bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of cell mass and size control in multicellular systems and the human body
Authors: Martinez-Martin David
Published: December 2020

Cellular processes, in particular homeostasis and growth, require an intricate and complex exchange of matter between a cell and its surroundings. Yet experimental difficulties have prevented a detailed description of the dynamics of a cell’s mass and volume along different cellular processes, limiting our understanding of cell physiology in health and disease. It has been recently observed that single mammalian cells fluctuate their mass in a timescale of seconds. This result challenges central and long-standing cell growth models, according to which cells increase their mass either linearly or exponentially throughout the cell cycle. However, it remains unclear to what extent cell mass fluctuations may be sustained in multicellular organisms. Here I provide a mathematical model for cell mass fluctuations and explore how such fluctuations can be successfully sustained in multicellular organisms. I postulate that cells do not synchronise their mass fluctuations, but they are executed with their phases uniformly distributed. I derive a mathematical expression to estimate the resulting mass shift between fluid compartments in an organism due to cell mass fluctuations. Together with a new estimate of 4×1013human cells in the body, I demonstrate that my hypothesis leads to shifts of mass between the intracellular and extracellular fluid compartments in the human body that are approximately or smaller than 0.25 mg and, therefore, perfectly viable. The proposed model connects cell physiology with information theory and entropy.
The Full Database of Countries with Potential COVID-19 Data Misreport based on Benford’s Law
Authors: Kilani Ahmad , Georgiou Georgios P.
Published: December 2020

The aim of this database is to provide researchers and scholars a unified database for potential data misreport by 171 countries regarding their COVID-19 daily reported cases. The analysis employs three different tests (chi-square, Kuiper, and Mean Absolute Deviation) to determine if the data given by each country in the world fit Benford’s Law.
Minimal requirements for a neuron to co-regulate many properties and the implications for ion channel correlations and robustness
Authors: Yang Jane , Shakil Husain , Ratté Stéphanie , Prescott Steven A.
Published: December 2020

Neurons regulate their excitability by adjusting their ion channel levels. Degeneracy – achieving equivalent outcomes (excitability) using different solutions (channel combinations) – facilitates this regulation by enabling a disruptive change in one channel to be offset by compensatory changes in other channels. But neurons must co-regulate many properties. Pleiotropy – the impact of one channel on more than one property – complicates regulation because a compensatory ion channel change that restores one property to its target value often disrupts other properties. How then does a neuron simultaneously regulate multiple properties? Here we demonstrate that of the many channel combinations producing the target value for one property (the single-output solution set), few combinations produce the target value for other properties. Combinations producing the target value for two or more properties (the multi-output solution set) correspond to the intersection between single-output solution sets. Properties can be effectively co-regulated only if the number of adjustable channels (nin) exceeds the number of regulated properties (nout). Ion channel correlations emerge during homeostatic regulation when the dimensionality of solution space (nin–nout) is low. Even if each property can be regulated to its target value when considered in isolation, regulation as a whole fails if single-output solution sets do not intersect. Our results also highlight that ion channels must be co-adjusted with different ratios to regulate different properties, which suggests that each error signal drives modulatory changes independently, despite those changes ultimately affecting the same ion channels.
Elevated temperature inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication in respiratory epithelium independently of the induction of IFN-mediated innate immune defences
Authors: Herder Vanessa , Dee Kieran , Wojtus Joanna K. , Goldfarb Daniel , Rozario Christoforos , Gu Quan , Jarrett Ruth F. , Epifano Ilaria , Stevenson Andrew , McFarlane Steven , Stewart Meredith E. , Szemiel Agnieszka M. , Pinto Rute M. , Garriga Andreu Masdefiol , Graham Sheila V. , Murcia Pablo R. , Boutell Chris
Published: December 2020

The pandemic spread of SARS-CoV-2, the etiological agent of COVID-19, represents a significant and ongoing international health crisis. A key symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection is the onset of fever, with a hyperthermic temperature range of 38 to 41°C. Fever is an evolutionarily conserved host response to microbial infection and inflammation that can influence the outcome of viral pathogenicity and regulation of host innate and adaptive immune responses. However, it remains to be determined what effect elevated temperature has on SARS-CoV-2 tropism and replication. Utilizing a 3D air-liquid interface (ALI) model that closely mimics the natural tissue physiology and cellular tropism of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the respiratory airway, we identify tissue temperature to play an important role in the regulation of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We show that temperature elevation induces wide-spread transcriptome changes that impact upon the regulation of multiple pathways, including epigenetic regulation and lncRNA expression, without disruption of general cellular transcription or the induction of interferon (IFN)-mediated antiviral immune defences. Respiratory tissue incubated at temperatures >37°C remained permissive to SARS-CoV-2 infection but severely restricted the initiation of viral transcription, leading to significantly reduced levels of intraepithelial viral RNA accumulation and apical shedding of infectious virus. To our knowledge, we present the first evidence that febrile temperatures associated with COVID-19 inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication. Our data identify an important role for temperature elevation in the epithelial restriction of SARS-CoV-2 that occurs independently of the induction of canonical IFN-mediated antiviral immune defences and interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) expression.
Host autophagy mediates organ wasting and nutrient mobilization for tumor growth
Authors: Khezri Rojyar , Holland Petter , Schoborg Todd Andrew , Abramovich Ifat , Takats Szabolcs , Dillard Caroline , Jain Ashish , OFarrell Fergal , Schultz Sebastian Wolfgang , Hagopian William M. , Quintana Eduardo Martin , Ng Rachel , Katheder Nadja Sandra , Rahman Mohammed Mahidur , Brech Andreas , Jasper Heinrich , Rusan Nasser M. , Jahren Anne Hope , Gottlieb Eyal , Rusten Tor Erik
Published: December 2020

During tumor growth - when nutrient and anabolic demands are high – autophagy supports tumor metabolism and growth through lysosomal organelle turnover and nutrient recycling1. Ras-driven tumors additionally invoke non-autonomous autophagy in the microenvironment to support tumor growth, in part through transfer of amino acids2–4. Here we uncover a third critical role of autophagy in mediating systemic organ wasting and nutrient mobilization for tumor growth using a well-characterized malignant tumor model inDrosophila melanogaster. Micro-computed X-ray tomography and metabolic profiling reveal thatRasV12; scrib-/-tumors grow 10-fold in volume, while systemic organ wasting unfolds with progressive muscle atrophy, loss of body mass, −motility, −feeding and eventually death. Tissue wasting is found to be mediated by autophagy and results in host mobilization of amino acids and sugars into circulation. Natural abundance Carbon 13 tracing demonstrates that tumor biomass is increasingly derived from host tissues as a nutrient source as wasting progresses. We conclude that host autophagy mediates organ wasting and nutrient mobilization that is utilized for tumor growth.
CYRI-A regulates macropinocytic cup maturation and mediates integrin uptake, limiting invasive migration
Authors: Le Anh Hoang , Yelland Tamas , Paul Nikki R. , Fort Loic , Nikolaou Savvas , Ismail Shehab , Machesky Laura M.
Published: December 2020

The Scar/WAVE complex is the major driver of actin nucleation at the plasma membrane, resulting in lamellipodia and membrane ruffles. While lamellipodia aid migration, membrane ruffles can generate macropinosomes - cup-like structures - important for nutrient uptake and regulation of cell surface receptor levels. How macropinosomes are formed and the role of the actin machinery in their formation and resolution is still not well understood. Mammalian CYRI-B is a recently described negative regulator of the Scar/WAVE complex by RAC1 sequestration, but its other paralogue, CYRI-A has not been characterised. Here we implicate CYRI-A as a key regulator of macropinosome maturation and integrin internalisation from the cell surface. We find that CYRI-A is recruited to nascent macropinosomes in a transient but distinct burst, downstream of PIP3-mediated RAC1 activation and the initial burst of actin assembly driving cup formation, but upstream of internalisation and RAB5 recruitment to the macropinosome. Together, our data place CYRI-A as a local suppressor of actin dynamics, enabling the resolution of the macropinocytic cup. The failure of CYRI-depleted cells to resolve their macropinocytic cups results in reduced integrin a5b1 internalisation, leading to enhanced spreading, invasive behaviour and anchorage-independent 3D growth. We thus describe a new role for CYRI-A as a highly dynamic regulator of RAC1 activity at macropinosomes, modulating homeostasis of integrin surface presentation, with important functional consequences.
Surveying the vampire bat (Desmodus rotundus) serum proteome: a resource for identifying immunological proteins and detecting pathogens
Authors: Neely Benjamin A. , Janech Michael G. , Fenton M. Brock , Simmons Nancy B. , Bland Alison M. , Becker Daniel J.
Published: December 2020

Bats are increasingly studied as model systems for longevity and as natural hosts for some virulent viruses. Yet our ability to characterize immune mechanisms of viral tolerance and to quantify infection dynamics in wild bats is often limited by small sample volumes and few species-specific reagents. Here, we demonstrate how proteomics can overcome these limitations by using data-independent acquisition-based shotgun proteomics to survey the serum proteome of 17 vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) from Belize. Using just 2 μL of sample and relatively short separations of undepleted serum digests, we identified 361 proteins across five orders of magnitude. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD022885. Levels of immunological proteins in vampire bat serum were then compared to human plasma via published databases. Of particular interest were anti-viral and anti-bacterial components, circulating 20S proteasome complex, and proteins involved in redox activity; whether any results are specific to vampire bats could be assessed by future pan-mammalian analyses. Lastly, we used known virus proteomes to identify Rh186 fromMacacine herpesvirus 3and ORF1a from Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus, indicating that mass spectrometry-based techniques show promise for pathogen detection. Overall, these results can be used to design targeted mass-spectrometry assays to quantify immunological markers and detect pathogens. More broadly, our findings also highlight the application of proteomics in advancing wildlife immunology and pathogen surveillance.
Tissue-Specific Regulation of Translational Readthrough Tunes Functions of the Traffic Jam Transcription Factor
Authors: Karki Prajwal , Carney Travis D. , Maracci Cristina , Yatsenko Andriy S. , Shcherbata Halyna R. , Rodnina Marina V.
Published: December 2020

Translational readthrough (TR) occurs when the ribosome decodes a stop codon as a sense codon, resulting in two protein isoforms synthesized from the same mRNA. TR is pervasive in eukaryotic organisms; however, its biological significance remains unclear. In this study, we quantify the TR potential of several candidate genes inDrosophila melanogasterand characterize the regulation of TR in the large Maf transcription factor Traffic jam (Tj). We used CRISPR/Cas9 generated mutant flies to show that the TR-generated Tj isoform is expressed in the nuclei of a subset of neural cells of the central nervous system and is excluded from the somatic cells of gonads, which express the short Tj isoform only. Translational control of TR is critical for preservation of neuronal integrity and maintenance of reproductive health. Fine-tuning of the gene regulatory functions of transcription factors by TR provides a new potential mechanism for cell-specific regulation of gene expression.

Highlights

Tj undergoes tissue-specific TR in neural cells of the central nervous system.

Strict control of TR is crucial for neuroprotection and maintenance of reproductive capacity.

TR selectively fine-tunes the gene regulatory functions of the transcription factor.

TR in Tj links transcription and translation of tissue-specific control of gene expression.
ADAR1 interaction with Z-RNA promotes editing of endogenous double-stranded RNA and prevents MDA5-dependent immune activation
Authors: de Reuver Richard , Dierick Evelien , Wiernicki Bartosz , Staes Katrien , Seys Leen , De Meester Ellen , Muyldermans Tuur , Botzki Alexander , Lambrecht Bart , Van Nieuwerburgh Filip , Vandenabeele Peter , Maelfait Jonathan
Published: December 2020

Loss-of-function of ADAR1 causes the severe autoinflammatory disease Aicardi-Goutières Syndrome (AGS). ADAR1 converts adenosines into inosines within double-stranded (ds) RNA. This process called A-to-I editing masks self-dsRNA from detection by the antiviral dsRNA sensor MDA5. ADAR1 binds to dsRNA in both the canonical A-form and in the poorly defined Z-conformation (Z-RNA). Mutations in the Z-RNA binding Zα-domain of ADAR1 are common in AGS patients. How loss of ADAR1/Z-RNA interaction contributes to disease development is unknown. Using ADAR1 Zα-domain mutant human cells and knock-in mice, we demonstrate that abrogated binding of ADAR1 to Z-RNA leads to reduced A-to-I editing of dsRNA structures formed by pairing of inversely oriented SINEs. As a result, ADAR1 Zα-domain mutant human cells and transgenic mice develop a spontaneous MDA5-dependent immune response. This shows that the interaction between ADAR1 and Z-RNA restricts sensing of self-dsRNA and prevents AGS development.
Integrated transcriptional analysis of the cellular and extracellular vesicle RNA content of Candida auris in response to caspofungin
Authors: Zamith-Miranda Daniel , Amatuzzi Rafaela F. , Martins Sharon T. , Vieira Alexandre Z. , da Rocha Isadora M. , Rodrigues Marcio L. , Trentin Gabriel , Almeida Fausto , Nakayasu Ernesto S. , Nosanchuk Joshua D. , Alves Lysangela R.
Published: December 2020

Candida aurishas emerged as a serious worldwide threat by causing invasive infections in humans that are frequently resistant to one or more conventional antifungal medications, resulting in high mortality rates. Against this backdrop, health warnings around the world have focused efforts on understandingC. aurisfungal biology and effective treatment approaches to combat this fungus. To date, there is little information aboutC. aurisgene expression regulation in response to antifungal treatment. Our integrated analyses focused on the comparative transcriptomics ofC. aurisin the presence and absence of caspofungin as well as a detailed analysis of the yeast’s extracellular vesicle (EV)-RNA composition. The results showed that genes coding oxidative stress response, ribosomal proteins, cell wall, and cell cycle were significantly upregulated in the presence of caspofungin, whereas transcriptional regulators and proteins related to the nucleus were downregulated. The mRNAs in the EVs were associated with stress responses induced by caspofungin and the ncRNA content of the EVs shifted during caspofungin treatment. Altogether, the results provide further insights into the fungal response to caspofungin and demonstrate that analyses ofC. aurisgrowth under antifungal stress can elucidate resistance and survival mechanisms of this fungus in response to medical therapy.
A First-in-class, Highly Selective and Cell-active Allosteric Inhibitor of Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 6 (PRMT6)
Authors: Shen Yudao , Li Fengling , Szewczyk Magdalena M. , Halebelian Levon , Chau Irene , Eram Mohammad S. , Seña Carlo Dela , Park Kwang-Su , Meng Fanye , Chen He , Zeng Hong , McLeod David , Zepeda-Velázquez Carlos A. , Campbell Robert M. , Mader Mary M. , Watson Brian M. , Schapira Matthieu , Arrowsmith Cheryl H. , Al-Awar Rima , Barsyte-Lovejoy Dalia , Kaniskan H. Ümit , Brown Peter J. , Vedadi Masoud , Jin Jian
Published: December 2020

PRMT6 catalyzes monomethylation and asymmetric dimethylation of arginine residues in various proteins, plays important roles in biological processes and is associated with multiple cancers. While there are several reported PRMT6 inhibitors, a highly selective PRMT6 inhibitor has not been reported to date. Furthermore, allosteric inhibitors of protein methyltransferases are rare. Here we report the discovery and characterization of a first-in-class, highly selective allosteric inhibitor of PRMT6, SGC6870. SGC6870 is a potent PRMT6 inhibitor (IC50= 77 ± 6 nM) with outstanding selectivity for PRMT6 over a broad panel of other methyltransferases and non-epigenetic targets. Notably, the crystal structure of the PRMT6–SGC6870 complex and kinetic studies revealed SGC6870 binds a unique, induced allosteric pocket. Additionally, SGC6870 engages PRMT6 and potently inhibits its methyltransferase activity in cells. Moreover, SGC6870’s enantiomer, SGC6870N, is inactive against PRMT6 and can be utilized as a negative control. Collectively, SGC6870 is a well-characterized PRMT6 chemical probe and valuable tool for further investigating PRMT6 functions in health and disease.
The innate immunity protein C1QBP functions as a negative regulator of circulative transmission ofPotato leafroll virusby aphids
Authors: DeBlasio Stacy L. , Wilson Jennifer , Tamborindeguy Cecilia , Johnson Richard S. , Pinheiro Patricia V. , MacCoss Michael J. , Gray Stewart M. , Heck Michelle
Published: December 2020

The vast majority of plant viruses are transmitted by insect vectors with many crucial aspects of the transmission process being mediated by key protein-protein interactions. Yet, very few vector proteins interacting with virus have been identified and functionally characterized.Potato leafroll virus(PLRV) is transmitted most effectively byMyzus persicae, the green peach aphid, in a circulative, non-propagative manner. Using an affinity purification strategy coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (AP-MS), we identified 11 proteins fromM. persicaedisplaying high probability of interaction with PLRV and an additional 23 vector proteins with medium confidence interaction scores. Two of these proteins were confirmed to directly interact with the structural proteins of PLRV and other luteovirid species via yeast two-hybrid with an additional vector protein displaying binding specificity. Immunolocalization of one of these direct PLRV-interacting proteins, an orthologue of the human innate immunity protein complement component 1 Q subcomponent-binding protein (C1QBP), shows that MpC1QBP partially co-localizes with PLRV within cytoplasmic puncta and along the periphery of aphid gut epithelial cells. Chemical inhibition of C1QBP in the aphid leads to increased PLRV acquisition and subsequently increased titer in inoculated plants, supporting the role of C1QBP as a negative regulator of PLRV accumulation inM. persicae. We hypothesize that the innate immune function of C1QBP is conserved in aphids and represents the first instance of aphids mounting an immune response to a non-propagative plant virus. This study presents the first use of AP-MS for thein vivoisolation of functionally relevant insect vector-virus protein complexes.
Professional competencies for librarians working in special libraries: the case of Pakistan
Authors: Khan Shakeel Ahmad , Parveen Abida
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the core competencies for librarians working in special libraries. It also measures the competencies of librarians working in special libraries of the Punjab Province against the checklist developed by the Special Library Association (SLA) Task Force. The study also identifies the training needs of librarians working in special libraries and the problems they face in acquiring SLA competencies.

Design/methodology/approach

A peer-reviewed questionnaire based on the list of competencies for special librarians prepared by the SLA Task Force was used to collect quantitative data from a targeted population. An online survey was administered to approach the population working in special libraries of Punjab Province. Collected data was analyzed statistically through SPSS software.

Findings

A review of literature highlighted the various competencies for librarians working in special libraries (Figure 1). The findings of the study showed that the competencies identified by SLA Task Force are imperative for librarians working in special libraries of Punjab Province. The results showed that librarians working in special libraries of Punjab possessed an intermediate level of competencies identified by the SLA. However, they had a good level of basic professional and interpersonal skills. The study highlights the training needs of librarians working in special libraries to enable them in acquiring relevant competencies.

Research limitations/implications

The study measures the competencies of librarians in special libraries of the Punjab Province. During the data collection phase, it was observed that there were some libraries where the non-professional/supporting staff was deputed, and due to this, data could not be collected from these libraries.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications for librarians and information professionals working in special libraries to acquire the relevant competencies identified by the SLA. This study has identified various competencies areas that are essential for librarians working in special libraries.

Social implications

Librarians working in any special library can use the results of this study as a checklist to improve their competencies level and work efficiently.

Originality/value

In contrast to other studies conducted on professional competencies of library professionals working in academic libraries, this study particularly identifies and measures the competencies of librarians working in special libraries.
In search of 21st-century high-quality health education teachers
Authors: Cardina Catherine , Panek-Shirley Leah
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Teachers with subject-area knowledge and certification in their teaching content areas positively contribute to student academic achievement. This study aims to identify the trends in academic majors and subject-area certifications of K-12 US public school staff teaching health education during this century.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were extracted from a comprehensive nationally representative survey of school employees conducted regularly by the National Center for Educational Statistics of the US Department of Education.

Findings

Approximately 60% of the health education teachers indicated they were certified in health education during the study period. Nearly two-thirds of staff teaching health education did not have an academic major in health education. These findings suggest an ongoing trend of granting teachers state certification in health education devoid of any academic major in health education. Other increasing trends include staff with an academic major in physical education and no academic major in health education teaching health classes and certified in physical education teachers who were not certified in health education teaching health classes. Overall, students in the USA were not taught health education by quality or qualified health education teachers as defined by having an academic major and certification in health education.

Originality/value

The findings are a call to action to hire health education teachers who not only have certification in health education but also an academic major in health education, which is imperative to increase healthy behaviors, reduce risk behaviors and increase academic achievement among youth.
Co-designing multidisciplinary telehealth education for online learning
Authors: Cox Jennifer L. , Seaman Claire Ellen , Hyde Sarah , Freire Katharine M. , Mansfield Jacqueline
Published: December 2020

Purpose

There are growing expectations that students graduating from health courses and current health professionals have some proficiency in using telehealth. However, there is limited accessibility to multidisciplinary-based material to meet this need. This paper describes the development of an online telehealth education resource using a co-design approach and the strengths and challenges of embedding authentic learning principles in an open-access online course with a broad target audience.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first describe the co-design process of the course and discuss the pedagogy underpinning the course design. Then learner enrolment data is discussed to evidence uptake across key characteristics. Finally, the authors assess the efficacy of the co-design approach by analysing feedback collected from learners at the end of the course.

Findings

The course is structured across four modules and comprises interactive content, reflective tasks, case studies and purposefully developed digital material. Responses from the working group and from learner feedback indicate that the course is an authentic and relevant introduction to telehealth practice for both health students and current health professionals, despite some limitations.

Originality/value

This case study demonstrates the value of a co-design process and key learning design choices in online course development to meet the educational needs of learners from broad disciplinary backgrounds, in various stages of learning/understanding of telehealth and/or requiring a practice-based resource in the context of a rapidly changing policy environment.
Peer support in prehospital emergency: the first responders' point of view
Authors: Oliveira Ana , Teixeira Filipa , Neto Félix , Maia Ângela
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Being a first responder involves facing a wide variety of stressful situations that could affect health and well-being. Peer support appears as a beneficial strategy to deal with work-related stress. Despite this support approach have been implemented in a variety of contexts, these interventions must to be adapted to specific needs. In this sense, the aim of this study was to explore, from a first responders' perspective, what they think about peer support and how it can be put into practice

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed in-depth 14 first responders of Portuguese Red Cross branches from the north of Portugal. Data was analyzed according to Thematic Analysis procedures.

Findings

The authors found two main themes: (1) a valuable, sustainable and ongoing support and (2) overcome barriers and rooted resistances. Participants highlighted the importance of peer support along the Red Cross path, and as daily routine. Moreover, they considered that peers should have some personal characteristics, skills and training in order to provide support to colleagues more effectively. Additionally, they made suggestions to overcome some anticipated barriers.

Practical implications

By considering mental health and well-being of workers, a priority and by being developed based on international recommendations and professionals testimonies, peer support appears as a valuable tool possible to be implemented and able to tailor the emergency branches' needs.

Originality/value

This is the first qualitative study about the first responder's perceptions of peer support.
The assessment of collaboration quality: a case of sugar supply chain in Indonesia
Authors: Dania Wike Agustin Prima , Xing Ke , Amer Yousef
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the collaboration quality performance of sugar company Z and its stakeholders (farmers and distributors) by considering the sustainability aspects. This assessment shall be able to integrate qualitative and quantitative factors in the model, which is critical in sugar supply chains involving multi-stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

Integration of quality function deployment (QFD), the fuzzy analytical network process (FANP) and the data envelopment analysis (DEA) is administered to assess the efficiency score of each stakeholder involved. The evaluation encompasses collaboration behaviour factors since the input of collaboration activities will result in sustainability aspects such as revenue, green house gas (GHG) emissions and social impact. The analysis has been conducted in two scenarios, those are the basic scenario by utilising original data and the extended scenario by using projection data.

Findings

The result clarifies that the most influential behaviour factor in the collaboration activities is commitment (0.116), while the least important behaviour factors are power (0.008) and adaptation (0.008). Furthermore, by using the extended scenario, the overall efficiency for each benchmarking is higher compared to the condition before the improvement (basic scenario).

Research limitations/implications

The result of this study is only relevant to the particular sugar supply chain and involving limited sustainability variables. Therefore, in a further study, more variables such as technical and financial aspects could be explored further in the assessment process.

Practical implications

The result of this study is available for each stakeholder and can be fundamental for the constant improvement in sustainable supply chain (SSC) practices. It shows that an improvement of one stakeholder will positively impact the entire system.

Social implications

Smallholders and sugarcane farmers will recognise the significance of collaboration behaviour. Thus, they can enhance their mutual benefits by using the existing resources.

Originality/value

This paper arranges for a practical contribution by implementing advanced assessment methods in the sugar supply chain by taking into account the economic, environmental and social aspects. This comprehensive assessment process in the sugar supply chain is the novelty of this paper.
COVID-19 and performance: beyond a social construction
Authors: Mai Kate Thuy
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this essay is to reflect on my personal experience on my teaching performance during the COVID-19 pandemic and to share my investigation into the nature of performance phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

I reflected on my personal experience and thoughts about the phenomenon of performance.

Findings

My reflection points to an understanding that performance is a social-natural phenomenon, which can only be enabled and directed but cannot be controlled.

Originality/value

I shared some implications for understanding the nature of performance and performance management from an integrated worldview of physics, biology, psychology and neuroscience.
China’s asset management industry: mapping the global landscape
Authors: Yao Jeff , Ravendran Shaji , Zhang Haiyang
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to describe the globalization process of China’s asset management industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This article looks at the globalization of China’s asset management industry from a bilateral perspective. On one hand, it analyzes new measures promulgated in China to expand the opening up of capital markets and attract foreign asset management institutions. On the other hand, it gives an introduction on some advisable choices for Chinese asset management companies to invest overseas.

Findings

With the promulgation of the Shanghai Guidebook for Overseas Asset Management Institutions among other measures that further liberate China’s financial market, 2020 marks an important era for foreign asset managers. Besides, this article suggests that Luxembourg, Ireland and the UK are ideal European destinations for Chinese asset management companies to invest in.

Practical implications

This article aims to keep foreign asset managers updated of new rules regarding financial market liberalization in China and help them to expand business in Shanghai. This article also gives a brief introduction on the fund industry in Ireland, Luxembourg and the UK, to give those Chinese asset management companies which are considering overseas investment some inspiration.

Originality/value

Practical guidance from experienced lawyers in the practice of foreign investment and capital markets.
The past, present and future of the non-traded NAV REIT structure
Authors: Roberts David H. , Santucci Ettore A. , Schonberger Mark , Lavigne Peter W.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Over 15 years ago Goodwin created the first open-ended, non-traded real estate investment trust (REIT) with regular sales and redemptions at net asset value (“NAV REIT”). While NAV REITs are now well established, there is still room for improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

We traced the evolution of the NAV REIT’s innovative, investor-friendly features – transparent valuation to strike NAV, liquidity via redemption at NAV per share, indefinite life, lower/simpler selling and management fees, share classes with different upfront loads and trailing distribution fees.

Findings

To improve the liquidity feature of NAV REITs, share classes could be used to lower the drag on performance and match available liquid assets with expected redemption requests. The goal: balance inflows and outflows, optimize portfolio construction, and better safeguard liquidity.

Practical implications

One need not look far for the dark side of liquidity in open-ended real estate funds. The UK experience with regulated property funds is a painful object lesson. There is a better way: while traditional non-traded REITs were designed and marketed for investment by retail investors, NAV REITs appeal to a diverse range of investors, and share classes could be enhanced to offer both a menu of selling loads and a menu of liquidity and dividend-rate options to produce a smooth curve blending cost and time.

Originality/value

Innovation in structuring real estate investment vehicles has broadened choices for all and the NAV REIT is flexible, scalable, open-ended and cost-efficient. Fund sponsors, fund managers, financial advisors, investors and even regulators could find food for thought in our analysis.
Six practical tips for practicing cyberhygiene in the middle of a global pandemic
Authors: Peretti Kimberly , Mushahwar Amy , Knight Jon
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Discusses the long-term cybersecurity challenges businesses face as COVID-19 cases spike and remote work environments need to remain operational, scalable, and capable of flexing with cycles of virus resurgence.

Design/Methodology/Approach

Discusses the target-rich environment cybercriminals have during this time, and steps businesses should take to secure their environments and raise employee awareness as more devices are being used remotely for company business and more company data is being sent, located, or stored outside the protections of the company infrastructure.

Findings

The remote work environment is likely to be around for the foreseeable future and businesses need to ensure they are secured for long-term success.

Practical implications

The authors offer information security and IT teams practical ways businesses can keep their systems secure and functioning: (1) Consider Basic Cyberhygiene; (2) Identify Security Blind Spots; (3) Review and Update Business Continuity, Disaster Recovery, and Incident Response Plans; (4) Remain Vigilant for Scams and Phishing Attacks; (5) Be Aware of Applicable Industry-Specific Guidelines; (6) Revisit Risk Exceptions.

Originality/Value

Practical guidance from experienced data privacy and cybersecurity lawyers in response to COVD-19 for Information Security, IT, and business management teams.
Telegram: deconstructing one of the biggest blockchain cases of 2020
Authors: Musiala Jr. Robert A. , Harrington John J. , Guillén Teresa Goody , Forman Jonathan A. , Gale Adam D. , Reynolds Veronica
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To discuss and analyze the facts and circumstances of the October 11, 2019 U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York temporary restraining order halting the distribution of cryptocurrency tokens in SEC v. Telegram Group Inc.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides an overview of the case, an analysis of the Court’s ruling, details on the final resolutions, and some key takeaways.

Findings

Given the lack of judicial precedent in this area, as well as the size and profile of the Telegram project, the Telegram case was closely watched by blockchain industry participants and represents a significant development for this emerging market. The Telegram court’s approach, if broadly adopted, could prove very challenging for those attempting to launch decentralized networks involving blockchain-based tokens.

Practical implications

The Telegram case represents just one court’s view and is based on a very fact-specific inquiry. However, given the Court’s apparent deference to the SEC’s positions on the facts at hand, and the lack of judicial precedent in this area, the blockchain industry should pay close attention to this decision.

Originality/value

Expert guidance from lawyers with extensive experience in blockchain technologies, digital currencies, securities offerings and litigation, investment funds and financial services.
International cooperation to combat money laundering in the capital market: Indonesia and Australia experience
Authors: Bintoro Sutarno , Sjamsuddin Sjamsiar , Pratiwi Ratih Nur , Hermawan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To introduce new initiatives in combating money laundering and related corruption in the capital market sector through international cooperation between Indonesia and Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used qualitative research methods. Data were obtained through observation, interviews and secondary data analysis. Primary and secondary data were then analyzed with an interactive model.

Findings

The Indonesian capital market is at high risk of being used as a means of laundering corrupt money. Our analysis found a major obstacle when investigators and prosecutors have handled money laundering cases conducted in the capital market because they have not had enough knowledge related to the capital market and its business processes.

Originality/value

This article is expected to add to the literature on handling money laundering from corruption carried out in the capital market. It describes best-practice efforts undertaken by Indonesia and Australia.
Early COVID-19 outbreak, individuals’ mask attitudes and purchase intentions: a cohesive care
Authors: Shah Naimatullah , Kalwar Muhammad Shafique , Soomro Bahadur Ali
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore individuals’ attitudes and intentions towards mask purchase in Pakistan at an initial outbreak of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is quantitatively based on the cross-sectional data. The data are collected through a survey questionnaire. Convenience sampling strategy is used to target the individuals of Pakistan. At the first, 650 questionnaires were distributed. In return, the authors received 321 raw samples with the response rate of 53.5%. Finally, 316 useful samples are proceeded to infer the final results.

Findings

The structural equation model’s results demonstrate a positive and significant effect of fear of complication of COVID-19, knowledge about COVID-19 and health consciousness on attitudes towards the mask. Further, attitudes towards mask are found to be the robust analyst of mask purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The study used cross-sectional data through a single source of data collection. The findings of the survey are on the sample size of 316.

Practical implications

The study would help policymakers to formulate the strategies to make aware individuals regarding their health and COVID-19 issues. The study would provide the guidelines to the government agents of Pakistan to combat with COVID-19 through the purchase of mask. The shopkeepers would be aware to observe the intentions and attitudes of consumers towards mask.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this study offer a shred of empirical evidence for attitudes and intentions regarding the purchase of mask, particularly for developing country settings.
Elementary school principals and informal learning: leveraging networks
Authors: Ringling Josh J. , Sanzo Karen L. , Scribner Jay Paredes
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how and in what ways networking served as a vehicle to informal learning among elementary school principals.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a multiple case study methodology across a ten-week period, studying six principals and conducting over 50 interviews. Six individual case studies were conducted, followed by a cross-case analysis.

Findings

This study found that a principal’s informal learning opportunities are just as important as formal ones, and often occur more frequently. Principals rely daily on a small network of other principals to informally learn about pressing challenges and situations in their schools. Informal learning allows principals to continually develop and refine their practices without the confines of formally set dates and times. Informal learning happens organically and is needs driven based on what knowledge a principal requires at a given point in time.

Originality/value

Although formal learning has been a focus in educational leadership research for the past 15 years, almost nothing is known about how principals informally learning. This study adds to the very limited body of research in the educational leadership field.
Cross-cultural conceptualization and implementation of recovery in mental health: a literature review
Authors: Sofouli Eleni
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature in terms of the conceptualization of the recovery concept among cultural and ethnic minorities drawing on the connectedness, hope and optimism about the future; Identity, meaning in life, empowerment (CHIME) framework; highlight the cultural adaptations of supported housing – a prominent recovery-oriented intervention, as it was implemented in a multicultural western country; and delineate the future implications for research, policy and practice in regard to mental health recovery interventions for cultural and ethnic minorities.

Design/methodology/approach

An online search was performed to identify recent empirical studies published in English in peer-reviewed journals.

Findings

Included studies confirmed what the authors of CHIME had initially reported: spirituality and support networks could act as enablers or inhibitors in the recovery process of mental health services users with diverse cultural backgrounds. The stigma surrounding mental illness is a key challenge that skews the recovery experience. Other cultural-specific factors include linguistic peculiarities of the maternal language and gender. The cultural adaptation of a recovery-oriented intervention was feasible and effective but also challenging.

Originality/value

By studying the cultural variations of mental health recovery, the intention is to inform mental health practitioners and other key stakeholders of the distinct cultural components that influence the recovery process, thereby promoting the development of culturally sensitive, accessible and effective recovery-oriented interventions. It is worth noting that providing culturally appropriate mental health services could be viewed as a human right issue for minority groups.
Aetiological testing compared with syndromic management for sexually transmitted infections in HIV‐infected pregnant women in South Africa: a non‐randomised prospective cohort study
Authors: Peters RPH , Klausner JD , de Vos L , Feucht UD , Medina‐Marino A
Published: December 2020

Objective

To measure the frequencies of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and adverse pregnancy outcomes among women receiving either aetiological testing or syndromic management for STIs.

Design

Non‐randomised prospective cohort study.

Setting

Primary healthcare facilities in Tshwane, South Africa.

Population

HIV‐infected pregnant women attending antenatal care services.

Methods

Participants were enrolled to receive aetiological testing using Xpert® CT/NG and Xpert® TV assays or standard syndromic management. Outcome data were collected at the postnatal care visit (≤30 days from delivery) and from maternity records. Enrolment gestational age‐adjusted relative risk (aRR) was calculated.

Main outcome measures

STI prevalence at postnatal visit, and frequency of adverse pregnancy outcomes (preterm birth, low birthweight).

Results

We enrolled 841 women. The prevalence of any STI at baseline was 40%; Chlamydia trachomatis 30%, Neisseria gonorrhoeae 5.6%, Trichomonas vaginalis 20%. The prevalence of STIs at postnatal care was lower among those receiving aetiological testing compared with those receiving syndromic management (14% versus 23%; aRR 0.61; 95% CI 0.35–1.05). No difference was observed between study groups for frequency of preterm birth (23% versus 23%; aRR 1.2, 95% CI 0.81–1.8) and low birth weight (15% versus 13%; aRR 1.1, 95% CI 0.66–1.7).

Conclusions

Aetiological testing provides an effective intervention to reduce the high burden of STIs in pregnant women in South Africa; however, the optimal implementation strategy remains to be determined.

Tweetable abstract

Aetiological testing effectively reduces the burden of sexually transmitted infections in pregnancy.
RepeatProfiler: A pipeline for visualization and comparative analysis of repetitive DNA profiles
Authors: Negm Sherif , Greenberg Anya , Larracuente Amanda M. , Sproul John S.
Published: December 2020

Study of repetitive DNA elements in model organisms highlights the role of repetitive elements (REs) in many processes that drive genome evolution and phenotypic change. Because REs are much more dynamic than single‐copy DNA, repetitive sequences can reveal signals of evolutionary history over short time scales that may not be evident in sequences from slower‐evolving genomic regions. Many tools for studying REs are directed toward organisms with existing genomic resources, including genome assemblies and repeat libraries. However, signals in repeat variation may prove especially valuable in disentangling evolutionary histories in diverse non‐model groups, for which genomic resources are limited. Here, we introduce RepeatProfiler, a tool for generating, visualizing, and comparing repetitive element DNA profiles from low‐coverage, short‐read sequence data. RepeatProfiler automates the generation and visualization of RE coverage depth profiles (RE profiles) and allows for statistical comparison of profile shape across samples. In addition, RepeatProfiler facilitates comparison of profiles by extracting signal from sequence variants across profiles which can then be analysed as molecular morphological characters using phylogenetic analysis. We validate RepeatProfiler with data sets from ground beetles (Bembidion), flies (Drosophila), and tomatoes (Solanum). We highlight the potential of RE profiles as a high‐resolution data source for studies in species delimitation, comparative genomics, and repeat biology.