bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Destruction of DNA-binding proteins by programmable O’PROTAC: Oligonucleotide-based PROTAC
Authors: Shao Jingwei , Yan Yuqian , Ding Donglin , Wang Dejie , He Yundong , Pan Yunqian , Yan Wei , Kharbanda Anupreet , Li Hong-yu , Huang Haojie
Published: March 2021

DNA-binding proteins including transcription factors (TFs) play essential roles in gene transcription and DNA replication and repair during normal organ development and pathogenesis of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and obesity, deeming to be a large repertoire of attractive therapeutic targets. However, this group of proteins are generally considered undruggable as they lack an enzymatic catalytic site or a ligand binding pocket. PROteolysis-TArgeting Chimera (PROTAC) technology has been developed by engineering a bifunctional small molecule chimera to bring a protein of interest (POI) to the proximity of an E3 ubiquitin ligase, thus inducing the ubiquitination of POI and further degradation through proteasome pathway. Here we report the development of Oligonucleotide-based PROTAC (O’PROTACs), a class of noncanonical PROTACs in which a TF-recognizing double-stranded oligonucleotide is incorporated as a binding moiety of POI. We demonstrate that O’PROTACs of ERG and LEF1, two highly cancer-related transcription factors selectively promote degradation of these proteins and inhibit their transcriptional activity in cancer cells. The programmable nature of O’PROTACs indicates that this approach is applicable to destruct other TFs. O’PROTACs not only can serve as a research tool, but also can be harnessed as a therapeutic arsenal to target DNA binding proteins for effective treatment of diseases such as cancer.
A Tail Fiber Protein and a Receptor-Binding Protein Mediate ICP2 Bacteriophage Interactions withVibrio choleraeOmpU
Authors: Lim Andrea N.W. , Yen Minmin , Seed Kimberley D. , Lazinski David W. , Camilli Andrew
Published: March 2021

ICP2 is a virulent bacteriophage (phage) that preys onVibrio cholerae. ICP2 was first isolated from cholera patient stool samples. Some of these stools also contained ICP2-resistant isogenicV. choleraestrains harboring missense mutations in the trimeric outer membrane porin protein OmpU, identifying it as the ICP2 receptor. In this study, we identify the ICP2 proteins that mediate interactions with OmpU by selecting for ICP2 host-range mutants within infant rabbits infected with a mixture of wild type and OmpU mutant strains. ICP2 host-range mutants had missense mutations in putative tail fiber genegp25and putative adhesingp23. Using site-specific mutagenesis we show that single or double mutations ingp25are sufficient to generate the host-range mutant phenotype. However, at least one additional mutation ingp23is required for robust plaque formation on specific OmpU mutants. Mutations ingp23alone were insufficient to give a host-range mutant phenotype. All ICP2 host-range mutants retained the ability to plaque on wild typeV. choleraecells. The strength of binding of host-range mutants toV. choleraecorrelated with plaque morphology, indicating that the selected mutations ingp25andgp23restore molecular interactions with the receptor. We propose that ICP2 host-range mutants evolve by a two-step process where, first,gp25mutations are selected for their broad host-range, albeit accompanied by low level phage adsorption. Subsequent selection occurs forgp23mutations that further increase productive binding to specific OmpU alleles, allowing for near wild type efficiencies of adsorption and subsequent phage multiplication.

Importance

Concern over multidrug-resistant bacterial pathogens, includingVibrio cholerae, has led to a renewed interest in phage biology and their potential for phage therapy. ICP2 is a genetically unique virulent phage isolated from cholera patient stool samples. It is also one of three phages in a prophylactic cocktail shown to be effective in animal models of infection and the only one of the three that requires a protein receptor (OmpU). This study identifies a ICP2 tail fiber and a receptor binding protein and examines how ICP2 responds to the selective pressures of phage-resistant OmpU mutants. We found that this particular co-evolutionary arms race presents fitness costs to both ICP2 andV. cholerae.
Complete genome sequence ofXylella taiwanensisand comparative analysis of virulence gene content withXylella fastidiosa
Authors: Weng Ling-Wei , Lin Yu-Chen , Su Chiou-Chu , Huang Ching-Ting , Cho Shu-Ting , Chen Ai-Ping , Chou Shu-Jen , Tsai Chi-Wei , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: March 2021

The bacterial genusXylellacontains plant pathogens that are major threats to agriculture in America and Europe. Although extensive research was conducted to characterize different subspecies ofXylella fastidiosa(Xf), comparative analysis at above-species levels were lacking due to the unavailability of appropriate data sets. Recently, a bacterium that causes pear leaf scorch (PLS) in Taiwan was described as the secondXylellaspecies (i.e.,Xylella taiwanensis;Xt). In this work, we report the complete genome sequence ofXttype strain PLS229T. The genome-scale phylogeny provided strong support thatXfsubspeciespauca(Xfp) is the basal lineage of this species andXylellawas derived from the paraphyletic genusXanthomonas. Quantification of genomic divergence indicated that differentXfsubspecies share ∼87-95% of their chromosomal segments, while the twoXylellaspecies share only ∼66-70%. Analysis of overall gene content suggested thatXtis most similar toXfsubspeciessandyi(Xfs). Based on the existing knowledge ofXfvirulence genes, the homolog distribution among 28Xylellarepresentatives was examined. Among the 11 functional categories, those involved in secretion and metabolism are the most conserved ones with no copy number variation. In contrast, several genes related to adhesins, hydrolytic enzymes, and toxin-antitoxin systems are highly variable in their copy numbers. Those virulence genes with high levels of conservation or variation may be promising candidates for future studies. In summary, the new genome sequence and analysis reported in this work contributed to the study of several important pathogens in the family Xanthomonadaceae.

Contribution to the Field

Xylella fastidiosais a plant-pathogenic bacterium with multiple subspecies that are major threats to agriculture in America and Europe. Although extensive research has been conducted, comparative analysis of this species with other bacteria is lacking due to the unavailability of known close relatives. In this work, we report the complete genome sequence ofXylella taiwanensis, a newly described species within the same genus. This new data set and our focused analysis helped to better understand the evolutionary relationships among differentXylellalineages and their genomic diversity. Moreover, detailed examination of their virulence genes identified those that are either highly conserved or variable, providing promising candidates for future studies to further investigate the molecular mechanisms ofXylellavirulence.
Glucose decoration on wall-teichoic acid is required for phage adsorption and InlB-mediated virulence inListeria ivanovii
Authors: Sumrall Eric. T. , Schneider Stephan R. , Boulos Samy , Loessner Martin J. , Shen Yang
Published: March 2021

Listeria ivanovii(Liv) is an intracellular Gram-positive pathogen that primarily infects ruminants, but also occasionally causes enteric infections in humans. Albeit rare, this bacterium possesses the capacity to cross the intestinal epithelium of humans, similar to its more frequently pathogenic cousin,Listeria monocytogenes(Lmo). Recent studies inLmohave shown that specific glycosyl modifications on the cell wall-associated glycopolymers (termed wall-teichoic acid, or WTA) ofLmoare responsible for bacteriophage adsorption and retention of the major virulence factor, Internalin B (InlB). However, the relationship between InlB and WTA inLivremains unclear. Here, we report the identification of the unique gene,liv1070that encodes a putative glucosyltransferase in the polycistronic WTA gene cluster of the Liv WSLC 3009 genome. We found that in-frame deletion ofliv1070led to loss of the glucose substitution on WTA, as revealed by UPLC-MS analysis. Interestingly, the glucose-deficient mutant became resistant to phage B025 infection due to an inability of the phage to adsorb to the bacterial surface, a binding process mediated by the receptor-binding protein B025_Gp17. As expected, deletion ofliv1070led to loss of InlB retention to the bacterial cell wall, which corresponded to a drastic decrease in cellular invasion. Genetic complementation ofliv1070restored the characteristic phenotypes, including glucose decoration, phage adsorption, and cellular invasion. Taken together, our data demonstrate that an interplay between phage, bacteria, and host cells also exists inListeria ivanovii, suggesting the trade-off between phage resistance and virulence attenuation may be a general feature in theListeriagenus.

Importance

Listeria ivanoviiis a Gram-positive bacterial pathogen known to cause enteric infection in rodents and ruminants, and occasionally in immunocompromised humans. Recent investigations revealed that, in its better-known cousinListeria monocytogenes, strains develop resistance to bacteriophage attack due to loss of glycosylated surface receptors, which subsequently resulting in disconnection of one of the bacterium’s major virulence factors, InlB. However, the situation inL. ivanoviiremains unclear. Here, we show thatL. ivanoviiacquires phage resistance following deletion of a unique glycosyltransferase. This deletion also leads to dysfunction of InlB, making the resulting strain unable to invade host cells. Overall, this study suggests that the interplay between phage, bacteria and the host may be a feature common to theListeriagenus.
Maternal cradling bias drives early handedness in infant monkeys: A longitudinal study of grasping lateralization in baboons
Authors: Boulinguez-Ambroise Grégoire , Pouydebat Emmanuelle , Disarbois Éloïse , Meguerditchian Adrien
Published: March 2021

The most emblematic behavioral manifestation of human brain asymmetries is handedness. While the precise mechanisms behind the development of handedness are still widely debated, empirical evidences highlight that besides genetic factors, environmental factors may play a crucial role. As one of these factors, maternal cradling behavior may play a key role in the emergence of early handedness in the offspring. In the present study we followed 41 olive baboon (Papio anubis) infants living in different social groups with their mother for which direction (e.g., left- or right-arm) and degree of maternal cradling-side bias were available from our previous published study. We assessed hand preferences for an unimanual grasping task at 3 developmental stages: (1) 0-4, (2) 4-6 and (3) 9-10 months of age. We found that individual hand preferences for grasping exist as soon as the first months of age, with a population-level left-handedness predominance, being stable until 6 months; to wit the period during which juveniles are mainly carried by their mothers. More importantly, this early postnatal handedness is positively correlated with maternal cradling lateralization. Interestingly, hand preferences assessed later in the development, once juveniles are no longer carried (i.e., from 9 to 10 months of age), are less consistent with the earlier developmental stages and no longer dependent from the maternal cradling bias. Our findings suggest that the ontogenetic dynamics of the infant’s hand preference and its changes might ultimately rely on the degree of infant dependence from the mother across development.

Research Highlights

Early postnatal individual hand preferences are detected for unimanual food grasping within the first four months of age.

Earliest measures of infant hand preference are positively correlated with measures of maternal cradling lateralization.

Hand preferences assessed later in the development, from 9 to 10 months of age are less consistent with the earlier developmental stages and independent from maternal cradling bias.
Chimpanzee pant-hoots encode information about individual but not group differences
Authors: Desai Nisarg P. , Fedurek Pawel , Slocombe Katie E. , Wilson Michael L.
Published: March 2021

Vocal learning, the ability to voluntarily modify the acoustic structure of vocalizations based on social cues, is a fundamental feature of speech in humans (Homo sapiens). While vocal learning is common in taxa such as songbirds and whales, the vocal learning capacities of nonhuman primates appear more limited. Intriguingly, evidence for vocal learning has been reported in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes), for example in the form of regional variation (‘dialects’) in the ‘pant-hoot’ calls. This suggests that some capacity for vocal learning may be an ancient feature of thePan-Homoclade. Nonetheless, reported differences have been subtle, with inter-community variation representing only a small portion of the total acoustic variation. To gain further insights into the extent of regional variation in chimpanzee vocalizations, we performed an analysis of pant-hoots from chimpanzees in the neighboring Kasekela and Mitumba communities at Gombe National Park, Tanzania, and the geographically distant Kanyawara community at Kibale National Park, Uganda. We observed group differences only among the geographically isolated communities and did not find any differences between the neighboring communities at Gombe. Furthermore, we found differences among individuals in all communities. Hence, the variation in chimpanzee pant-hoots reflected individual differences, rather than group differences. The limited evidences for vocal learning inPansuggest that extensive vocal learning emerged in the human lineage after the divergence fromPan.
A common polymorphism that protects from cardiovascular disease increases fibronectin processing and secretion
Authors: Soubeyrand Sébastien , Lau Paulina , Nikpay Majid , Dang Anh-Thu , McPherson Ruth
Published: March 2021

Background

Fibronectin (FN1) is an essential regulator of homodynamic processes and tissue remodeling which has been proposed to contribute to atherosclerosis. Moreover, recent large scale genome wide association studies have linked common genetic variants within theFN1gene to coronary artery disease (CAD) risk.

Methods

Public databases were analyzed by two-Sample Mendelian Randomization. Expression constructs encoding shortFN1reporter constructs and full-length plasmaFN1, differing in the polymorphism, were designed and introduced in various cell models. Secreted and cellular levels were then analyzed and quantified by SDS-PAGE and fluorescence approaches. Mass spectrometry and glycosylation analyses were performed to probe possible post-transcriptional differences.

Results

Higher FN1 protein levels in plasma associates with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, common CAD risk SNPs in theFN1locus associate with circulating levels of FN1. This region is shown to encompass a L15Q polymorphism within the FN1 signal peptide. The presence of the minor allele that predisposes to CAD, corresponding to the Q15 variant, alters glycosylation and reduces FN1 secretion in a direction consistent with the bioinformatic analyses.

Conclusion

In addition to providing novel functional evidence implicating FN1 as a protective force in cardiovascular disease, these findings demonstrate that a common variant within a secretion signal peptide regulates protein function.
The extracellular milieu ofToxoplasma’s lytic cycle drives lab-adaptation and promotes changes in lipid metabolism primarily driven by transcriptional reprogramming
Authors: Primo Vincent A. , Rezvani Yasaman , Farrell Andrew , Vajdi Amir , Marth Gabor T. , Zarringhalam Kourosh , Gubbels Marc-Jan
Published: March 2021

To map host-independentin vitrovirulence traits ofToxoplasma gondii, evolve and resequencing (E&R) during the lab-adaption was applied. Phenotypic assessments of the lytic cycle revealed that only traits needed in the extracellular milieu evolved. Surprisingly, only non-synonymous mutations in a P4 flippase fixed in two populations. However, dramatic changes in the transcriptional signature of extracellular parasites revealed a “pro-tachyzoite” profile as well as upregulation of fatty acid biosynthesis (FASII) pathway genes. More general, a set of 300 genes which expression profile changes during evolution mapped to specific traits. Validation of a select number of genes in this set by knock-outs indeed confirmed their role in lab-adaptation. Finally, assembly of an ApiAP2 and Myb transcription factor network revealed the transcriptional program underlying the adapting extracellular state. Overall, E&R is a new genomic tool successfully applied to map the development of polygenic traits underlyingin vitrovirulence ofT. gondii.
Entropic pressure controls oligomerization ofVibrio choleraeParD2 antitoxin
Authors: Garcia-Rodriguez Gabriela , Girardin Yana , Volkov Alexander N. , Singh Ranjan Kumar , Muruganandam Gopinath , Van Dyck Jeroen , Sobott Frank , Versées Wim , Loris Remy
Published: March 2021

ParD2 is the antitoxin component of the parDE2 toxin-antitoxin module from Vibrio cholerae and consists of an ordered DNA binding domain followed by an intrinsically disordered ParE-neutralizing domain. In absence of the C-terminal IDP domain, VcParD2 crystallizes as a doughnut-shaped hexadecamer formed by the association of eight dimers. This assembly is stabilized via hydrogen bonds and salt bridges rather than hydrophobic contacts. In solution, oligomerization of the full-length protein is restricted to a stable, open 10-mer or 12-mer, likely as a consequence of entropic pressure from the IDP tails. The relative positioning of successive VcParD2 dimers mimics the arrangement ofStreptococcus agalactiaeCopG dimers on their operator and allows for an extended operator to wrap around the VcParD2 oligomer.
VTA MC3R neurons control feeding in an activity and sex-dependent manner in mice
Authors: Dunigan Anna I. , Olson David P. , Roseberry Aaron G.
Published: March 2021

Increasing evidence indicates that the melanocortin and mesolimbic dopamine systems interact to regulate feeding and body weight. Because melanocortin-3 receptors (MC3R) are highly expressed in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), we tested whether VTA neurons expressing these receptors (VTA MC3R neurons) control feeding and body weightin vivo. We also tested whether there were sex differences in the ability of VTA MC3R neurons to control feeding, as MC3R −/− mice show sex-dependent alterations in reward feeding and dopamine levels, and there are clear sex differences in multiple dopamine-dependent behaviors and disorders. DREADD receptors were used to acutely activate and inhibit VTA MC3R neurons and changes in food intake and body weight were measured. Acutely altering the activity of VTA MC3R neurons decreased feeding in an activity- and sex-dependent manner, with acute activation decreasing feeding, but only in females, and acute inhibition decreasing feeding, but only in males. These differences did not appear to be due to sex differences in the number of VTA MC3R neurons, the ability of hM3Dq to activate VTA MC3R neurons, or the proportion of VTA MC3R neurons expressing tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). These studies demonstrate an important role for VTA MC3R neurons in the control of feeding and reveal important sex differences in behavior, whereby opposing changes in neuronal activity in male and female mice cause similar changes in behavior.
APPTEST is an innovative new method for the automatic prediction of peptide tertiary structures
Authors: Timmons Patrick Brendan , Hewage Chandralal M.
Published: March 2021

Good knowledge of a peptide’s tertiary structure is important for understanding its function and its interactions with its biological targets. APPTEST is a novel computational method that employs a neural network architecture and simulated annealing methods for the prediction of peptide tertiary structure from the primary sequence. APPTEST works for both linear and cyclic peptides of 5-40 natural amino acids. APPTEST is computationally efficient, returning predicted structures within a number of minutes. APPTEST performance was evaluated on a set of 356 test peptides; the best structure predicted for each peptide deviated by an average of 1.9Å from its experimentally determined backbone conformation, and a native or near-native structure was predicted for 97% of the target sequences. A comparison of APPTEST performance with PEP-FOLD, PEPstrMOD and Peplook across benchmark datasets of short, long and cyclic peptides shows that on average APPTEST produces structures more-native than the existing methods in all three categories. This innovative, cutting-edge peptide structure prediction method is available as an online web server athttps://research.timmons.eu/apptest, facilitatingin silicostudy and design of peptides by the wider research community.
Variants of the X-phase in the Mn–Co–Ge system
Authors: Shtender Vitalii , Larsen Simon R. , Sahlberg Martin
Published: March 2021

We report two new variants of the X-phase (orthorhombic, space group Pnnm) derived from the Mn–Co–Ge system. Two compositionally related crystals were investigated by means of single-crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The Mn14.9Co15.5Ge6.6 and Mn14Co16.2Ge6.8 intermetallic compounds are part of the homogeneity region of the X-phase and adopt the Mn14(Mn0.11Co0.64Si0.25)23 structure type. The composition obtained from refinement of the XRD data is in agreement with the EDS results. In the present study, chemical disorder was only detected on the 8h positions. The ordering is compared with other members of the X-phase family and shows that the degree of disordering depends on the chemical composition. No completely ordered variants of the X-phase have yet been reported.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 3-cyano-4-hydroxy-2-(4-methylphenyl)-6-oxo-N-phenyl-4-(thiophen-2-yl)cyclohexane-1-carboxamide 0.04-hydrate
Authors: Naghiyev Farid N. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Akkurt Mehmet , Huseynov Elnur Z. , Khalilov Ali N. , Akobirshoeva Anzurat A. , Mamedov İbrahim G.
Published: March 2021

In the title compound, C25H22N2O3S·0.04H2O, the central cyclohexane ring adopts a chair conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...O, C—H...O, and C—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming the molecular layers parallel to the bc plane, which interact by the van der Waals forces between them. A Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the contributions from the most prevalent interactions are H...H (41.2%), C...H/H...C (20.3%), O...H/H...O (17.8%) and N...H/H...N (10.6%).
Analysis of factor’s influencing the adoption of e-teaching methodology of learning by students: an empirical study amidst the present pandemic crisis
Authors: Chandra Ashish , Bagdi Nitish
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed education ideology across the globe. The education system has drastically shifted from traditional ways of teaching toward online teaching mechanism. This study aims to conduct an analysis of factors influencing the adoption of the e-teaching methodology of learning by students amidst the present pandemic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on primary data and a survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire with a sample size of 216 respondents from various universities in India. Cronbach’s alpha and Pearson correlation, the goodness of fit, ANOVA and multiple linear regression analysis was applied.

Findings

Furthermore, the results obtained stated that attitude and usefulness proved to be statistically significant as the two variables contribute a statistically significant number of predictions to the practice of adoption of the e-teaching methodology by students. Additionally, it was found out that students there is a strong requirement from the institute and teachers’ part to motivate the students to take interest in e-teaching and students should be given an opportunity to develop a sense of empowerment so, that they can feel comfortable and can discuss their query’s confident during the e-classes.

Research limitations/implications

This study was completed within a time constraint. So, the sample size is small i.e. 216 and variables, which influence the adoption of the e-teaching methodology of learning by students are not exhaustive. There might be many other variables, which are still unexplored and should have been part of this study.

Practical implications

This study will be beneficial for the education sector to better understand the impact of e-teaching methodologies on the learning and development of students in a more practical way.

Originality/value

The study adds value to the literature in the domain of online teaching and the level of e-learning from students’ perspectives in the era of this new pandemic crisis. Then, will be beneficial for not only the students but also will help the institution and teachers to understand the mindset of the students in detail and can improve the way knowledge is delivered to the students by the means of e-classes in a sustainable way.
Educational experiences of children and youth with disabilities impacted by wildfires
Authors: Ducy Elizabeth McAdams , Stough Laura M.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper describes the educational experiences of children and youth (aged 3–20) with disabilities during school closures resulting from the 2017 Northern California wildfires. Students with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to the adverse impacts of disaster, yet the effects of school closures on these children remains understudied. This study identifies considerations for students with disabilities and their families post-disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive, qualitative approach was used for the study design, methodology and analysis. In-depth interviews were conducted with parents of 14 students with disabilities about their experiences during and following school closures. All of these children had missed between a week and over a month of school as a result of the wildfires. Thematic analysis was used to code data and identify four themes present across the data.

Findings

Our findings indicate that children and youth with disabilities experienced disruptions in school-based services; lost previously acquired skills; exhibited negative health and behavioral issues; had difficulties adapting to new, unfamiliar routines and were saddened by lost social connections. Additionally, findings pinpoint the importance of social connections while schools were closed, the benefits of resuming school which included access to responsive school staff, as well as challenges faced by children with disabilities and their families once schools reopened.

Originality/value

Families of children with disabilities, as illustrated in this study, often must transverse a different post-disaster landscape. Schools should assist them in navigating that landscape so students with disabilities can experience a more equitable return to education post-disaster.
Acculturation in a globalised world: implications for theory and educational policy and practice
Authors: Karim Shahid
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This article examines the existing body of knowledge on acculturation, identifies the gaps, discusses its potential consequences for theory and proposes a possible way forward for educational policy and practice in the globalised world.

Design/methodology/approach

The body of knowledge on acculturation has developed tremendously during the last century. However, some scholars are critical of its impact on acculturating people, particularly in the societies of settlement. This paper adopted an integrative literature review approach to critique and synthesise the published text on acculturation and education in the era of globalisation.

Findings

Despite phenomenal growth in acculturation research and theory, the dominant perspectives and research methodologies hardly help to respond to the emerging trends in intercultural contact and its associated issues in education. A culture learning approach to the study of acculturation can help address the existing gaps, extend the theory, draw contextualised conclusions and take appropriate steps in education to prepare younger generations for an interconnected and interdependent world.

Research limitations/implications

Researchers and practitioners in education may need to be sensitive to the sociopolitical realities in a given context and contextualise their educational endeavours in preparing younger generations for an ever-changing social world.

Practical implications

This narrative review suggests that an intercultural learning approach to education in contemporary times may better facilitate acculturation processes amongst immigrants and non-immigrants alike. Educational systems in multicultural societies may need to undertake context-specific interventions for immigrant children and adolescents in helping them acculturate to the societies of their settlement.

Social implications

An intercultural approach to education in general and social studies education, in particular, can help younger generations better respond to the emerging trends of acculturation in the multicultural societies of their residence.

Originality/value

Given that young people follow diverse trajectories of acculturation, irrespective of their status of immigration, researchers in cross-cultural studies may need to reflect on existing theories, approaches, frameworks and methodologies with greater sensitiveness to the ecological context, cultural distance hypothesis and the nature of intercultural contact for a deeper understanding of immigrants' acculturation in plural societies.
Study on properties of yak cashmere fiber
Authors: Qin Xiaoxuan , Qu Lixin
Published: March 2021

Purpose

As one natural fiber, yak cashmere has been used more and more widely on textile processing due to its excellent warmth retention property. Yarn spinning is the first and the most important step of textile processing. Yarn spinning is closely related to the fiber properties. That is, for giving the optimization spinning process of one new fiber, the properties of the new fiber should be studied firstly. Meanwhile, during the studying of the properties of the new fiber, comparative analysis method was usually used. That is, the property of the new fiber was common comparatively analyzed with other fibers. During the comparative analysis, the spinning process can be optimized. Therefore, in the paper, the properties of the yak cashmere were studied in detail and comparatively analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

The brown yak cashmere, cyan yak cashmere, white cashmere fiber, purple cashmere fiber, cyan cashmere fiber, camel hair fiber and mohair fiber, were chosen as the samples. The fiber length, fineness, strength, curls, moisture regain, mass specific resistance, surface morphology, infrared spectrum, melting behavior, thermal weight loss, friction, x-ray, were tested and comparatively analyzed.

Findings

It is shown that the compositions of yak cashmere and cashmere are similar, and makes the physical properties of yak cashmere and cashmere fiber similar. Comparing with the mohair, camel hair and cashmere fiber, the average length of yak cashmere is smaller and the dispersion of length distribution is larger, and the dispersion of yak cashmere strength is larger, which makes the yarn spinning of yak cashmere difficult, especially the high count pure yarn. However, comparing with the mohair, camel hair and cashmere fiber, the friction coefficient and friction effect of yak cashmere is larger, and yak cashmere fiber has relatively less curls and larger crimp rate and crimp recovery rate, and can improve the fiber spinnability.

Originality/value

In the paper, taking the brown yak cashmere, cyan yak cashmere, white cashmere fiber, purple cashmere fiber, cyan cashmere fiber, camel hair fiber, mohair fibers as the samples, the properties of the yak cashmere were studied in detail. The fiber length, fineness, strength, curls, moisture regain, mass specific resistance, surface morphology, infrared spectrum, melting behavior, thermal weight loss, friction, x-ray, were tested and comparatively analyzed. The studies can establish foundation for the optimization of the yak cashmere spinning process, and also can provide information for the end uses of the fiber.
Modeling of lightweight security framework for identifying efficient route for secure communication in WSN
Authors: Edigar Manjunath Beemappa , Rao P.V.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In the past recent years, wireless sensor network (WSN) has progressively grown as an emerging technology. Various research efforts have been made in the literature to address the problem associated with WSN security. Based on the review analysis, it is found that the existing methods are mostly associated with complex security operations that are not suitable for resource constraint sensor nodes. The proposed paper has presented cost-effective modeling of the security framework that addresses the problem of security and energy in WSN.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed security framework implements two different protocols to attain maximum security services and optimizes the security operation of the proposed security models to achieve higher energy efficiency and privacy preservation against a majority of the lethal attacks. The first security model introduces a novel cost-efficient pairwise key-based authentication mechanism to identify the availability of optimal routes under the presence of adversary in the network. The second security model introduces an integrated part of the first security model that optimizes security operation to perform secure communication using a lightweight encryption mechanism.

Findings

Based on the experimental outcome and analysis, the proposed system attains a 60% performance improvement in terms of security and computational efficiency compared to the existing Sec-LEACH. The second security model has achieved a 50% improvement in terms of overall aspects like reduction in transmission delay, packet delivery ratio, remaining energy and communication performance.

Originality/value

The proposed study has presented a computationally efficient model that provides lightweight security operations based on secure hash function. It also focuses on the security associations between WSN nodes and the selection of reliable routes for secure data transmission. The design of the proposed security model is best suited for homogeneous and heterogeneous sensor networks, which will be robust to any attacking scenario.
Navigating three faces of decentred leadership in the UK Parliament
Authors: Bennister Mark
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The Westminster Parliament is multifaceted, lacks cohesion and collective direction, appearing at times to challenge the very notion of a structured public institution itself. Within an environment with little collective identity, understanding who leads in the UK Parliament is challenging; there are multiple, contestable sites of leadership and governance. The purpose of this article is to explore the understudied concept of legislative leadership, to better understand what goes on inside the legislature. The author presents a decentred and nuanced disaggregation of “leadership as practice” in parliament, examining three faces of legislative leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

Interpretive approaches to studying legislatures have presented new impetus to research in this area and the author utilises such anti-foundationalism. The article draws on ethnographic research into “everyday practices”, conducted during an academic fellowship in the UK Parliament from 2016 to 2019, which involved privileged access to the parliamentary estate. The data used include observations, shadowing and elite interviews collected during the fellowship.

Findings

By looking at the legislature from the inside, the author can better understand elite behaviour. This helps to explain motives, daily pressures and performative skills deployed in displays of autonomous, decentred leadership. The legislative leadership the author observed was atomised and could be stretched to accommodate the incumbent office holder. There were multiple relationships both formally constituted and informally constructed, but little collaborative or consensus leadership.

Originality/value

This article fulfils an identified need to study leadership in legislatures – and in particular key elites – from the inside.
Does regional reorganization have implications on socio-economic development? Understanding Ghana's experience
Authors: Nkrumah Agyabeng Anthony
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The study aimed at examining the regional reorganization and its implications on socio-economic development on the people of Oti region, Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized both textual data and in-depth interviews in context. Purposive and convenience sampling techniques were used to select 35 participants from the Oti Region.

Findings

The study found some critical services, and public goods have been provided and established in Oti Region since its establishment. Furthermore, it was established that residents have mixed reactions in terms of their expectations of the establishment of the new region on their livelihoods.

Research limitations/implications

The conclusion and the outcome of this study cannot be generalized as a representation of the whole population of Oti Region due to a qualitative approach.

Practical implications

This study discovered country- and community-specific understanding, expectations and elucidations of socio-economic development.

Originality/value

The outcome of the study has expanded and further advanced the sparse literature in the domain, which could help politician and policymakers in future, policy direction and further help to ignite scholars' interest in the field in future
Service-learning in physical education teacher education: a pedagogical model towards sustainable development goals
Authors: García-Rico Luis , Martínez-Muñoz L. Fernando , Santos-Pastor María Luisa , Chiva- Bartoll Oscar
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to know the contribution of service-learning (SL) on the awareness-raising and sensitivity with regards to sustainable development goals (SDGs) in physical education teacher education (PETE) programs.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used a qualitative methodology with a case study design from an ethnographic-interpretative approach. The participants were 81 higher education level students from the PETE program. For the collection of information, the following techniques and instruments were used: non-participant observation, students’ portfolios, focus groups and group-interviews.

Findings

The main findings show the teaching positive features of SL experiences in the PETE students. In alignment with the sustainable development model, the findings suggest that SL can boost and strengthen knowledge, comprehension, sensitivity and compromise in relation to the SDGs. It can be concluded that SL allows teacher educators to train socially critical professionals and to progress toward a sustainable development.

Originality/value

SL emerges as an appropriate pedagogical model to meet the educational needs of higher education and to face global challenges in relation to the sustainable development of the planet.
An exploratory study of experiential learning in teaching a supply chain management course in an emerging market economy
Authors: Al-Shammari Minwir M.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The study is exploratory and aims to investigate students’ learning experience in a supply chain management (SCM) course at a university in Bahrain. The selected learning skills were cognitive, affective and interactive, whereas the adopted pedagogical tools were case analysis, evaluative essay and game exercise.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was distributed to undergraduate students enrolled in an SCM course at a university in Bahrain. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis techniques were used. Inferential analysis tests were principal component analysis, Kruskal–Wallis analysis of variance and Dunn’s post hoc pairwise comparison test.

Findings

Results are inconclusive but revealed significant differences in students’ perceptions of learning skills among the adopted teaching methods. Significant differences in the perceived learning skills were found between the evaluative essay and the case analysis and between the report and the game exercise. The game exercise was the most useful technique in improving students’ interactive, cognitive and affective skills, followed by case analysis and evaluative essay.

Research limitations/implications

As the sample of this study consisted of students enrolled in a particular SCM course at a University in Bahrain, the small sample size may restrict the study’s conclusive findings.

Practical implications

It is recommended to establish an experiential or problem-based learning support unit to assist faculty in the planning, design and development of pedagogical and assessment tools.

Originality/value

The research findings are expected to help design, assess and enhance students’ learning experience in SCM and other business courses that adopt a process-based experiential learning perspective.
Hijabista willingness to accept premium pricing: an analytical study of the effect of social and self-identity on hijab fashion brands satisfaction
Authors: Alanadoly Alshaimaa Bahgat , Salem Suha Fouad
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the predictors influencing hijabista satisfaction towards Hijab fashion brands and their willingness to pay premium pricing as fashion consumers. The effects of product design, product quality, social and self-identity have been studied in relation to product, and brand satisfaction is believed to have led to acceptance of premium pricing. Various factors have been studied and analysed to provide a better understanding of Hijab fashion consumer behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by using online structured surveys distributed within the area of Shah Alam City in Malaysia. Convenience sampling was used in defining the 223 target respondents, and the collected data was analysed using Smart-PLS Software.

Findings

The results highlighted that product design has the largest influence on the willingness of hijabistas in paying premium prices, followed by products that reflect their social-identity while communicating their religious obligations and commitments. Communicating one’s self-identity was also found not to have a significant impact which relates to the importance of the religious and social commitments on hijabista purchasing choices rather than their own self-conceptual image.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights on the factors that affect hijabista satisfaction towards Hijab fashion products and brands. Conclusions provided are very relevant to the practices of the fashion industry, and in particular, for designers to understand the needs of this large and significant segment of the fashion market.

Originality/value

Hijab fashion is a growing segment in the fashion industry, and it has been gaining recent global attention. Designers need to be more aware of the requirements of this segment of the fashion market. This research focusses on Hijab consumer satisfaction and how this reflects their willingness to pay premium prices for chosen products and brands. Factors such as product design and quality, along with social and self-identity, were studied in connection with hijabista willingness to accept premium pricing. Such connections and terms have not been covered in previous literature.
Exploring marketing orientation in integrated Islamic schools
Authors: Shaikh Ayesha Latif , Alam Kazmi Syed Hasnain
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to scrutinize the marketing orientation and market-oriented cultural elements of integrated Islamic schools. These integrated schools teach modern science curriculum alongside comprehensive religious instruction in an Islamic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an inductive, exploratory research from an interpretivist study. Narrative inquiry was undertaken to understand the perceptions, attitudes and actions of school senior management and teachers. Content analysis of the school websites and social media pages was carried out. In total, 7 schools and 16 respondents became part of the purposive sample.

Findings

The presence of several integrated Islamic schools, experienced Islamic education leadership and Islamic education consultants are evidence of a growing sector. The schools are technologically enabled, strongly customer-oriented and adept at inter-functional coordination. The need-gap found in this sector is in competitor orientation, curriculum development and recruitment of specific criteria-based staff.

Practical implications

With the mushrooming of integrated Islamic schools in Pakistan, the level of competition has also risen. The schools have made a considerable investment and strives to maintain and increase the enrollment rate of the institute. This research can enlighten integrated Islamic educators about effective education marketing practices and the prevalence of marketing orientation in such schools.

Originality/value

In Pakistan, private primary schools strive to differentiate themselves and competitively position their value proposition. The marketization of education has begun to affect perceptions of school staff, teachers, students and academic work itself. Yet, there is scarce exploratory research on marketing done by integrated Islamic primary schools. This study will contribute foundational work for the development of a holistic marketing model tailored to the requirements of integrated Islamic schools.
COVID-19 fear index: does it matter for stock market returns?
Authors: Subramaniam Sowmya , Chakraborty Madhumita
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to capture the investors' mood related to the COVID-19 pandemic and analyze its impact on the stock market returns.

Design/methodology/approach

To capture the investor mood related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the authors construct a unique COVID-19 fear index based on the Search Volume Index (SVI) from Google Trends (http://www.Google.com/trends/) of the search terms related to COVID-19 words and phrases as revealed by Google and Internet dictionaries. The COVID-19 fear index was used to investigate its impact on the stock market returns.

Findings

The study finds a strong negative association between COVID-19 fear and stock returns. Unlike other studies, the relationship is persistent for a significant period. This relationship is not found to reverse in the following days. The results also highlight that COVID-19 fear strongly impacts the stock market. The sentiment persists for a significant period and is not reversed soon, unlike the regular times in earlier studies.

Originality/value

The study is among the very few studies that constructed COVID-19 fear index using several Google search terms and captured its impact on the stock market returns.