bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How many lives do COVID vaccines save? Evidence from Israel
Authors: Arbel Ronen , Moore Candace Makeda , Sergienko Ruslan , Pliskin Joseph
Published: October 2021

Background

In December 2020, Israel began a mass vaccination program with the rapid rollout of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 BNT162b2 vaccine for adults in Israel. The campaign vaccinated fewer people than necessary for herd immunity. However, at the same time, government stringency measures in terms of closing public life were decreased. Real-world observational data were used to examine the effect of mass vaccination on Covid-19 mortality.

Methods

The study period to examine the effect of vaccination on mortality was chosen to capture when at least 90% of the population over age 70 were vaccinated for less than seven months. Projected deaths as expected from vaccine efficacy and actual mortality data were compared for the study population with examination of potential confounding effects of government stringency. Average government stringency (Oxford Stringency Index) was calculated in the study period and the preceding period of the pandemic. Potential confounding effects of an age shift in the distribution of deaths were examined by analyzing the distributions of deaths and cases before and after the study period.

Results

Confirmed deaths from COVID-19 in the population over 70 after mass vaccination were recorded as 370, versus 408 expected from applying person-days of vaccine efficacy, and 5,120 estimated without vaccinations.

Conclusions

Vaccines against COVID-19 saved more lives than expected by simply applying individual vaccine efficacy to the vaccinated population in Israel, despite a loosening of government stringency.
NHR-23 activity is necessary forC. elegansdevelopmental progression and apical extracellular matrix structure and function
Authors: Johnson Londen C. , Vo An A. , Clancy John C. , Myles Krista M. , Pooranachithra Murugesan , Aguilera Joseph , Levenson Max T. , Wohlenberg Chloe , Rechtsteiner Andreas , Ragle James Matthew , Chisholm Andrew D. , Ward Jordan D.
Published: October 2021

SUMMARY STATEMENT

This work shows how aC. eleganstranscription factor controls remodeling of the apical extracellular matrix during development and in which tissues it acts.

Nematode molting is a remarkable process where animals must repeatedly build a new apical extracellular matrix (aECM) beneath a previously built aECM that is subsequently shed. The nuclear hormone receptor NHR-23/NR1F1 is an important regulator ofC. elegansmolting. NHR-23 expression oscillates in the epidermal epithelium, and soma-specific NHR-23 depletion causes severe developmental delay and death. Tissue-specific RNAi suggests thatnhr-23acts primarily in seam and hypodermal cells. NHR-23 coordinates the expression of factors involved in molting, lipid transport/metabolism, and remodeling of the aECM. NHR-23 depletion causes dampened expression of anas-37promoter reporter and a loss of reporter oscillation. The cuticle collagen ROL-6 and zona pellucida protein NOAH-1 display aberrant annular localization and severe disorganization over the seam cells following NHR-23 depletion, while the expression of the adult-specific cuticle collagen BLI-1 is diminished and frequently found in patches. Consistent with these localization defects, the cuticle barrier is severely compromised when NHR-23 is depleted. Together, this work provides insight into how NHR-23 acts in the seam and hypodermal cells to coordinate aECM regeneration during development.
Mechanisms Governing Target Search and Binding Dynamics of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors
Authors: Chen Yu , Cattoglio Claudia , Dailey Gina , Zhu Qiulin , Tjian Robert , Darzacq Xavier
Published: October 2021

Transcription factors (TFs) are classically attributed a modular construction, containing well-structured sequence specific DNA-binding domains (DBDs) paired with disordered activation domains (ADs) responsible for protein-protein interactions targeting cofactors or the core transcription initiation machinery. However, this simple division of labor model struggles to explain why TFs with identical DNA binding sequence specificity determined in vitro exhibit distinct binding profiles in vivo. The family of Hypoxia-Inducible Factors (HIFs) offer a stark example: aberrantly expressed in several cancer types, HIF-1α and HIF-2α subunit isoforms recognize the same DNA motif in vitro – the hypoxia response element (HRE) – but only share a subset of their target genes in vivo, while eliciting contrasting effects on cancer development and progression under certain circumstances. To probe the mechanisms mediating isoform-specific gene regulation, we used live cell single particle tracking (SPT) to investigate HIF nuclear dynamics and how they change upon genetic perturbation or drug treatment. We found that HIF-α subunits and their dimerization partner HIF-1β exhibit distinct diffusion and binding characteristics that are exquisitely sensitive to concentration and subunit stoichiometry. Using domain-swap variants, mutations, and a HIF-2α specific inhibitor, we found that although the DBD and dimerization domains are important, a major determinant of chromatin binding and diffusion behavior is the AD-containing intrinsically disordered region (IDR). Using Cut&Run and RNA-seq as orthogonal genomic approaches we also confirmed IDR-dependent binding and activation of a specific subset of HIF-target genes. These findings reveal a previously unappreciated role of IDRs in regulating the TF search and binding process that contribute to functional target site selectivity on chromatin.
Colloidal physics modeling reveals how per-ribosome productivity increases with growth rate inE. coli
Authors: Maheshwari Akshay J. , Sunol Alp M. , Gonzalez Emma , Endy Drew , Zia Roseanna N.
Published: October 2021

Faster growing cells must synthesize proteins more quickly. Increased ribosome abundance only partly accounts for increases in total protein synthesis rates. The productivity of individual ribosomes must increase too, almost doubling by an unknown mechanism. Prior models point to diffusive transport as a limiting factor but surface a paradox: faster growing cells are more crowded, yet crowding slows diffusion. We suspected physical crowding, transport, and stoichiometry, considered together, might reveal a more nuanced explanation. To investigate, we built a first-principles physics-based model ofE. colicytoplasm in which Brownian motion and diffusion arise directly from physical interactions between individual molecules of finite size, density, and physiological abundance. Using our microscopically-detailed model, we predict that physical transport of individual ternary complexes accounts for ~80% of translation elongation latency. We also find that volumetric crowding increases at faster growth even as cytoplasmic mass density remains relatively constant. Despite slowed diffusion, we predict that improved proximity between ternary complexes and ribosomes wins out, illustrating a simple physics-based mechanism for how individual elongating ribosomes become more productive. We speculate how crowding imposes a physical limit on growth rate and undergirds cellular behavior more broadly. Unfitted colloidal-scale modeling offers systems biology a complementary “physics engine” for exploring how cellular-scale behaviors arise from physical transport and reactions among individual molecules.
Biochemical characterization of a glycoside hydrolase family 43 β-D-galactofuranosidase from the fungus Aspergillus niger
Authors: Bulmer Gregory S. , Yuen Fang Wei , Begum Naimah , Jones Bethan S. , Flitsch Sabine L. , Munster Jolanda M. van
Published: October 2021

β-D-Galactofuranose (Galf) and its polysaccharides are found in bacteria, fungi and protozoa but do not occur in mammalian tissues, and thus represent a specific target for anti-pathogenic drugs. Understanding the enzymatic degradation of these polysaccharides is therefore of great interest, but the identity of fungal enzymes with exclusively galactofuranosidase activity has so far remained elusive. Here we describe the identification and characterization of a galactofuranosidase from the industrially important fungus Aspergillus niger. Phylogenetic analysis of glycoside hydrolase family 43 subfamily 34 (GH43_34) members revealed the occurrence of three distinct clusters and, by comparison with specificities of characterized bacterial members, suggested a basis for prediction of enzyme specificity. Using this rationale, in tandem with molecular docking, we identified a putative β-D-galactofuranosidase from A. niger which was recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli. The Galf-specific hydrolase, encoded by xynD demonstrates maximum activity at pH 5, 25 °C towards 4-Nitrophenyl-β-galactofuranoside (pNP-β-Galf), with a Km of 17.9 ± 1.9 mM and Vmax of 70.6 ± 5.3 μmol min−1. The characterization of this first fungal GH43 galactofuranosidase offers further molecular insight into the degradation of Galf-containing structures and may inform clinical treatments against fungal pathogens.
Impact of protein conformational diversity on AlphaFold predictions
Authors: Saldaño Tadeo , Escobedo Nahuel , Marchetti Julia , Zea Diego Javier , Mac Donagh Juan , Velez Rueda Ana Julia , Gonik Eduardo , Melani Agustina García , Novomisky Nechcoff Julieta , Salas Martín N. , Peters Tomás , Demitroff Nicolás , Fernandez Alberti Sebastian , Palopoli Nicolas , Fornasari Maria Silvina , Parisi Gustavo
Published: October 2021

After the outstanding breakthrough of AlphaFold in predicting protein 3D models, new questions appeared and remain unanswered. The ensemble nature of proteins, for example, challenges the structural prediction methods because the models should represent a set of conformers instead of single structures. The evolutionary and structural features captured by effective deep learning techniques may unveil the information to generate several diverse conformations from a single sequence. Here we address the performance of AlphaFold2 predictions under this ensemble paradigm. Using a curated collection of apo-holo conformations, we found that AlphaFold2 predicts the holo form of a protein in 70% of the cases, being unable to reproduce the observed conformational diversity with an equivalent error than in the estimation of a single conformation. More importantly, we found that AlphaFold2’s performance worsens with the increasing conformational diversity of the studied protein. This impairment is related to the heterogeneity in the degree of conformational diversity found between different members of the homologous family of the protein under study. Finally, we found that main-chain flexibility associated with apo-holo pairs of conformers negatively correlates with the predicted local model quality score plDDT, indicating that plDDT values in a single 3D model could be used to infer local conformational changes linked to ligand binding transitions.
Map7D2 and Map7D1 facilitate microtubule stabilization through distinct mechanisms in neuronal cells
Authors: Kikuchi Koji , Sakamoto Yasuhisa , Uezu Akiyoshi , Yamamoto Hideyuki , Ishiguro Kei-ichiro , Shimamura Kenji , Saito Taro , Hisanaga Shin-ichi , Nakanishi Hiroyuki
Published: October 2021

Microtubule (MT) dynamics are modulated through the coordinated action of various MT-associated proteins (MAPs). However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying MT dynamics remain unclear. We show that the MAP7 family protein Map7D2 stabilizes MTs to control cell motility and neurite outgrowth. Map7D2 directly bound to MTs through its N-terminal half and stabilized MTs in vitro. Map7D2 localized prominently to the centrosome and partially on MTs in mouse N1-E115 neuronal cells, which expresses two of the four MAP7 family members, Map7D2 and Map7D1. Map7D2 loss decreased the resistance to the MT-destabilizing agent, nocodazole without affecting acetylated/detyrosinated stable MTs, suggesting that Map7D2 stabilizes MTs via direct binding. In addition, Map7D2 loss increased the rate of random cell migration and neurite outgrowth, presumably by disturbing the balance between MT stabilization and destabilization. Map7D1 exhibited similar subcellular localization and gene knock-down phenotypes to Map7D2. However, in contrast to Map7D2, Map7D1 was required for the maintenance of acetylated stable MTs. Taken together, our data suggest that Map7D2 and Map7D1 facilitate MT stabilization through distinct mechanisms in cell motility and neurite outgrowth.
Hoop-like role of the cytosolic interface helix in Vibrio PomA, an ion-conducting membrane protein, in the bacterial flagellar motor
Authors: Nishikino Tatsuro , Sagara Yugo , Terashima Hiroyuki , Homma Michio , Kojima Seiji
Published: October 2021

Vibrio has a polar flagellum driven by sodium ions for swimming. The force-generating stator unit consists of PomA and PomB. PomA contains four-transmembrane regions and a cytoplasmic domain of approximately 100 residues which interacts with the rotor protein, FliG, to be important for the force generation of rotation. The three-dimensional structure of the stator shows that the cytosolic interface (CI) helix of PomA is located parallel to the inner membrane. In this study, we investigated the function of CI helix and its role as stator. Systematic proline mutagenesis showed that residues K64, F66, and M67 were important for this function. The mutant stators did not assemble around the rotor. Moreover, the growth defect caused by PomB plug deletion was suppressed by these mutations. We speculate that the mutations affect the structure of the helices extending from TM3 and TM4 and reduce the structural stability of the stator complex. This study suggests that the helices parallel to the inner membrane play important roles in various processes, such as the hoop-like function in securing the stability of the stator complex and the ion conduction pathway, which may lead to the elucidation of the ion permeation and assembly mechanism of the stator.

Importance

Bacteria have a motor embedded in the membrane to rotate flagella as screw for swimming. The motor is composed rotor and stator complexes. The interaction between the rotor and stator converts the electrochemical potential gradient across the membrane into motor torque. The stator functions as an ion channel and is composed of two membrane proteins, MotA and MotB for proton or PomA and PomB for sodium ion. Based on the structural data of stator, we systematically introduce the proline replacement mutations and found that the cytosolic interface (CI) helix which is located parallel to the inner membrane between the second and third transmembrane (TM) segments, performs a hoop-like function in securing the stability of the stator complex and the ion conduction pathway. The results of this study provide novel insights into the energy conversion mechanism of the flagellar motor and the general mechanism of the ion channel function.
Polycomb Repressive Complexes occupancy reveals PRC2-independent PRC1 critical role in the control of limb development
Authors: Guerard-Millet Fanny , Gentile Claudia , Paul Racheal , Mayran Alexandre , Kmita Marie
Published: October 2021

The Polycomb Repressive Complexes (PRC) are key players in the regulation of tissue-specific gene expression through their ability to epigenetically silence developmental genes. They are subdivided into two multicomponent complexes, PRC1 and PRC2, functioning through post-translational modifications of histone tails. A large body of work revealed functional interactions between PRC1 and PRC2, whereby trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone H3 (H3K27me3) by PRC2 contributes to the recruitment of canonical PRC1 (cPRC1). In parallel, a PRC2-independent binding of PRC1 has been uncovered and referred to as non-canonical PRC1 or variant PRC1 (vPRC1), in which PRC1-dependent ubiquitination of lysine 119 on histone H2A is involved in recruiting PRC2/propagating PRC2-dependent H3K27 trimethylation. While it was initially assumed that cPRC1 and vPRC1 bind distinct targets, subsequent evidence pointed to cPRC1 and vPRC1 sharing a significant subset of targets. How the functional interplay between PRC2, cPRC1 and vPRC1 contributes to gene regulation remains partially understood. Here, we show that, in the developing limb, PRC2 inactivation barely affects PRC1 occupancy, as the majority of PRC2- bound loci are bound by vPRC1 (RYBP-PRC1), both in wild type and PRC2 mutant limbs. Consistent with this, we found that loci bound by CBX2, a PRC1 subunit involved in the recognition of H3K27me3 and thereby recruitment of cPRC1, are, for the vast majority, also bound by vPRC1. Intriguingly, analysis of PRC2 mutant limbs revealed that while a large part of CBX2 occupancy is lost in absence of PRC2 function, as expected from the absence of H3K27me3, there is a significant number of genes retaining CBX2 occupancy as well as a few genes with apparent gain of CBX2 binding. Importantly, among these genes, 56 of them correspond to developmental genes known for playing a key role in limb morphogenesis. Based on the importance of vPRC1 in gene silencing, our findings emphasize the primary role of PRC2-independent PCR1 function in regulating developmental genes and questions the role of PRC2/cPRC1 in controlling developmental programs.
Time scale of glycation in collagen of bovine pericardium-derived bio-tissues
Authors: De Caro Liberato , Terzi Alberta , Fusaro Luca , Altamura Davide , Boccafoschi Francesca , Bunk Oliver , Giannini Cinzia
Published: October 2021

Glycosylation is the process of combining one or more glucose molecules (or other monosaccharides) with molecules of a different nature (which are therefore glycosylated). In biochemistry, glycosylation is catalyzed by several specific enzymes, and assumes considerable importance since it occurs mainly at the expense of proteins and phospholipids which are thus transformed into glycoproteins and glycolipids. Conversely, in diabetes and aging, glycation of proteins is a phenomenon of non-enzymatic nature and thus not easily controlled. Glycation of collagen distorts its structure, renders the extracellular matrix stiff and brittle and at the same time lowers the degradation susceptibility thereby preventing renewal. Based on models detailed in this paper and with parameters determined from experimental data, we describe the glycation of type 1 collagen in bovine pericardium derived bio-tissues, upon incubation in glucose and ribose. With arginine and lysine/hydroxylysine amino acids as the primary sites of glycation and assuming that the topological polar surface area of the sugar molecules determines the glycation rates, we modelled the glycation as a function of time and determined the glycation rate and thus the progression of glycation as well as the resulting volume increase.
The effect of borax addition to aluminum alloy produced by powder metallurgy on mechanical and thermophysical properties
Authors: Mutlu Rasiha Nefise , Acar Ayşe Nur , Gizir Ahmet Murat
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Lightweight, durable and economical materials production has gained considerable importance according to the needs of developing technology. The purpose of this paper is to develop an new aluminum alloy by powder metalurgy.

Design/methodology/approach

Powder metallurgy, which provides controllably on desired end product, method was applied. Aluminum alloy was created with Al, Zn, Mg, Cu powders and 1.5% Na2[B4O5(OH)4].8H2O added. It was pressed under high pressure and sintered at 600 °C under N2 gas atmosphere. Density, hardness behaviors and thermal properties were determined. Surfaces and crystal structures of samples were characterized.

Findings

The addition of borax made easier grains coming to together, acting as binders and the AlB2 crystal phase was formed. It was also observed that MgZn2, Al2CuMg phases were formed. In this way, the pores between the particles of the material were reduced from 35% to 5% total porosity and the hardness of the material was increased 29 N/mm2 to 45 N/mm2 (Brinell Hardness, HB). The surface properties improved and the hydrophobicity of the surface (from 63° to 102° contact angle with borax) increased. Thus, the heat transfer among atoms get easier and the borax addition decreased specific heat capacity and enthalpy of aluminum–borax samples. This situation was also simulated with the heat transfer module of COMSOL. As result, the energy required reduced. In the other word, sintering process occurred at low temperature and more efficient.

Originality/value

New aluminum alloy has been created from different amounts of Zn, Mg, Cu elemental powders. In addition to literature, relationship of borax and aluminum and other alloying elements on the mechanical, thermophysical and surface properties of new obtained aluminum alloy has been investigated.
Biomass as a means of achieving rural energy self-sufficiency: a concept
Authors: Vijay Vandit , Chandra Ram , Subbarao P.M.V.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To better understand bioenergy's role in sustainable rural development and cleaner environment, it is necessary to place it in a local regional context. This paper aims to provide a conceptual approach for biomass-based energy self-sufficiency in rural areas of developing and underdeveloped countries having a strong agricultural sector. It further provides a framework for the estimation of surplus biomass and bioenergy potential and the biomass power emissions in a rural area.

Design/methodology/approach

A detailed approach is laid out to attain energy self-sufficiency in rural areas encompassing identification of surplus biomass resources in a selected area, suitable conversion technologies, consideration of local end-use priorities, skill development and monitoring of the project.

Findings

Following the novel approach proposed in this paper a case study analysis for Thanagazi block (Alwar District, India) is done, and it is observed that locally available biomass in the block can substitute more than 75% of the conventional energy demand and save 78% emissions vis-à-vis equivalent coal power. This indicates that creating local bioenergy production system as a means of substituting/complementing fossil energy can contribute to a cleaner self-sufficient ecosystem.

Originality/value

Biomass is a spatio-temporal resource. Prior works have looked at bioenergy potential for national or state levels; however, granular data to reveal a more realistic outlook in a rural area is the novelty of this work. Furthermore, biomass assessment studies largely focus on crop residual biomass, whereas the present study also includes livestock manure assessment which is a major resource in rural areas. This paper highlights the need and the approach for exploring locally available biomass to meet the local energy demands for clean energy security while considering the involvement of the local population in bioenergy planning and implementation.
Performance indicators for lifecycle process of public private partnership (PPP) projects in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Suhaiza , Mohamad Rosnani , Mohd Said Julia
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper has two objectives. The first objective is to examine the important performance indicators of the lifecycle process of public private partnership (PPP) projects. The second objective is to investigate the difference in the perception of the importance of the performance indicators between the public and private sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the research objectives, the study used a questionnaire survey. The questionnaire was distributed via postal mail to officers of government departments and private sector companies who may have been involved in PPP projects. A total of 237 completed questionnaires were received, representing a 51.52% response rate. To examine the importance of performance indicators, the descriptive statistical tests of mean, standard deviation and mean score ranking were used. Independent t-tests were conducted to investigate the differences in the perceptions of the importance of performance indicators between the two respondent groups.

Findings

The findings show that all the 16 performance indicators are perceived as important and very important. The top five important performance indicators for a PPP project lifecycle process are “Time management”, “Contractual management”, “Cost management”, “Safety management” and “Effective risk management system”, while “stress or conflicts management” is the least important. In terms of the differences in the perception of the public and private sector groups, the results indicate that four indicators (“environment protection”, “cost management”, “effective risk management system” and “good work environment”), show a significant statistical difference between the perception of the public and the private sector respondents.

Originality/value

This study offers empirical evidence on key performance indicators for a PPP project that are crucial throughout its lifecycle as perceived by two key parties in a PPP contract, i.e. the public and the private sectors.
A process-based guide for international entrepreneurs while investing in the agrifood sector of an emerging economy: a multi-layer decision-making approach
Authors: Amoozad Mahdiraji Hannan , Beheshti Moein , Razavi Hajiagha Seyed Hossein , Ahmadzadeh Kandi Niloofar , Boudlaie Hasan
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Due to the political, economic and infrastructure barriers and risks that international entrepreneurs (IEs) face when researching an emerging economy's agrifood sector, this research aims to identify the major barriers, analyse their relationships, quantify their importance, classify and rank them. Thus, the IEs will gain a better understanding and vision of their decision-making processes in this era.

Design/methodology/approach

To do this, the authors first created a list of barriers to entry for IEs into Iran's rising economy's agrifood industry. Following that, a multi-layer decision-making approach was developed and implemented to accomplish the research objectives. The first stage utilized a hybrid of interpretive structural modelling (ISM) and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) to depict the level-based conceptual model and classification of the IEs’ obstacles to entry into the agrifood sector. Following that, a hybrid decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL), and analytic network process (ANP) called DANP was utilized to present a causal relationship between the barriers, identify their causes and effects, and also quantify the relevance of each barrier.

Findings

After employing the multi-layer decision-making approach, the results demonstrated that fundamental limitations, including infrastructure and technology limitations, are the most critical barriers alongside policy factors encompassing governmental support and access to global or regional economy/market. According to the results, innovation and economic sustainability of the agrifood supply chain also matter. All of these critical barriers are intertwined and should be planned and solved simultaneously. Furthermore, based on DANP results, the sustainability pillars (economy, environment, society), besides the low efficiency of the agrifood sector in Iran, should be investigated further for future policy makings.

Originality/value

A hybrid multi-layer decision-making approach has been used for analysing the barriers of investment in the agrifood sector of the emerging economy of Iran for the international entrepreneurs. Moreover, the authors provide implications and insights for IEs and officials for decision-making in the future.
Effectiveness of web-based learning environment: role of intrinsic learning motivation, computer self-efficacy, and learner engagement
Authors: Aboobaker Nimitha , K.H. Muneer
Published: October 2021

Purpose

In the context of the abrupt shift to technology-enabled distance education, this paper examines the role of intrinsic learning motivation, computer self-efficacy and learning engagement in facilitating higher learning effectiveness in a web-based learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected using a self-administered online questionnaire from a sample of randomly selected 508 university students from different disciplines, including science, technology, and management.

Findings

Learning motivation and computer self-efficacy positively influenced students' learning engagement, with computer self-efficacy having a more substantial impact. Proposed mediation hypotheses too were supported.

Originality/value

The insights gained from this study will help in devising strategies for improving students' learning effectiveness. Game-based learning pedagogy and computer simulations can help students understand the higher meaning and purpose of the learning process.
Investigating the accessibility and impacts of cybersecurity programs on high-school girls’ long-term industry engagement
Authors: Shan Mridula , Yang Jeong
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate whether having accessible cybersecurity programs (CPs) for high-school students affected girls’ long-term engagement with the industry, given that they already had interests in technology. Although much research has been done to evaluate how high-school science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs retain girls in computing fields, it is necessary to see if this same long-term engagement exists in cybersecurity-specific programs.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 55 members were surveyed from the aspirations in computing community regarding their experience in and accessibility to high-school CPs. A quantitative analysis of such responses was then undertaken using inferential statistical tools and chi-squared tests for independence.

Findings

The results showed that the existence of CPs alone are not influential factors in increasing long-term engagement with the field, showcasing that the high-knowledge barrier of CPs affects many students (even those with prior interests in technology). Instead, by having multiple occurrences of these programs and providing more cybersecurity resources to areas that lacked them, girls were more likely to report an increased interest in the field.

Practical implications

Such information can support future program leaders to develop effective, accessible and more targeted cybersecurity initiatives for students of various communities.

Originality/value

By analyzing the unique interactions of tech-aspiring women with cybersecurity, this exploration was able to demonstrate that women of different computing experiences face a shared barrier when entering the cybersecurity field. Likewise, in comparing these perspectives across different age groups, the investigation highlighted the development and subsequent growth of cybersecurity programming over the years and why such initiatives should be supported into the future.
Does the impact of IFRS on audit fees differ between early and late adopters?
Authors: Tawiah Vincent Konadu
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the impact of international financial reporting standards (IFRS) on audit fees differs between early and late adopters.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use robust econometric estimation on a sample of 314 firms from both early and late IFRS adopting countries.

Findings

The authors find that IFRS is positively and significantly associated with an increase in audit fees for early adopters, but the impact is very weak for late adopters and insignificant in some cases. The results on auditing time suggest that increase in audit fees around IFRS adoption is due to an increase in audit reporting lags. After accounting for pre- and post-years, the authors find that the relationship between IFRS and audit fees, as well as audit time for late adopters, is significant only in the adoption year. However, early adopters experience a significant increase in audit fees and audit time in the transition year to one-year post-adoption.

Practical implications

The findings imply that countries that are yet to adopt IFRS are less likely to experience a significant increase in audit fees audit time. Hence, is probable that the benefit of IFRS will outweigh the cost.

Originality/value

The results, therefore, suggest that early adopters paid a premium for been the first users of IFRS, which is consistent with any innovation. The study provides new insights by demonstrating that the consequences of IFRS differ between early and late adopters.
The impacts of ad skip option and ad time display on viewer response to in-stream video ads: the role of perceived control and reactance
Authors: Choi Dongwon , Kim Jooyoung
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The primary purpose of the current study was to examine how the presence of two digital ad features – an ad skip option and an ad time display, representing behavioral and cognitive control, respectively – might influence viewer response to in-stream video ads in terms of perceived control, reactance and advertising outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (Ad skip option: presence vs. absence) × 2 (Ad time display: presence vs absence) between-subjects experiment was conducted online with 217 participants recruited via Qualtrics.

Findings

The results of the online experiment show that the presence of the ad skip option and ad time display related to a higher level of perceived control, predicting lower ad intrusiveness and ad irritation and more favorable attitude toward the ad.

Practical implications

The findings confirm that an ad skip option and an ad time display could minimize negative responses to in-stream video ads by increasing perceived control and reducing viewer reactance.

Originality/value

The findings provide empirical evidence that multiple dimensions of control features (i.e. behavioral and cognitive) can increase perceived control and strengthen its impact on advertising outcomes.
Media features and communication control in the digitalized workplace: a study about regulating negative emotional communication
Authors: Wang Nan (Tina)
Published: October 2021

Purpose

One challenge facing the digitalized workplace is communication control, especially emotion regulation in which individuals try to manage their emotional experiences and/or expressions during organizational communication. Extant research largely focused on the facilitating role of a few media features (e.g. fewer symbol sets). This study seeks to provide a deeper understanding of media features that individuals, as receivers of negative emotions expressed by communication partners, could leverage to support regulating negative emotional communication in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used qualitative research methods to identify media features that support regulating negative emotional communication at work. Data were collected using interviews and was analyzed using directed content analysis in which media features discussed in media synchronicity theory (MST) were used as the initial coding schema but the researcher was open to media features that do not fit with MST.

Findings

In addition to media features (and capabilities) discussed in MST, this study identified five additional media features (i.e. message broadcasting, message blocking, receiving specification, recipient specification and compartmentalization) and two underlying media capabilities (i.e. transmission control capability and participant control capability) that may support regulating negative emotional communication. Two major mechanisms (i.e. reducing or eliminating emotion regulation workload, and providing prerequisites or removing obstacles for emotion regulation) via which media features support emotion regulation were also identified.

Originality/value

This paper provides a more comprehensive understanding regarding communication media features that may support emotion regulation in particular and communication control in general. Findings of this study contribute to several literatures and may also transfer to other similar contexts.
Microstructure and mechanical properties of hierarchical porous parts of Ti-6Al-4V alloy obtained by powder bed fusion techniques
Authors: Sallica-Leva Edwin , da Costa Fernando Henrique , Dos Santos Cláudio Teodoro , Jardini André Luiz , da Silva Jorge Vicente Lopes , Fogagnolo João Batista
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the obtainment of Ti-6Al-4V parts with a hierarchical arrangement of pores by additive manufacturing, aiming at designing orthopedic implants.

Design/methodology/approach

The experimental methodology compares microstructural and mechanical properties of Menger pre-fractal sponges of Ti-6Al-4V alloy, manufactured by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) and electron beam powder bed fusion (EBPBF), with three different porosity volumes. The pore arrangement followed the formation sequence of the Menger sponge, with hierarchical order from 1 to 3.

Findings

The LPBF parts presented a martensitic microstructure, while the EBPBF parts presented an α + ß microstructure, independently of its wall thickness. The LPBF parts presented higher mechanical resistance and effective stiffness than the EBPBF parts with similar porosity volume. The stiffness values of the Menger pre-fractal sponges of Ti-6Al-4V alloy, between 4 and 29 GPa, are comparable to those of the cortical bone. Furthermore, the deformation behavior presented by the Menger pre-fractal sponges of Ti-6Al-4V alloy did not follow the Gibson and Ashby model's prediction.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to obtain Menger pre-fractal sponges of Ti-6Al-4V alloy by LPBF and EBPBF. The deformation behavior of the obtained porous parts was contrasted with the Gibson and Ashby model's prediction.
Simulation and fabrication of an ammonia gas sensor based on PEDOT:PSS
Authors: Aarabi Mokhtar , Salehi Alireza , Kashaninia Alireza
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is use to density functional theory (DFT) to investigate the molecular adsorption by PEDOT:PSS for different doping levels. DFT calculations are performed using the SIESTA code. In addition, the non-equilibrium Green’s function method is used within the TranSIESTA code to determine the quantum transport properties of molecular nanodevices.

Design/methodology/approach

Density functional theory (DFT) is used to investigate the molecular adsorption by PEDOT:PSS for different doping levels. DFT calculations are performed using the SIESTA code. In addition, the non-equilibrium Green’s function method is used within the TranSIESTA code to determine the quantum transport properties of molecular nanodevices.

Findings

Simulation results show very good sensitivity of Pd-doped PEDOT:PSS to ammonia, carbon dioxide and methane, so this structure cannot be used for simultaneous exposure to these gases. Silver-doped PEDOT:PSS structure provides a favorable sensitivity to ammonia in addition to exhibiting a better selectivity. If the experiment is repeated, the sensitivity is increased for a larger concentration of the applied gas. However, the sensitivity will decrease at a higher ratio than smaller concentrations of gas.

Originality/value

The advantages of the proposed sensor are its low-cost implementation and simple fabrication process compared to other sensors. Moreover, the proposed sensor exhibits appropriate sensitivity and repeatability at room temperature.
Quality 4.0 and its impact on organizational performance: an integrative viewpoint
Authors: Antony Jiju , Sony Michael , Furterer Sandra , McDermott Olivia , Pepper Matthew
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Quality 4.0 is managing quality during the fourth industrial revolution. It is used by modern-day organizations as a strategy to compete and thrive in the marketplace. The purpose of this study is to analyze the potential impact of Quality 4.0 on organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study through an integrative literature review critically analyzed 41 previous literature articles to study the impact of Quality 4.0 on various metrics of organizational performance.

Findings

The results of the review suggest that Quality 4.0 may have an impact on financial performance, customer value proposition, internal business processes, learning and growth, environmental performance and social performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the databases reviewed. The second limitation is that this study considered articles published in the English language. Therefore, articles published in other languages were not considered in this study.

Practical implications

Organizations can use the findings of this study to strongly leverage the implementation of Quality 4.0 to reach their strategic objectives and improve competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This is the first study to explore the impact of Quality 4.0 on organizational performance through an integrative literature review.
Large wild herbivores slow down the rapid decline of plant diversity in a tropical forest biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Villar Nacho , Medici Emília Patrícia
Published: October 2021

The UN declaration of the Decade of Ecosystem Restoration 2021–2030 emphasizes the need for effective measures to restore ecosystems and safeguard biodiversity. Large herbivores regulate many ecosystem processes and functions; yet, their potential as a nature‐based solution to buffer against long‐term temporal declines in biodiversity associated with global change and restore diversity in secondary forests remains unknown.

By means of an exclusion experiment, we tested experimentally the buffering effects of large wild herbivores to avert against long‐term biodiversity collapse in old‐growth and secondary tropical forests in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil where sapling abundance and species richness declined c. 20% over the course of 10 years. The experiment comprised 50 large herbivore exclosure‐open control plot pairs (25 at the old‐growth forest and 25 at the secondary forest), where 2 m2 were monitored in every plot during a 10‐year period.

Large herbivores were able to decelerate diversity declines and compositional change in the species‐rich old‐growth forest, but only decelerated compositional change in the secondary forest. In contrast, declines in species richness and abundance were unaffected by large herbivores on either forest.

The buffering effects of large herbivores were strongly nonlinear and contingent on the initial level of diversity at the patch scale: highly diverse communities suffered the strongest collapse in the absence of large herbivores. Thus, larger buffering effects of large herbivores on the old‐growth forest are the logical consequence of large herbivores buffering the many high diversity plant communities found in this forest. Conversely, as the secondary forest held fewer high diversity patches, buffering effects on the secondary forest were weak.

Synthesis and applications. Our study indicates that large herbivores have moderate yet critical effects on slowing down community change and diversity loss of highly diverse plant communities, thus suggesting that the conservation of (and potentially trophic rewilding with) large herbivores is a fundamental nature‐based solution for averting the global collapse of the strongholds of biodiversity. Its buffering effects on biodiversity loss operate at very small spatial scales, are likely contingent on successional stage and are most effective in old‐growth or high diversity secondary forests.
“Mindfulness Matters”: A pilot study of a Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction group for adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Lake Sam , MacHale Rosemary
Published: October 2021

Accessible summary

Mindfulness helps people focus on the present instead of worrying about the past or future.

We carried out an 8‐week Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction group for young adults with intellectual disabilities.

We learned that practising mindfulness can help people when they feel stressed.

After the 8 weeks, everyone in the group gave positive feedback about the group.

Background

People with intellectual disabilities face increased levels of psychological distress compared with the general population and broadly present with fewer coping strategies. There is emerging evidence of the positive effectiveness of mindfulness in the treatment of various mental health issues such as depression and anxiety amongst people with intellectual disabilities. A pilot group was run to determine the effectiveness of a Mindfulness‐Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) group on well‐being and self‐esteem amongst a nonclinical group of young adults with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

Seven participants with mild intellectual disabilities attended an 8‐week MBSR group. Qualitative and quantitative measures were used pre‐ and post‐group: the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation‐Learning Disability (CORE‐LD) and the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale‐Adapted. A visual stress measure was used to monitor weekly stress levels and to facilitate group discussion. The effectiveness of the mindfulness‐based group was evaluated.

Findings

A mixed methodology using quantitative and qualitative analysis of group outcomes was used. Participants’ feedback was analysed thematically; participants found the group to be beneficial and taught them mindfulness strategies to manage their stress levels. Scores from the CORE‐LD showed a significant improvement between pre‐ and post‐group scores on participants’ overall well‐being. Scores from the Rosenberg Self‐Esteem Scale‐Adapted showed an improvement between pre‐ and post‐group scores on participants’ self‐esteem, but not at a significant level.

Conclusion

Mindfulness emerged as a self‐care tool that was used independently by some participants. We conclude that mindfulness seems to be a suitable therapeutic option for managing stress in young adults with mild intellectual disabilities. Future research opportunities are evident in relation to adapting mindfulness to suit the needs of people with intellectual disabilities.
Standardization of reticulocyte counts in the athlete biological passport: A practical update
Authors: Equey Tristan , Sletten Camilla , Dehnes Yvette , D’Onofrio Giuseppe , Brugnara Carlo , Baume Norbert , Aikin Reid
Published: October 2021

Introduction

The athlete biological passport monitors blood variables over time to uncover blood doping. With the phasing in of a new series of blood analyzers, the Sysmex XN series, it was necessary to examine the comparability of results with the previously employed XT/XE series. A previous comparison between XN and XT/XE series suggested a small but significant bias between the two instruments in the measurements of RET%. Here, we examined the comparability of RET% on the XN and XT/XE platform using data collected over the first year since the transition.

Methods

The comparability of results obtained from XN and XT/XE instruments was assessed using three datasets: (i) 767 blood samples measured on both instrument series in 22 WADA‐accredited laboratories, (ii) 27 323 samples measured on either instrument across 31 laboratories, and (iii) 119 clinical samples and 110 anti‐doping samples measured on both instruments in a single laboratory.

Results

Analysis of the three datasets confirms the previous observation of a bias toward higher RET% values for samples measured on Sysmex XN instruments compared with the XT/XE series. Using data across a larger number of XN instruments and a larger athlete population, the current work suggests that the bias is proportional and slightly higher than previously observed across most of the range RET% values.

Conclusion

A model is proposed for the comparison of data across XN and XT/XE technologies whereby the instrument bias increases proportionally with RET% measured on Sysmex XN Series, but where the rate of increase is negatively related to IRF%.