bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed genes in non alcoholic fatty liver disease using next generation sequencing data
Authors: Vastrad Basavaraj , Vastrad Chanabasayya
Published: December 2021

Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common metabolic disease in humans, affecting the majority of individuals. In the current investigation, we aim to identify potential key genes linked with NAFLD through bioinformatics analyses of next generation sequencing (NGS) dataset. NGS dataset of GSE135251 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were retrieved. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by DESeq2 package. g:Profiler database was further used to identify the potential gene ontology (GO) and REACTOME pathways. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the Hippie interactome database. miRNet and NetworkAnalyst databases were used to establish a miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network for the hub genes. Hub genes were verified based on receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. Totally, 951 DEGs were identified including 476 up regulated genes and 475 down regulated genes screened in NAFLD and normal control. GO showed that DEGs were significantly enhanced for signaling and regulation of biological quality. REACTOME pathway analysis revealed that DEGs were enriched in signaling by interleukins and extracellular matrix organization. ESR2, JUN, PTN, PTGER3, CEBPB, IKBKG, HSPA8, SFN, CDKN1A and E2F1 were indicated as hub genes from PPI network, miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network. Furthermore, ROC analysis revealed that ESR2, JUN, PTN, PTGER3, CEBPB, IKBKG, HSPA8, SFN, CDKN1A and E2F1 might serve as diagnostic biomarkers in NAFLD. The current investigation provided insights into the molecular mechanism of NAFLD that might be useful in further investigations.
Distinct N and C cross-feeding networks in a synthetic mouse gut consortium
Authors: Escriva Pau Perez , Fuhrer Tobias , Sauer Uwe
Published: December 2021

The complex interactions between gut microbiome and host or pathogen colonization resistance cannot solely be understood from community composition. Missing are causal relationships such as metabolic interactions among species to better understand what shapes the microbiome. Here, we focused on metabolic niches generated and occupied by the Oligo-Mouse-Microbiota consortium, a synthetic community composed of 12 members that is increasingly used as a model for the mouse gut microbiome. Combining mono-cultures and spent medium experiments with untargeted metabolomics uncovered broad metabolic diversity in the consortium, constituting a dense cross-feeding network with more than 100 pairwise interactions. Quantitative analysis of the cross-feeding network revealed distinct C and N food webs that highlight the two Bacteroidetes consortium members B. caecimuris and M. intestinale as primary suppliers of carbon, and a more diverse group as nitrogen providers. Cross-fed metabolites were mainly carboxylic acids, amino acids, and the so far not reported nucleobases. In particular the dicarboxylic acids malate and fumarate provided a strong physiological benefit to consumers, presumably as anaerobic electron acceptors. Isotopic tracer experiments validated the fate of a subset of cross-fed metabolites, in particular the conversion of the most abundant cross-fed compound succinate to butyrate. Thus, we show that this consortium is tailored to produce the anti-inflammatory metabolite butyrate. Overall, we provide evidence for metabolic niches generated and occupied by OMM members that lays a metabolic foundation to facilitate understanding of the more complex in vivo behavior of this consortium in the mouse gut.

Importance

This article maps out the cross-feeding network amongst 10 members of a synthetic consortium that is increasingly used as the model mouse gut microbiota. Combining metabolomics with in vitro cultivations, two dense networks of carbon and nitrogen exchange are described. The vast majority of the about 100 interactions are synergistic in nature, in several cases providing distinct physiological benefits to the recipient species. These networks lay the ground work towards understanding gut community dynamics and host-gut microbe interactions.
Changes in blood cell deformability in Chorea-Acanthocytosis and effects of treatment with dasatinib or lithium
Authors: Reichel Felix , Kräter Martin , Peikert Kevin , Glaß Hannes , Rosendahl Philipp , Herbig Maik , Prieto Alejandro Rivera , Kihm Alexander , Bosman Giel , Kaestner Lars , Hermann Andreas , Guck Jochen
Published: December 2021

Misshaped red blood cells (RBCs), characterized by thorn-like protrusions known as acanthocytes, are a key diagnostic feature in Chorea-Acanthocytosis (ChAc), a rare neurodegenerative disorder. The altered RBC morphology likely influences their biomechanical properties which are crucial for the cells to pass the microvasculature. Here, we investigated blood cell deformability of 5 ChAc patients compared to healthy controls during up to one-year individual off-label treatment with the tyrosine kinases inhibitor dasatinib or several weeks with lithium. Measurements with two microfluidic techniques allowed us to assess RBC deformability under different shear stresses. Furthermore, we characterized leukocyte stiffness at high shear stresses. The results show that blood cell deformability – including both RBCs and leukocytes - in general is altered in ChAc patients compared to healthy donors. Therefore, this study shows for the first time an impairment of leukocyte properties in ChAc. During treatment with dasatinib or lithium, we observe alterations in RBC deformability and a stiffness increase for leukocytes. The hematological phenotype of ChAc patients hints at a reorganization of the cytoskeleton in blood cells which partly explains the altered mechanical properties observed here. These findings highlight the need for a systematic assessment of the contribution of impaired blood cell mechanics to the clinical manifestation of ChAc.
The p97 cofactor Ubxn7 facilitates replisome disassembly during S-phase
Authors: Tarcan Zeynep , Poovathumkadavil Divyasree , Skagia Aggeliki , Gambus Agnieszka
Published: December 2021

Complex cellular processes are driven by the regulated assembly and disassembly of large multi-protein complexes. In eukaryotic DNA replication, whilst we are beginning to understand the molecular mechanism for assembly of the replication machinery (replisome), we still know relatively little about the regulation of its disassembly at replication termination. Over recent years, the first elements of this process have emerged, revealing that the replicative helicase, at the heart of the replisome, is polyubiquitylated prior to unloading and that this unloading requires p97 segregase activity. Two different E3 ubiquitin ligases are now known to ubiquitylate the helicase under different conditions: Cul2Lrr1and TRAIP. Here we have found two p97 cofactors, Ubxn7 and Faf1, which can interact with p97 during replisome disassembly in S-phase. Only Ubxn7 however facilitates efficient replisome disassembly through its interaction with both Cul2Lrr1and p97. Our data therefore characterise Ubxn7 as the first substrate-specific p97 cofactor regulating replisome disassembly in vertebrates.
Real-time imaging of Arc/Arg3.1 transcription ex vivo reveals input-specific immediate early gene dynamics
Authors: Lituma Pablo J. , Singer Robert H. , Das Sulagna , Castillo Pablo E.
Published: December 2021

The ability of neurons to process and store salient environmental features underlies information processing in the brain. Long-term information storage requires synaptic plasticity and regulation of gene expression. While distinct patterns of activity have been linked to synaptic plasticity, their impact on immediate early gene (IEG) expression remains poorly understood. The activity regulated cytoskeleton associated (Arc) gene has received wide attention as an IEG implicated in synaptic plasticity and memory. Yet, to date, the transcriptional dynamics of Arc in response to compartment and input-specific activity is unclear. By developing a knock-in mouse to fluorescently tag Arc alleles, we studied real-time transcription dynamics after stimulation of dentate granule cells (GCs) in acute hippocampal slices. To our surprise, we found that Arc transcription displayed distinct temporal kinetics depending on the activation of excitatory inputs that convey functionally distinct information, i.e. medial and lateral perforant paths (MPP and LPP, respectively). Moreover, the transcriptional dynamics of Arc after synaptic stimulation was similar to direct activation of GCs, although the contribution of ionotropic glutamate receptors, L-type voltage gated calcium channel, and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) differed. Specifically, we observed an ER-mediated synapse-to-nucleus signal that supported elevations in nuclear calcium, and rapid induction of Arc transcription following MPP stimulation. However, activation of LPP inputs displayed lower nuclear calcium rise, which could underlie the delayed transcriptional onset of Arc. Our findings highlight how input-specific activity distinctly impacts transcriptional dynamics of an IEG linked to learning and memory.

Significance statement

Environmental experiences trigger neuronal activity that elicits gene expression in the nervous system. Rapid induction of specific genes known as immediate early genes (IEGs) supports activity-dependent changes of neuronal circuits to ultimately influence animal behavior. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling how distinct forms of neuronal activity modulate IEG expression remains unclear. The activity regulated cytoskeleton associated (Arc) gene is a critical IEG linked to memory. By imaging Arc transcription in real-time after neuronal activity, we identified how different receptors and signaling pathways influence transcriptional induction and dynamics of an IEG. Our findings provide insights into how information received by distinct synaptic inputs could be encoded by modulating IEG dynamics.
The histone methyltransferase NSD3 contributes to sister chromatid cohesion and to cohesin loading at mitotic exit
Authors: Eot-Houllier Grégory , Magnaghi-Jaulin Laura , Bourgine Gaëlle , Smagulova Fatima , Giet Régis , Watrin Erwan , Jaulin Christian
Published: December 2021

Sister chromatid cohesion guarantees the correct transmission of chromosomes to daughter cells, and this multi-step process occurs throughout the cell cycle. Loading of the core cohesin complex onto chromatin takes place during mitotic exit, cohesion establishment happens during DNA replication, and the timely removal of cohesin occurs during mitosis. While cohesion establishment and mitotic cohesion dissolution have already been explored, the regulation of cohesin loading is not as well understood. Here, we report that the histone-lysine N-methyltransferase NSD3 is an essential factor in sister chromatid cohesion and mitotic progression, and that this occurs before and not after entry into mitosis. We establish that NSD3 interacts with the cohesin loader complex kollerin (NIPBL/MAU2), and that at mitotic exit it ensures proper levels of both MAU2 and cohesin itself on chromatin. In accordance with this newly described function in cohesin loading, we also show that NSD3 associates with chromatin in early anaphase, prior to the loading recruitment of MAU2 and RAD21, and that it then dissociates from chromatin when prophase begins. Going further, we also demonstrate that of the two NSD3 variants existing in somatic cells, it is the long isoform that is responsible for regulating kollerin and cohesin chromatin-loading, and that this isoform’s methyltransferase activity is required for efficient sister chromatid cohesion. Based on these observations, we propose that NSD3-dependent methylation contributes to sister chromatid cohesion by ensuring the proper recruitment of kollerin and thus loading of cohesin.
The pervasive role of accounting and accountability during the COVID-19 emergency
Authors: Leoni Giulia , Lai Alessandro , Stacchezzini Riccardo , Steccolini Ileana , Brammer Stephen , Linnenluecke Martina , Demirag Istemi
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper introduces the second part of a AAAJ special issue on accounting, accountability and management during the COVID-19 emergency. The authors analyse the themes that emerge from the second part of the special issue, which allows us to identify the diverse accounting and accountability practices across different geographical and organisational contexts. The authors also provide an overall picture of the contributions of the special issue, with insights into avenues of future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on the first part of the AAAJ special issue, the paper draws together and identifies additional emerging themes related to research into the COVID-19 pandemic and how it impacts accounting, accountability and management practices. The authors reflect on the contributions of the special issue to the interdisciplinary accounting research project.

Findings

The authors identify two macro-themes and outline their contributions to the accounting literature. The first deals with the changes and dangers of accounting and accountability practices during the pandemic. The second considers accountability practices in a broader sense, including reporting, disclosure and rhetorical practices in the management of COVID-19.

Practical implications

The paper shows the pervasive role of accounting and accountability in the unprecedented and indiscriminate health crisis of COVID-19. It highlights the important role of special issues in producing timely research that responds to unfolding events.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to current debates on the roles of accounting and accountability during COVID-19 by drawing together the themes of the special issue and identifying future interdisciplinary accounting research on the pandemic's aftermath.
Overconfidence bias and stock market volatility in Ghana: testing the rationality of investors in the Covid-19 era
Authors: Kuranchie-Pong Raphael , Forson Joseph Ato
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The paper tests the overconfidence bias and volatility on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) during the pre-Covid-19 pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs pairwise Granger causality to test the presence of overconfidence bias on the Ghana stock market as well as GARCH (1,1) and GJR-GARCH (1, 1) models to understand whether overconfidence bias contributed to volatility during pre-Covid-19 pandemic and Covid-19 pandemic period. The pre-Covid-19 pandemic period spans from January, 2019 to December, 2019, and Covid-19 pandemic period spans from January, 2020 to December, 2020.

Findings

The paper finds a unidirectional Granger causality running from weekly market returns to weekly trading volume during the Covid-19 pandemic period. These results indicate the presence of overconfidence bias on the Ghana stock market during the Covid-19 pandemic period. Finally, the conditional variance estimation results showed that excessive trading of overconfident market players significantly contributes to the weekly volatility observed during the Covid-19 pandemic period.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical findings demonstrate that market participants on the GSE exhibit conditional irrationality in their investment decisions during the Covid-19 pandemic period. This implies investors overreact to private information and underreact to available public information and as a result become overconfident in their investment decisions.

Practical implications

Findings from this paper show that there is evidence of overconfidence bias among market players on the GSE. Therefore, investors, financial advisors and other market players should be educated on overconfidence bias and its negative effect on their investment decisions so as to minimize it, especially during the pandemic period.

Originality/value

This study is a maiden one that underscores investors’ overconfidence bias in the wake of a pandemic in the Ghanaian stock market. It is a precursor to the overconfidence bias discourse and encourages the testing of other behavioral biases aside what is understudied during the Covid-19 pandemic period in Ghana.
The effects of environmental consciousness and menu information on the perception of restaurant image
Authors: Remar Daniel , Sukhu Anupama , Bilgihan Anil
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This research examines the influence of consumer environmental consciousness and perception of menu information in the formation of restaurant image. The concepts of mindfulness and mindful consumption were used as the theoretical background for the study.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quasi-experimental setting, data were collected from restaurant consumers dining at an upscale casual restaurant in the southeastern United States over a four-week time. Structural equation modeling, multi-group analysis and mediation analysis were used to test the hypothesized relationships between research constructs.

Findings

Results suggested that consumer environmental consciousness does not have a direct effect on the formation of restaurant image. However, consumer environmental consciousness influenced consumers' perception of menu information, and the perception of menu information consequently influences the restaurant image.

Practical implications

Foodservice industry increasingly interested in sustainability practices. Consumers want to know the connections between food and its impact on their health and the environment. Findings reveal that environmentally conscious consumers actively sought out menu information, and that once the information they were seeking was perceived, it significantly strengthened the perception of restaurant image.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first research that investigated the environmental consciousness construct in a live restaurant context.
Bayesian inference of multi-sensors impedance cardiography for detection of aortic dissection
Authors: Badeli Vahid , Ranftl Sascha , Melito Gian Marco , Reinbacher-Köstinger Alice , Von Der Linden Wolfgang , Ellermann Katrin , Biro Oszkar
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce a non-invasive and convenient method to detect a life-threatening disease called aortic dissection. A Bayesian inference based on enhanced multi-sensors impedance cardiography (ICG) method has been applied to classify signals from healthy and sick patients.

Design/methodology/approach

A 3D numerical model consisting of simplified organ geometries is used to simulate the electrical impedance changes in the ICG-relevant domain of the human torso. The Bayesian probability theory is used for detecting an aortic dissection, which provides information about the probabilities for both cases, a dissected and a healthy aorta. Thus, the reliability and the uncertainty of the disease identification are found by this method and may indicate further diagnostic clarification.

Findings

The Bayesian classification shows that the enhanced multi-sensors ICG is more reliable in detecting aortic dissection than conventional ICG. Bayesian probability theory allows a rigorous quantification of all uncertainties to draw reliable conclusions for the medical treatment of aortic dissection.

Originality/value

This paper presents a non-invasive and reliable method based on a numerical simulation that could be beneficial for the medical management of aortic dissection patients. With this method, clinicians would be able to monitor the patient’s status and make better decisions in the treatment procedure of each patient.
Multiobjective optimization of compensation networks for wireless power transfer systems
Authors: Bertoluzzo Manuele , Di Barba Paolo , Forzan Michele , Mognaschi Maria Evelina , Sieni Elisabetta
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how the EStra-Many method works on optimization problems characterized by high-dimensionality of the objective space. Moreover, a comparison with a more classical approach (a constrained bi-objective problem solved by means of NSGA-II) is done.

Design/methodology/approach

The six reactances of a compensation network (CN) for a wireless power transfer system (WPTS) are synthesized by means of an automated optimal design. In particular, an evolutionary algorithm EStra-Many coupled with a sorting strategy has been applied to an optimization problem with four objective functions (OFs). To assess the obtained results, a classical genetic algorithm NSGA-II has been run on a bi-objective problem, constrained by two functions, and the solutions have been analyzed and compared with the ones obtained by EStra-Many.

Findings

The proposed EStra-Many method identified a solution (CN synthesis) that enhances the WPTS, considering all the four OFs. In particular, to assess the synthesized CN, the Bode diagram of the frequency response and a circuital simulation were evaluated a posteriori; they showed good performance of the CN, with smooth response and without unwanted oscillations when fed by a square wave signal with offset. The EStra-Many method has been able to find a good solution among all the feasible solutions, showing potentiality also for other fields of research, in fact, a solution nondominated with respect to the starting point has been identified. From the methodological viewpoint, the main finding is a new formulation of the many-objective optimization problem based on the concept of degree of conflict, which gives rise to an implementation free from hierarchical weights.

Originality/value

The new approach EStra-Many used in this paper showed to properly find an optimal solution, trading-off multiple objectives. The compensation network so synthesized by the proposed method showed good properties in terms of frequency response and robustness. The proposed method, able to deal effectively with four OFs, could be applied to solve problems with a higher number of OFs in a variety of applications because of its generality.
The mediating role of employee commitment between quality of work-life and job performance of the faculty
Authors: Singh Agyapal
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the mediating role of employee commitment between the quality of work-life (QWL) and job performance among the faculty of technical institutions established in the province of Punjab (India).

Design/methodology/approach

The data collected from 434 faculty members with a response rate of 72% is analyzed and the mediation effect of employee commitment between the QWL and job performance of the faculty is modeled through partial least square-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that employee commitment partially mediates between QWL and job performance. To strengthen the result, mediation of employee commitment is also tested for each dimension of the QWL with job performance. All the factors of QWL also supported a partial mediation effect.

Practical implications

The findings of the study may help the policymakers to understand, frame and implement appropriate policies for improving the work-life quality and commitment among the faculty. This may further assist in augmenting the overall performance of the faculty amidst a crisis in the sector.

Originality/value

The study highlights the role of employee commitment as a mediator between the QWL and job performance of the faculty in the technical education sector which is one of its kind and possibly not yet explored. Besides, the study proposes some measures in improving the work-life quality and job performance of the faculty.
An experimental study on visual tracking based on deep learning
Authors: A Krishna Mohan , PVN Reddy , K Satya Prasad
Published: December 2021

Purpose

In the community of visual tracking or object tracking, discriminatively learned correlation filter (DCF) has gained more importance. When it comes to speed, DCF gives the best performance. The main objective of this study is to anticipate the object visually. For tracking the object visually, the authors proposed a new model based on the convolutional regression technique. Features like HOG & Harris are used for the process of feature extraction. The proposed method will give the best results when compared to other existing methods.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper introduces the concept and research status of tracks; later the authors focus on the representative applications of deep learning in visual tracking.

Findings

Better tracking algorithms are not mentioned in the existing method.

Research limitations/implications

Visual tracking is the ability to control eye movements using the oculomotor system (vision and eye muscles working together). Visual tracking plays an important role when it comes to identifying an object and matching it with the database images. In visual tracking, deep learning has achieved great success.

Practical implications

The authors implement the multiple tracking methods, for better tracking purpose.

Originality/value

The main theme of this paper is to review the state-of-the-art tracking methods depending on deep learning. First, we introduce the visual tracking that is carried out manually, and secondly, we studied different existing methods of visual tracking based on deep learning. For every paper, we explained the analysis and drawbacks of that tracking method. This paper introduces the concept and research status of tracks, later we focus on the representative applications of deep learning in visual tracking.
The actualization of maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in Islamic finance: a conceptual framework
Authors: Monawer Abu Talib Mohammad , Abdul Rahman Noor Naemah , Qasem Al-‎Nahari Ameen Ahmed Abdullah , Haji Abdullah Luqman , Ali Abdul Karim , Meguellati Achour
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to formulate a conceptual framework that will facilitate the actualization of maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in product design and consumption within Islamic financial institutions (IFIs).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper relies on the classical and contemporary literature on maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah and Islamic finance and adopts a qualitative content analysis method and an inductive approach to outline the constituent elements that formulate the framework.

Findings

This study determines six vital constituents of maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, namely, parameters of maqāṣid, particular objectives, appropriate means, micro provisions, level of need and legal maxims to develop a conceptual framework of actualizing maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in Islamic finance. The framework covers the following three stages: identification of maqāṣid, operationalization of maqāṣid in product design and consumption based on maqāṣid.

Research limitations/implications

This paper proposes a conceptual framework without investigating the practice of any particular industry or products. Further research would focus on formulating a practical framework based on a focus group discussion with industry experts, elaborating the parameters of maqāṣid, scrutinizing the maqāṣid available in the literature by the parameters of maqāṣid and assessing the IFIs’ products and services using the proposed framework.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights into the importance of maqāṣid elements and the effects of overlooking them on IFIs and customers’ product consumption. Furthermore, a major implication of the proposed framework is to learn how to use the maqāṣid approach as the baseline for designing new financial products.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper lies in its pioneering attempt of harmonizing all essential maqāṣid elements and using them as constituents to formulate a comprehensive framework that actualizes maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah in the Islamic finance industry.
Warehouse robot market boosted by Covid pandemic and technological innovations
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to provide details of recent commercial and technological developments that are driving robotic warehouse automation.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, this first provides a commercial background and identifies the factors driving the market growth. It then gives examples of robotics companies, products and applications that exploit innovations in artificial intelligence (AI). It then considers future prospects, and finally, brief conclusions are drawn.

Findings

Amazon’s acquisition of Kiva led to a community of new robot manufacturers and the realisation by major e-commerce companies that robotic automation would be required to maintain competitiveness. The Covid pandemic caused a surge in e-commerce and a critical shortage of labour, which further highlighted the need for automation and boosted robotic deployments. Recent advances in AI have resulted in a rapidly growing community of companies producing AI-powered robots which offer advanced capabilities such as mixed product picking, sorting and kitting. These are being deployed by a growing number of e-commerce and logistics companies and are paving the way towards ever-higher levels of warehouse automation. Full automation will soon become a reality.

Originality/value

This paper identifies the factors driving the rapidly developing warehouse robot business by considering the companies, products, technology and applications.
The impact of servitization on the environmental and social performance in manufacturing firms
Authors: Zhang Jingsi , Qi Liangqun , Wang Chengdong , Lyu Xichen
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine how servitization affects the environmental and social performance of manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested using fixed-effect panel models based on secondary data of 1,413 manufacturing firms publicly listed in the USA.

Findings

Results show that servitization is positively related to the social performance of manufacturing firms; this positive relationship is more prominent under high levels of human resource slack. However, the impact of servitization on environmental performance depends on the level of absorptive capacity and human resource slack. Servitization improves environmental performance under high levels of absorptive capacity and human resource slack, while this positive impact is insignificant under low levels of absorptive capacity and human resource slack.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on the degree (depth) of servitization but ignores the scope of services provided by manufacturing firms (breadth of servitization).

Practical implications

This research suggests that servitization is an effective way of achieving simultaneous improvements in environmental and social performance. However, high levels of absorptive capacity and human resource slack are needed to achieve this goal.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the servitization literature by demonstrating the environmental and social sustainability benefits of servitization. The findings also highlight the crucial role of absorptive capacity and human resource slack on improving environmental and social performance through servitization.
Blockchain in supply chain management: a grounded theory-based analysis
Authors: Rodrigues Eladian Batista , Lourenzani Wagner Luiz , Satolo Eduardo Guilherme , Braga Júnior Sergio Silva , Anholon Rosley , Rampasso Izabela Simon
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to present consolidated information on blockchain, which seeks to better clarify the concept of blockchain and the associated implications and characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological procedure used was Grounded Theory, based on a Systematic Bibliographic Review on the adoption of blockchain in supply chain management. To add experts' opinion on the subject to the analyzed panorama, data from a survey were also considered in the analysis.

Findings

The Grounded Theory enabled the development of consolidated information on blockchain related knowledge, identifying benefits, fragilities and contributions of the concept for supply chain management.

Originality/value

An epistemological gap has been identified between the use of blockchain in supply chain management and a theoretical basis to support the application. The originality of this study lies in providing a proposition of this theoretical basis.
Statistical analysis used in LIS research produced by Pakistani authors
Authors: Ullah Ahsan , Ameen Kanwal
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Statistical methods are important for meaningful analysis, critique and interpretation of results. The current study aims to investigate the use of statistical methods used in LIS research articles produced by Pakistani authors during 2001–2016.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis method with both the qualitative and quantitative components was used. LIS articles published by Pakistani authors in national and international journals from 2001 to 2016 were selected. The descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the usage of statistical techniques.

Findings

The findings show that use of descriptive statistics remained higher as compared to inferential statistics in the LIS research produced by Pakistani authors. However, a visible growth trend in the use of inferential statistical techniques is found. Males are two times more likely to use inferential statistics as compared to female authors. Articles published in foreign journals and impact factor journals used more inferential statistics as compared to local and nonimpact factor journals. Parametric inferential statistics is more popular among Pakistani authors as compared to nonparametric. Faculty was more inclined toward using parametric statistic. The percentage of collaboration was higher in the papers using parametric statistics. Few articles reported the tests to fulfill the assumptions of parametric and nonparametric statistics.

Originality/value

This study can be used to better understand the trends of statistical techniques used in LIS research and authors' orientation in this regard. It will be helpful for future researchers in the selection of appropriate statistical techniques to be used.
The liquidity, performance and investor preference of socially responsible investments
Authors: Brodmann Jennifer , Wuthisatian Phuvadon , Malladi Rama K.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to analyze socially responsible investment (SRI) asset performance compared to traditional assets using the MSCI KLD 400 Index. The authors examine the required return that investors expect to maintain their holdings in SRI stock and whether SRI stocks can be used for diversification during financial crises.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine SRI stocks' liquidity from the MSCI KLD 400 index, encompassing all environmental, social and governance (ESG) factor investments over 25 years, from 1990 until 2019. The authors test whether sorting portfolios based on their excess return, liquidity and volatility can explain the difference in SRI and non-SRI stocks' returns and then examine the global financial crisis' (GFC) impact on excess returns for SRI and non-SRI assets.

Findings

The authors find a significant difference in liquidity and volatility between SRI and non-SRI stocks and that SRI stocks perform better during financial crises. The results suggest a possible general investor preference to invest in non-SRI stocks despite our findings that SRI stocks tend to withstand financial risk better than non-SRI stocks. The authors find that long-term investors may be willing to forego short-term gains to reduce their overall risk exposure during crises.

Originality/value

SRI is gaining international popularity as an alternative investment that includes ratings based on ESG factors. Previous studies provide mixed results of whether SRI stocks outperform conventional stocks. In addition, there is limited research examining the liquidity and volatility of SRI assets. The authors compare the differences between SRI and non-SRI stocks in terms of excess return, volatility and liquidity and compare the liquidity of SRI and non-SRI stocks during the financial crisis.
Gelation and microstructural properties of ternary composite gel of scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) protein hydrolysates/κ‐carrageenan/xanthan gum
Authors: Du Yi‐Nan , Xue Shan , Yan Jia‐Nan , Jiang Xin‐Yu , Wu Hai‐Tao
Published: December 2021

The objective of this study was to investigate the properties of ternary composite gel of scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) protein hydrolysates (SMGHs)/κ‐carrageenan (KC)/xanthan gum (XG). The rheological properties, moisture‐distribution, molecular structure, and microstructure of SMGNs/KC/XG gels were analyzed. The results showed that the G′ value, melting temperature, and water holding capacity of SMGHs/KC/XG were higher than those of SMGHs, SMGHs/KC, and SMGHs/XG. FTIR spectrum showed the generation of hydrogen bonds between SMGHs and KC/XG, and the carboxylic acid group of XG interacts with SMGHs. Moreover, the cryo‐SEM results showed that SMGHs/KC/XG exhibited a tighter, smoother, and more aggregated microstructure than those of SMGHs, SMGHs/KC, and SMGHs/XG. These results indicate that the gel and microstructural properties of SMGHs are significantly improved by addition of KC and XG, and SMGHs/KC/XG has potential to be used as functional hydrogels for food, pharmaceutical, and biomedical applications.

Practical Application

Scallop (Patinopecten yessoensis) male gonads are rich in protein and usually regarded as byproducts during adductor processing. Because of its gelation properties, scallop male gonads have potential to be used as functional hydrogels for food. The SMGHs/KC/XG ternary composite gel showed excellent gel properties, which would be potentially applied in delivery system in food and biological fields. Further study is undergoing to apply SMGHs/KC/XG to embed bioactive compounds, such as curcumin and β‐carotene.
Pelvic and breast ultrasound abnormalities and associated metabolic disturbances in girls with premature pubarche due to adrenarche
Authors: Aydin Banu K. , Kadioglu Alev , Kaya Gamze A. , Devecioglu Esra , Bas Firdevs , Poyrazoglu Sukran , Gokcay Gulbin , Darendeliler Feyza
Published: December 2021

Objective

Premature adrenarche (PA) has been suggested as a risk factor for future health problems, such as metabolic syndrome and early menarche. However, not all girls with PA have these features and it is not certain who will develop them. We propose that these abnormalities might be identified earlier, even before they are visible.

Design

Case‐control study.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital.

Participants

Forty‐eight girls with premature pubarche due to PA and age (mean age 7.6 ± 1.0 years), weight, body mass index (BMI), birth weight and gestational age‐matched 49 girls with no palpable breast tissue.

Measurements

Early pubertal pelvic and breast ultrasonographic changes and their associations with obesity and metabolic parameters were evaluated. Blood samples were collected, breast and pelvic ultrasound examinations were performed and bone ages were assessed.

Results

Girls with PA were taller and their bone ages were higher (p = .049 and p = .005). Fasting blood glucose, insulin, triglycerides, high‐density lipoprotein and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol were not different between the groups. Luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol were not different either. Ultrasonography revealed breast gland tissue in 30% of girls with PA and 5% of controls (p = .006). Uterine volume and endometrial thickness were higher in girls with PA (p = .03 and p = .04). Endometrial thickness was positively associated with serum insulin levels in the whole study group and after adjusting for age, diagnosis, BMI, mean ovarian volume and LH, FSH, estradiol levels, this association remained with a borderline p‐value (R2 = 0.486, p = .050).

Conclusions

We found early changes in uterus and breast glands of girls with PA and endometrial thickness was positively associated with insulin levels.
Measuring children's behavioral regulation in the preschool classroom: An objective, sensor‐based approach
Authors: Koepp Andrew E. , Gershoff Elizabeth T. , Castelli Darla M. , Bryan Amy E.
Published: December 2021

Children's abilities to regulate their behaviors are critical for learning and development, yet researchers lack an objective, precise method for assessing children's behavioral regulation in their everyday environments such as their classrooms. This study tested a sensor‐based approach to assess preschool children's behavioral regulation objectively, precisely, and naturalistically. Children wore accelerometer devices as they engaged in center‐based play in their preschool classrooms for roughly 45 min (N = 50 children, 48% female, mean age = 4.5 years). Set to record data each second, these devices collected information about children's movement (N = 140,564 observations). From these data, the authors extracted concrete behaviors hypothesized to index behavioral regulation and compared them with teacher and observer ratings of the same. Initiating movement more frequently, staying seated in activities for shorter amounts of time, and spending a greater amount of time in motion were related to lower ratings of attention and inhibitory control by teachers and by observers of classroom group time, median r = .45, p < .01. These same objectively measured behaviors showed only weak associations with children's performance on assessments of cognitive regulation, median r = .11, p = .47. The findings indicate that ambulatory accelerometers can capture movement‐based indicators of children's behavioral regulation in the classroom setting and that performance on measures of cognitive regulation does not strongly predict children's behavior in the classroom. As an unobtrusive and objective measure, actigraphy may become an important tool for studying children's behavioral regulation in everyday contexts.
Relationship between COVID‐19 and movement disorders: A narrative review
Authors: Schneider Susanne A. , Hennig Anita , Martino Davide
Published: December 2021

Background and purpose

The scientific literature on COVID‐19 is increasingly growing.

Methods

In this paper, we review the literature on movement disorders in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

First, there are a variety of transient movement disorders that may manifest in the acute phase of COVID‐19, most often myoclonus, with more than 50 patients described in the literature. New onset parkinsonism, chorea, and tic‐like behaviours have also been reported. Movement disorders as a side effect after COVID‐19 vaccination are rare, occurring with a frequency of 0.00002–0.0002 depending on the product used, mostly manifesting with tremor. Current evidence for potential long‐term manifestations, for example, long COVID parkinsonism, is separately discussed. Second, the pandemic has also had an impact on patients with pre‐existing movement disorder syndromes, with negative effects on clinical status and overall well‐being, and reduced access to medication and health care. In many parts, the pandemic has led to reorganization of the medical system, including the development of new digital solutions. The movement disorder‐related evidence for this is reviewed and discussed.

Conclusions

The pandemic and the associated preventive measures have had a negative impact on the clinical status, access to health care, and overall well‐being of patients with pre‐existing movement disorders.
You can paint with all the colors of the wind, but can you educate with them too? The discriminatory impact of non‐comprehensive sex‐education in public schools
Authors: Chamlin Delilah Rose
Published: December 2021

Throughout the United States, sexual education classes are often conducted with a narrow focus. While some states focus primarily on abstinence, others aim to teach a wider array of topics. The commonality among the curricula is that LGBTQ+ students are excluded from the conversation. Failing to include the LGBTQ+ community in sexual education enables the continuation of discrimination in nuclear school communities and on a nationwide scale. This Note proposes that all states adopt an inclusive and comprehensive curriculum tailored to present sexual education in a fashion that pays credence to the acceptance of individuals who identify as LGBTQ+.
TNF‐α/ENO1 signaling facilitates testicular phagocytosis by directly activating Elmo1 gene expression in mouse Sertoli cells
Authors: Xiong Hu , Chen Zhenzhen , Zhao Jie , Li Wei , Zhang Shun
Published: December 2021

Phagocytic clearance of apoptotic germ cells (GCs), as well as residual bodies released from developing spermatids, is critical for Sertoli cells (SCs) to maintain inner environment homeostasis within the testis. However, the molecular mechanisms controlling the phagocytosis are ill defined. Here, we identify a new role for alpha‐enolase (ENO1), a key enzyme during glycolysis, as a molecule that facilitates testicular phagocytosis via transactivation of the engulfment and cell motility 1 (Elmo1) gene. Using immunohistochemistry and double‐labeling immunofluorescence, ENO1 was observed to be expressed exclusively in the nuclei of SCs and its expression correlated with the completion of SC differentiation. By incubating TM4 cells with different pharmacological inhibitors and establishing TM4Tnfr1−/− cells, we demonstrated that SC‐specific expression of ENO1 was under a delicate paracrine control from apoptotic GCs. In turn, persistent blockade of ENO1 expression by a validated small interfering RNA protocol resulted in the disturbance of spermatogenesis and impairment of male fertility. Furthermore, using ChIP, electrophoretic mobility shift and luciferase reporter assays, we showed that, in the presence of apoptotic GCs, ENO1 binds to the distal region of the Elmo1 promoter and facilitates transactivation of the Elmo1 gene. In agreement, overexpression of ELMO1 ameliorated ENO1 deficiency‐induced impairment of phagocytosis in TM4 cells. These data reveal a novel role for SC‐specific expression of ENO1 in regulating phagocytosis in testis, identify tumor necrosis factor‐α and ELMO1 as critical upstream and downstream factors in mediating ENO1 action, and have important implications for our understanding of paracrine control of SC function by adjacent GCs.
Parathormone enhances eryptosis in patients with end stage renal disease treated by hemodialysis
Authors: Hefny Aya , Fikry Abeer A. , Zahran Mahmoud H. , Shendi Ali M.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Parathormone (PTH) and phosphorus, which are considered as uremic toxins, are associated with reduced red cell survival, yet with unproven mechanism. We aimed to assess the relation between PTH and phosphorus levels and eryptosis in patients with CKD5d treated by hemodialysis.

Methods

In a cohort of 85 patients with CKD5d treated by conventional hemodialysis, the percent of annexin V‐binding RBCs was assessed by flow cytometry to indicate the percent of eryptotic RBCs.

Findings

The median percent of annexin V‐binding RBCs was 2.3 (1.4–4.7)%. On linear regression analysis, PTH was independently associated with the percent of annexin V‐binding RBCs (β = 0.003; 95% CI: 0.002–0.004; p < 0.001). The percent of annexin V‐binding RBCs differed significantly in patients with low PTH (<150 pg/mL; 27/85, 31.8%), target PTH (150–600 pg/mL; 32/85, 37.6%), and high PTH (>600 pg/mL; 26/85, 30.6%) groups (1.24 [0.65–1.85]; 2.46 [1.73–4.05]; and 4.82 [3.45–5.61]%, respectively; p < 0.001). Considering the tertiles of the percent of annexin V binding RBCs, PTH increased significantly from 85 (50.6–273) in the 1st to 298.3 (172.8–606.8) in the 2nd and 827.6 (357.4–1171.3) pg/mL in the 3rd tertiles (p < 0.001). Phosphorus and calcium levels as well as the CaxPh product were similar among the three tertiles (p > 0.05).

Discussion

Patients with CKD5d express high rates of eryptosis. PTH excess in those patients may result in further eryptosis enhancement, and this represents a potential pathogenic mechanism linking hyperparathyroidism with the anemia of CKD.