bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-trait genome-wide association study in 34,394 Chinese women reveals the genetic architecture of plasma metabolites during pregnancy
Authors: Liu Siyang , Yao Jilong , Lin Liang , Lan Xianmei , Wu Linlin , Kong Nannan , Deng Yuqing , Li Yan , Xie Jiansheng , Zhu Huanhuan , Wu Xiaoxia , Li Zilong , Xiong Likuan , Wang Yuan , Ren Jinghui , Qiu Xuemei , Zhao Weihua , Gao Ya , Chen Yuanqing , Su Fengxia , Zhou Yun , Rao Weiqiao , Zhang Jing , Hou Guixue , Huang Liping , Li Linxuan , Liu Xinhong , Nie Chao , Luo Liqiong , Liu Zengyou , Chen Fang , Lin Shengmou , Zhao Lijian , Fu Qingmei , Jiang Dan , Yin Ye , Xu Xun , Wang Jian , Yang Huanming , Wang Rong , Niu Jianmin , Wei Fengxiang , Jin Xin , Liu Siqi
Published: November 2023

Metabolites are important indicators of individual health and can serve as crucial targets for therapy. However, the genetic basis of many metabolites remains largely unexplored, especially among underrepresented East Asians and during critical periods such as pregnancy. In this study, we utilized genetic information obtained from non-invasive prenatal testing to conduct a genome-wide association analysis of 84 metabolites, including 37 amino acids, 10 vitamins, 24 metal elements, and 13 hormones, among 34,394 Chinese pregnant women. Of these metabolites, 52 and 11 had not previously been studied in East Asians or globally. We identified 30 novel metabolite-gene associations. We also observed substantial differences in the genetic effects on hormones between pregnancy and non-pregnancy periods, suggesting effect modifications in response to physiological changes. Furthermore, we uncovered pervasive pleiotropic effects for 50.94% of the genetic associations among metabolites, as well as between six metabolites and eight pregnancy biomarkers. Using mendelian randomization, we identified potential causal relationships between plasma folate and ischemic stroke, vitamin D3 and Graves’ disease, copper and open-angle glaucoma, and androstenedione and rheumatoid arthritis. These discoveries provide invaluable genetic insights into human metabolism, laying the foundation for future mechanistic studies and the development of new therapeutic targets, particularly for underrepresented East Asians.
Changes in the physical behaviour of older adults during the 13 weeks GOTO intervention explain a boost in immuno-metabolic health
Authors: Paraschiakos Stylianos , Bogaards Fatih A. , Knobbe Arno , Slagboom P. Eline , Beekman Marian
Published: November 2023

Background

The aging population faces numerous health challenges, with sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity being paramount. We explore the physical behaviour of older adults in the GOTO combined lifestyle intervention study and its related immuno-metabolic health effects.

Methods

The research utilized accelerometers and machine learning to assess physical activity behaviours during a 13-week program of increased physical activity and decreased calorie intake. Subsequently, the association of variation in physical behaviour with immuno-metabolic health parameters is investigated cross-sectionally at baseline and longitudinally using sex-stratified linear regression and linear mixed regression respectively.

Results

Participants exhibited physical behaviors similar to their age-matched peers from the UK-Biobank. Interestingly, gender-based differences were evident, with men and women showing distinct daily physical behavioural patterns. At baseline, a positive correlation was found between higher physical behavior and a healthier immune-metabolic profile, particularly in men. The longitudinal changes depict an overall boost in activity levels, predominantly among women. While increasing general activity and engaging in intense exercises proved advantageous for physical health, the immune-metabolic health benefits were more pronounced in men.

Conclusion

The short-term GOTO intervention underscores the significance of regular physical activity in promoting healthy aging even in middle to older age. Gender differences in behavior and health benefits deserve much more attention though. Our results advocate the broader implementation of such programs and emphasize the utility of technology, like accelerometers and machine learning, in both monitoring and promoting active lifestyles among older adults.
The Effects of Different Fatigue Types on Action Anticipation and Physical Performance in High-level Volleyball Players
Authors: Yu Ying , Zhang Liqing , Cheng Ming-Yang , Liang Zhijun , Zhang Ming , Qi Fengxue
Published: November 2023

This study examined the effects of different fatigue types on action anticipation and physical performance in high-level volleyball players. Twenty-four participants underwent four counterbalanced conditions: 60-min of cycling at 60% peak power output, 60-min Stroop task, 60-min cycling at 60% peak power output with Stroop task and 60-min neutral documentary to induce physical fatigue (PF), mental fatigue (MF), dual fatigue (DF) and control group (CG), respectively. Action anticipation (anticipation test and visual search test) and physical performance (countermovement jump, T-test, and spike test) were conducted at baseline, immediately after (Post1), and 40-min after fatigue intervention (Post2). DF and PF led to significantly lower jump height, T-test completion time, and spiking speed at Post1 and Post2 compared with CG and MF. Compared with PF, DF led to a significant decline in jumping, agility, and spiking performance at Post1 and decreased jumping performance at Post2. MF significantly decreased reaction time in the anticipation test at Post1 compared with CG. Reaction times in the visual search test were significantly lower with DF and MF at Post2 compared with CG. PF led to a greater decline in physical performance and this was exacerbated in DF, yet anticipation performance remained lesser impact.
Large-scale proteogenomics characterization of theMycobacterium tuberculosishidden microproteome
Authors: de Souza Eduardo V. , Dalberto Pedro F. , Miranda Adriana C. , Saghatelian Alan , Pinto Antonio Michel , Basso Luiz A. , Machado Pablo , Bizarro Cristiano V.
Published: November 2023

Tuberculosis remains a burden to this day, due to the rise of multi and extensively drug-resistant bacterial strains. The genome ofMycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb)underwent an annotation process that excluded small Open Reading Frames (smORFs), which encode a class of peptides and small proteins collectively known as microproteins. As a result, there is an overlooked part of its proteome that is a rich source of potentially essential, druggable molecular targets. Here, we employed our recently developed proteogenomics pipeline to identify novel microproteins encoded by smORFs in the genome ofMtbusings hundreds of mass spectrometry experiments in a large-scale approach. We found protein evidence for hundreds of novel microproteins and identified smORFs potentially involved in bacterial growth and virulence. Moreover, many smORFs are co-expressed or share operons with a myriad of biologically relevant genes and may play a role in antibiotic response. Together, our data presents a resource of unknown genes that play a role in the success ofMtbas a widespread pathogen.
Development and Outcomes of an International Certificate Program in Science Policy and Advocacy for STEM PhD Students and Postdocs
Authors: Bankston Adriana , Ralston Amy , Ly Joanne , Singh Harinder
Published: November 2023

Scientists must play a significant role in enacting societal change by educating and advising policymakers on relevant policy topics. To fill the identified gap in science policy and advocacy training, during the pandemic years, we piloted and offered the online Science Policy & Advocacy for STEM Scientists Certificate Program starting in 2020. Over three cohorts, the program was focused on practical skills and concepts, networking, and career development opportunities, and providing pathways for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers to learn about and in many cases fully transition into science policy and advocacy roles and careers. Program participants were exposed to many important aspects of what it means to be involved in science policy and advocacy, and many chose to enter the field through subsequent opportunities facilitated by the program training. We sought to reduce a number of barriers to program participation, and additionally provided resources for others to develop similar programs at their university. We believe this training model is innovative and can be recapitulated, and sincerely hope to see more universities create similar programs in the US and internationally in order to serve trainees interested in science policy and advocacy and facilitate their building impactful careers in the field for years to come.
A novel vitamin C analog acts as a potent bio-enhancer to augment the activities of anti-tuberculosis drugs againstMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Bokolia Naveen Prakash , Bag Kingsuk , Sarkar Biplab , Jhawar Ruchi , Chatterji Dipankar , Jayaraman Narayanaswamy , Ghosh Anirban
Published: November 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosisis a deadly pathogen that claims millions of lives every year. Current research focuses on finding new anti-tuberculosis drugs that are safe and effective, with lesser side effects and toxicity. One important approach is to identify bio-enhancers that can improve the effectiveness of anti-tuberculosis drugs, resulting in reduced doses and shortened treatment times. We investigated the use of vitamin C-derived isotetrones as bio- enhancer agents. In this context, our results revealed that the lead compound C11 inhibits growth, improves MIC/MBC, and enhances the killing ofM. tuberculosisH37Rv strain when used in combination with first-line and injectable anti-TB drugs in a dose-dependent manner. The combination of C11 and rifampicin also reduced the generation of spontaneous mutants against rifampicin and reached a mutation prevention concentration (MPC) with moderate rifampicin concentrations. The identified compounds were proven to be effective against the MDR strain ofM. tuberculosisand non-cytotoxic in HepG2 cells. We also found that C11 induced the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) inside macrophages and within bacteria, resulting in better efficacy.
Making predictions using poorly identified mathematical models
Authors: Simpson Matthew J. , Maclaren Oliver J.
Published: November 2023

Many commonly used mathematical models in the field of mathematical biology involve challenges of parameter non-identifiability. Practical non-identifiability, where the quality and quantity of data does not provide sufficiently precise parameter estimates is often encountered, even with relatively simple models. In particular, the situation where some parameters are identifiable and others are not is often encountered. In this work we apply a recent likelihood-based workflow, calledProfile-Wise Analysis(PWA), to non-identifiable models for the first time. The PWA workflow addresses identifiability, parameter estimation, and prediction in a unified framework that is simple to implement and interpret. Previous implementations of the workflow have dealt with idealised identifiable problems only. In this study we illustrate how the PWA workflow can be applied to both structurally non-identifiable and practically non-identifiable models in the context of simple population growth models. Dealing with simple mathematical models allows us to present the PWA workflow in a didactic, self–contained document that can be studied together with relatively straightforward Julia code provided onGitHub. Working with simple mathematical models allows the PWA workflow prediction intervals to be compared withgold standardfull likelihood prediction intervals. Together, our examples illustrate how the PWA workflow provides us with a systematic way of dealing with non-identifiability, especially compared to other approaches, such as seeking ad hoc parameter combinations, or simply setting parameter values to some arbitrary default value. Importantly, we show that the PWA workflow provides insight into the commonly–encountered situation where some parameters are identifiable and others are not, allowing us to explore how uncertainty in some parameters, and combinations of some parameters, regardless of their identifiability status, influences model predictions in a way that is insightful and interpretable.
A Multi-Granularity Approach to Similarity Search in Multiplexed Immunofluorescence Images
Authors: Yu Jennifer , Wu Zhenqin , Mayer Aaron T. , Trevino Alexandro , Zou James
Published: November 2023

Due to the rapid increase and importance of multiplexed immunofluorescence (mIF) imaging data in spatial biology, there is a pressing need to develop efficient image-to-image search pipelines for both diagnostic and research purposes. While several image search methods have been introduced for conventional images and digital pathology, mIF images present three main challenges: (1) high dimension-ality, (2) domain-specificity, and (3) complex additional molecular information. To address this gap, we introduce the MIISS framework, aMulti-granularity mIFImageSimilaritySearch pipeline that employs self-supervised learning models to extract features from mIF image patches and an entropy-based aggregation method to enable similarity searches at higher, multi-granular levels. We then benchmarked various feature generation approaches to handle high dimensional images and tested them on various foundation models. We conducted evaluations using datasets from different tissues on both patch- and patient-level, which demonstrate the frame-work’s effectiveness and generalizability. Notably, we found that domain-specific models consistently outperformed other models, further showing their robustness and generalizability across different datasets. The MIISS framework offers an effective solution for navigating the growing landscape of mIF images, providing tangible clinical benefits and opening new avenues for pathology research.
Salt-dependent self-association of trinucleotide repeat RNA sequences
Authors: Maity Hiranmay , Nguyen Hung T. , Hori Naoto , Thirumalai D.
Published: November 2023

Low complexity repeat RNA sequences self-associate by homotypic interactions to form condensates. Using simulations of a coarse grained Single-Interaction Site model for (CAG)n(n= 30 and 31), we show that the salt-dependent free energy gap, ∆GS, between the ground (perfect hairpin) and the excited state (slipped hairpin (SH) with one CAG overhang) of monomer (neven) is the primary factor that determines the rates and yield of self-assembly. For oddn, the SH ground state free energy (GS) is used to predict self-association kinetics. As the monovalent salt concentration,CS, increases ∆GSandGSincreases, which in turn decreases the self-association rates. In contrast, ∆GSfor scrambled sequences, with the same length and sequence composition as (CAG)31but with higher complexity, is larger which greatly suppresses the propensities to aggregate. Although demonstrated explicitly for (CAG)30and (CAG)31polymers, the finding that there is an inverse correlation betweenCS-dependent ∆GSorGSand RNA aggregation is general. Our predictions are amenable to experimental tests.
scGeneRythm: Using Neural Networks and Fourier Transformation to Cluster Genes by Time-Frequency Patterns in Single-Cell Data
Authors: Jia Yiming , Wu Hao , Ding Jun
Published: November 2023

Clustering genes in single-cell RNA sequencing plays a pivotal role in unraveling a plethora of biological processes, from cell differentiation to disease progression and metabolic pathways. Traditional time-domain methods are instrumental in certain analyses, yet they may overlook intricate relationships. For instance, genes that appear distinct in the time domain might exhibit striking similarities in the frequency domain. Recognizing this, we present scGeneRhythm, an innovative deep learning technique that employs Fourier transformation. This approach captures the rich tapestry of gene expression from both the time and frequency domains. When evaluated across a spectrum of single-cell datasets, scGeneRhythm consistently outperforms conventional approaches. The gene clusters it identifies not only demonstrate heightened statistical significance in enriched pathways but also bring to light underlying gene relationships previously obscured. Through integrating frequency-domain data, scGeneRhythm not only refines gene grouping but also uncovers pivotal biological insights, such as nuanced gene rhythmicity. By deploying scGeneRhythm, we foster a richer, multi-dimensional understanding of gene expression dynamics, enriching the potential avenues of cellular and molecular biology research.
Alternative splicing variants of Arabidopsis G protein β subunit AGB1 function in plant development and endoplasmic reticulum stress response
Authors: Cho Yueh
Published: November 2023

The Arabidopsis heterotrimeric G protein β subunit, GTP BINDING PROTEIN BETA 1 (AGB1), has multiple functions in plant development and response to various environmental stimuli including endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. However, how the single gene produces the pleiotropic effect remains elusive. Here, we show that AGB1 has 4 alternative splice isoforms with isoform-specific features. AGB1.2 failed to rescue theagb1-3mutant defects and thus was considered a non-functional isoform. Although AGB1.1 and AGB1.4 were both localized at the plasma membrane and the ER, AGB1.1 fully rescued the defects ofagb1-3,and AGB1.4 only partially rescued the defects even though its transcript level was higher than that of AGB1.1. Intriguingly, AGB1.3 was localized at the nucleus and further enhanced the leaf-shape phenotype ofagb1-3. The protein structure of AGB1.3 is unique because of the termination of translation in the 7th-WD40 motif by alternative splicing, which produced an incomplete propeller structure. AGB1.1 and AGB1.4 but not AGB1.3 interacted with the Gγ subunits, AGG1, AGG2, and AGG3, possibly because of the lack of the 7th-WD40 motif in AGB1.3. AGB1 may produce its multifaceted functions in plant development and ER stress tolerance via its alternative splice isoforms with distinct structural features and subcellular localization.
The effects of community treatment orders (CTOs) on readmission to hospital using electronic health records
Authors: Yang Justin C , Thygesen Johan H , Werbeloff Nomi , Kelsey David , Merlande Dominique , Hayes Joseph , Osborn David PJ
Published: November 2023

Background

Community treatment orders (CTOs) are used to manage community-based care for individuals with severe mental health conditions who have been discharged from inpatient care. Evidence examining whether CTOs are successful at reducing rehospitalisation has been mixed.

Methods

Using deidentified electronic health records from 2009-21, we compared patients who had ever been placed on a CTO (n=836) and two other groups of patients who had never been placed on CTO: patients admitted under Section 3 of the Mental Health Act (n=1,182) and outpatients with severe mental health issues (n=7,651). We examined the association between CTOs and rehospitalisation using within-individual stratified multivariable Cox regression.

Results

Patients on CTO were more likely to be male, single, of Black or Mixed ethnicity, and have a severe mental illness diagnosis than patients in the comparison groups. Time spent on CTO was associated with a lower risk of hospitalisation compared to time spent off CTO for the same individual (HR 0.60; 95% CI 0.56-0.64). This decreased risk of hospitalisation remained when we restricted analysis to individuals with a single CTO episode (HR 0.05; 95% CI 0.02-0.11) and when we restricted follow-up time to a patient’s first CTO episode (HR 0.20; 95% CI 0.17-0.25). However, there was no difference in re-hospitalisations when we observed patients starting from the first CTO (HR 1.07; 95% CI 1.00-1.16).

Conclusions

We found that patients on CTO were at lower risk of hospitalisation, though this pattern was not observed when we excluded time prior to the first CTO. Further research should consider whether CTOs provide genuine clinical benefit.
A validated cloud-based genomic platform for co-ordinated, expedient global analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genomic epidemiology
Authors: Amoako Daniel , Anh Nguyen To , Bastable Jasmine , Brouard Marc , Campano Romero Constanza , Castillo Ramirez Andres , Constantinides Bede , Crook Derrick W , Cuong Phan Manh , Diagne Moussa Moise , Diallo Amadou , Dung Nguyen Thanh , Dunn Laura , Duyet Le Van , Everatt Josie , Fletcher Katherine , Fowler Philip W , Gall Mailie , Gentry Jessica , Gharbia Saheer ,   Hospital for Tropical Diseases SARS-CoV-2 testing team, Hong Nguyen Thi Thu , Hunt Martin , Iqbal Zamin , Jeffery Katie , Kekana Dikeledi , Kesteman Thomas , Knaggs Jeff , Lopes Alves Marcela , Man Dinh Nguyen Huy , Mathers Amy , Ngoc Nghiem My , Oakley Sarah , Parikh Hardik , Peto Tim EA , Quan Phuong , Rojas Herrera Marcelo , Sanderson Nicholas , Sintchenko Vitali , Swann Jeremy , Takata Junko , Tam Nguyen Thi , Tan Le Van , Thach Pham Ngoc , Top Ndeye Marieme , Trang Nguyen Thu , Trang Van Dinh , Turner Robert , Van Doorn H. Rogier , von Gottberg Anne , Westhead Jeremy , Wolter Nicole , Young Bernadette C
Published: November 2023

Background Viral sequencing has made critical contributions to our understanding of and response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but sequencing capacity and bioinformatic expertise remain limited in many settings. This proof-of-principle study aimed to demonstrate the utility of a cloud-based sequencing analysis pipeline, the Tiled Amplicon Pipeline (TAP), for rapid and collaborative SARS-CoV-2 sequencing across seven globally distributed sites. Methods In this cross-sectional study from July to August 2022, seven sites submitted all SARS-CoV-2 sequence data generated over a two-week period to our cloud platform. No patient identifying information was uploaded, and human reads were removed prior to upload to the cloud. Users could opt in to share sample information with collaborators via a tagging system. The pipeline performed sequence assembly, lineage identification and relatedness analysis. Results Seven sites contributed 5,432 sequences, of which 5,342 (98.3%) were from clinical samples and 90 (1.7%) were controls. Of the clinical samples that were correctly assembled, 3,439/4,179 (82.3%) had sufficient coverage for lineage assignment. Omicron lineages dominated, with BA.5, BA.4 and BA.2 comprising the vast majority, consistent with contemporary epidemiological observations at the time. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated low diversity within lineages, and genotypically identical or highly similar sequences were recovered from globally disparate sites. Conclusions A cloud-based analysis platform like TAP addresses bioinformatic bottlenecks and facilitates collaboration in pathogen surveillance, enhancing epidemic and pandemic preparedness.
Impact of interest subvention scheme (ISS) on the behaviour of farm households: a case of Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Sehgal Shubham Kumar
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Credit is an essential element in the production process in agriculture. There are two sources from which farm households can access credit: institutional sources and non-institutional or informal sources of credit. The informal sources of credit, such as moneylenders, charge exorbitant rates of interest, which further puts a financial burden on the farmers. Hence, to increase the flow of credit from institutional sources, a policy known as the interest subvention scheme (ISS) was introduced in the year 2006. This paper aims to find the effect of the ISS on the behaviour of farm households.

Design/methodology/approach

The author has used difference-in-difference analysis for estimation. In the analysis, the author has taken Madhya Pradesh as the treatment state and Andhra Pradesh as the controlled state. The author has used the Village Dynamics in South Asia (VDSA) dataset of ICRISAT for analysis. The author has used data from 2009 to 2014 for the two states.

Findings

The author has found that the difference between the average interest rate of Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh is significant for both pre-treatment and post-treatment periods and this gap has increased after the intervention period. The results suggest that the share of informal sector borrowings has reduced in the treatment group (Madhya Pradesh) as compared to the control group (Andhra Pradesh) in the post-treatment period.

Originality/value

This paper is particularly important because of the dearth of literature on the impact of this scheme in India and may shed light on the much-needed policy implications of this particular policy.
Flow and heat transfer analysis of laminar flow in hypersonic aircraft with variable specific heat capacity at small attack angles
Authors: Du Mengxia , Wang Qiao , Zhang Yan , Bai Yu , Wei Chunqiu , Liu Chunyan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

As to different angles of attack and nonlinear problems caused by high temperatures in coexisting hypersonic aircraft, people mainly rely on fluid software for research but lack analysis of flow mechanisms. Owing to computational difficulties, few people use numerical algorithms to combine them for discussion. Hence, this study aims to make a deep inquiry into the laminar flow and heat transfer of compressible Newtonian fluid in hypersonic aircraft with small attack angles.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, on the basis of mass, momentum and energy conservation laws, the governing equations of the hypersonic boundary layer are established. Viscosity, specific heat capacity and thermal conductivity are considered nonlinear functions concerning temperature. In virtue of the MacCormack finite difference method, the stationary numerical solutions are solved directly, and the validity of the algorithm is verified.

Findings

The results demonstrate that at Mach number 5, compared to the 0° attack angle, the maximum temperature near-wall at the 3° attack angle increases by about 25%. An enjoyable phenomenon is discovered, where the position corresponding to the maximum wall shear force shifts back as the attack angle and Mach number increase. The relationship between the near-wall maximum temperature versus attack angle and Mach number is fitted through numerical calculation results.

Originality/value

Empirical formulas can be used to estimate heat transfer characteristics at small attack angles, which will guide the design of aircraft thermal protection systems.
Financial inclusion, financial capability and financial fragility during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kim Kyoung Tae , Xiao Jing Jian , Porto Nilton
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Financial inclusion can be proxied by banking status. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential effects of financial capability on the financial fragility of US adults with various banking statuses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized the 2021 National Financial Capability Study (NFCS) dataset to investigate the relationship between financial capability and financial fragility among consumers with different banking statuses. The analysis controlled for employment shocks, health shocks and other consumer characteristics. Banking statuses included fully banked, under-banked (utilizing both banking and alternative financial services) and unbanked individuals. Logistic regression analyses were conducted on both the entire sample and subsamples based on banking statuses.

Findings

The results showed that financial capability was negatively associated with financial fragility. The magnitude of the potential negative effect of financial capability was the greatest among the fully banked group, followed by the underbanked and unbanked groups. Respondents who were underbanked or unbanked were more likely to experience financial fragility than those who were fully banked. Additionally, respondents who were laid off or furloughed during the pandemic were more likely to experience financial fragility than those without employment shocks. The effect size of financial capability factors was greater than that of COVID-19 shock factors. These results suggest that higher levels of both financial capability and financial inclusion may be effective in reducing the risk of financial fragility.

Originality/value

This study represents one of the first attempts to examine the potential effects of financial capability on financial fragility among consumers with various banking statuses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, this study offers new evidence to determine whether COVID-19 shocks, as measured by health and employment status, are associated with financial fragility. Additionally, the effect size of financial capability factors is greater than that of COVID-19 shock factors. The results from the 2021 NFCS dataset provide valuable insights for banking professionals and public policymakers on how to enhance consumer financial wellbeing.
The infiltration of LGBTQ+ safe spaces
Authors: Baxter Daniel , Jones Steve , Leer Claire
Published: November 2023

Purpose

LGBTQ+ spaces are often considered as safe havens for the LGBTQ+ community, as they can gather free from prejudice and fear. This research explores the effect that heterosexual people attending LGBTQ+ venues have on this community. This paper considers the impacts on the community, the importance of their safe spaces and identifies practical implications to be considered in protecting these spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

The study implemented a multi-method qualitative data collection approach with LGBTQ+ community venue attendees in the UK. Stage 1 utilised an online qualitative survey and collected data from 558 respondents. Stage 2 saw critical incident techniques (CITs) used with 12 participants. The data collected were analysed using a thematic system.

Findings

The LGBTQ+ community has experienced an increase in frustration and fear as a result of more heterosexual attendees infiltrating their safe spaces. Both participants and respondents discussed the importance that security personnel play in ensuring safe spaces. Finally, the findings demystified that not all attendees in LGBTQ+ venues are allies, and that there is a need for those outside the community to better understand the importance of these spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, as many heterosexuals do not consider how they should act.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations associated with the implementation of the CIT were identified. Further training is advised for researchers employing this method to prepare them for dealing with the emotional impact of participants’ experiences.

Practical implications

This study highlighted the need for security and staff working at LGBTQ+ venues to undergo extensive inclusivity training, and for stricter door policies. Participants also argued for LGBTQ+ venues to educate heterosexual attendees about the community and their historical and present-day struggles and culture.

Originality/value

This paper is of practical value to those who organise and manage LGBTQ+ events, bars and nightclubs. An enhancement to the four types of space framework originated by Castilhos and Dolbec (2018) has been identified.
Optimal and economic design of modified double sampling plan under new Weibull–Pareto distribution
Authors: Sankara Narayanan M. , Jeyadurga P. , Balamurali S.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a modified version of the double sampling plan to handle the inspection processes requiring a minimum sample size to assure the median life for the products under the new Weibull–Pareto distribution. The economic design of the proposed plan is also considered to assure the product's lifetime with minimum cost.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have developed an optimization model for obtaining the required plan parameters by solving simultaneously two non-linear inequalities and such inequalities have been formed based on the two points on the operating characteristic curve approach.

Findings

The results show that the average sample number, average total inspection and total inspection cost under the proposed plan are smaller than the same of a single sampling plan. This means that the proposed plan will be more efficient than a single sampling plan in reducing inspection effort and cost while providing the desired protection.

Originality/value

The proposed modified double sampling plan designed to assure the median life of the products under the new Weibull–Pareto distribution is not available in the literature. The proposed plan will be very useful in assuring the product median lifetime with minimum sample size as well as minimum cost in all the manufacturing industries.
Enhancing smart tourism and smart city development: evidence from Taoyuan smart aviation city in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Kuang-Yu , Chen Chun-Der , Ku Edward C.S.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate tourists’ impressions of the smart destinations model from the socio-technical systems and the technology–organization–environment (TOE) perspectives. Specifically, it aims to explore how information source credibility and cloud infrastructure influence tourists’ use of intelligent technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This measurement development is based on prior literature; after being evaluated for face and content validity, the authors used random sampling to collect data and conducted a field survey of tourists through Taoyuan Airport and using the airport MRT between December 2022 and March 2023. After confirming that tourists knew the destination information and had experience using travel-related mobile applications to plan their itinerary, the authors further invited tourists to participate in the survey, and 512 valid questionnaires were analyzed by the structural equation modeling approach.

Findings

The finding pointed out that source credibility and intelligent technology were innovative technologies that benefitted tourists, as were mobile travel planning apps, which created a relational context based on interests and activities from the socio-technical and TOE perspectives.

Originality/value

Technological innovation is closely related to the development of smart cities; tourists who used travel itineraries successfully understood travel-related actions and significantly had more positive affective images of the city.
Initial notes: datafication and data protection in the Brazilian university scenario
Authors: Alves Lynn Rosalina Gama , de Souza Santos William
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the platforming scenario at a Brazilian university as well as the data security process for students and professors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research brings an analysis through a qualitative approach of the platformization process in a Brazilian teaching institution.

Findings

The results point to a lack of knowledge on the part of teachers regarding data security in the platforming scenario, as well as the lack of effectiveness of institutions in protecting student data.

Originality/value

Within the Brazilian scenario, this research seeks to contribute to the discussion on platformization in view of the gaps and existing demands on this process in the country.
Dynamic behavior of hydrostatic squeeze film dampers fed through four capillary restrictors with micropolar lubricant
Authors: Benariba Aboubakeur , Bouzidane Ahmed , Aboshighiba Hicham , Thomas Mark
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to study the dynamic behavior of hydrostatic squeeze film dampers made of four hydrostatic pads, fed through four capillary restrictors with micropolar lubricant.

Design/methodology/approach

The modified version of Reynolds equation is solved numerically by the finite differences and the Gauss–Seidel methods to determine the pressure field generated on the hydrostatic bearing flat pads. In the first step, the effects of the pad dimension ratios on the stiffness and damping coefficients are investigated. In the second step, the damping factor is evaluated with respect to the micropolar properties.

Findings

The analysis revealed that the hydrostatic squeeze film dampers lubricated with micropolar lubricants produces the maximum damping factor for characteristic length of micropolar lubricant less than 5, while the same bearing operating with Newtonian lubricants reaches its maximum damping factor at eccentricity ratios larger than 0.4.

Originality/value

The results obtained show that the effects of micropolar lubricants on the dynamic performances are predominantly affected by the pad geometry and eccentricity ratio.
Meatless gastronomy: a threat or an opportunity for tourism development?
Authors: Lochman Josef , Vágner Jiří
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Meat overconsumption by tourists is one of the key issues in the sustainability of tourist destinations. The objective of this paper is to assess the impact that a promotion of meatless gastronomy and its actual increased availability would have on the attractiveness and visitation of a popular European urban destination.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses an innovative foresight approach that combines environmental scanning and scenarios. The authors formulated the scenarios using the Delphi technique and working with 27 scholars whose insights into the topic were enhanced through theses that resulted from the environmental scanning. They provided their insights into how a promotion of meatless gastronomy would affect a destination. Subsequently, the authors synthetized their insights and formulated the scenarios.

Findings

Based on two defined scenarios, the authors found that a meatless image represents an opportunity for the future development of an urban European destination. A long-term growth in visitor numbers can be achieved while ensuring environmental, economic and socio-cultural sustainability providing that relevant stakeholders are involved in the promotional activities.

Originality/value

Management of tourists' unsustainable eating habits is currently an unexplored issue. The present research addresses this topic and provides valuable insights that will help to address sustainability issues while making tourism destinations more attractive.
Board's informal hierarchy: influences on enterprise innovation quality
Authors: Meng Delin , Li Yanxi , Wang Lan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Utilizing the expectation states theory in sociology, this study probes into the influence of the board's informal hierarchy on the quality of enterprise innovation, originating from the perspective of internal directorial interactions, while analyzing the boundary effects exhibited by the nature of property rights and the intensity of geo-culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The study selects China's A-share listed companies from 2008 to 2021 as the research sample, employing the Tobit regression analysis method to scrutinize the hypotheses presented in the text.

Findings

The regression results demonstrate a positive correlation between the board's informal hierarchy and the enterprise innovation quality (EIQ). Upon introducing variables specific to property rights and geographical culture, the authors found that in comparison to non-state-owned enterprises (non-SOEs), the influence of the board's informal hierarchy on the quality of corporate innovation is diminished in SOEs. Conversely, the intensity of geo-culture across Chinese provinces enhances their mutual positive influence. In the additional analysis, the authors also found that the elevation of corporate risk tolerance is a significant pathway for the positive effect of the board's informal hierarchy on EIQ. Moreover, this positive influence is more profound in high-tech enterprises, businesses implementing equity incentive plans and companies that have subscribed to director and officer liability insurance.

Originality/value

The findings not only deepen the understanding of how the board's internal status characteristics influence corporate decision-making but also enrich the application scope of expectation states theory. Furthermore, this study offers valuable guidance for optimizing innovation decision-making by adjusting the personnel structures of corporate boards.
Participatory knowledge co-production to activate culture in the development of small cities and rural areas in Portugal
Authors: Duxbury Nancy , Bakas Fiona Eva , Carvalho Cláudia Pato
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Culture is increasingly recognized as a key component of local development, but this attention is largely focused on large cities. This paper aims to focus on the ways in which the innovative, participatory action-research (PAR) methods of IdeaLabs and community intervention workshops are used by two projects with solidarity economy enterprise (SEE) participants to activate place-based cultural resources for local development in small communities.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth reflexive analysis undertaken by researchers involved in the two projects, taking a feminist ethics of care perspective, demonstrates the ways in which these two PAR methods promote local development with the goal of fighting against the economic, social and cultural degradation of small cities and rural areas.

Findings

The PAR methods used by the two projects examined stimulate place-based local development initiatives through collaboration and knowledge co-production among participants and researchers. The projects go beyond an instrumental view of the use of culture and the arts for local development to innovate and demonstrate new methodologies for more participatory approaches.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a gap in social economy literature, presenting methods that can be used in PAR projects to catalyse the use of culture as a local development tool by local SEEs.
Strong phylogenetic signal and models of trait evolution evidence phylogenetic niche conservatism for seagrasses
Authors: Tuya Fernando , Martínez‐Pérez Javier , Fueyo Álvaro , Bosch Néstor E.
Published: November 2023

Phylogenetic signal (PS) is the propensity of closely related species to resemble each other. PS has been tested across clades of terrestrial plants; however, insight for seagrasses is still lacking. Signatures of PS and models of niche (trait) evolution can help to detect phylogenetic niche conservatism (PNC), that is, close relatives live in comparable niches.

The initial goal of this study was to assess the pattern of PS for the world's seagrasses, by testing the non‐independence of phylogenetic relatedness and seagrass species traits. A phylogeny of 49 seagrasses was constructed, together with a matrix of nine traits covering morphological, life‐history and reproductive attributes. PS of traits was tested through complementary indices (Pagel's λ, Blomberg's K, Moran's I and Abouheif's Cmean). Three models of niche evolution (Brownian Motion, BM; Ornstein–Uhlenbeck, OU; Early Burst, EB) were then fitted to each trait and the multivariate trait matrix.

Results supported the existence of strong PS for seagrasses, with a particularly large effect size for seagrass reproductive traits, which followed an EB evolution model. Local Indicators of Phylogenetic Association (local autocorrelation metrics that can help to identify areas of large autocorrelation) supported the presence of PS across seagrass lineages/clades, supported by the dominance of OU as the most parsimonious trait evolution model.

The pattern of strong PS seems to be a consequence of long‐term PNC of seagrass traits after initial radiation.

Synthesis: Our study highlights the relevance of evolution from common ancestors and shared history underpinning large seagrass phylogenetic structuring.
Single mother parenting of children with autism spectrum disorder: A qualitative photo‐narrative study
Authors: Lavian Rivka Hillel , Kimhi Yael , Shmuelovich Tamar
Published: November 2023

Over the past few decades, there has been a shift from the traditional family structure, with more acceptance of different structures, including those led by single parents. This qualitative photo‐narrative study aimed at making the voices of single mothers raising children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) heard. According to the literature, parenting a child with a disability can be very stressful on several different levels. Seven single mothers living in southern Israel and parenting children with ASD told their life stories and took photographs depicting their motherhood experience. The data underwent thematic content analysis. The main themes that emerged were the shattering of the family dream, the mothers and the educational setting, the present in the shadow of the future, single parents' support resources and the mothers' search for meaning. The data demonstrated that the mothers' daily life was rife with challenges. Providing assistance and support during different stages, including diagnosis, educational transitions and daily struggles, as outlined in the Dual Process Model of Coping with Bereavement, was crucial. The mothers also stressed that they drew strength from their love for their child and their existing support systems.
Dynamics in the Bioeconomy: Markets for Amino Acids and Insect Biomass
Authors: Sturm Viktoriya
Published: November 2023

While the bioeconomy permeates all sectors, respective markets are subject to different dynamics. Markets for bio‐based amino acids and insect biomass illustrate this. The global and EU markets for bio‐based amino acids are well‐established and growing. However, the increase in production in the EU of some ‘new’ amino acids is much smaller than the decrease in production of well‐established lysine and threonine that has resulted from the relocation of the production of these amino acids from the EU to Asia (an effect of higher production costs and stricter environmental standards in the EU). The result is that overall production of amino acids has decreased significantly.

The market for insect biomass is just emerging in the EU. Production is low, but companies are starting to upscale. The animal feed market is a major target market for free amino acids and insect biomass. Free amino acids are classified as feed additives and placing them on the feed market is costly. Insect meal is a feed material and placing it on the market is quite straightforward, although its use in feed for poultry and pigs was approved only in September 2021. Free amino acids are common ingredients of animal feed, but their use is prohibited in organic farming. The use of insect meal in organic farming is not prohibited, but a corresponding certification is not yet developed in the EU.