bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic evaluation of data processing and problem formulation of CRISPR off-target site prediction
Authors: Yaish Ofir , Asif Maor , Orenstein Yaron
Published: October 2021

CRISPR/Cas9 system is widely used in a broad range of gene-editing applications. While this gene-editing technique is quite accurate in the target region, there may be many unplanned off-target edited sites. Consequently, a plethora of computational methods have been developed to predict off-target cleavage sites given a guide RNA and a reference genome. However, these methods are based on small-scale datasets (only tens to hundreds of off-target sites) produced by experimental techniques to detect off-target sites with a low signal-to-noise ratio. Recently, CHANGE-seq, a new in vitro experimental technique to detect off-target sites, was used to produce a dataset of unprecedented scale and quality (more than 200,000 off-target sites over 110 guide RNAs). In addition, the same study included GUIDE-seq experiments for 58 of the guide RNAs to produce in vivo measurements of off-target sites. Here, we fill the gap in previous computational methods by utilizing these data to perform a systematic evaluation of data processing and formulation of the CRISPR off-target site prediction problem. Our evaluations show that data transformation as a pre-processing phase is critical prior to model training. Moreover, we demonstrate the improvement gained by adding potential inactive off-target sites to the training datasets. Furthermore, our results point to the importance of adding the number of mismatches between the guide RNA and the off-target site as a feature. Finally, we present predictive off-target in vivo models based on transfer learning from in vitro. Our conclusions will be instrumental to any future development of an off-target predictor based on high-throughput datasets.
New tools for automated cryo-EM single-particle analysis in RELION-4.0
Authors: Kimanius Dari , Dong Liyi , Sharov Grigory , Nakane Takanori , Scheres Sjors H.W.
Published: October 2021

1

We describe new tools for the processing of electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) images in the fourth major release of the RELION software. In particular, we introduce VDAM, a Variable-metric gradient Descent algorithm with Adaptive Moments estimation, for image refinement; a convolutional neural network for unsupervised selection of 2D classes; and a flexible framework for the design and execution of multiple jobs in pre-defined workflows. In addition, we present a stand-alone utility called MDCatch that links the execution of jobs within this framework with metadata gathering during microscope data acquisition. The new tools are aimed at providing fast and robust procedures for unsupervised cryo-EM structure determination, with potential applications for on-the-fly processing and the development of flexible, high-throughput structure determination pipelines. We illustrate their potential on twelve publicly available cryo-EM data sets.
Prime Editing Efficiency and Fidelity are Enhanced in the Absence of Mismatch Repair
Authors: Ferreira da Silva J , Oliveira GP , Arasa-Verge EA , Kagiou C , Moretton A , Timelthaler G , Jiricny J , Loizou JI
Published: October 2021

Prime editing (PE) is a powerful genome engineering approach that enables the introduction of base substitutions, insertions and deletions into any given genomic locus. However, the efficiency of PE varies widely and depends not only on the genomic region targeted, but also on the genetic background of the edited cell. To determine which cellular factors affect PE efficiency, we carried out a focused genetic screen targeting 32 DNA repair factors, spanning all reported repair pathways. We show that, depending on cell line and type of edit, ablation of mismatch repair (MMR) affords a 2-17 fold increase in PE efficiency, across several human cell lines, types of edits and genomic loci. The accumulation of the key MMR factors MLH1 and MSH2 at PE sites argues for direct involvement of MMR in PE control. Our results shed new light on the mechanism of PE and suggest how its efficiency might be optimised.
Enhancers of host immune tolerance to bacterial infection discovered using linked computational and experimental approaches
Authors: Sperry Megan M. , Novak Richard , Keshari Vishal , Dinis Alexandre L. M. , Cartwright Mark J. , Camacho Diogo M. , Paré Jean-François , Super Mike , Levin Michael , Ingber Donald E.
Published: October 2021

Current therapeutic strategies against bacterial infections focus on reduction of pathogen load through antibiotics; however, stimulation of host tolerance to infection might offer an alternative approach. Here we used computational transcriptomics and a Xenopus embryo infection model to rapidly discover infection response pathways, identify potential tolerance inducer drugs, and validate their ability to induce broad tolerance. Xenopus embryos exhibit natural tolerance to A. baumanii, K. pneumoniae, S. aureus, and S. pneumoniae bacteria, whereas A. hydrophila and P. aeruginosa produce infection that leads to death. Transcriptional profiling led to definition of a 20-gene signature that allows for discrimination between tolerant and susceptible states, as well as identification of active and passive tolerance responses based on the degree of engagement of gene transcription modulation. Upregulation of metal ion transport and hypoxia pathways reminiscent of responses observed in primate and mouse infection models were identified as tolerance mediators, and drug screening in the susceptible A. hydrophila infection model confirmed that a metal chelator (deferoxamine) and HIF-1α agonist (1,4-DPCA) increase embryo survival despite high pathogen load. These data demonstrate the value of combining the Xenopus embryo infection model with multi-omics analyses for mechanistic discovery and drug repurposing to induce host tolerance to bacterial infection.
Efficient Fluorescence-Based Localization Technique for Real-Time Tracking Endophytes Route in Host-Plants Colonization
Authors: Ondzighi-Assoume Christine A. , Bhusal Bandana , Traore Adam , Ouma Wilson K. , Mmbaga Margaret , Swiggart Ethan
Published: October 2021

Bacterial isolates that enhance plant growth and suppress plant pathogens growth are essential tools for reducing pesticide applications in plant production systems. The objectives of this study were to develop a reliable fluorescence-based technique for labeling bacterial isolates selected as biological control agents (BCAs) to allow their direct tracking in the host-plant interactions, understand the BCA localization within their host plants, and the route of plant colonization. Objectives were achieved by developing competent BCAs transformed with two plasmids, pBSU101 and pANIC-10A, containing reporter genes eGFP and pporRFP, respectively. Our results revealed that the plasmid-mediated transformation efficiencies of antibiotic-resistant competent BCAs identified as PSL, IMC8, and PS were up 84%. Fluorescent BCA-tagged reporter genes were associated with roots and hypocotyls but not with leaves or stems and were confirmed by fluoresence microscopy and PCR analyses in colonized Arabidopsis and sorghum. This fluorescence-based technique’s high resolution and reproducibility make it a platform-independent system that allows tracking of BCAs spatially within plant tissues, enabling assessment of the movement and niches of BCAs within colonized plants. Steps for producing and transforming competent fluorescent BCAs, as well as the inoculation of plants with transformed BCAs, localization, and confirmation of fluorescent BCAs through fluorescence imaging and PCR, are provided in this manuscript. This study features host-plant interactions and subsequently biological and physiological mechanisms implicated in these interactions. The maximum time to complete all the steps of this protocol is approximately three months.

SENTENCE SUMMARY

We describe a novel fluorescence localization technique as a powerful tool to directly visualize and determine the route in-situ of BCAs in host-plants interaction. The study features the host-plant interactions, biological and physiological responses implicated.
Ready-to-eat foods: A potential vehicle for spread of coagulase-positive staphylococci and antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Buea municipality, South West Cameroon
Authors: Esemu Seraphine Nkie , Njoh Sally Tabe , Ndip Lucy M. , Keneh Nene Kaah , Kfusi Jerome Achah , Njukeng Achiangia Patrick
Published: October 2021

Background

The consumption of ready-to-eat (RTE) foods contaminated with coagulase-positive staphylococci (CoPS) and especially Staphylococcus aureus puts consumers at potential risk of foodborne disease or colonization and subsequent infection. This cross-sectional study determined the levels of CoPS and the presence of S. aureus in RTE foods sold in Buea municipality.

Method

A total of 420 RTE food samples comprising 70 each of cake, bread, fruit salad, meat-hot-pot, suya and boiled rice were randomly purchased from February to August 2020. The CoPS counts were determined by culturing on Baird-Parker agar and S. aureus identified by amplification of the nuc gene using polymerase chain reaction. All S. aureus isolates were screened for the presence of classical staphylococcal enterotoxin genes and each isolate challenged with 11 antibiotics to determine their antibiotic susceptibility profiles. Oxacillin-resistant S. aureus were analyzed for the presence of mecA gene.

Result

Overall, 161 (38.3%) samples had detectable levels of coagulase-positive staphylococci ranging from 2.0-5.81 log10CFU/g. Based on CoPS levels, 37 (8.81%) of the 420 RTE food samples, only fruit salad and meat-hot-pot, had unsatisfactory microbiological quality. A total of 72 S. aureus isolates, comprising 52.78% from fruit salad, 16.67% from meat-hot-pot, 12.5% from boiled rice, 9.72% from suya, 5.56% from bread and 4.17% from cake were recovered. None of the S. aureus isolates possessed any of the classical enterotoxin genes. All the isolates were sensitive to vancomycin and ofloxacin while 68 (94.44%) and 66 (91.67%) were sensitive to oxacillin and ciprofloxacin, respectively. Resistance to penicillin (93.06%) was highest followed by amoxicillin (91.67%) and erythromycin (79.17%). Four isolates were identified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus all of which carried the mecA gene. A total of 24 antibiotypes were identified.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that RTE foods sold in the Buea municipality are likely vehicles for transmission of CoPS and antibiotic-resistant S. aureus.
Fast and ultra-sensitive glycoform analysis by supercritical fluid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Haga Yoshimi , Yamada Masaki , Fujii Risa , Saichi Naomi , Yokokawa Takashi , Hama Toshihiro , Hayakawa Yoshihiro , Ueda Koji
Published: October 2021

Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are currently the largest and fastest growing category of biopharmaceuticals. Glycosylation of mAbs has a significant impact on their effector functions, as well as on their safety and pharmacokinetics. Heterogeneity of glycoforms is affected by various factors such as the producing cells and cell culture process. Therefore, accurate glycoform characterization is essential for drug design, process optimization, manufacturing, and quality control of therapeutic mAbs. In this study, we developed a fast, quantitative, and highly sensitive analytical platform for mAb glycan profiling by supercritical fluid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (SFC-MS/MS). An 8-minute analysis of bevacizumab, nivolumab, ramucirumab, rituximab, and trastuzumab by SFC-MS detected a total of 102 glycoforms, with a detection limit of 5 attomole. The dynamic range of glycan abundance was over 6 orders of magnitude for bevacizumab analysis by SFC-MS, compared to 3 orders of magnitude for conventional fluorescence HPLC analysis. This method revealed the glycan profile characteristics and lot-to-lot heterogeneity of various therapeutic mAbs. We were also able to detect a series of structural variations in pharmacologically important glycan structures. SFC-MS-based glycoform profiling method will provide an ideal platform for in-depth analysis of precise glycan structure and abundance.
Transferability of Geometric Patterns from Protein Self-Interactions to Protein-Ligand Interactions
Authors: Koehl Antoine , Jagota Milind , Erdmann-Pham Dan D. , Fung Alexander , Song Yun S.
Published: October 2021

There is significant interest in developing machine learning methods to model protein-ligand interactions but a scarcity of experimentally resolved protein-ligand structures to learn from. Protein self-contacts are a much larger source of structural data that could be leveraged, but currently it is not well understood how this data source differs from the target domain. Here, we characterize the 3D geometric patterns of protein self-contacts as probability distributions. We then present a flexible statistical framework to assess the transferability of these patterns to protein-ligand contacts. We observe that the level of transferability from protein self-contacts to protein-ligand contacts depends on contact type, with many contact types exhibiting high transferability. We then demonstrate the potential of leveraging information from these geometric patterns to aid in ligand pose-selection problems in protein-ligand docking. We publicly release our extracted data on geometric interaction patterns to enable further exploration of this problem.
Chemotherapy-Induced Cachexia and Model-Informed Dosing to Preserve Lean Mass in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Farhang-Sardroodi Suzan , La Croix Michael A. , Wilkie Kathleen P.
Published: October 2021

Although chemotherapy is a standard treatment for cancer, it comes with significant side effects. In particular, certain agents can induce severe muscle loss, known as cachexia, worsening patient quality of life and treatment outcomes. 5-fluorouracil, an anti-cancer agent used to treat several cancers, has been shown to cause muscle loss. Experimental data indicates a non-linear dose-dependence for muscle loss in mice treated with daily or week-day schedules. We present a mathematical model of chemotherapy-induced muscle wasting that captures this non-linear dose-dependence. Area-under-the-curve metrics are proposed to quantify the treatment’s effects on lean mass and tumour control. Model simulations are used to explore alternate dosing schedules, aging effects, and morphine use in chemotherapy treatment with the aim of better protecting lean mass while actively targeting the tumour, ultimately leading to improved personalization of treatment planning and improved patient quality of life.

Author Summary

In this paper we present a novel mathematical model for muscle loss due to cancer chemotherapy treatment. Loss of muscle mass relates to increased drug toxicity and side-effects, and to decreased patient quality of life and survival rates. With our model, we examine the therapeutic efficacy of various dosing schedules with the aim of controlling a growing tumour while also preserving lean mass. Preservation of body composition, in addition to consideration of inflammation and immune interactions, the gut microbiome, and other systemic health measures, may lead to improved patient-specific treatment plans that improve patient quality of life.
Mycobacterial resistance to zinc poisoning requires assembly of P-ATPase-containing membrane metal efflux platforms
Authors: Boudehen Yves-Marie , Faucher Marion , Maréchal Xavier , Miras Roger , Rech Jérôme , Sénèque Olivier , Wallat Maximilian , Demange Pascal , Bouet Jean-Yves , Saurel Olivier , Catty Patrice , Gutierrez Claude , Neyrolles Olivier
Published: October 2021

Transition metals are toxic at high concentrations. The P1B-ATPase metal exporter CtpC/Rv3270 is required for resistance to zinc poisoning in the human pathogen Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Here, we discovered that zinc resistance also depends on the chaperone-like protein PacL1/Rv3269. PacL1 bound Zn2+, but unlike PacL1 and CtpC, the PacL1 metal-binding motif (MBM) was required only at high zinc concentrations. PacL1 co-localized with CtpC in dynamic microdomains within the mycobacterial plasma membrane. Microdomain formation did not require flotillins nor the PacL1 MBM. Instead, loss of the PacL1 Glutamine/Alanine repeats led to loss of CtpC and sensitivity to zinc. PacL1 and CtpC are within the same operon, and homologous PacL1-P1B-ATPase pairs are widely distributed within and across prokaryotes. PacL1 colocalized and functioned redundantly with PacL orthologs in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Overall, our study suggests that PacL proteins are scaffolds that assemble P-ATPase-containing metal efflux platforms, a novel type of functional membrane microdomain that underlies bacterial resistance to metal poisoning.
Nup358 regulates remodelling of ER-mitochondrial contact sites and autophagy
Authors: Kalarikkal Misha , Saikia Rimpi , Varshney Pallavi , Dhamale Prathamesh , Majumdar Amitabha , Joseph Jomon
Published: October 2021

The contact sites between ER and mitochondria regulate several cellular processes including inter-organelle lipid transport, calcium homeostasis and autophagy. However, the mechanisms that regulate the dynamics and functions of these contact sites remain unresolved. We show that annulate lamellae (AL), a relatively unexplored subcellular structure representing subdomains of ER enriched with a subset of nucleoporins, are present at ER-mitochondria contact sites (ERMCS). Depletion of one of the AL-resident nucleoporins, Nup358, results in increased contacts between ER and mitochondria. Mechanistically, Nup358 modulates ERMCS dynamics by restricting mTORC2/Akt signalling. Our results suggest that growth factor-mediated remodelling of ERMCS depends on a reciprocal binding of Nup358 and mTOR to the ERMCS tethering complex consisting of VAPB and PTPIP51. Furthermore, Nup358 also interacts with IP3R, an ERMCS-enriched Ca2+ channel, and controls Ca2+ release from the ER. Consequently, depletion of Nup358 leads to elevated cytoplasmic Ca2+ and autophagy via activation of Ca2+/CaMKK2/AMPK axis. Our study thus uncovers a novel role for AL, particularly for Nup358, in regulating mTORC2-mediated ERMCS remodelling and Ca2+-directed autophagy, possibly via independent mechanisms.
FGF signalling is involved in cumulus migration in the common house spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum
Authors: Wang Ruixun , Karadas Linda , Schiffer Philipp , Pechmann Matthias
Published: October 2021

Cell migration is a fundamental component during the development of most multicellular organisms. In spiders, the collective migration of a signalling centre, known as the cumulus, is required to set the dorsoventral body axis of the embryo.

Here, we show that FGF signalling plays an important role during cumulus migration in the spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum. Spider embryos with reduced FGF signalling lack cumulus migration and display dorsoventral patterning defects. Our study reveals that cumulus expression of several FGF signalling components is regulated by the transcription factor Ets4. In conjunction with a previous study, we show that the expression of fgf8 in the germ-disc is regulated via the Hedgehog signalling pathway. We also demonstrate that FGF signalling influences the BMP signalling pathway activity in the region around cumulus cells.

Finally, we show that FGF signalling might also influence cumulus migration in basally branching spiders and we propose a hypothetical model in which fgf8 acts a chemo-attractant to guide cumulus cells towards the future dorsal pole of the spider embryo.
Applications of single-cell genomics and computational strategies to study common disease and population-level variation
Authors: Auerbach Benjamin J. , Hu Jian , Reilly Muredach P. , Li Mingyao
Published: October 2021

The advent and rapid development of single-cell technologies have made it possible to study cellular heterogeneity at an unprecedented resolution and scale. Cellular heterogeneity underlies phenotypic differences among individuals, and studying cellular heterogeneity is an important step toward our understanding of the disease molecular mechanism. Single-cell technologies offer opportunities to characterize cellular heterogeneity from different angles, but how to link cellular heterogeneity with disease phenotypes requires careful computational analysis. In this article, we will review the current applications of single-cell methods in human disease studies and describe what we have learned so far from existing studies about human genetic variation. As single-cell technologies are becoming widely applicable in human disease studies, population-level studies have become a reality. We will describe how we should go about pursuing and designing these studies, particularly how to select study subjects, how to determine the number of cells to sequence per subject, and the needed sequencing depth per cell. We also discuss computational strategies for the analysis of single-cell data and describe how single-cell data can be integrated with bulk tissue data and data generated from genome-wide association studies. Finally, we point out open problems and future research directions.
Induction of Ascites in Mice
Authors: Greenfield Edward A.
Published: October 2021

Smaller animals such as rats, mice, hamsters, and guinea pigs are usually poor choices for polyclonal antibody production because only small volumes of serum can be obtained. This problem can be reduced by inducing the formation of ascites in mice, which can provide up to 10 mL of ascites fluid from a single animal. Antibody titers in ascites fluids are almost as high as serum titers.
Reconceptualizing disaster phases through aMetis-based approach
Authors: Pérodin Joanne , Adefris Zelalem , Cruz Mayra , Matos Rondon Nahomi , Hermantin Leonie , De la Cruz Guadalupe , Ganapati Nazife Emel , Ganapati Sukumar
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to call for change in disaster research through ametis-based approach that values practical skills and knowledge (vs technical knowledge) derived from responding to ongoing changes in the natural and human environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based onmetisfrom Miami-Dade County that is prone to an array of climate-related disasters.Metisis supplemented by a review of secondary sources (e.g. newspaper articles, government reports).

Findings

There is a need to reconceptualize disaster phases in disaster research—preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation. For many members of marginalized communities of color, this paper depicts preparedness and mitigation as luxuries and response as a time of worry about financial obligations and survival after the disaster. It suggests that even communities that are not on a hurricane's path could have post-disaster experiences. It also highlights ongoing risks to marginalized communities' physical and mental well-being that are in addition to the mental health impacts of the disaster during the recovery phase.

Originality/value

This paper's originality is twofold: (1) underlining the importance ofmetis, a less studied and understood concept in disaster risk reduction, prevention and management literature and (2) questioning disaster researchers' technical knowledge with respect to each of the four disaster phases in light ofmetis.
Knowledge and implementation gaps in disaster risk reduction and spatial planning: Palu City, Indonesia
Authors: Sagala Saut Aritua Hasiholan , Suroso Djoko Santoso Abi , Puspitasari Novi , Suroso Avicennia Azzahra , Rizqika Khaza Allaya
Published: October 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the involvement of various actors in the preparation of Palu City's spatial plan before the multi-hazard events of 2018. In addition, it evaluates the extent to which disaster risk reduction (DRR) is mainstreamed in the spatial plan.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses qualitative methods of analysis with a risk-based planning approach and stakeholder analysis.

Findings

It is critical that DRR is mainstreamed in spatial planning from the preparation to the implementation. Disasters can take place when there is a knowledge gap in the planning process. This results in developments in disaster-prone areas and even in high-risk areas. Therefore, mainstreaming DRR into spatial planning requires national guidelines that offer planners at the local level clear and detailed guidance on what they must prepare, consider and do in a risk-based spatial planning process.

Practical implications

Spatial planning that does not mainstream DRR can lead to catastrophic consequences in the form of casualties and losses when multi-hazards occur.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence-based findings on the importance of mainstreaming DRR into spatial planning, particularly in areas prone to multi-hazards, which can be optimized through a risk-based planning approach.
Wielding power in multiparty negotiations: the impact of communication medium and assertiveness
Authors: Lee Jonathan I. , Jang Daisung , Luckman Elizabeth A. , Bottom William P.
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The medium negotiators choose for communication will influence both process and outcome. To understand how medium influences power expression, this paper aims to compare value claiming by asymmetrically powerful negotiators, using face-to-face and computer-mediated messaging across two studies. Following up on long-standing conjectures from prominent coalition researchers, the authors also directly tested the role of the apex negotiator's personality in coalition formation and value expropriation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted two laboratory experiments which manipulated communication medium (computer-mediated vs face-to-face) in three- and four-person bargaining. They also varied asymmetry of power so the apex negotiator either could not be left out of a winning coalition (Study 1) or could be (Study 2). The authors measured trait assertiveness along with multiple indicators of hard bargaining behavior.

Findings

Communicating using instant messages via a computer interface facilitated value claiming for powerful negotiators across both studies. Trait assertiveness correlated with hard bargaining behavior in both studies. An index of hard bargaining behavior mediated the effect of assertiveness on value expropriation but only in the context where the powerful negotiator held a genuine monopoly over coalitions.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature on multiparty negotiations by demonstrating persistent media effects on power utilization and by finally confirming the conjectures of prominent coalition researchers regarding personality. Though personality traits generate consistent effects on behavior, their influence on negotiation outcomes depends on the power structure. Negotiation theory needs to incorporate structural and situational factors in modelling effects of enduring traits. Negotiation research should move beyond a rigid focus on dyads.
Navigation of a wheeled mobile robotic agent using modified grey wolf optimization controller
Authors: Paital Chittaranjan , Kumar Saroj , Muni Manoj Kumar , Parhi Dayal R. , Dhal Prasant Ranjan
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Smooth and autonomous navigation of mobile robot in a cluttered environment is the main purpose of proposed technique. That includes localization and path planning of mobile robot. These are important aspects of the mobile robot during autonomous navigation in any workspace. Navigation of mobile robots includes reaching the target from the start point by avoiding obstacles in a static or dynamic environment. Several techniques have already been proposed by the researchers concerning navigational problems of the mobile robot still no one confirms the navigating path is optimal.

Design/methodology/approach

Therefore, the modified grey wolf optimization (GWO) controller is designed for autonomous navigation, which is one of the intelligent techniques for autonomous navigation of wheeled mobile robot (WMR). GWO is a nature-inspired algorithm, which mainly mimics the social hierarchy and hunting behavior of wolf in nature. It is modified to define the optimal positions and better control over the robot. The motion from the source to target in the highly cluttered environment by negotiating obstacles. The controller is authenticated by the approach of V-REP simulation software platform coupled with real-time experiment in the laboratory by using Khepera-III robot.

Findings

During experiments, it is observed that the proposed technique is much efficient in motion control and path planning as the robot reaches its target position without any collision during its movement. Further the simulation through V-REP and real-time experimental results are recorded and compared against each corresponding results, and it can be seen that the results have good agreement as the deviation in the results is approximately 5% which is an acceptable range of deviation in motion planning. Both the results such as path length and time taken to reach the target is recorded and shown in respective tables.

Originality/value

After literature survey, it may be said that most of the approach is implemented on either mathematical convergence or in mobile robot, but real-time experimental authentication is not obtained. With a lack of clear evidence regarding use of MGWO (modified grey wolf optimization) controller for navigation of mobile robots in both the environment, such as in simulation platform and real-time experimental platforms, this work would serve as a guiding link for use of similar approaches in other forms of robots.
Overcoming cross-organizational barriers to success in offshore projects
Authors: Maruping Likoebe , Rai Arun , Aljafari Ruba , Venkatesh Viswanath
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Advances in information technology coupled with the need to build resilience against disruptions by pandemics like COVID-19 continue to emphasize offshoring services in the software industry. Service-level agreements (SLAs) have served as a key mechanism for safeguarding against risk in offshore service arrangements. Yet, variations in service cost and quality persist. This study aims to open up the blackbox linking SLAs to offshore project outcomes by examining (1) how the provisions in these contracts affect the ability of project teams – the work unit primarily in charge of producing the offshored service – to achieve their objectives and fulfill client requirements and (2) how differences in contextual factors shape the effects of these provisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors incorporate the role of organizational work practice differences to understand the challenges that 270 offshore project teams faced in coordinating and integrating technical and business domain knowledge across organizational boundaries in offshore arrangements. The examined offshore IT projects were managed by a leading software vendor in India and several of its US-based clients over a three-year period.

Findings

The authors demonstrate that organizational work practice differences represent a barrier to offshore project success, and that project team transition processes are an important mechanism for overcoming these barriers. Moreover, the authors find that transition processes represent key mediating mechanisms through which SLA provisions affect offshore project outcomes.

Originality/value

The study findings shed light on how SLAs shape software project teams' balance between activities aimed at meeting client needs and those aimed at containing costs.
Eco-labels marketing performance in Asian firms: shared vision, integration capability and team collaboration perspectives
Authors: Chen Chi-Hsiang
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Eco-labeling will grow in importance as natural resources grow scarcer and environmental concerns increase. The purpose of this study considers team collaboration (TC) and integration capability (IC) to examine the possible effects of team member’s shared vision (SV) on the performance of marketing eco-labeled products.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical perspectives on SV, IC and TC were studied to evaluate the development of eco-labeled products and to improve their marketing performance. A total of 247 eco-label products were sampled; confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used for statistical analysis.

Findings

The results demonstrate that team members’ SV is positively correlated with TC. Both TC and IC are positively correlated with the performance of eco-labeled product marketing, but SV does not correlate positively with IC. The results herein also demonstrate that TC significantly mediates the effect of SV on the performance of eco-labeled product marketing.

Research limitations/implications

Firstly, this research aimed to study the effects of SV, TC and IC, particularly on the performance of marketing eco-labeled products. The analysis on other organizational performance, for example, human resource management performance or financial performance can be further studied. Secondly, further study of different products is necessary as different eco-labeled products have dissimilar product life cycle patterns. As human environmental concern grows, firms engaging in the manufacture of eco-labeling products will increase significantly and cover many different products. The analyses on different products or applications require further study to elucidate diverse management strategies.

Practical implications

An effective SV can rapidly clarify the goals and directions associated with eco-labeled marketing performance. Managers with high expectations of marketing performance can improve marketing performance when they clearly share eco-labeled product development objectives and directions. Proper IC and TC are also essential to the performance of eco-labeled product marketing.

Originality/value

This study introduces the concept of SV to explain the relationship between TC and IC as they pertain to eco-labeling product marketing. A theory of eco-labeling marketing is also presented.
“Taming the black elephant”: assessing and managing the impacts of COVID-19 on public universities in Australia
Authors: Carnegie Garry D. , Martin-Sardesai Ann , Marini Lisa , Guthrie AM James
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The Australian higher education sector faces severe risks from the consequences of COVID-19. This paper aims to explore these risks, their immediate impacts and the likely future impacts. The authors specifically focus on the institutional financial and social risks arising from the global pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collect data using the 2019 annual reports of the 37 Australian public universities and relevant media contributions. The findings of identified sector change are interpreted through Laughlin’s organisational change diagnosis.

Findings

The sector confronts significant financial and social risks because of its over-reliance on income from fee-paying onshore overseas students resulting in universities primarily undertaking morphostatic changes. These risks include job losses, changing employment conditions, mental health issues for students, scholars, other staff, including casual staff, online learning shortfalls and the student expectations of their university experience. The study reveals how many of these risks are the inevitable consequence of the “accountingisation” of Australian public universities.

Practical implications

Despite material exposure, the universities provide only limited disclosure of the extent of the risks associated with increasing dependence on overseas student fees to 31 December 2019. The analysis highlights fake accountability and distorted transparency to users of audited financial statements – a major limitation of university annual reports.

Originality/value

Research on the Australian higher education sector has mainly focussed on the impact of policies and changes. The public disclosure of critical risks taken by these universities are now addressed.
A multilevel model of abusive supervision climate
Authors: Khan Shahid , Kiazad Kohyar , Sendjaya Sen , Cooper Brian
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Abusive supervision climate (ASC) affects not only direct subordinates of abusive supervisors but also their colleagues who work in the same group. Therefore, this study aims to examine the underlying processes and boundary conditions of ASC's effects on group members' behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected data from 213 employees in 51 workgroups across 13 organizations in Pakistan. Data were analyzed in MPlus version 8 (Muthén and Muthén, 1998–2017) using a random intercepts multilevel model. The authors followed the procedures for testing 2-1-1 mediation with a participant-level mediator as outlined in Pituch and Stapleton (2012).

Findings

The results revealed that anger mediated the negative relationship between ASC and group members' organizational citizenship behaviors (OCBs), as well as the positive relationship between ASC and group members' withdrawal. In addition, agreeableness moderated the effect of group members' anger on OCBs, such that the relationship was stronger for more agreeable group members.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the abusive supervision literature by elucidating anger as one mechanism through which ASC affects group members and by incorporating personality differences to better understand group members' behavioral responses.
The downfall of fairness era - road ahead for HUL’s Dove, Fair and Lovely
Authors: S. Jayakrishnan
Published: October 2021

Theoretical basis

Consumption and consumer behaviour are driven by social and cultural factors. The global movement against racism and skin colour bias has created a situation where companies need to relook at the way they are marketing skin lightening and cosmetic products in an emerging economy like India.

Research methodology

The case study was developed by collecting data from news articles and published research.

Case overview/synopsis

Johnson and Johnson in June 2020 decided to stop selling products under the category of Skin lightening popularly known as fairness creams in Asian markets, especially India. This created a dilemma for popular brands like Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Loreal and Procter & Gamble which have brands under this category. Among all these brands the biggest challenge is for HUL which is a major player in this segment. The case discusses the cosmetic industry in India and how HUL responded to this situation.

Complexity academic level

The case is intended for use in graduate-level courses in consumer behaviour, new product development, integrated marketing communication and marketing. Market environment, cultural and social factors and the importance of considering these factors in developing the product and marketing strategy is the focus of this case.
Astaxanthin extenuates the inhibition of aldehyde dehydrogenase and Klotho protein expression in cyclophosphamide‐induced acute cardiomyopathic rat model
Authors: Kamel Somow S. , Baky Naiyra A. Abdel , Karkeet Riham M. , Osman Abdel‐Moneim M. , Sayed‐Ahmed Mohamed M. , Fouad Mariam A.
Published: October 2021

This study evaluated the mechanistic sequel of aldehyde dehyrogenase (ALDH2) and Klotho protein in cyclophosphamide (CP)‐induced cardiotoxicity in rats and the protective effect of astaxanthin (AST) against that sequel. A total of 40 male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups of 10 animals each: Group 1 was injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with normal saline for 10 successive days. Group 2 was injected with normal saline for 5 days before and after a single dose of CP (200 mg/kg, i.p.). Group 3 received AST (50 mg/kg/day, i.p.) for 10 days. Group 4 received CP as group 2 and AST as group 3. After the last dose of the treatment protocol, serum was separated to measure cardiotoxicity indices and the left ventricle was then dissected for mRNA and protein expression studies and histopathological examinations. Treatment with CP significantly increased serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK‐MB), and troponin, while significantly decreased soluble α Klotho protein and caused histopathological lesions in cardiac tissues. In cardiac tissues, CP significantly decreased gene expression of ALDH2, Klotho protein, mTOR, IGF, AKT, AMPK, BCL2, but significantly increased expression of BAX and caspase‐8. Interestingly, administration of AST in combination with CP completely reversed all the biochemical, histopathological and gene expression changes induced by CP to the control values. The current study suggests that inhibition of ALDH2, Klotho protein, mTOR, and AMPK signals in cardiac tissues may contribute to CP‐induced acute cardiomyopathy. AST supplementation attenuates CP‐induced cardiotoxicity by modulating ALDH2 and Klotho protein expression in heart tissues, along with its downstream apoptosis effector markers.
Society is revealed by its crises
Authors: Hart Keith
Published: October 2021

In this guest editorial, the author recounts a large‐scale insurrection he witnessed in Durban, South Africa, that changed his worldview.
Cultural relativism and indigenous rights: Rethinking some dilemmas in applied anthropology (part 2)
Authors: Colchester Marcus
Published: October 2021

The basis on which people should understand and relate to each other is a crucial dilemma for applied anthropology and a human rights organization such as the Forest Peoples Programme. Cultural relativism rejects universalism, critiques the individualist emphasis of human rights as Western imperialism and teaches that every society must be understood on its own terms. While it is true that some countries have resisted the impositions of the human rights regime, most have also ratified the key human rights treaties. It is clear that the notion of ‘human rights’ is a cultural construct of Western civilization, with a long gestation dating back to the ancient Greeks. Human rights have three foundational principles: individual rights, non‐discrimination and self‐determination. The tension between the three creates space for cultural specificity, decolonization and the assertion of collective rights. Indigenous peoples have effectively used the human rights system of the United Nations to reclaim their collective rights and, in so doing, accept that these universal norms also apply to their own societies, which they reform through their self‐determined efforts. Ultimately, all human rights trace back to various conceptions of freedom – free will, freedom of belief, autonomy and self‐determination – and even in societies where personhood is more relational and communal, notions of collective freedom are readily discernible. We need an ‘anthropology of freedom’ that builds on the insights of cultural relativism but is open to supporting self‐determined movements for reform.
Interventions to increase maternal awareness of fetal movements no more effective than standard care
Authors: Heazell Alexander E. P.
Published: October 2021

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on V Flenady et al., pp. 29–41 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.16944
Alginate‐based delivery systems for food bioactive ingredients: An overview of recent advances and future trends
Authors: Li Duoduo , Wei Zihao , Xue Changhu
Published: October 2021

Due to its advantagessuch as ionic crosslinking, pH responsiveness, excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability and low price, alginate has become one of the most important natural polysaccharides extensively used in constructing desired delivery systems for food bioactive ingredients. In this review, the fundamental knowledge of alginate as a building block for construction of nutraceutical delivery systems is introduced. Then, various types of alginate‐based nutraceutical delivery systems are classified and summarized. Furthermore, the future trends of alginate‐based delivery systems are highlighted. Currently, alginate‐based delivery systems include hydrogel, emulsion, emulsion‐filled alginate hydrogel, nanoparticle, microparticle, core–shell particle, liposome, edible film, and aerogel. Although alginate has been widely used in the fabrication of food bioactive ingredient delivery systems, further efforts and improvements are still needed. For this purpose, the future perspectives of alginate‐based delivery systems are discussed. The feasible research trends of alginate‐based delivery systems include the development of novel large‐scale commercial preparation technology, multifunctional delivery system based on alginate, alginate oligosaccharide‐based delivery system and alginate‐based oleogel. Overall, the objective of this review is to provide useful guidance for rational design and application of alginate‐based nutraceutical delivery systems in the future.
Prevalence of probable attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder in inmates and its relationship with recidivism
Authors: Dagistan Alper Adnan , Gica Sakir , Aydin Adem , Cilli Ali Savas
Published: October 2021

The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence of probable attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in prisoners and to assess the relationship between ADHD and recidivism. We studied 356 inmates, who were evaluated using the Wender Utah Rating Scale and Adult ADHD Self‐Report Scale. Type of crime and other crime‐related data were compared between inmates with and without ADHD. The group with probable ADHD had a higher average number of convictions compared to the group without ADHD. The probable ADHD group also demonstrated higher incidence of extortion crime, drug trade, disciplinary action at school, and military service than the group without ADHD. Linear regression analysis revealed that the presence of probable ADHD was effective on the number of convictions. The findings of our study support that the presence of probable ADHD carries a potential risk of being prone to certain crimes and demonstrate a correlation between the presence of probable ADHD and early involvement in crime and the number of convictions.
The cytotoxic effects of various endodontic irrigants on the viability of dental mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Sismanoglu Soner , Ercal Pinar
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to evaluate cytotoxic effects of various irrigation solutions used in regenerative endodontic treatments (RETs) on mesenchymal stem cells, and further examine the long‐term effect of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) on the cell viability and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity. Stem cells were exposed to various concentrations of NaOCl, EDTA, chlorhexidine (CHX), etidronic acid (HEDP)/NaOCl combination and HOCl. HOCl was tested for its effects on ALP activity up to 21 days. Additionally, cell viability was measured fluorescently using calcein AM. The most cytotoxic irrigant was CHX even with the lowest concentration. NaOCl and HEDP/NaOCl with 1:100 dilution decreased viability to around 40%. HOCl showed the lowest cytotoxicity among all tested irrigants. HOCl also showed no significant reduction in ALP activity compared with the controls. The cytotoxicity of endodontic irrigants was time and concentration dependent. HOCl demonstrated promising results regarding viability and ALP activity, since RETs require host stem cell survival.