , Meyer D. C.
Published: May 2020

To gain an overview of the various structure reports on RSi2 and R
2
TSi3 compounds (R is a member of the Sc group, an alkaline earth, lanthanide or actinide metal, T is a transition metal), compositions, lattice parameters a and c, ratios c/a, formula units per unit cell, and structure types are summarized in extensive tables and the variations of these properties when varying the R or T elements are analyzed. Following the structural systematization given in Part I, Part II focuses on revealing the driving factors for certain structure types, in particular, the electronic structure. Here, concepts of different complexity are presented, including molecular orbital theory, the principle of hard and soft acids and bases, and a Bader analysis based on Density Functional Theory calculations for representatives of the reported structure types. The potential Si/T ordering in different structures is discussed. Additionally, the influences from intrinsic and extrinsic properties (e.g. elemental size and electronics as well as lattice parameters and structure type) are investigated on each other using correlation plots. Thermal treatment is identified as an important factor for the ordering of Si/T atoms.
Landscaping health-care system using functional records management activities
Authors: Marutha Ngoako Solomon
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The paper sought to investigate the landscaping of electronic system through the use of the functional patient’s records management activities. The rationale is to share views and guide organisations that are struggling with providing specification for a functional records management system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used qualitative approach to apply the literature in supporting the views about landscaping electronic system using functional patient’s records management activities.

Findings

The study revealed that without consideration of records management activities the likelihood is that the system may be not properly functional. The best way to landscape electronic system for records management is using records management activities. This will assist in avoiding critical omission for inclusion of all records management system operational activities.

Originality/value

The paper is proposing a new way of landscaping the electronic system by using the records management functional activities. It also provides a framework to guide the implementers or electronic system developers. The paper was partially extracted from the author’s Ph.D. thesis completed in 2016, to develop a framework for landscaping the electronic system by using the records management functional activities.
Exploring strategic CSR communication on UAE banks' corporate websites
Authors: Georgiadou Effrosyni , Nickerson Catherine
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Communicating CSR through corporate websites is one of the most effective ways for organizations to inform and engage stakeholders, earn legitimacy and reap the intangible and tangible benefits of practicing CSR. However, in emerging economies in the Middle East, online CSR disclosure remains limited while corporate websites are not used effectively as strategic tools. This study explores online CSR communication (CSRC) by banks in the dynamic, emerging economy of the United Arab Emirates.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an adaptation of the analytical framework used by Chaudhri and Wang (2007) to examine the prominence and extent of the CSR information on the corporate websites of domestic and global banks in the UAE. It further compares domestic and global banks' CSRC patterns as well as domestic/government-owned versus private banks and conventional versus Islamic banks.

Findings

About 70% of the domestic banks in the UAE provide information about their CSR activities. CSR information is moderately to highly prominent for the majority of the domestic banks, but the extent of the information presented is minimal (1–2 pages). Domestic/government-owned and conventional banks communicate their CSR more prominently and extensively than private and Islamic banks. Domestic/government-owned banks tend to follow the CSRC patterns observed in global banks.

Originality/value

Despite the increasingly important role of the United Arab Emirates within the Middle East as well as on the global business arena, very little is known about whether and how companies in the country approach CSR. This is the first study focusing on CSRC within the entirety of a single business sector within the United Arab Emirates.
Invention commercialization among Russian scientists: bridging the gap between ideational and material realms
Authors: Sadigov Turkhan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, the article explores an understudied side of invention commercialization–the rejection of business as something “dirty” among Russian scientists. As such, the paper contributes to the individual-level explanations of innovation promotion, hence balancing extant literature's excessive focus on institutional explanations. Second, the article suggests that Russian scientists' rejection of business is rooted in broader Russian work ethics rift between “material” and “ideational” aspects of life. As such, the paper shows how dominant collective values refract in the management practice of specific social class, i.e. of scientists.

Design/methodology/approach

To analyze the rift between material and ideational aspects of Russian scientists' work, the article employs directed content analysis (DCA) of in-depth interviews with 45 Russian scholars. To address credibility bias of the research findings stemming from DCA, I further draw on the survey of existing studies, researches and polls highlighting Russian population attitudes toward the dichotomy between “material” and “ideal” realms.

Findings

This study argues that Russian scientists' likelihood of invention commercialization is positively associated with their ability to integrate in a personal psyche business and science as equally valuable facets of life.

Originality/value

The article identifies the three groups of scientists – opportunity-seekers, idealists and integrators – with different attitudes to invention commercialization. The article shows how policymakers should apply institutional incentives differently to each group of scientists to achieve higher rates of invention commercialization.
Competitive capabilities in knowledge-intensive services firms: strategic advantages of born globals in a peripheral region
Authors: Muñoz Guarasa Marta , Fischer Bruno Brandão
Published: May 2020

Purpose

While the born global (BG) phenomenon has been well established in the literature, studies on accelerated internationalization of firms in the service sector have been scarce, particularly for the specific case of knowledge-intensive services (KIS). The purpose of this paper is to explore which competitive characteristics differentiate KIS BGs from other KIS firms in the context of a peripheral region.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical focus of this study comprehends primary survey data from 250 Spanish KIS firms (Andalusia) that have been internationalized and analyzed through ordinal and ordinary least squares regressions. The authors address the “born-global effect” on five features of interest, namely, entry mode, technological capabilities, qualification of staff, external resources and quality of services.

Findings

Results suggest that KIS BGs in Andalusia perceive exports as a more relevant form of internationalization than its non-BG peers. Also, KIS BGs in Andalusia present higher levels of technological intensity. Differences in terms of staff qualification, access to extramural R&D resources and the quality of services could not be identified.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this research concerns its cross-sectional character, thus hindering the evaluation of developmental trajectories taking place in the cohort under scrutiny. Such an approach would allow a better comprehension of the competitiveness dynamics in internationalized KIS firms. Also, because this assessment is geographically restricted to Andalusia, Spain, the authors recommend caution in establishing direct comparisons and appropriation of results for other regional/national contexts.

Practical implications

Recommendations for public policy include establishing the necessary infrastructures to encourage the technological development of KIS companies and provide support – through export promotion agencies, for instance – for early approximation with foreign markets. Taking into account the contributions of KIS firms for the development of a peripheral economy, this involves the need to establish instruments that provide strategic information to internationalize, as well as lines of funding for these companies.

Originality/value

Empirical evidence on KIS BGs is needed to fully grasp its differences to other internationalized service firms. The analysis within this specific domain represents an advance in the literature on this subject. Also, the context of peripheral regions – considering their economic differences to core areas – has been understudied. The elaboration and application of the survey have allowed the authors to have access to primary in-depth data and, therefore, to build a better understanding of KIS BGs in Andalusia, Spain.
Relationship between personality traits and digital literacy skills: a study of university librarians
Authors: Ahmed Shamshad , Rasheed Tariq
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between personality traits and digital literacy skills among university librarians of Punjab, Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

Five research hypotheses were established to achieve the study objectives. Two instruments; namely, “big five inventory (BFI)” scale of personality traits and a structured questionnaire of digital literacy skills (library literacy, computer literacy, tool literacy, information retrieval literacy and research support literacy) were used to collect the data. Pearson correlation test and correlation research design were used to examine the relationship between digital literacy skills and personality traits of university librarians.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed significant relationships between personality traits and all digital literacy skills. The study concluded that librarians having the extraversion trait are more inclined toward digital literacy skills and they can perform well in the libraries as compared to professionals with other traits.

Research limitations/implications

This study measures the digital literacy skills among the librarians of “higher education commission” recognized universities of Punjab, Pakistan. The study conclusions and findings are limited in scope to only the librarians of these universities. Such topic has no previous research.

Practical implications

This study has practical implication for university libraries, library associations, librarians and library professionals. The results of the study are also useful for librarians to acquire digital literacy skills, which are necessary in the current digital environment to manage the libraries.

Social implications

Library professionals can get digital literacy skills to face the challenges of digital age.

Originality/value

Some researchers examined the relationship of personality traits with the social networking sites, internet addiction, knowledge sharing behavior, information seeking behavior and academic performance. This study in particular identified the relationship of personality traits with the digital literacy skills, which are essential for managing the libraries. It helps libraries to find suitable library professionals and also help managers in assigning the duties based on these personality traits and digital literacy skills.
Age-specific survival in prostate cancer using machine learning
Authors: Doja M.N. , Kaur Ishleen , Ahmad Tanvir
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The incidence of prostate cancer is increasing from the past few decades. Various studies have tried to determine the survival of patients, but metastatic prostate cancer is still not extensively explored. The survival rate of metastatic prostate cancer is very less compared to the earlier stages. The study aims to investigate the survivability of metastatic prostate cancer based on the age group to which a patient belongs, and the difference between the significance of the attributes for different age groups.

Design/methodology/approach

Data of metastatic prostate cancer patients was collected from a cancer hospital in India. Two predictive models were built for the analysis-one for the complete dataset, and the other for separate age groups. Machine learning was applied to both the models and their accuracies were compared for the analysis. Also, information gain for each model has been evaluated to determine the significant predictors for each age group.

Findings

The ensemble approach gave the best results of 81.4% for the complete dataset, and thus was used for the age-specific models. The results concluded that the age-specific model had the direct average accuracy of 83.74% and weighted average accuracy of 79.9%, with the highest accuracy levels for age less than 60.

Originality/value

The study developed a model that predicts the survival of metastatic prostate cancer based on age. The study will be able to assist the clinicians in determining the best course of treatment for each patient based on ECOG, age and comorbidities.
Automatic evaluation of online learning interaction content using domain concepts
Authors: Wu Di , Wu Lei , Palmer Alexis , Kinshuk Dr , Zhou Peng
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Interaction content is created during online learning interaction for the exchanged information to convey experience and share knowledge. Prior studies have mainly focused on the quantity of online learning interaction content (OLIC) from the perspective of types or frequency, resulting in a limited analysis of the quality of OLIC. Domain concepts as the highest form of interaction are shown as entities or things that are particularly relevant to the educational domain of an online course. The purpose of this paper is to explore a new method to evaluate the quality of OLIC using domain concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a novel approach to automatically evaluate the quality of OLIC regarding relevance, completeness and usefulness. A sample of OLIC corpus is classified and evaluated based on domain concepts and textual features.

Findings

Experimental results show that random forest classifiers not only outperform logistic regression and support vector machines but also their performance is improved by considering the quality dimensions of relevance and completeness. In addition, domain concepts contribute to improving the performance of evaluating OLIC.

Research limitations/implications

This paper adopts a limited sample to train the classification models. It has great benefits in monitoring students’ knowledge performance, supporting teachers’ decision-making and even enhancing the efficiency of school management.

Originality/value

This study extends the research of domain concepts in quality evaluation, especially in the online learning domain. It also has great potential for other domains.
An integrated understanding of academics knowledge sharing behaviour
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Abdel Fattah Fadi Abdel Muniem , Hassan Hasliza , Haque Tayeenul
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the underlying functions of sense of spirituality (SS), emotional intelligence (EI) and perceived work environment (PWE) towards knowledge sharing behaviour (KSB) among the academic staff of higher learning institutions (HLIs) through a comparative investigation. This study extends the investigation by examining the relationship between SS and KSB through the mediating role of EI. The moderating role of PWE between SS and KSB was also tested.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprised 300 responses from 150 Bangladeshi and 150 Malaysian academic staff of public and private HLIs. Convenient sampling tools were used. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse the proposed model and hypotheses. The study explains the differences and similarities in KSB practices concerning SS, EI and PWE of the academic staff from the two countries’ HLIs.

Findings

The results support the direct positive effects of SS on KSB. The two data sets also support the indirect effects of SS on KSB through the mediation of EI. However, the results indicate that SS only promoted KSB among individuals with high levels of PWE in their respective institutions. For individuals with low levels of PWE, SS did not affect KSB.

Practical implications

The management of HLIs should engage their experiences and those of newly hired academic staff in the KSB process. However, in facilitating KSB culture among the academic staff, HLIs need to foster the staff’s SS, which ultimately improvises the EI to strongly influence KSB. The management of HLIs understands that SS may be inefficient in promoting KSB among employees with low PWE. Authorities of HLIs need to facilitate a quality work environment to enhance the association between SS and KSB.

Originality/value

This study is one of the initial attempts to investigate KSB by considering SS, EI and PWE in the context of Bangladesh and Malaysia HLIs. The findings of the study can serve as inputs to HLIs in developing best practices across KSB dimensions and improving academic staff performance.
Magnus effect for roll-decoupled canards on a spinning body of revolution
Authors: Klatt Daniel , Mielke Alina , Mundt Christian
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Spinning slender bodies are affected by lateral Magnus forces and moments when exposed to cross-flow. The effects occurring for spinning bodies of revolution in combination with stabilising or control surfaces such as canards are not yet fully explained. Therefore the present work aims to investigate the phenomena arising from the interactions of a roll-decoupled guidance unit with a spinning rear body are investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A generic tangential-ogive-cylinder projectile equipped with deflectable canards on a roll-decoupled nose is investigated by means of 3D Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes simulations at Mach number 2 for angles of attack up to 22 degrees. Different canard deflection angles up to 9 degrees are considered. Global aerodynamic coefficients as well as local flow fields are analysed to explain the interactions occurring between the roll-decoupled guidance unit and the spinning rear body.

Findings

The deflected canards lead to flow interactions resulting in lateral forces and moments even without a spinning motion of the rear part. Depending on the canard deflection angles, these forces act in or against the direction of the classical Magnus effect. For angles of attack smaller than 10 degrees it is possible for the current body geometry to directly superpose the lateral effects resulting from the fins for the non-spinning model with those occurring for the non-finned but spinning model to obtain the total forces and moments acting on a spinning model with canted canards. However, the lateral effects generated on the guidance unit itself are insignificant compared to the canard-induced effects on the rear body.

Originality/value

A detailed analysis of the interaction effects arising from a decoupled guidance unit containing canards with a non-spinning/spinning rear body is performed and the underlying phenomena are revealed.
A statistical approach to identify asynchronous extreme events for multi-regional energy system models
Authors: Minh Khuong Phuong , Ü. Yilmaz Hasan , McKenna Russell , Keles Dogan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

With the growing deployment of variable renewable energy sources, such as wind and PV and the increasing interconnection of the power grid, multi-regional energy system models (ESMs) are increasingly challenged by the growth of model complexity. Therefore, the need for developing ESMs, which are realistic but also solvable with acceptable computational resources without losing output accuracy, arises. The purpose of this study is to propose a statistical approach to investigate asynchronous extreme events for different regions and then assess their ability to keep the output accuracy at the level of the full-resolution case.

Design/methodology/approach

To extract the extreme events from the residual demands, the paper focuses on analyzing the tail of the residual demand distributions by using statistical approaches. The extreme events then are implemented in an ESM to assess the effect of them in protecting the accuracy of the output compared with the full-resolution output.

Findings

The results show that extreme-high and fluctuation events are the most important events to be included in data input to maintain the flexibility output of the model when reducing the resolution. By including these events into the reduced data input, the output's accuracy reaches the level of 99.1% compared to full resolution case, while reducing the execution time by 20 times.

Originality/value

Moreover, including extreme-fluctuation along with extreme-high in the reduced data input helps the ESM to avoid misleading investment in conventional and low-efficient generators.
Leading with humility in tumultuous times: evidence from the United States
Authors: McClellan Sara
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Wicked problems, cross-sectoral and transregional collaborations, emerging technologies and calls for innovation generate exciting but unpredictable transformations in governance. Emerging research suggests humility, rather than certitude, represents a promising ethos for public leaders working to solve problems in tumultuous times. This study examines the nature, value and practice of humility in public administration (PA) leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews cross-disciplinary research on the nature and value of humility and emerging findings and debates on humility assessment measures. It analyzes discourse among graduate students in US PA classes and uses ethnographic analysis from workshops with local government leaders to identify institutional dynamics that may influence leaders' willingness to act with humility.

Findings

Findings suggest that although PA students and leaders may value humility, they encounter institutional constraints related to public sector legitimacy and narratives about expertise and risk. The author proposes a framework to guide future research and practice in humility and public leadership.

Research limitations/implications

Potential constraints emerged from a modest study of courses and workshops; further research is required to test the prevalence of themes across public leadership environments.

Practical implications

Public leaders, teachers and coaches may apply these practices and assessment measures to cultivate humility in PA classes and organizations.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to explore leadership humility with attention to how PA context may influence practice.
Does slowness bring social change through Cittaslow?
Authors: Kucukergin Fulden Nuray , Ozturk Yuksel
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The preservation of social structure in slow cities has not been adequately examined in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine social change perceptions of local people in a slow city. Whether the dimensions of social change differ according to gender and inhabitancy was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Multivariate analysis of variances was used for data analysis. Data were collected from 399 participants in Seferihisar.

Findings

Results showed that the perception of local people related to social change differs according to their gender and duration of stay in Seferihisar. Differences were also examined for each sub-dimension of social change.

Originality/value

The preservation of social structure in slow cities has not been adequately examined in the literature. Accordingly, this study explores social change with five sub-dimensions in the context of Cittaslow.
Measurement of roller chain wear lubricated with palm oil-based hexagonal boron nitride nanoparticles
Authors: Amiruddin Hilmi , Abdollah Mohd Fadzli Bin , Mohamad Nizar Muhamad Aliff Danial
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to introduce a novel technique which helped in quantifying the wear performance of a roller chain which was lubricated by using the palm oil-based hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanoparticles (nano-biolubricant).

Design/methodology/approach

The efficiency of the nano-biolubricant was evaluated by using a custom-made roller chain tribometer, at different resistance torque values at a constant speed and running time. Prior to the test, 2 different lubrication conditions were applied. The mass loss and elongation behaviour of a roller chain was selected as a degradation metric for monitoring the amount of the chain wear. The predominant wear mechanism of a roller chain was identified by surface morphological analysis.

Findings

Regardless of the lubrication conditions, the wear performance of the roller chain was significantly increased, at increasing resistance torque values. Higher wear was noted when the roller chain was lubricated using a nano-biolubricant, however, the wear curve showed a promising high chain life. The predominant wear mechanism involved is abrasive wear.

Originality/value

Although an increase in the elongation during running is based on the wear between the pins and roller, none of the earlier studies quantified the wear performance of a roller chain under differing lubrication conditions. Hence, for bridging the gap, this study described a new method for measuring the wear performance of the roller chain which was lubricated using the palm oil-based hBN nanoparticles or a nano-biolubricant.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2020-0061/