bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired oligodendrocyte maturation is an early feature in SCA3 disease pathogenesis
Authors: Schuster Kristen H. , Zalon Annie J. , Zhang Hongjiu , DiFranco Danielle M. , Stec Nicholas R. , Haque Zaid , Blumenstein Kate G. , Pierce Amanda M. , Guan Yuanfang , Paulson Henry L. , McLoughlin Hayley S.
Published: November 2021

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3), the most common dominantly inherited ataxia, is a polyglutamine neurodegenerative disease for which there is no disease-modifying therapy. The polyglutamine-encoding CAG repeat expansion in the ATXN3 gene results in expression of a mutant form of the ATXN3 protein, a deubiquitinase that causes selective neurodegeneration despite being widely expressed. The mechanisms driving neurodegeneration in SCA3 are unclear. Research to date, however, has focused almost exclusively on neurons. Here, using equal male and female age-matched transgenic mice expressing full-length human mutant ATXN3, we identified early and robust transcriptional changes in selectively vulnerable brain regions that implicate oligodendrocytes in disease pathogenesis. We mapped transcriptional changes across early, mid, and late stages of disease in two selectively vulnerable brain regions, the cerebellum and brainstem. The most significant disease-associated module through weighted gene co-expression network analysis revealed dysfunction in SCA3 oligodendrocyte maturation. These results reflect a toxic gain of function mechanism, as ATXN3 knockout mice do not exhibit any impairments in oligodendrocyte maturation. Genetic crosses to reporter mice revealed a marked reduction in mature oligodendrocytes in SCA3-disease vulnerable brain regions and ultrastructural microscopy confirmed abnormalities in axonal myelination. Further study of isolated oligodendrocyte precursor cells from SCA3 mice established that this impairment in oligodendrocyte maturation is a cell autonomous process. We conclude that SCA3 is not simply a disease of neurons and the search for therapeutic strategies and disease biomarkers will need to account for non-neuronal involvement in SCA3 pathogenesis.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Despite advances in SCA3 disease understanding, much remains unknown about how the disease gene causes brain dysfunction ultimately leading to cell death. We completed a longitudinal transcriptomic analysis of vulnerable brain regions in SCA3 mice to define the earliest and most robust changes across disease progression. Through gene network analyses followed up with biochemical and histological studies in SCA3 mice, we provide evidence for severe dysfunction in oligodendrocyte maturation early in SCA3 pathogenesis. Our results advance understanding of SCA3 disease mechanisms, identify additional routes for therapeutic intervention, and may provide broader insight into polyglutamine diseases beyond SCA3.
Ubiquitous mRNA decay fragments in E. coli redefine the functional transcriptome
Authors: Herzel Lydia , Stanley Julian A. , Yao Chun-Chen , Li Gene-Wei
Published: November 2021

Bacterial mRNAs have short life cycles, in which transcription is rapidly followed by translation and degradation within seconds to minutes. The resulting diversity of mRNA molecules across different life-cycle stages impacts their functionality but has remained unresolved. Here we quantitatively map the 3′ status of cellular RNAs in Escherichia coli during steady-state growth and report a large fraction of molecules (median>60%) that are fragments of canonical full-length mRNAs. The majority of RNA fragments are decay intermediates, whereas nascent RNAs contribute to a smaller fraction. Despite the prevalence of decay intermediates in total cellular RNA, these intermediates are underrepresented in the pool of ribosome-associated transcripts and can thus distort quantifications for the abundance of full-length, functional mRNAs. The large heterogeneity within mRNA molecules in vivo highlights the importance in discerning functional transcripts and provides a lens for studying the dynamic life cycle of mRNAs.
Genome and transcriptome architecture of allopolyploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)
Authors: Nieuwenhuis Ronald , Hesselink Thamara , van den Broeck Hetty C. , Cordewener Jan , Schijlen Elio , Bakker Linda , Trivino Sara Diaz , Struss Darush , de Hoop Simon-Jan , de Jong Hans , Peters Sander A.
Published: November 2021

We present the first annotated genome assembly of the allopolyploid okra (Abelmoschus esculentus). Analysis of telomeric repeats and gene rich regions suggested we obtained whole chromosome and chromosomal arm scaffolds. Besides long distal blocks we also detected short interstitial TTTAGGG telomeric repeats, possibly representing hallmarks of chromosomal speciation upon polyploidization of okra. Ribosomal RNA genes are organized in 5S clusters separated from the 18S-5.8S-28S units, clearly indicating an S-type rRNA gene arrangement. The assembly is consistent with cytogenetic and cytometry observations, identifying 65 chromosomes and 1.45Gb of expected genome size in a haploid sibling. Approximately 57% of the genome consists of repetitive sequence. BUSCO scores and A50 plot statistics indicated a nearly complete genome. Kmer distribution analysis suggests that approximately 75% has a diploid nature, and at least 15% of the genome is heterozygous. We did not observe aberrant meiotic configurations, suggesting there is no recombination among the sub-genomes. BUSCO configurations as well as k-mer clustering analysis pointed to the presence of at least 2 sub-genomes. These observations are indicative for an allopolyploid nature of the okra genome. Structural annotation, using gene models derived from mapped IsoSeq transcriptome data, generated over 130,000 putative genes. Mapped transcriptome data from public okra accessions of Asian origin confirmed the predicted genes, showing limited genetic diversity of 1SNP/2.1kb. The discovered genes appeared to be located predominantly at the distal ends of scaffolds, gradually decreasing in abundance toward more centrally positioned scaffold domains. In contrast, LTR retrotransposons were more abundant in centrally located scaffold domains, while less frequently represented in the distal ends. This gene and LTR-retrotransposon distribution is consistent with the observed heterochromatin organization of pericentromeric heterochromatin and distal euchromatin. The derived amino acid queries of putative genes were subsequently used for phenol biosynthesis pathway annotation in okra. Comparison against manually curated reference KEGG pathways from related Malvaceae species revealed the genetic basis for putative enzyme coding genes that likely enable metabolic reactions involved in the biosynthesis of dietary and therapeutic compounds in okra.
Profile of the in silico secretome of the palm dieback pathogen, a fungus that puts natural oases at risk
Authors: Rafiqi Maryam , Jelonek Lukas , Diouf Aliou M. , Mbaye AbdouLahat , Rep Martijn , Diarra Alhousseine
Published: November 2021

Understanding biotic changes that occur alongside climate change constitute a research priority of global significance. Here, we address a plant pathogen that poses a serious threat to life on natural oases, where climate change is already taking a toll and severely impacting human subsistence. Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. albedinis is a pathogen that causes dieback disease on date palms, a tree that provides several critical ecosystem services in natural oases; and consequently, of major importance in this vulnerable habitat. Here, we assess the current state of global pathogen spread, we annotate the genome of a sequenced pathogen strain isolated from the native range and we analyse its in silico secretome. The palm dieback pathogen secretes a large arsenal of effector candidates including a variety of toxins, a distinguished profile of secreted in xylem proteins (SIX) as well as an expanded protein family with an N-terminal conserved motif [SG]PC[KR]P that could be involved in interactions with host membranes. Using agrobiodiversity as a strategy to decrease pathogen infectivity, while providing short term resilient solutions, seems to be widely overcome by the pathogen. Hence, the urgent need for future mechanistic research on the palm dieback disease and a better understanding of pathogen genetic diversity.
A method to quantitate maternal transcripts localized in sea urchin egg cortex by RT-qPCR with accurate normalization
Authors: Kipryushina Yulia O. , Maiorova Mariia A. , Yakovlev Konstantin V.
Published: November 2021

The sea urchin egg cortex is a peripheral region of eggs consisting of cell membrane and adjacent cytoplasm, which contains actin and tubulin cytoskeleton, cortical granules and some proteins required for early development. Method for isolation of cortices from sea urchin eggs and early embryos has been developed in 70s of 20th Century. Since that time this method has been reliable tool to study protein localization and cytoskeletal organization in cortex of unfertilized eggs and embryos during first cleavages. This study is an estimation of reliability of RT-qPCR to analyze levels of maternal transcripts that are localized in egg cortex. Firstly, we selected seven potential reference genes, 28S, Cycb, Ebr1, GAPDH, Hmg1, Smtnl1 and Ubb, which transcripts are maternally deposited in sea urchin eggs. The candidate reference genes were ranked by five different algorithms (BestKeeper, CV, ΔCt, geNorm and NormFinder) upon calculated level stability in both eggs and isolated cortices. Our results show that gene ranking differs in total RNA and mRNA samples, though Ubb is most suitable reference gene in both cases. To validate feasibility of comparative analysis of eggs and isolated egg cortices by RT-qPCR, we selected Daglb-2 as a gene of interest, which transcripts potentially localized in cortex, and found increased level of Daglb-2 in egg cortices. This suggests that proposed RNA isolation method with subsequent quantitative RT-qPCR analysis can be used to approve cortical association of transcripts in sea urchin eggs.
Causal effect of adiposity on the risk of 19 gastrointestinal diseases: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Kim Min Seo , Song Minku , Kim Soyeon , Kim Beomsu , Kang Wonseok , Kim Jong Yeob , Myung Woojae , Lee Inhyeok , Do Ron , Khera Amit V , Won Hong-Hee
Published: November 2021

Objectives

We applied Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal associations of body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) with 19 gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.

Design

MR study.

Setting

The UK Biobank, Genetic Investigation of Anthropometric Traits (GIANT) Consortium, FinnGen consortium, and genome-wide association studies.

Participants

Overall, >400,000 UK Biobank participants, >170,000 participants of Finnish descent, and numerous consortia participants with predominantly European ancestry.

Interventions

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with BMI and WC were used as instrumental variables to estimate the causal associations with the GI conditions.

Main outcome measures

Risk of developing 19 GI diseases

Results

After correction for multiple testing (Bonferroni-corrected threshold of P<0.05/19) and testing for consistencies using several MR methods with varying assumptions (inverse variance weighted, weighted median, MR-Egger, and MR-PRESSO), genetically predicted BMI was associated with increased risks of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, and primary biliary cholangitis. The odds ratio (OR) per one standard deviation (SD) increased in genetically predicted BMI (4.77 kg/m2) from 1.22 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12–1.34; P<0.0001) for NAFLD to 1.65 (95% CI 1.31–2.06; P<0.0001) for cholecystitis. Genetically predicted WC was associated with increased risks of NAFLD, alcoholic liver disease (ALD), cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, colon cancer, and gastric cancer. ALD was associated with WC even after adjustment for alcohol consumption in multivariable MR analysis. The OR per 1 SD increased in genetically predicted WC (12.52 cm) from 1.41 (95% CI 1.17–1.70; P=0.0015) for gastric cancer to 1.74 (95% CI 1.21–1.78; P<0.0001) for cholelithiasis.

Conclusions

Higher BMI and WC are causally associated with an increased risk of GI abnormalities, particularly of hepatobiliary organs (liver, biliary tract, and gallbladder) that are functionally related to fat metabolism. Abdominal obesity measured by WC might be more influential and relevant with a diverse span of GI diseases than BMI, highlighting a possible pathophysiological role of visceral abdominal fats in the development of GI disorders and cancers.

Graphical Abstract
Alu insertion variants alter gene transcript levels
Authors: Payer Lindsay M. , Steranka Jared P. , Kryatova Maria S. , Grillo Giacomo , Lupien Mathieu , Rocha Pedro P. , Burns Kathleen H.
Published: November 2021

Alu are high copy number interspersed repeats that have accumulated near genes during primate and human evolution. They are a pervasive source of structural variation in modern humans. Impacts that Alu insertions may have on gene expression are not well understood, although some have been associated with expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs). Here, we directly test regulatory effects of polymorphic Alu insertions in isolation of other variants on the same haplotype. To screen insertion variants for those with such effects, we used ectopic luciferase reporter assays and evaluated 110 Alu insertion variants, including more than 40 with a potential role in disease risk. We observed a continuum of effects with significant outliers that up- or down-regulate luciferase activity. Using a series of reporter constructs, which included genomic context surrounding the Alu, we can distinguish between instances in which the Alu disrupts another regulator and those in which the Alu introduces new regulatory sequence. We next focused on three polymorphic Alu loci associated with breast cancer that display significant effects in the reporter assay. We used CRISPR to modify the endogenous sequences, establishing cell lines varying in the Alu genotype. Our findings indicate that Alu genotype can alter expression of genes implicated in cancer risk, including PTHLH, RANBP9, and MYC. These data show that commonly occurring polymorphic Alu elements can alter transcript levels and potentially contribute to disease risk.
Epstein–Barr virus nuclear antigen 2 extensively rewires the human chromatin landscape at autoimmune risk loci
Authors: Hong Ted , Parameswaran Sreeja , Donmez Omer A. , Miller Daniel , Forney Carmy , Lape Michael , Saint Just Ribeiro Mariana , Liang Jun , Edsall Lee E. , Magnusen Albert F. , Miller William , Chepelev Iouri , Harley John B. , Zhao Bo , Kottyan Leah C. , Weirauch Matthew T.
Published: November 2021

The interplay between environmental and genetic factors plays a key role in the development of many autoimmune diseases. In particular, the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is an established contributor to multiple sclerosis, lupus, and other disorders. Previously, we showed that the EBV nuclear antigen 2 (EBNA2) transactivating protein occupies up to half of the risk loci for a set of seven autoimmune disorders. To further examine the mechanistic roles played by EBNA2 at these loci on a genome-wide scale, we globally examined gene expression, chromatin accessibility, chromatin looping, and EBNA2 binding in a B cell line that was (1) uninfected, (2) infected with a strain of EBV lacking EBNA2, or (3) infected with a strain that expresses EBNA2. We identified more than 400 EBNA2-dependent differentially expressed human genes and more than 5000 EBNA2 binding events in the human genome. ATAC-seq analysis revealed more than 2000 regions in the human genome with EBNA2-dependent chromatin accessibility, and HiChIP data revealed more than 1700 regions where EBNA2 altered chromatin looping interactions. Autoimmune genetic risk loci were highly enriched at the sites of these EBNA2-dependent chromatin-altering events. We present examples of autoimmune risk genotype–dependent EBNA2 events, nominating genetic risk mechanisms for autoimmune risk loci such as ZMIZ1. Taken together, our results reveal important interactions between host genetic variation and EBNA2-driven disease mechanisms. Further, our study highlights a critical role for EBNA2 in rewiring human gene regulatory programs through rearrangement of the chromatin landscape and nominates these interactions as components of genetic mechanisms that influence the risk of multiple autoimmune diseases.
Salt formation, hydrogen-bonding patterns and supramolecular architectures of acridine with salicylic and hippuric acid molecules
Authors: Suganya Suresh , Saravanan Kandasamy , Jaganathan Ramakrishnan , Kumaradhas Poomani
Published: November 2021

The intermolecular interactions and salt formation of acridine with 4-aminosalicylic acid, 5-chlorosalicylic acid and hippuric acid were investigated. The salts obtained were acridin-1-ium 4-aminosalicylate (4-amino-2-hydroxybenzoate), C13H10N+·C7H6NO3
− (I), acridin-1-ium 5-chlorosalicylate (5-chloro-2-hydroxybenzoate), C13H10N+·C7H4ClO3
− (II), and acridin-1-ium hippurate (2-benzamidoacetate) monohydrate, C13H10N+·C9H8NO3
−·H2O (III). Acridine is involved in strong intermolecular interactions with the hydroxy group of the three acids, enabling it to form supramolecular assemblies. Hirshfeld surfaces, fingerprint plots and enrichment ratios were generated and investigated, and the intermolecular interactions were analyzed, revealing their quantitative contributions in the crystal packing of salts I, II and III. A quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis shows the charge–density distribution of the intermolecular interactions. The isosurfaces of the noncovalent interactions were studied, which allows visualization of where the hydrogen-bonding and dispersion interactions contribute within the crystal.
The role of extra-curricular activities in increasing student engagement
Authors: Munir Saba , Zaheer Muhammad
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The first objective of this study is to review the mechanism of conducting extra-curricular activities (ECAs) in the open and distance learning (ODL) setting. To achieve this objective, the procedure of ECAs at the Virtual University of Pakistan has been studied. The second objective of this study is to find the impact of ECAs on student engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a cross-sectional quantitative study. The questionnaire has been used to collect the data. The purposive sampling technique has been used, while this study's sample size is 970. An independent sample t-test has been used to find the difference between the groups.

Findings

This study shows a significant difference between the engagement levels of students who have been part of any ECA at university compared to the students who never participated in any ECA.

Research limitations/implications

The results have been derived from the data gathered from one university only that might hinder the generalizability of the findings. The same study can be conducted in other ODL institutions to authenticate the findings.

Practical implications

This study will help in realizing the policymakers of ODL about the importance of ECCAs. This study has also discussed an existing system of conducting ECCAs in an ODL setting that can be generalized and implemented across all the ODL universities to enhance student engagement.

Originality/value

This study has highlighted the importance of ECAs in ODL institutions that have been neglected since forever. This study is novel because it has highlighted the importance of social interaction of students in ODL and its relation with student engagement that has not been highlighted by any study so far.
Assessment and treatment of anxiety in children and adolescents with ASD: a systematic review
Authors: Perihan Celal , Burke Mack D. , Bowman-Perrott Lisa , Bocanegra Joel
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the quality of current studies that assess and treat anxiety symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). More specifically the study aimed to answer the following questions: What are the qualities of the current studies using cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) to treat anxiety symptoms in children with ASD? Did studies make necessary modifications and adaptations to CBTs according to the evidence-based strategies and implement these versions of CBTs with precise fidelity? Were the selected measurements appropriate for assessing the anxiety symptoms in children with ASD?

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review protocol was developed from the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Moher et al., 2009). A rubric was adapted based on the CEC (Council for Exceptional Children; Cook, 2014) group comparison studies standards and the Evaluative Method for Determining EBP in Autism (Reichow et al., 2007). The 3-point Likert Scale (Chard et al., 2009) was adapted to score each study based on the rubric.

Findings

CBT is a first-line treatment with significant mixed results. Current studies use adapted versions of existing CBTs for children with ASD without reporting empirical evidence to these adaptations and changes. Reporting of the implementation fidelity is still an issue in the treatment of anxiety. Anxiety measurements that were designed for typically developing children failure to detect unusual anxiety symptoms in children with ASD.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation of this study was including a variety of studies across CBT programs and types of anxiety symptoms. Types of anxiety and CBT treatments may require separate analyses with specific indicators. Due to the limited studies, reviews could not be analyzed across types of CBT programs. The second limitation was the types of studies. Most of the studies were pilot studies. Pilot studies might use various instruments and CBTs components for making selections to produce the best effects and results. The final limitation was the lack of examination of the data analysis process.

Originality/value

These findings are important because due to the variety of changes or adaptation to CBTs, inappropriate implementations and failure to detect unusual anxiety symptoms of children with ASD may cause significant differences in treatment responses and outcomes. The study demonstrated that the majority of the studies used adapted versions of existing CBTs without reporting empirical evidence for these adaptations and changes. The findings have shown that reporting of the implementation fidelity is still an issue. Moreover, the majority of studies had used anxiety measurements that were designed for typically developing children, not for children with ASD.
Who killed food tourism? Unaware cannibalism in online conversations about traveling in Italy
Authors: Bigi Alessandro , Cassia Fabio , Ugolini Marta Maria
Published: November 2021

Purpose

A food tourism destination can fully exploit its competitiveness if food-related attributes are consistently highlighted both in its promotion and in user-generated content. However, in the context of food tourism research, a possible image incongruence has not yet been studied. Tourism destination image incongruence occurs when different travel information sources reflect inconsistent representations of a destination's attributes. This study addresses this gap, focusing on Italian food and wine as drivers to attract visitors. This study examines whether food-related attributes are present in online travel-related conversations and are perceived differently by people with and without knowledge about the destination.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis based on a Bayesian machine-learning technique utilizing Leximancer software was applied to analyze questions and answers posted on TripAdvisor forums by potential and past visitors of four destinations in Italy (Naples, Florence, Parma and Ferrara). Questions and answers expressed by people with different knowledge in Italian and English were analyzed separately to gain deeper understanding.

Findings

Contrary to expectations, food-related themes were almost completely absent in the conversations analyzed, with only a few exceptions in Italian question sections. This situation depicts a sort of “cannibalism”, in the sense that the centrality of food-related attributes is engulfed by other, less sensorial, enjoyable and memorable aspects of the travel experience.

Research limitations/implications

Analysis suggests that hype may exist in food tourism promotion related to destination image incongruence. However, while based on a large volume of conversations, the analysis covers only four Italian cities.

Practical implications

Destination management organizations (DMOs) should develop their strategy and communication considering internal and external elements: their marketing targets on one side and the local culture and attractions' perceptions on the other. Standard marketing processes (segmenting, targeting, positioning) and theories should be put in place. The application of standard marketing dynamics and studies should push the DMOs to understand that the internally perceived cultural values of the touristic destinations could not be known or joint univocally by the global external customers and that a local promotional activity should start with branding and not commercial activities.

Originality/value

This is the first study to suggest the existence of hype in food tourism promotion of Italian destinations and to provide evidence supporting this argument.
Is the future of internships online? An examination of stakeholder attitudes towards online internships
Authors: Irwin Amy , Perkins Joy , Hillari Leah Luise , Wischerath Darja
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The world of work is becoming digital, a process accelerated by the recent COVID-19 pandemic and resultant remote working guidelines. Online internships have become more popular in this context, and yet there remains a lack of research investigating how these internships are perceived across stakeholders. The purpose of this paper was to begin to address this research gap by exploring academic, student and employer perceptions of online internships with a focus on employability.

Design/methodology/approach

The research explored 156 stakeholders (53 students, 50 academics and, 53 employer/professionals) perceptions via a mixed-methods online study encompassing quantitative responses to internship vignettes, alongside open-ended questions designed to explore stakeholder attitudes in more depth.

Findings

Stakeholder groups reported similar attitudes towards online internships. Overall, online internships were viewed as valid, flexible, work experience, linked to skill development and likely to enhance student employability. However, concerns were raised regarding communication protocols and development, intern isolation and a lack of organisational immersion.

Practical implications

Based on the research, the authors make three recommendations to continue to enhance and develop the online internship experience: ensure multiple methods of regular communication between student and organisation, attempt virtual immersion in the organisation and assign each intern additional support beyond their immediate supervisor.

Originality/value

Based on a holistic and novel analysis of key stakeholders' viewpoints, this paper provides much needed insights and evidence on how to design and quality assure effective online internship practice.
A new model of fuel spray shape at early stage of injection in a marine diesel engine
Authors: Grochowalska Joanna , Jaworski Piotr , Kapusta Łukasz Jan , Kowalski Jerzy
Published: November 2021

Purpose

In the cylinders of a marine diesel engine, self-ignition occurs in a very short time after the fuel injection into the combustion chamber. Therefore, this paper aims to develop a model of diesel fuel spray for the early stage of fuel spray in the marine diesel engine. The main technical aspects such as nozzle diameter of the marine engine injector and backpressure in the combustion chamber were taken into consideration.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, laboratory experimental studies were carried out to determine parameters of fuel spray in an early stage of injection in the marine diesel engine. The optical measuring Mie scattering technique was used to record the fuel injection process. The working space was a constant volume chamber. The backpressure parameters in the constant volume chamber were the same as during the operation of the marine diesel engine. Based on the experimental studies and important Hiroyasu and Arai models of fuel spray presented in literature was proposed new model of fuel spray parameters for marine diesel injectors.

Findings

In this paper, the proposed new model of the two main parameters described fuel spray evolution”: new model of spray tip penetration (STP) and spray cone angle (SCA). New model propagation of fuel STP in time was included the influence of nozzle diameter and backpressure. The proposed model has a lower error, about 15%–34%, than the model of Hiroyasu and Arai. Moreover, a new model of the evolution over time of the SCA is developed.

Research limitations/implications

In the future research of fuel spray process must be taken influence of the fuel temperature. Diesel fuel has a different density and viscosity in dependence of fuel temperature. Therefore are predicted of the expansion about influence of fuel temperature, new model of fuel spray for a marine diesel engine. The main limitations occurring in the research are not possible to carry out the research while real operation marine diesel engine.

Originality/value

An experimental test was carried out for a real fuel injector of a marine diesel engine. Design parameters and fuel injection parameters were selected on the basis of the actual one. In the literature, SCA is defined as a constant parameter for the specific preliminary data. A new model for the early stage of fuel spray of SCA propagation in time has been proposed. The early stage of fuel spray is especially important, because in this time comes in there to fuel self-ignition.
Finnish architects' attitudes towards multi-storey timber-residential buildings
Authors: Ilgın Hüseyin Emre , Karjalainen Markku , Pelsmakers Sofie
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to understand Finnish architects' attitudes towards the use of timber as a structural material in multi-storey (over two--storeys high) residential construction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted through a literature survey mainly including international peer-reviewed journals and similar research projects. Furthermore, the literature survey informed the generation of the web-based survey questionnaire design to gather information on architects' perceptions, attitudes and interest in the use of wood in multi-storey (over two-storeys high) residential buildings.

Findings

The paper's findings are as follows: (1) respondents perceived the most important advantages of wood as a lightweight, local and ecological material; (2) wood construction (compared to concrete) included perceived concerns about it being more costly and needing more complex engineering and (3) respondents had a favourable overall attitude towards the use of wood particularly in low-rise residential construction, whilst their perception of tall housing, including timber ones, was mostly negative.

Originality/value

No studies have evaluated the use of wood in tall residential buildings and architects' perceptions in Finland.
Assessment of sustainability indicators for urban water infrastructure in a developing country
Authors: Zhalmurziyeva Kamilla , Tokbolat Serik , Durdyev Serdar , Mustafa Mohamad Y. , Karaca Ferhat
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This research aims to study a broad range of sustainability aspects and develop a set of indicators with their subjective relevance to each of the sustainability dimensions that will help to improve the sustainability level of the water system of Nur-Sultan (Kazakhstan).

Design/methodology/approach

The broader list of indicators (which were identified through a thorough review of the literature) was assessed by water-related industry professionals and experts who were asked to assess the compliance of suggested indicators to five criteria of sustainability using a Likert scale.

Findings

It was found that the highest-ranked indicators across all five categories were mainly related to the chemical and physical quality of water, followed by availability of individual water meters as well as water supply tariffs' adjustment to users' income, and issues of ageing infrastructure. The lowest-ranked indicators among all categories were mainly related to investments into research and development, water management and awareness, feedback systems and flexibility. The least ranked indicators are seen to be more related to the scenarios when basic needs are covered and the stakeholders have extra time and resources for advancing the levels of water infrastructure sustainability.

Practical implications

The ranked and categorized indicators can be used as a powerful decision-making tool to improve the sustainability of the water system of Nur-Sultan or any other city in a developing country.

Originality/value

By conducting this study, it was aimed to address the aforementioned gap in the field in terms of running a wider scope assessment of indicators rather than looking at conventional environmental and socio-economic aspects. This provides novelty to the study, especially in the context of developing countries that need more guidance in terms of sustainable development of the water-related infrastructure.
Obligatory coaching in the context of the model project “Talent Schools”: a means for educational equity and improvement of achievement outcomes?
Authors: Dean Isabel , Beckmann Laura , Racherbäumer Kathrin , Bremm Nina
Published: November 2021

Purpose

In the present study, we assessed how school improvement consultants, as part of a six-year model project conducted in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, were perceived by school leaders and how they defined their role(s), tasks and working methods as external consultants at the beginning of the project.

Design/methodology/approach

Our analyses are based on a mixed-methods approach, involving a standardized online survey of school leaders and 18 guideline-based interviews with school improvement consultants, which were conducted at the beginning of the model project. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis and typifying structuring of the interview material.

Findings

Our results based on the quantitative survey data showed that the school administrators generally rated the collaboration with the external consultants as not very positive. Furthermore, our qualitative findings showed that the school improvement consultants in the model project faced resistance to their coaching efforts, which may be attributed to the obligatory nature of their work on the project. In general, the consulting process appeared to be little differentiated according to the school principals' perceptions of the school needs, with the consultants mainly proceeding as they also do in other coaching processes.

Originality/value

This study contributes to our understanding of coaching in improvement activities among schools serving disadvantaged communities by offering insights into the role(s) and working methods of external school improvement consultants.
Excess volatility pursuit in autoregressive GARCH model based panel data analysis at country level: BRICS context
Authors: Ahmed Wajid Shakeel , Khan Muhammad Shoaib , Sheikh Muhammad Jibran , Khan Inzamam
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This particular study examined the government bond price variations in order to determine the presence of excess volatility both at country and panel group level of BRICS countries context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applied the autoregressive GARCH panel model approach proposed by Fakhry and Richter (2015) to evaluate the presence of excess volatility and then examined the diversification benefits. Further, the use of discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) has added the advantage to observe volatility across bonds along with potential diversification benefits by retaining information from the time and frequency domain perspective for both the maturities.

Findings

The main finding indicates that the excess volatility is present in BRICS countries at individual level i.e. in the case of Russia, India and China. However, the 10-year bond showing a less volatility compared to 5-year bond with the possibility of reaping out the benefits of diversification with international portfolio of sovereign bonds.

Practical implications

The main implication of the research is related to the non-perseverance of EMH as far sovereign bonds of BRICS countries are concerned as the results indicate presence of excess volatility in the 5-year and 10-year bond markets. However, the implicit behavior of 5-year bond could benefit the active fund managers and investors by taking an advantage of a reducing systemic risk through short-medium term investments.

Originality/value

This study contributes not only to the existing studies of similar nature by examining the excess volatility in bond markets but also taking account of co-moment of distinct maturities to confirm possible international diversification benefits for BRICS countries context.
Researching ecosystems in innovation contexts
Authors: Autio Erkko , Thomas Llewellyn D.W.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The rapid adoption of the ecosystem concept in innovation contexts has led to a proliferation of differing uses. Scholars need to be crystal clear which concept of the ecosystem they are using to facilitate communication between scholars and allow for cumulativeness and creativity. This paper aims to introduce some clarity into the conceptual mist that surrounds the notion of “ecosystems” in innovation contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the extant literature on ecosystems in innovation contexts to derive an integrated approach to understanding the variety of constructs in use.

Findings

This paper introduces clarity into the conceptual mist that surrounds the term “innovation ecosystem”, showing there are three basic types of ecosystems, all of which have a common focus on the collective production of a coherent system-level output.

Originality/value

Contributes through a comprehensive overview of the differing ecosystem types in innovation contexts and with a heuristic to disambiguate types of innovation ecosystems.
Sustainable regeneration strategies for the historical city centers of Iran using SWOT and QSPM models
Authors: Mirzakhani Arman , Turró Mateu , Behzadfar Mostafa
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The main objectives of the current study are to assess the existing situation of historical city centers in Iran and to offer prioritized appropriate regeneration strategies for their sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a questionnaire-based survey in four historical city centers of Iran: Kashan, Naeen, Ardakan and Yazd. The required data have been collected using multiple tools including questionnaires and interviews with local residents and officials in the aforementioned case studies. Using the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) technique, a set of appropriate strategies for the sustainable regeneration of these valuable fabrics has been proposed and the best of them have been prioritized employing quantitative strategic planning matrix (QSPM) matrix.

Findings

The results show that the current situation in all the case studies is not in line with sustainability and cultural heritage protection. Their multiple problems are mostly associated with their weaknesses, whilst their strengths, including a considerable potential as a tourism attraction, are scarcely exploited. The experts and residents surveyed for this research have provided basic information to establish the conservative strategies that should take priority when preparing the urban regeneration process of these areas.

Originality/value

Since most of the adopted regeneration strategies in Iran are not supported by empirical studies, the current study largely fulfills this shortcoming by setting up a proper diagnosis of historical city centers in Iran and proposes the most appropriate regeneration strategies based on the findings.
Internationalization and knowledge management strategies of service firms: impact of regulatory environment in regional markets
Authors: Findlay Christopher , Rammal Hussain Gulzar , Rose Elizabeth , Pereira Vijay
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims to the influence and impact of regulations and highlights the barriers to market entry faced by Australian professional service firms in the European Union (EU) and their strategies to manage and transfer tacit knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data by reviewing relevant regulatory documents and conducting semi-structured interviews with key informants from Australian architecture firms and senior representatives from the professional, trade and regulatory bodies in Australia and Europe.

Findings

Historically, Australian professional service firms use the United Kingdom (UK) as their EU base. The mutual recognition of qualifications and prior experiences are barriers to intra-organizational expatriation and knowledge transfer. The study identifies the dual nationality of the architects as a way of circumventing the residency/nationality restrictions.

Originality/value

The study discusses Brexit and how the uncertainty surrounding the UK and EU’s agreement adds to the complexity for non-European firms’ market entry and operations in the region.
Optimization model: the innovation and future of e-ecotourism for sustainability
Authors: Eddyono Fauziah , Darusman Dudung , Sumarwan Ujang , Sunarminto Fauziah
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims to find a dynamic model in an effort to optimize tourism performance in ecotourism destinations. The model structure is built based on competitive performance in geographic areas and the application of ecotourism elements that are integrated with big data innovation through artificial intelligence technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Data analysis is performed through dynamic system modeling. Simulations are carried out in three models: First, existing simulation models. Second, Scenario 1 is carried out by utilizing a causal loop through innovation of big data-based artificial intelligence technology to ecotourism elements. Third, Scenario 2 is carried out by utilizing a causal loop through big data-based artificial intelligence technology on aspects of ecotourism elements and destination competitiveness.

Findings

This study provides empirical insight into the competitiveness performance of destinations and the performance of implementing ecotourism elements if integrated with big data innovations that will be able to massively demonstrate the growth of sustainable tourism performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study does not use a primary database, but uses secondary data from official sources that can be accessed by the public.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the development of intelligent technology based on big data and also requires policy innovation.

Social implications

Sustainable tourism development.

Originality/value

This study finds the expansion of new theory competitiveness of ecotourism destinations.
Investigations of personalized and sustainable approach of oral drug delivery systems through additive manufacturing
Authors: Reddy R. Durga Prasad , Elgazzar Haytham , Sharma Varun
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to print a thermolabile drug-containing tablet using the fused deposition modeling (FDM) technique and analyze its mechanical, pharmaceutical and environmental feasibility using a variety of tests.

Design/methodology/approach

Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is the thermally-sensitive drug impregnated into polyvinyl alcohol excipient using ethanol-water mixture and printed by an FDM printer by varying three parameters without using any external stabilizing agent. Afterward, Taguchi analysis has been performed on these parameters to recognize the significant factors and interactions. Besides this, a regression model has been obtained based on the dissolution data. Various thermo-mechanical and pharmaceutical tests have been carried out to confirm the feasibility. Finally, a life cycle assessment (LCA) analysis has been carried out to compare it with the existing tableting method by considering the environmental impacts.

Findings

The dissolution profile was found to follow the Korsmeyer-Peppas model, where the drug release occurred both by dissolution and erosion. Further, the infill percent has been found as the most significant parameter. The characterization tests and imaging outputs proved the fidelity of this attempt. Finally, the three-dimensional printed method was found to be more environmentally sustainable than the existing conventional tableting process.

Originality/value

LCA on a printed tablet is a one-of-a-kind attempt. Thus, this research attempt delivered another approach to print personalized tablets at a temperature lower than prescribed temperatures with required release behavior and can contribute toward the quest of sustainable personalized medication.
Beneficial screening of Fabry disease in patients with hypohidrosis
Authors: Nagai‐Sangawa Megumi , Fukunaga Atsushi , Takeuchi Chihiro , Nishiyama Satoshi , Horikawa Tatsuya , Nagano China , Nozu Kandai , Fujii Hideki , Nishigori Chikako
Published: November 2021

Fabry disease (FD), which is a lysosomal storage disease resulting from a deficiency of α‐galactosidase A, leads to the accumulation of globotriaosylceramide in various tissues and multiorgan impairment. Early diagnosis is important to improve long‐term prognosis. Early clinical manifestations of FD include neuropathic pain, vascular skin lesions, and sweating abnormalities. Hypohidorosis is one of the clinical findings in the early stage of FD. However, there have been no studies on prospective screening of FD in patients with definitive diagnosis of hypohidrosis. We examined α‐galactosidase A activity in white blood cells in 17 (one female and 16 male) patients with generalized hypohidorosis. Among 17 patients, one male patient (approximately 5.8%) had significantly reduced α‐galactosidase A activity. He presented with a history of hypohidrosis with heat intolerance and neuropathic tingling pain in a warm environment from 6 years ago. He had a few angiokeratoma on the trunk and extremities. Ultrastructural examination of skin biopsy from the angiokeratoma revealed lamellar inclusions in endothelial cells. Kidney biopsy revealed swollen podocytes and Gb3 deposition in the glomerulus, and urinalysis revealed mulberry bodies. He was finally diagnosed with FD and started on enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase alpha in the early stage. In addition, his family screening led to find the patients of four additional FD. Screening for FD in patients with hypohidrosis may lead to efficient early detection of FD.