bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Jacalin-like lectin-domain-containing protein of Sclerospora graminicola act as an apoplastic virulence effector in plant–oomycete interactions
Authors: Kobayashi Michie , Utsushi Hiroe , Fujisaki Koki , Takeda Takumi , Yamashita Tetsuro , Terauchi Ryohei
Published: August 2021

The plant extracellular space, including the apoplast and plasma membrane, is the initial site of plant– pathogen interactions. Pathogens deliver numerous secreted proteins, called effectors, into this region to suppress plant immunity and establish infection. Downy mildew caused by the oomycete pathogen Sclerospora graminicola (Sg) is an economically important disease of Poaceae crops including foxtail millet (Setaria italica). We previously reported the genome sequence of Sg and showed that the Jacalin-related lectin (JRL) gene family has significantly expanded in this lineage. However, the biological functions of JRL proteins remained unknown. Here, we show that JRL from S. graminicola (SgJRL) functions as an apoplastic virulence effector. We identified eight SgJRLs via protein mass spectrometry analysis of extracellular fluid from S. graminicola-inoculated foxtail millet leaves. SgJRLs consist of a Jacalin-like lectin domain and an N-terminal putative secretion signal, and SgJRL expression is induced by Sg infection. Heterologous expression of three SgJRLs with N-terminal secretion signal peptides in Nicotiana benthamiana enhanced the virulence of the pathogen Phytophthora palmivora inoculated onto the same leaves. Of the three SgJRLs, SG06536 fused with GFP localized to the apoplastic space in N. benthamiana leaves. INF1-mediated induction of defense-related genes was suppressed by co-expression of SG06536-GFP. These findings suggest that JRLs are novel apoplastic effectors that contribute to pathogenicity by suppressing plant defense responses.
Intrinsic variation in the vertically transmitted insect-specific core virome of Aedes aegypti
Authors: Coatsworth H. , Bozic J , Carrillo J. , Buckner E.A. , Rivers A.R. , Dinglasan R.R. , Mathias D.K.
Published: August 2021

Since 2009, local outbreaks of dengue (serotypes 1-3) mediated by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes have occurred in the United States, particularly in Florida (FL). In 2016 and 2017, dengue virus serotype 4 was found alongside several insect-specific viruses (ISVs) in pools of A. aegypti from sites in Manatee County, FL, in the absence of an index case. Although ISVs have been characterized in A. aegypti globally, the constitution of a core virome in natural populations remains unclear. Using mosquitoes sampled from the same area in 2018, we compared baseline ovary viromes of field (G0) and lab (Orlando) A. aegypti via metagenomic RNA sequencing. Across all samples, virome composition varied by sample type (field- or colony-derived). Four ISVs comprised >97% of virus sequences: a novel partiti-like virus (Partitiviridae), a previously described toti-like virus (Totiviridae), unclassified Riboviria, and four previously described orthomyxo-like viruses (Orthormyxoviridae). Whole or partial genomes for the toti-like virus, partiti-like virus, and one orthomyxo-like virus were assembled and analyzed phylogenetically. Multigenerational maintenance of these ISVs was confirmed orthogonally by RT-PCR in G0 and G7 mosquitoes, indicating vertical transmission as the mechanism for ISV sustentation. This study provides fundamental information regarding ISV ecology, persistence, and variation in A. aegypti in nature.
The B chromosome of Pseudococcus viburni: a selfish chromosome that exploits whole-genome meiotic drive
Authors: Vea Isabelle M. , de la Filia Andrés G. , Jaron Kamil S. , Mongue Andrew J. , Ruiz-Ruano Francisco J. , Barlow Scott E.J , Nelson Ross , Ross Laura
Published: August 2021

Meiosis, the key process underlying sexual reproduction, is generally a fair process: each chromosome has a 50% chance of being included into each gamete. However in some organisms meiosis has become highly aberrant with some chromosomes having a higher chance of making it into gametes than others. Yet why and how such systems evolve remains unclear. Here we study the unusual reproductive genetics of mealybugs, in which only maternal-origin chromosomes are included into the gametes during male meiosis, while paternally-derived chromosomes degrade. This “whole genome meiotic drive” occurs in all males and is evolutionarily conserved. However one species - the obscure mealybug Pseudococcus viburni - has a segregating B chromosome that increases in frequency by escaping paternal genome elimination. Here we present whole-genome and gene expression data from laboratory lines with and without B chromosomes. These data allow us to identify B-linked sequences including >70 protein-coding genes as well as a B-specific satellite repeat that makes up a significant proportion of the chromosome. We also used these data to investigate the evolutionary origin of the B chromosome. The few paralogs between the B and the core genome are distributed throughout the genome, showing that it is unlikely that the B originated through a simple duplication of one of the autosomes. We also find that while many of the B-linked genes do not have paralogs within the P.viburni genome, but they do show orthology with genes in other hemipteran insects suggesting that the B might have originated from fission of one of the autosomes, possibly followed by further translocations of individual genes. Finally in order to understand the mechanisms by which the B is able to escape elimination when paternally-derived we generated gene expression data for males and females with and without B chromosomes. We find that at the developmental stage when meiosis is taking place only a small number of B-linked genes show significant expression. Only one gene was significantly over-expressed during male meiosis, which is when the drive occurs: a acetyltransferase involved in H3K56Ac, which has a putative role in meiosis and is therefore a promising candidate for further studies. Together, these results form a promising foundation for studying the mechanisms of meiotic drive in a system that is uniquely suited for this approach.
HIF-1α stabilization modified by glutaredoxin-1 is critical for intestinal angiogenesis in NEC pathogenesis
Authors: Zhang Yunfei , Zhang Xiao , Tian Bing , Ding Xionghui , Ye Cuilian , Guo Chunbao
Published: August 2021

Background

Hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1α) are essential in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), which is stabilized by Grx1 deletion. Until now, the mechanism of HIF-1α in the intestinal microcirculation in NEC is not well defined. We intend to investigate the role of HIF-1α in the development of NEC in regulating the microcirculation and the following vasodilatory signal, VEGF.

Materials and methods

Experimental NEC was induced in full-term C57BL/6 mouse and Grx1-/- pups through the formula gavage and hypoxia technique. The HIF-1α signal was blocked utilizing the HIF-1α inhibitor, YC-1. Intestinal tissues were collected at predetermined time points for the assessment of intestinal microcirculation and the HIF-1α activity involved signal.

Results

We found that NEC inducement impaired the intestinal microcirculation, but intestinal blood flow and capillary density were ameliorated in Grx1-/- mice, which was associated with the GSH-protein adducts of HIF-1α in the intestinal tissue. Grx1 ablation could also promote vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGFA) production in the intestinal tissue. This intestinal microvascular improvement was not found in the HIF-1α inhibited mice, suggesting the HIF-1α dependent manner for intestinal microcirculatory perfusion.

Conclusion

The current data demonstrated that HIF-1α signaling is involved in the intestinal microvascular modification during the pathogenesis of NEC, suggesting that targeting with HIF-1α might be a promising strategy for NEC treatment.
Apropos of Universal Epitope Discovery for COVID-19 Vaccines: A Framework for Targeted Phage Display-Based Delivery and Integration of New Evaluation Tools
Authors: Markosian Christopher , Staquicini Daniela I. , Dogra Prashant , Dodero-Rojas Esteban , Tang Fenny H. F. , Smith Tracey L. , Contessoto Vinícius G. , Libutti Steven K. , Wang Zhihui , Cristini Vittorio , Whitford Paul C. , Burley Stephen K. , Onuchic José N. , Pasqualini Renata , Arap Wadih
Published: August 2021

Targeted bacteriophage (phage) particles are potentially attractive yet inexpensive platforms for immunization. Herein, we describe targeted phage capsid display of an immunogenically relevant epitope of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein that is empirically conserved, likely due to the high mutational cost among all variants identified to date. This observation may herald an approach to developing vaccine candidates for broad-spectrum, towards universal, protection against multiple emergent variants of coronavirus that cause COVID-19.
Selective cleavage of ncRNA and antiviral activity by human RNase2/EDN in a macrophage infection model
Authors: Lu Lu , Li Jiarui , Wei Ranlei , Guidi Irene , Cozzuto Luca , Ponomarenko Julia , Prats-Ejarque Guillem , Boix Ester
Published: August 2021

RNase2, also named the Eosinophil derived Neurotoxin (EDN), is one of the main proteins secreted by the eosinophil secondary granules. RNase2 is also expressed in other leukocyte cells and is the member of the human ribonuclease A family most abundant in macrophages. The protein is endowed with a high ribonucleolytic activity and participates in the host antiviral activity. Although RNase2 displays a broad antiviral activity, it is mostly associated to the targeting of single stranded RNA viruses. To explore RNase2 mechanism of action in antiviral host defence we knocked out RNase2 expression in the THP1 monocyte cell line and characterized the cell response to human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). We observed that RSV infection induced the RNase2 expression and protein secretion in THP1 macrophage-derived cells, whereas the knockout (KO) of RNase2 resulted in higher RSV burden and reduced cell viability. Next, by means of the cP-RNAseq methodology, which uniquely amplifies the RNA 2’3’cyclic-phosphate-end products released by an endonuclease cleavage, we compared the ncRNA population in native and RNase2-KO cell lines. Among the ncRNAs accumulated in WT versus KO cells, we found mostly tRNA-derived fragments and secondly miRNAs. Analysis of the differential sequence coverage of tRNAs molecules in native and KO cells identified fragments derived from only few parental tRNAs, revealing a predominant cleavage at anticodon loops and secondarily at D-loops. Inspection of cleavage region identified U/C and A, at 5’ and 3’ sides of cleavage sites respectively (namely RNase B1 and B2 base binding subsites). Likewise, only few selected miRNAs were significantly more abundant in WT versus RNase2-KO cells, with cleavage sites located at the end of stem regions with predominance for pyrimidines at B1 but following an overall less defined nucleotide specificity.

Complementarily, by screening of a tRF&tiRNA PCR array we identified an enriched population of tRNA-derived fragments associated to RNase2 expression and RSV infection. The present results confirm the contribution of the protein in macrophage response against virus infection and provide the first evidence of its cleavage selectivity against ncRNA population. A better understanding of the mechanism of action of RNase2 recognition of cellular RNA during the antiviral host defence should pave the basis for the design of novel antiviral drugs.
Algal photosystem I dimer and high resolution model of PSI:plastocyanin complex
Authors: Naschberger Andreas , Mosebach Laura , Tobiasson Victor , Kuhlgert Sebastian , Scholz Martin , Perez-Boerema Annemarie , Ho Thi Thu Hoai , Vidal-Meireles Andre , Takahashi Yuichiro , Hippler Michael , Amunts Alexey
Published: August 2021

Photosystem I (PSI) enables photo-electron transfer and regulates photosynthesis in the bioenergetic membranes of cyanobacteria and chloroplasts. Being a multi-subunit complex, its macromolecular organization affects the dynamics of photosynthetic membranes. Here, we reveal a chloroplast PSI from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that is organized as a homodimer, comprising 40 protein subunits with 118 transmembrane helices that provide scaffold for 568 pigments. Our cryo-EM structure identifies that the absence of PsaH and Lhca2 gives rise to a head-to-head relative orientation of the PSI-LHCI monomers in a way that is essentially different from the oligomer formation in cyanobacteria. The light-harvesting protein Lhca9 is the key element for mediating this dimerization. The interface between the monomers is lacking PsaH, and thus partially overlaps with the surface area that would bind one of the LHCII complexes in state transitions. We also define the most accurate available PSI-LHCI model at 2.3 Å resolution, including a flexibly bound electron donor plastocyanin, and assign correct identities and orientations of all the pigments, as well as 621 water molecules that affect energy transfer pathways.
Engineering yeast for de-novo synthesis of the insect repellent - nepetalactone
Authors: Davies Meghan E , Tsyplenkov Daniel , Martin Vincent J. J.
Published: August 2021

While nepetalactone, the active ingredient in catnip, is a potent insect repellent, its low in planta accumulation limits its commercial viability as an alternative repellent. Here we describe a platform for de novo nepetalactone production in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, enabling sustainable and scalable production. Nepetalactone production required introduction of eight exogenous genes including the cytochrome P450 geraniol-8-hydroxylase, which represented the bottleneck of the heterologous pathway. Combinatorial assessment of geraniol-8-hydroxylase and cytochrome P450 reductase variants, as well as copy-number variations were used to overcome this bottleneck. We found that several reductases improved hydroxylation activity, with a higher geraniol-8-hydroxylase ratio further increasing 8-hydroxygeraniol titers. Another roadblock was the accumulation of an unwanted metabolite that implied inefficient channeling of carbon through the pathway. With the native yeast old yellow enzymes previously shown to use monoterpene intermediates as substrates, both homologs were deleted. These deletions increased 8-hydroxygeraniol yield, resulting in a final de novo accumulation of 3.10 mg/L/OD600 of nepetalactone from simple sugar in microtiter plates. Our pathway optimization will aid in the development of high yielding monoterpene S. cerevisiae strains.
A Plasmid Network from the Gut Microbiome of Semi-isolated Human Groups Reveals Unique and Shared Metabolic and Virulence Traits
Authors: Conteville Liliane Costa , Vicente Ana Carolina Paulo
Published: August 2021

The plasmidome, the set of plasmids in gut microbiomes, has the potential to contribute to the microbiome assembly, as well as human health and physiology. Nevertheless, this niche remains poorly explored, likely due to the difficulties attributed to mining mobile elements from complex environments such as microbiomes. In general, most microbiome studies focus on urban-industrialized groups, but here, we studied semi-isolated groups, which represent a link between the ancestral and modern human groups. Based on metagenomic data, we characterized their plasmidome, including the set of accessory genes and functions from the gut microbiome of the Hadza, Matses, Tunapuco, and Yanomami. In silico analyzes revealed unique plasmid clusters and gene functions for each human group related to their diet and lifestyle. In addition, network analysis revealed a dozen plasmid clusters shared by these distinct groups but that are also circulating in other niches worldwide. Moreover, in these microbiomes, there are novel and unique plasmids associated with their resistome and virulome. A resistome encompassing six antibiotic classes and multiple metals, and a virulome with type VI secretion systems were identified. Functional analysis revealed pathways associated with urban-industrialized groups, such as lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis that was characterized in the Hadza plasmidome. These results demonstrate the richness of features in the semi-isolated human groups’ plasmidome and provide a snapshot of the forces that are acting in their gut microbiome. Their plasmidomes also represent an important source of information with biotechnological and/or pharmaceutical potential.
Structurally complex osteosarcoma genomes exhibit limited heterogeneity within individual tumors and across evolutionary time
Authors: Rajan Sanjana , Zaccaria Simone , Cannon Matthew V. , Cam Maren , Gross Amy C. , Raphael Benjamin J. , Roberts Ryan D.
Published: August 2021

Osteosarcoma is an aggressive malignancy characterized by high genomic complexity. Identification of few recurrent mutations in protein coding genes suggests that somatic copy-number aberrations (SCNAs) are the genetic drivers of disease. Models around genomic instability conflict - it is unclear if osteosarcomas result from pervasive ongoing clonal evolution with continuous optimization of the fitness landscape or an early catastrophic event followed by stable maintenance of an abnormal genome. We address this question by investigating SCNAs in >12,000 tumor cells obtained from human osteosarcomas using single cell DNA sequencing, with a degree of precision and accuracy not possible when inferring single cell states using bulk sequencing. Using the CHISEL algorithm, we inferred allele- and haplotype-specific SCNAs from this whole-genome single cell DNA sequencing data. Surprisingly, despite extensive structural complexity, these tumors exhibit a high degree of cell-cell homogeneity with little sub-clonal diversification. Longitudinal analysis of patient samples obtained at distant therapeutic time points (diagnosis, relapse) demonstrated remarkable conservation of SCNA profiles over tumor evolution. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the majority of SCNAs were acquired early in the oncogenic process, with relatively few structure-altering events arising in response to therapy or during adaptation to growth in metastatic tissues. These data further support the emerging hypothesis that early catastrophic events, rather than sustained genomic instability, give rise to structural complexity, which is then preserved over long periods of tumor developmental time.

Significance Statement

Chromosomally complex tumors are often described as genomically unstable. However, determining whether complexity arises from remote time-limited events that give rise to structural alterations or a progressive accumulation of structural events in persistently unstable tumors has implications for diagnosis, biomarker assessment, mechanisms of treatment resistance, and represents a conceptual advance in our understanding of intra-tumoral heterogeneity and tumor evolution.
Template strand deoxyuridine promoter recognition by a viral RNA polymerase
Authors: Fraser Alec , Sokolova Maria L. , Drobysheva Arina V. , Gordeeva Julia V. , Borukhov Sergei , Artamonova Tatyana O. ,   AlphaFold team, Severinov Konstantin V. , Leiman Petr G.
Published: August 2021

Bacillus subtilis bacteriophage AR9 employs two strategies for efficient host takeover control and host antiviral defense evasion – it encodes two unique DNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RNAPs) that function at different stages of virus morphogenesis in the cell, and its double stranded (ds) DNA genome contains uracils instead of thymines throughout1,2. Unlike any known RNAP, the AR9 non-virion RNAP (nvRNAP), which transcribes late phage genes, recognizes promoters in the template strand of dsDNA and efficiently differentiates obligatory uracils from thymines in its promoters3. Here, using structural data obtained by cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography on the AR9 nvRNAP core, holoenzyme, and a promoter complex, and a variety of in vitro transcription assays, we elucidate a unique mode of uracil-specific, template strand-dependent promoter recognition. It is achieved by a tripartite interaction between the promoter specificity subunit, the core enzyme, and DNA adopting a unique conformation. We also show that interaction with the non-template strand plays a critical role in the process of AR9 nvRNAP promoter recognition in dsDNA, and that the AR9 nvRNAP core and a part of its promoter specificity subunit that interacts with the core are structurally similar to their bacterial RNAP counterparts. Our work demonstrates the extent to which viruses can evolve new functional mechanisms to control acquired multisubunit cellular enzymes and make these enzymes serve their needs.
Genomic epidemiology of early SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Gujarat, India
Authors: Raghwani Jayna , du Plessis Louis , McCrone John T , Hill Sarah C. , Parag Kris V. , Thézé Julien , Kumar Dinesh , Puvar Apurva , Pandit Ramesh , Pybus Oliver G. , Fournié Guillaume , Joshi Madhvi , Joshi Chaitanya
Published: August 2021

Genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 has played a decisive role in understanding the transmission and evolution of the virus during its emergence and continued circulation. However, limited genomic sampling in many high-incidence countries has impeded detailed studies of SARS-CoV-2 genomic epidemiology. Consequently, critical questions remain about the generation and global distribution of virus genetic diversity. To address this gap, we investigated SARS-CoV-2 transmission dynamics in Gujarat, India, during its first epidemic wave and shed light on virus’ spread in one of the pandemic’s hardest-hit regions. By integrating regional case data and 434 whole virus genome sequences sampled across 20 districts from March to July 2020, we reconstructed the epidemic dynamics and spatial spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Gujarat, India. Our findings revealed that global and regional connectivity, along with population density, were significant drivers of the Gujarat SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. The three most populous districts in Gujarat accounted ∼84% of total cases during the first wave. Moreover, we detected over 100 virus lineage introductions, which were primarily associated with international travel. Within Gujarat, virus dissemination occurred predominantly from densely populated regions to geographically proximate locations with low-population density. Our findings suggest SARS-CoV-2 transmission follows a gravity model in India, with urban centres contributing disproportionately to onward virus spread.
Establishment of reference standards for multifaceted mosaic variant analysis
Authors: Ha Yoo-Jin , Oh Myung Joon , Kim Junhan , Kim Jisoo , Kang Seungseok , Kim Hyun Seok , Kim Sangwoo
Published: August 2021

Detection of somatic mosaicism in non-proliferative cells is a new challenge in genome research, however, the accuracy of current detection strategies remains uncertain due to the lack of a ground truth. Herein, we sought to present a set of reference standards based on a total of 386,613 mosaic single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and insertion-deletion mutations (INDELs) with variant allele frequencies (VAFs) ranging from 0.5% to 56%, as well as 35,113,417 non-variant and 19,936 germline variant sites as a negative control. The whole reference standard set mimics the cumulative aspect of mosaic variant acquisition in the early developmental stage owing to the progressive mixing of cell lines with established genotypes, ultimately unveiling 741 possible inter-sample relationships with respect to variant sharing and asymmetry in VAFs. We expect that our reference standards will be essential for optimizing the current use of mosaic variant detection strategies and for developing algorithms to enable future improvements.
Quantifying magnetic anisotropy using X-ray and neutron diffraction
Authors: Klahn Emil Andreasen , Damgaard-Møller Emil , Krause Lennard , Kibalin Iurii , Gukasov Arsen , Tripathi Shalini , Swain Abinash , Shanmugam Maheswaran , Overgaard Jacob
Published: August 2021

In this work, the magnetic anisotropy in two iso-structural distorted tetrahedral Co(II) complexes, CoX
2tmtu2 [X = Cl(1) and Br(2), tmtu = tetramethylthiourea] is investigated, using a combination of polarized neutron diffraction (PND), very low-temperature high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction and CASSCF/NEVPT2 ab initio calculations. Here, it was found consistently among all methods that the compounds have an easy axis of magnetization pointing nearly along the bisector of the compression angle, with minute deviations between PND and theory. Importantly, this work represents the first derivation of the atomic susceptibility tensor based on powder PND for a single-molecule magnet and the comparison thereof with ab initio calculations and high-resolution X-ray diffraction. Theoretical ab initio ligand field theory (AILFT) analysis finds the d

xy
orbital to be stabilized relative to the d

xz
and d

yz
orbitals, thus providing the intuitive explanation for the presence of a negative zero-field splitting parameter, D, from coupling and thus mixing of d

xy
and d_{x^2 - y^2}. Experimental d-orbital populations support this interpretation, showing in addition that the metal–ligand covalency is larger for Br-ligated 2 than for Cl-ligated 1.
Biochemical and biophysical characterization of the OXA-48-like carbapenemase OXA-436
Authors: Lund Bjarte Aarmo , Thomassen Ane Molden , Carlsen Trine Josefine Warg , Leiros Hanna-Kirsti Schrøder
Published: August 2021

The crystal structure of the class D β-lactamase OXA-436 was solved to a resolution of 1.80 Å. Higher catalytic rates were found at higher temperatures for the clinically important antibiotic imipenem, indicating better adaptation of OXA-436 to its mesophilic host than OXA-48, which is believed to originate from an environmental source. Furthermore, based on the most populated conformations during 100 ns molecular-dynamics simulations, it is postulated that the modulation of activity involves conformational shifts of the α3–α4 and β5–β6 loops. While these changes overall do not cause clinically significant shifts in the resistance profile, they show that antibiotic-resistance enzymes exist in a continuum. It is believed that these seemingly neutral differences in the sequence exist on a path leading to significant changes in substrate selectivity.
Compassion in custody: developing a trauma sensitive intervention for men with developmental disabilities who have convictions for sexual offending
Authors: Taylor Jon
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a description of a trauma sensitive intervention for men who have committed sexual offences. The intervention aims to support men to process and make sense of their own experience of trauma before inviting them to acknowledge their role in causing harm to others. The intervention draws on compassion focussed therapy (CFT) as the overarching therapeutic modality.

Design/methodology/approach

As part of a service evaluation changes in routine repeat measures completed by service users were analysed prior to joining the intervention and after 12 months of intervention. Service users were encouraged to provide regular feedback relating to their experience of the intervention at regular intervals. This feedback was collated and patterns were identified collaboratively to understand the context for assessed change in the measures.

Findings

Prior to the intervention men reported high levels of shame and limited experiences of guilt (as compassion for others). Early findings indicate that men experience less shame and increased experiences of guilt after 12 months. An increase in insight into risk was also evident. Service user feedback pointed towards a more engaging therapeutic style and highlighted the importance of both a collaborative and trauma sensitive approach.

Originality/value

This is the first evaluative description of forensic CFT for sexual offending. Findings offer insight into potential future directions for forensic interventions with this population.
Profiling Hungarian hypermarket shoppers
Authors: Fehér Orsolya , Gere Attila , Csiby Ágnes , Szakál Dorina , Dunay Anna
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Hungarian economy went through substantial changes in the past few decades and hypermarkets gained high popularity among customers, therefore profiling Hungarian hypermarket shoppers is essential to understand their behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper investigates the profile of Hungarian hypermarket shoppers based on a wide questionnaire survey. In the presented research, Computer-Aided Personal Interviewing questionnaires were analyzed using multidimensional scaling and k-means clustering.

Findings

Results showed that Hungarian hypermarket shoppers regularly plan their shopping but they buy 8–9 items instead of the planned 4–5 items. However, only 25% of respondents reported the use of shopping list and in spite of the wide digital possibilities, they do not use their mobile devices neither for creating shopping list nor for checking coupons online.

Originality/value

This study explores the profile of Hungarian hypermarket shoppers, which may give additional information for the players of the retail environment about the customers' behavior and preferences.
Governance failure and its impact on financial distress
Authors: Hazami-Ammar Sourour , Gafsi Amal
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of corporate governance failure, excess remuneration and entrenchment of managers, company variables and corporate governance variables on the company’s financial distress risk (DETR) in the French context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the regression analysis, this paper is based on 201 observations about 67 companies of SBF 120 from 2015 to 2017. Data are collected on the Thomson Reuters database and in the referenced documents, which are published on the internet.

Findings

The research findings reveal that firm’s DETR is influenced negatively by excess remuneration and entrenchment of managers. In addition, there is a positive and significant relationship between DETR and company variables (performance and ownership structure) and corporate governance variables (power structure). However, a company’s size and board of directors’ independence do not affect firms’ DETR.

Practical implications

The impact highlighted between remuneration and entrenchment of managers and the financial distress of the company is explained by the intention of managers to work for announcing good short-term performance indicators that are most favorable to them.

Originality/value

The shareholder/manager agency problem can be changed when business performance tends to decline. Certainly, the managerial latitude adopted by the managers is used as an external careerism strategy. Its positive impact on the reduction of the firm’s financial distress can benefit shareholders who aim to sell their securities in the short term.
A tale of two contact-tracing apps – comparing Australia’s CovidSafe and New Zealand’s NZ Covid Tracer
Authors: Howell Bronwyn , Potgieter Petrus H.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The Australian and New Zealand governments have released smartphone-based apps to complement contact tracing in the event that they face a resurgence of COVID-19 infections. The apps form part of both countries’ policies to support a return to social and economic engagement following extended lockdowns. This paper aims to investigate the extent to which the two approaches are fit for purpose and compare their functional characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

Using process mapping and analysis, this paper evaluates the potential of the two apps to improve the performance of existing contact tracing systems across a range of efficiency and effectiveness criteria with an emphasis on the framework proposed by Verrall (2020).

Findings

The Bluetooth-based Australian app appears likely to assist that country’s contact tracing system to perform more efficiently and effectively in the event of a resurgence of the virus and should increase confidence in re-engagement. The New Zealand QR code-based app, however, is not well-aligned with these objectives. Its interaction with a range of other regulations and obligations, combined with the inconvenience it imposes on its users, is likely to militate against its use. Bluetooth-based apps based on interactions between individuals likely better support these population-based objectives than QR code-based location-specific apps.

Originality/value

This paper provides an original and extensive analysis of the functionality and effectiveness of Australia and New Zealand’s official contact-tracing apps.
Multifidelity modeling similarity conditions for airfoil dynamic stall prediction with manifold mapping
Authors: Raul Vishal , Leifsson Leifur
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to investigate the similarity requirements for the application of multifidelity modeling (MFM) for the prediction of airfoil dynamic stall using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.

Design/methodology/approach

Dynamic stall is modeled using the unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations and Menter's shear stress transport turbulence model. Multifidelity models are created by varying the spatial and temporal discretizations. The effectiveness of the MFM method depends on the similarity between the high- (HF) and low-fidelity (LF) models. Their similarity is tested by computing the prediction error with respect to the HF model evaluations. The proposed approach is demonstrated on three airfoil shapes under deep dynamic stall at a Mach number 0.1 and Reynolds number 135,000.

Findings

The results show that varying the trust-region (TR) radius (λ) significantly affects the prediction accuracy of the MFM. The HF and LF simulation models hold similarity within small (λ ≤ 0.12) to medium (0.12 ≤ λ ≤ 0.23) TR radii producing a prediction error less than 5%, whereas for large TR radii (0.23 ≤ λ ≤ 0.41), the similarity is strongly affected by the time discretization and minimally by the spatial discretization.

Originality/value

The findings of this work present new knowledge for the construction of accurate MFMs for dynamic stall performance prediction using LF model spatial- and temporal discretization setup and the TR radius size. The approach used in this work is general and can be used for other unsteady applications involving CFD-based MFM and optimization.
Enhancing critical thinking and media literacy in the context of IVET: a systematic scoping review
Authors: Tommasi Francesco , Ceschi Andrea , Sartori Riccardo , Gostimir Marija , Passaia Giulia , Genero Silvia , Belotto Silvia
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The alignment between the labour market and initial vocational education and training (IVET) is placing always more importance on technical knowledge and skills, whilst metacognitive competences such as critical thinking and media literacy are increasingly neglected. In the context of IVET, this results in authors and practitioners paying always more attention to how to devise possible training interventions, with the double aim of implementing their educational pathways and enhancing students’ critical thinking and media literacy. This paper aims to report the state of the art concerning such processes of enhancement in IVET students.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted the method of systematic scoping review to address the research questions on how to enhance critical thinking and media literacy in the context of IVET.

Findings

The paper presents the analyses of the n = 19 contributions collected. Then, it proposes an initial conceptualization of the dimensions of critical thinking and media literacy. Moreover, by combining evidence from various contributions, the review proposes implications for educational practices and strategies. Around these pieces of knowledge, further avenues of research and practice are proposed.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the literature on critical thinking and media literacy in the context of IVET by advancing initial comprehensive conceptualizations of the two dimensions. Moreover, the study advances initial practical implications for teachers and trainers for the development of training interventions.

Originality/value

The originality of the present review rests in its proposal of definitions of critical thinking and media literacy; moreover, it widens the discussion of practices on how to enhance such metacognitive competences. Indeed, the study identifies the teaching and training practices meant to enhance critical thinking and media literacy and proposes applied implications in the context of IVET.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards the spread of COVID-19: a health counseling initiative among potential entrepreneurs of FUUAST
Authors: Soomro Bahadur Ali , Lakhan Ghulam Rasool , Shah Naimatullah
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The present study examines the knowledge, attitude and practice towards the reduction of COVID-19 spread among entrepreneurs of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Sciences and Technology (FUUAST), Karachi Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed cross-sectional data to infer the results. The data are collected through an online survey questionnaire. To target the respondents; a convenience sampling technique is adopted. In total, 222 usable answers proceed with final results. The structural equation model (SEM) is applied for the data analysis.

Findings

The study outcomes found a significant and positive role of knowledge about COVID-19, attitudes towards a stay at home and practices against COVID-19 in reducing the spread of the pandemic.

Practical implications

The study provides coherent knowledge about the factors that fight against the pandemic's further spread. The findings would provide the guidelines to policymakers to think about such factors and boost them enormously. Further, the results would contribute to the literature of COVID-19.

Originality/value

This study is original, which empirically confirmed the effect of knowledge about COVID-19, attitudes towards a stay at home and practices against COVID-19 in an academic institute.
A note on the relationship between COVID-19 and stock market return: evidence from South Asia
Authors: Rahman Md Arafat , Khudri Md Mohsan , Kamran Muhammad , Butt Pakeezah
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The transformation of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from a regional health crisis in a Chinese city to a global pandemic has caused severe damage not only to the natural and economic lives of human beings but also to the financial markets. The rapidly pervading and daunting consequences of COVID-19 spread have plummeted the stock markets to their lowest levels in many decades especially in South Asia. This concern motivates us to investigate the stock markets’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic in four South Asian countries: Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. This study aims to investigate the causal impact of the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases on stock market returns using panel data of the countries stated above.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collects and analyzes the daily data on COVID-19 spread and stock market return over the period May 28, 2020 to October 01, 2020. Using Dumitrescu and Hurlin panel Granger non-causality test, the empirical results demonstrate that the COVID-19 spread measured through its daily confirmed cases in a country significantly induces stock market return. This paper cross-validates the results using the pairwise Granger causality test.

Findings

The empirical results suggest unidirectional causality from COVID-19 to stock market returns, indicating that the spread of COVID-19 has a dominant short-term influence on the stock movements. To the best of the knowledge, this study provides the first empirical insights into the impact of COVID-19 on the stock markets of selected South Asian countries taking the cross-sectional dependence into account. The results are also in line with the findings of other existing literature on COVID-19. Moreover, the results are robust across the two tests used in this study.

Originality/value

The findings are equally insightful to the fund managers and investors in South Asian countries. Taking into account the possible impact of COVID-19 on stock markets’ returns, investors can design their optimal portfolios more effectively. This study has another important implication in the sense that the impact of COVID-19 on the stock markets of South Asian countries may have spillover effects on other developing or even developed countries.
Non-radial two-stage network DEA model to estimate returns to scale
Authors: Fakhr Mousavi Seyed Mohamad , Amirteimoori Alireza , Kordrostami Sohrab , Vaez-Ghasemi Mohsen
Published: August 2021

Purpose

As returns to scale (RTS) describes the long run connection of the changes of outputs relative to increases in the inputs, the purpose of this study is to answer the following questions: If the proportionate changes exist in the inputs, what is the rate of changes in outputs with respect to the inputs’ variations in the two-stage networks over the long term? How can the authors investigate quantitative RTS in the two-stage networks? In other words, the purpose of this research is to introduce a different approach to estimate the performance, RTS and scale economies (SE) in network structures.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a novel non-radial approach based on data envelopment analysis to analyze the performance and to investigate RTS and SE in two-stage processes.

Findings

The findings show that the range adjusted measure (RAM)/RTS approach can identify reference sets for overall systems and each stage. In addition, the models presented in this paper can classify decision-making units and determine the increasing/decreasing trends of RTS.

Originality/value

The majority of previous RTS studies have been examined in black-box structures and have been discussed in a radial framework. Therefore, in this study, RTS and SE in the two-stage networks are dealt with using an extended RAM approach. Actually, the efficiency and RTS for each stage and the overall model are calculated using the proposed technique.
Adopting open innovation for SMEs and industrial revolution 4.0
Authors: Anshari Muhammad , Almunawar Mohammad Nabil
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Industrial Revolution 4.0 is still evolving. The purpose of this paper is to assess the progress of Indonesia in achieving an initiative for Industry 4.0. As the largest country in Southeast Asia, Indonesia plays a critical role in implementing Industry 4.0. In addition, this study proposes an open innovation strategies for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in facing Industry 4.0, especially in the Indonesian setting. Open innovation is viewed as a long-term innovation model that relies on cross-border commerce between businesses and countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study undertakes a comprehensive literature review to capture the necessary insights for establishing an early grasp of solution design. A total of 32 sample papers were qualified using a set of selection criteria designed to find the most relevant existing studies in the Industry 4.0 and Indonesia domains. The meta-details as significant discoveries were processed using a content analysis approach. In addition, the research deployed sentiment analysis from text mining to inter-operate and classify (positive, negative and neutral) in-text data using text analysis techniques to identify public sentiment toward Industry 4.0 in Indonesia.

Findings

The key finding is that there is a favorable relationship between digital ecosystem readiness and open innovation adoption for SMEs. While, knowledge management is a critical factor in guiding a country’s successful implementation of the open innovation paradigm. Furthermore, some of the major findings revealed that many initiatives for Industry 4.0 are carried out by the private sectors. In regards to the procedure, the role of government is the protection of market regulations. This could be due to preserving fair competition between corporations and SMEs. Local businesses and SMEs should be protected to ensure their survival. In addition, the major cause of the slow adoption of Industry 4.0 in Indonesia is the lack of digital equipment. This is because of the shortage of digital equipment that can create a digital divide between large and small businesses and between industries in the urban and rural areas.

Research limitations/implications

This study discussed some of the most essential issues of SMEs in adopting open innovation that is required for Industrial Revolution 4.0. It focuses on how digital ecosystem’s readiness influences open innovation adoption for SMEs in Indonesia. By understanding its current state of readiness, it contributes to the policymakers in deciding how and where to adopt open innovation and develop digital ecosystem and identify which ones might best meet their needs for any developing countries.

Originality/value

This paper is useful to academics, practitioners and policymakers in the fields of technology and public policy. The research provides some initial insights into Indonesia and any developing countries on Industry Revolution 4.0 and the needs for SMEs in adopting open innovation.
Compaction behavior of powder bed fusion feedstock for metal and polymer additive manufacturing
Authors: Sillani Francesco , Wagner Dominik , Spurek Marvin Aaron , Haferkamp Lukas , Spierings Adriaan Bernardus , Schmid Manfred , Wegener Konrad
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Powder bed-based additive manufacturing (AM) is a promising family of technologies for industrial applications. The purpose of this study is to provide a new metrics based on the analysis of the compaction behavior for the evaluation of flowability of AM powders.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, a novel qualification methodology based on a camera mounted onto a commercially available tap density meter allowed to assess the compaction behavior of a selection of AM materials, both polymers and metals. This methodology automatizes the reading of the powder height and obtains more information compared to ASTM B527. A novel property is introduced, the “tapping modulus,” which describes the packing speed of a powdered material and is related to a compression/vibration powder flow.

Findings

The compaction behavior was successfully correlated with the dynamic angle of repose for polymers, but interestingly not for metals, shedding more light to the different flow behavior of these materials.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen materials, the results may lack generalizability. For example, the application of this methodology outside of AM would be interesting.

Originality/value

This paper suggests a new methodology for assessing the flowing behavior of AM materials when subjected to compression. The device is inexpensive and easy to implement in a quality assurance environment, being thus interesting for industrial applications.