bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NEXUS Arch: A Multicenter Study Evaluating the Initial Experience With a Novel Aortic Arch Stent Graft System
Authors: Planer David , Elbaz-Greener Gabby , Mangialardi Nicola , Lindsay Thomas , D’Onofrio Augusto , Schelzig Hubert , Chaykovska Lyubov , Hill Andrew , Holden Andrew , Antonello Michele , Tan Kong T. , Orrico Matteo , Ronchey Sonia , Marmur Yaniv , Pecoraro Felice , Lachat Mario
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To assess the initial clinical experience with a novel endograft system (NEXUS Aortic Arch Stent Graft System) designed to treat aortic arch pathologies and address the morphology and hemodynamic challenges of the aortic arch.

Summary Background Data:

The aortic arch remains the most challenging part of the aorta for both open and endovascular repair. Transcatheter aortic arch repair has the potential to significantly reduce surgical risks.

Methods:

Patients underwent transcatheter aortic arch repair with a single branch, 2 stent graft system, implanted over a through-and-through guidewire from the brachiocephalic trunk, to the descending aorta with an ascending aorta stent graft. The ascending aorta stent graft is deployed into a designated docking sleeve to connect the 2 stent grafts and isolate the aortic arch pathology. Proximal landing zone in all cases was in Zone 0. Anatomical inclusion criteria included adequate landing zone in the ascending aorta, brachiocephalic trunk, and descending thoracic aorta. Preparatory debranching procedure was performed in all patients with carotid–carotid crossover bypass and left carotid to left subclavian bypass, or parallel graft from descending aorta to left subclavian artery. Safety and performance were evaluated through 1 year. Survival analysis used the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results:

Twenty-eight patients, 79% males, with a mean age of 72.2 ± 6.2 years were treated with 100% procedural success. Isolated aortic arch aneurysm was the principle pathology in 17 (60.7%) of patients, while chronic aortic dissection was the principle pathology in 6 (21.4%) of patients. The remaining 5 (17.8%) had combined or other pathologies. At 1 month, the vascular pathology was excluded in 25 of 26 alive patients (96.1%). The 30 days mortality rate was 7.1%, stroke rate was 3.6% (all nondisabling), and combined mortality/stroke rate was 10.7%. One-year mortality was 10.7%, without device or aneurysm-related death. Two patients (7.1%) reported stroke or transient ischemic attack at 1 year that recovered completely. One year combined mortality/stroke rate was 17.8%. There were 3 patients (10.7%) that had device-related unplanned reinterventions through 1 year.

Conclusions:

The NEXUS Aortic Arch Stent Graft System, a novel single branch, 2 stent graft system used for endovascular aortic arch repair that requires landing in the ascending aorta, demonstrates a high success rate with excellent 1 year safety and performance.
Ambulatory EEG Monitoring, Reviewing, and Interpreting
Authors: Schomer Donald L.
Published: March 2021

This section of this volume of the Journal of Neurophysiology's review of ambulatory EEG (aEEG) is an overview of the uses of the technique, the clinicians who most often use it, and why they use it. It looks at the use of aEEG from the perspectives of the “generalist” and the “specialist” and discusses where they have similar interests and where their interest may diverge. It compares the use of aEEG to the more classic inpatient-based epilepsy monitoring unit service and compares the advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches (aEEG vs. epilepsy monitoring unit). This section then reviews how aEEGs are clinically interpreted based on a best practices approach and how aEEGs can be modified to address recording problems that, until recently, have been approached only in an epilepsy monitoring unit environment. Finally, this section addresses the qualifications necessary for the proper interpretation and reporting of aEEG studies. At the end of this section, there are five case examples using aEEG techniques that demonstrate various aspects covered in this section. These case reports demonstrate not only the utility of aEEG but also show how aEEG recordings can be integrated into the care of complex clinical situations that are frequently encountered not only by the practicing generalists but also by epilepsy specialists who practices out of a comprehensive epilepsy program.
High-Density EEG in Current Clinical Practice and Opportunities for the Future
Authors: Stoyell Sally M. , Wilmskoetter Janina , Dobrota Mary-Ann , Chinappen Dhinakaran M. , Bonilha Leonardo , Mintz Mark , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , Herman Susan T. , Peters Jurriaan M. , Vulliemoz Serge , Seeck Margitta , Hämäläinen Matti S. , Chu Catherine J.
Published: March 2021

High-density EEG (HD-EEG) recordings use a higher spatial sampling of scalp electrodes than a standard 10-20 low-density EEG montage. Although several studies have demonstrated improved localization of the epileptogenic cortex using HD-EEG, widespread implementation is impeded by cost, setup and interpretation time, and lack of specific or sufficient procedural billing codes. Despite these barriers, HD-EEG has been in use at several institutions for years. These centers have noted utility in a variety of clinical scenarios where increased spatial resolution from HD-EEG has been required, justifying the extra time and cost. We share select scenarios from several centers, using different recording techniques and software, where HD-EEG provided information above and beyond the standard low-density EEG. We include seven cases where HD-EEG contributed directly to current clinical care of epilepsy patients and highlight two novel techniques which suggest potential opportunities to improve future clinical care. Cases illustrate how HD-EEG allows clinicians to: case 1—lateralize falsely generalized interictal epileptiform discharges; case 2—improve localization of falsely generalized epileptic spasms; cases 3 and 4—improve localization of interictal epileptiform discharges in anatomic regions below the circumferential limit of standard low-density EEG coverage; case 5—improve noninvasive localization of the seizure onset zone in lesional epilepsy; cases 6 and 7—improve localization of the seizure onset zone to guide invasive investigation near eloquent cortex; case 8—identify epileptic fast oscillations; and case 9—map language cortex. Together, these nine cases illustrate that using both visual analysis and advanced techniques, HD-EEG can play an important role in clinical management.
Mechanisms Underlying Economic Revealed Preference Of Multi-Component Bundles In Primate Orbitofrontal Cortex
Authors: Pastor-Bernier Alexandre , Schultz Wolfram
Published: March 2021

Classic neuro-economic studies suggest that people and animals alike assign values to individual attributes arriving at a total summed valuation and therefore overall appraisal of the offer (Kahnt et al., 2011; Lak et al., 2014). However, further work is needed to determine whether such individual attribute appraisals can predict choice between multi-component bundles. In this paper we show the importance and applications of economic theory to decision neurophysiology concerning multi-component attribute options or bundles. We applied random utility modelling (McFadden, 1973) to choices amongst 10 different two-component bundles in non-human primates (Macacca mulatta). We found that behavioural random utility (RUM) complies well with revealed preference theory and recapitulates the fundamental properties of empirically obtained indifference curves (IC). Bundles positioned in the same IC display equal choice preference and similar utility whereas bundles positioned across different ICs display different choice preferences. RUM also captures the characteristic shape of IC on each bundle revealing the synergetic interactions between components. We extended RUM to neurophysiological data and focused our investigation to orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), area 13. Neuronal RUM complied with behavioural RUM at single neuron and population level (N: 54). Neural coding of utility was present at target onset, choice, and reward. However, a distinct and separate group of neurons (N: 26) showed partial compliance with utility in either the chosen or the unchosen bundle options and correlated with both utility and probability of choice. We show that relative chosen-utility coding constitutes a separate type of computation and suggest a role for this type of neuron in value-to-choice processing in OFC.
Murine deficiency of peroxisomal L-bifunctional protein (EHHADH) causes medium-chain 3-hydroxydicarboxylic aciduria and perturbs hepatic cholesterol homeostasis
Authors: Ranea-Robles Pablo , Violante Sara , Argmann Carmen , Dodatko Tetyana , Bhattacharya Dipankar , Chen Hongjie , Yu Chunli , Friedman Scott L. , Puchowicz Michelle , Houten Sander M.
Published: March 2021

Peroxisomes play an essential role in the β-oxidation of dicarboxylic acids (DCAs), which are metabolites formed upon ω-oxidation of fatty acids. Genetic evidence linking transporters and enzymes to specific DCA β-oxidation steps is generally lacking. Moreover, the physiological functions of DCA metabolism remain largely unknown. In this study, we aimed to characterize the DCA β-oxidation pathway in human cells, and to evaluate the biological role of DCA metabolism using mice deficient in the peroxisomal L-bifunctional protein (EhhadhKO mice).In vitroexperiments using HEK-293 KO cell lines demonstrate that ABCD3 and ACOX1 are essential in DCA β-oxidation, whereas both the bifunctional proteins (EHHADH and HSD17B4) and the thiolases (ACAA1 and SCPx) have overlapping functions and their contribution may depend on expression level. We also show that medium-chain 3-hydroxydicarboxylic aciduria is a prominent feature of EHHADH deficiency in mice most notably upon inhibition of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. Using stable isotope tracing methodology, we confirmed that products of peroxisomal DCA β-oxidation can be transported to mitochondria for further metabolism. Finally, we show that, in liver,EhhadhKO mice have increased mRNA and protein expression of cholesterol biosynthesis enzymes with decreased (in females) or similar (in males) rate of cholesterol synthesis. We conclude that EHHADH plays an essential role in the metabolism of medium-chain DCAs and postulate that peroxisomal DCA β-oxidation is a regulator of hepatic cholesterol biosynthesis.
Liquid and vapor-phase antifungal activities of natural borneol against Candida albicans and its germ tube formation
Authors: Wang Yazhou , Liu Huiling
Published: March 2021

Candida albicans infection mainly occurs in patients with suppressed immune function, and it is also the main pathogen of hospital infection. The new strategies are needed to treat the existing resistance of antifungal drugs. The use of natural products aimed at controlling fungal diseases is considered an interesting alternative to synthetic fungicides due to their lower adverse reactions, lower cost to plant preparations compared to modern conventional pharmaceuticals. Natural borneol has a long history of treating ulcers and local infections. In this study, the minimum inhibitory concentration of natural borneol on ATCC10231 and 10 clinically isolated Candida albicans was determined by vapor phase method and dilution method, and the influence of sub-minimum inhibitory concentration on the formation of Candida albicans hyphae was observed. We found that the minimum inhibitory concentration of ATCC10231 and 10 clinically the isolates in the vapor phase were both 0.4 mg/cm3, agar and broth dilution methods were 2 mg/mL. The vapor phase of natural borneol has a better inhibitory effect on Candida albicans, Sub-mic concentration of borneol (0.125-1mg/ml) in the liquid phase inhibits the 60%-99% formation of Candida albicans germ tube. Natural borneol is a potential natural medicine for the treatment and prevention of Candida albicans infection. It brings new insights into the development of novel effective antifungal drugs.
The transposable element-rich genome of the cereal pestSitophilus oryzae
Authors: Parisot Nicolas , Vargas-Chavez Carlos , Goubert Clément , Baa-Puyoulet Patrice , Balmand Séverine , Beranger Louis , Blanc Caroline , Bonnamour Aymeric , Boulesteix Matthieu , Burlet Nelly , Calevro Federica , Callaerts Patrick , Chancy Théo , Charles Hubert , Colella Stefano , Da Silva Barbosa André , Dell’Aglio Elisa , Di Genova Alex , Febvay Gérard , Gabaldon Toni , Galvão Ferrarini Mariana , Gerber Alexandra , Gillet Benjamin , Hubley Robert , Hughes Sandrine , Jacquin-Joly Emmanuelle , Maire Justin , Marcet-Houben Marina , Masson Florent , Meslin Camille , Montagne Nicolas , Moya Andrés , Ribeiro de Vasconcelos Ana Tereza , Richard Gautier , Rosen Jeb , Sagot Marie-France , Smit Arian F.A. , Storer Jessica M. , Vincent-Monegat Carole , Vallier Agnès , Vigneron Aurélien , Zaidman-Remy Anna , Zamoum Waël , Vieira Cristina , Rebollo Rita , Latorre Amparo , Heddi Abdelaziz
Published: March 2021

Background

The rice weevilSitophilus oryzaeis one of the most important agricultural pests, causing extensive damage to cereal in fields and to stored grains.S. oryzaehas an intracellular symbiotic relationship (endosymbiosis) with the Gram-negative bacteriumSodalis pierantoniusand is a valuable model to decipher host-symbiont molecular interactions.

Results

We sequenced theSitophilus oryzaegenome using a combination of short and long reads to produce the best assembly for a Curculionidae species to date. We show thatS. oryzaehas undergone successive bursts of transposable element (TE) amplification, representing 72% of the genome. In addition, we show that many TE families are transcriptionally active, and changes in their expression are associated with insect endosymbiotic state.S. oryzaehas undergone a high gene expansion rate, when compared to other beetles. Reconstruction of host-symbiont metabolic networks revealed that, despite its recent association with cereal weevils (30 Kyear),S. pierantoniusrelies on the host for several amino acids and nucleotides to survive and to produce vitamins and essential amino-acids required for insect development and cuticle biosynthesis.

Conclusions

Here we present the genome of an agricultural pest beetle, which may act as a foundation for pest control. In addition,S. oryzaemay be a useful model for endosymbiosis, and studying TE evolution and regulation, along with the impact of TEs on eukaryotic genomes.
A Cultured Sensorimotor Organoid Model Forms Human Neuromuscular Junctions
Authors: Pereira João D. , DuBreuil Daniel M. , Devlin Anna-Claire , Held Aaron , Sapir Yechiam , Berezovski Eugene , Hawrot James , Dorfman Katherine , Chander Vignesh , Wainger Brian J.
Published: March 2021

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) hold promise for modeling diseases in individual human genetic backgrounds and thus for developing precision medicine. Here, we generate sensorimotor organoids containing physiologically functional neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) within a cultured organoid system and apply the model to different subgroups of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Using a range of molecular, genomic, and physiological techniques, we identify and characterize motor neurons and skeletal muscle, along with sensory neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and vasculature. Organoid cultures derived from ALS subject iPSC lines and isogenic lines edited to harbor familial ALS mutations all show impairment at the level of the NMJ, as detected by both contraction and immunocytochemical measurements. The physiological resolution of the human NMJ synapse, combined with the generation of major cellular cohorts exerting autonomous and non-cell autonomous effects in motor and sensory diseases, may prove valuable for more comprehensive disease modeling.
Ablating Ku70 phosphorylation results in defective DNA damage repair and spontaneous induction of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Saha Janapriya , Bae Jinsung , Wang Shih-Ya , Chappell Lori J. , Gopal Purva , Davis Anthony J.
Published: March 2021

Multiple pathways mediate the repair of DNA double-strand break (DSB), with numerous mechanisms responsible for driving choice between the pathways. Previously, we reported that phosphorylation of the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) factor, Ku70, is required for the dissociation of the Ku heterodimer from DNA ends to allow DSB repair via homologous recombination (HR). A knock-in mouse, in which phosphorylation is ablated in the three conserved sites of Ku70 (Ku703A/3A), was generated in order to test the hypothesis that Ku70 phosphorylation is required for initiation of HR and that blocking this process results in enhanced genomic instability and tumorigenesis. Here, we show that Ku703A/3Amice develop spontaneous and have accelerated chemical-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) compared to wild-type (Ku70+/+) littermates. The HCC tumors from the Ku703A/3Amice have increased γH2AX and 8-oxo-G staining, suggesting DNA repair is decreased in these mice. Spontaneous transformed cell lines from Ku703A/3Amice are more radiosensitive, have a significant decrease in DNA end resection, and are more sensitive to the DNA cross-linking agent mitomycin C compared to cells from Ku70+/+littermates. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that phosphorylation-mediated dissociation of Ku heterodimer from DNA ends is required for efficient DNA damage repair and disruption of this process results in genomic instability and accelerated development of HCC.
Neuronal ROS-Induced Glial Lipid Droplet Formation is Altered by Loss of Alzheimer’s Disease-associated Genes
Authors: Moulton Matthew J. , Barish Scott , Ralhan Isha , Chang Jinlan , Goodman Lindsey D. , Harland Jake G. , Marcogliese Paul C. , Johansson Jan O. , Ioannou Maria S. , Bellen Hugo J.
Published: March 2021

A growing list of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) genetic risk factors is being identified, but the contribution of these genetic mutations to disease remains largely unknown. Accumulating data support a role of lipid dysregulation and excessive ROS in the etiology of AD. Here, we identified cell-specific roles for eight AD risk-associated genes in ROS-induced glial lipid droplet (LD) formation. We demonstrate that ROS-induced glial LD formation requires two ABCA transporters (ABCA1andABCA7) in neurons, the APOE receptor (LRP1), endocytic genes (PICALM,CD2AP, andAP2A2) in glia, and retromer genes (VPS26andVPS35) in both neurons and glia. Moreover, ROS strongly enhances Aβ42-toxicity in flies and Aβ42-plaque formation in mice. Finally, an ABCA1-activating peptide restores glial LD formation in the APOE4-associated loss of LD. This study places AD risk factors in a neuron-to-glia lipid transfer pathway with a critical role in protecting neurons from ROS-induced toxicity.
SWI/SNF senses carbon starvation with a pH-sensitive low complexity sequence
Authors: Gutiérrez J. Ignacio , Brittingham Gregory P. , Karadeniz Yonca B. , Tran Kathleen D. , Dutta Arnob , Holehouse Alex S. , Peterson Craig L. , Holt Liam J.
Published: March 2021

It is increasingly appreciated that intracellular pH changes are important biological signals. This motivates the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of pH-sensing. We determined that a nucleocytoplasmic pH oscillation was required for the transcriptional response to carbon starvation inS. cerevisiae. The SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex is a key mediator of this transcriptional response. We found that a glutamine-rich low complexity sequence (QLC) in theSNF5subunit of this complex, and histidines within this sequence, were required for efficient transcriptional reprogramming during carbon starvation. Furthermore, theSNF5QLC mediated pH-dependent recruitment of SWI/SNF to a model promoterin vitro.Simulations showed that protonation of histidines within theSNF5QLC lead to conformational expansion, providing a potential biophysical mechanism for regulation of these interactions. Together, our results indicate that that pH changes are a second messenger for transcriptional reprogramming during carbon starvation, and that theSNF5QLC acts as a pH-sensor.
Maturation signatures of conventional dendritic cell subtypes in COVID-19 reflect direct viral sensing
Authors: Marongiu Laura , Protti Giulia , Facchini Fabio A. , Valache Mihai , Mingozzi Francesca , Ranzani Valeria , Putignano Anna Rita , Salviati Lorenzo , Bevilacqua Valeria , Curti Serena , Crosti Mariacristina , D’Angiò Mariella , Bettini Laura Rachele , Biondi Andrea , Nespoli Luca , Tamini Nicolò , Clementi Nicola , Mancini Nicasio , Abrignani Sergio , Spreafico Roberto , Granucci Francesca
Published: March 2021

Growing evidence suggests that conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) undergo aberrant maturation in COVID-19 and this negatively affects T cell activation. The presence of functional effector T cells in mild patients and dysfunctional T cells in severely ill patients suggests that adequate T cell responses are needed to limit disease severity. Therefore, understanding how cDCs cope with SARS-CoV-2 infections can help elucidate the mechanism of generation of protective immune responses. Here, we report that cDC2 subtypes exhibit similar infection-induced gene signatures with the up-regulation of interferon-stimulated genes and IL-6 signaling pathways. The main difference observed between DC2s and DC3s is the up-regulation of anti-apoptotic genes in DC3s, which explains their accumulation during infection. Furthermore, comparing cDCs between severe and mild patients, we find in the former a profound down-regulation of genes encoding molecules involved in antigen presentation, such as major histocompatibility complex class II (MHCII) molecules, β2microglobulin, TAP and costimulatory proteins, while an opposite trend is observed for proinflammatory molecules, such as complement and coagulation factors. Therefore, as the severity of the disease increases, cDC2s enhance their inflammatory properties and lose their main function, which is the antigen presentation capacity. In vitro, direct exposure of cDC2s to the virus recapitulates the type of activation observed in vivo. Our findings provide evidence that SARS-CoV-2 can interact directly with cDC2s and, by inducing the down-regulation of crucial molecules required for T cell activation, implements an efficient immune escape mechanism that correlates with disease severity.
On-site genomic epidemiological analysis of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria in Cambodia with portable laboratory equipment
Authors: Hirabayashi Aki , Yanagisawa Hideji , Takahashi Hiromizu , Yahara Koji , Boeing Philipp , Wolfenden Bethan , Nov Vandarith , Lorn Vichet , Veng Mom , Ann Vuth , Darapheak Chau , Shibayama Keigo , Suzuki Masato
Published: March 2021

The rapid emergence of carbapenemase-producing Gram-negative bacteria (CPGNB) is a global threat due to the high mortality of infection and limited treatment options. Although there have been many reports of CPGNB isolated from Southeast Asian countries, to date there has been no genetic analysis of CPGNB isolated from Cambodia. Sequence-based molecular epidemiological analysis enables a better understanding of the genotypic characteristics and epidemiological significance of antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria in each country, and allows countries to enact measures related to AMR issues. In this study, we performed on-site genomic epidemiological analysis of CPGNB isolated in Cambodia using a portable laboratory equipment called Bento Lab, which combines a PCR thermal cycler, microcentrifuge, gel electrophoresis apparatus, and LED transilluminator, along with the MinION nanopore sequencer. PCR targeting of major carbapenemase genes using Bento Lab revealed that twoEscherichia coliisolates and oneAcinetobacter baumanniiisolate harbored carbapenemase genes:blaNDM,blaOXA-48, andblaOXA-23, respectively. The results of phenotypic diagnostic tests for CPGNB, such as the carbapenem inactivation method and double-disk diffusion test using a specific inhibitor of metallo-β-lactamases, were consistent with their AMR genotypes. Whole-genome sequencing analysis using MinION suggested thatblaNDM-5andblaOXA-181genes were carried on plasmids (93.9-kb plasmid with IncFIA, IncFIB, IncFII, and IncQ1 replicons, and 51.5-kb plasmid with the IncX3 replicon, respectively) inE. coli, and thatblaOXA-23was encoded in two locations on the chromosome ofA. baumannii. Plasmids carryingblaNDM-5orblaOXA-181inE. coliwere highly structurally identical to plasmids prevalent in Enterobacterales in China and other countries, suggesting that they disseminated from a common evolutionary origin. Our findings demonstrate the potential impact of portable laboratory equipment on AMR bacteria research in hospitals and research centers with limited research facilities, and provide the first glimpse into the genomic epidemiology of CPGNB in Cambodia.
Bayesian calibration of a stochastic, multiscale agent-based model for predicting in vitro tumor growth
Authors: Lima Ernesto A. B. F. , Faghihi Danial , Philley Russel , Yang Jianchen , Virostko John , Phillips Caleb M. , Yankeelov Thomas
Published: March 2021

Hybrid multiscale agent-based models (ABMs) are unique in their ability to simulate individual cell interactions and microenvironmental dynamics. Unfortunately, the high computational cost of modeling individual cells, the inherent stochasticity due to probabilistic phenotypic transitions, and numerous model parameters that are difficult to measure directly are fundamental limitations of applying such models to predict tumor dynamics. To overcome these challenges, we have developed a coarse-grained two-scale ABM (cgABM) calibrated with a set of time-resolved microscopy measurements of cancer cells grown with different initial conditions. The multiscale model consists of a reaction-diffusion type model capturing the spatio-temporal evolution of glucose and growth factors in the tumor microenvironment (at tissue scale), coupled with a lattice-free ABM to simulate individual cell dynamics (at cellular scale). The experimental data consists of BT474 human breast carcinoma cells initialized with different glucose concentrations and tumor cell confluences. The confluence of live and dead cells was measured every three hours over four days.   Given this model and data, we perform a global sensitivity analysis to identify the relative importance of the model parameters. The subsequent cgABM with a reduced parameter space is calibrated within a Bayesian framework to the experimental data to estimate model parameters, which are then used to predict the temporal evolution of the living and dead cell populations. To this end, a moment-based Bayesian inference is proposed to account for the stochasticity of the cgABM while quantifying uncertainties in model parameters and observational data. The results indicate that the cgABM can reliably predict the spatiotemporal evolution of breast cancer cells observed by the microscopy data with an average error and standard deviation for live and dead cells being 7.61 [[EQUATION]] 2.01 and 5.78 [[EQUATION]] 1.13, respectively.
Crystal structure of the nonclassical cadherin-17 N-terminus and implications for its adhesive binding mechanism
Authors: Gray Michelle E. , Sotomayor Marcos
Published: March 2021

The cadherin superfamily of calcium-dependent cell-adhesion proteins has over 100 members in the human genome. All members of the superfamily feature at least a pair of extracellular cadherin (EC) repeats with calcium-binding sites in the EC linker region. The EC repeats across family members form distinct complexes that mediate cellular adhesion. For instance, classical cadherins (five EC repeats) strand-swap their N-termini and exchange tryptophan residues in EC1, while the clustered protocadherins (six EC repeats) use an extended antiparallel `forearm handshake' involving repeats EC1–EC4. The 7D-cadherins, cadherin-16 (CDH16) and cadherin-17 (CDH17), are the most similar to classical cadherins and have seven EC repeats, two of which are likely to have arisen from gene duplication of EC1–2 from a classical ancestor. However, CDH16 and CDH17 lack the EC1 tryptophan residue used by classical cadherins to mediate adhesion. The structure of human CDH17 EC1–2 presented here reveals features that are not seen in classical cadherins and that are incompatible with the EC1 strand-swap mechanism for adhesion. Analyses of crystal contacts, predicted glycosylation and disease-related mutations are presented along with sequence alignments suggesting that the novel features in the CDH17 EC1–2 structure are well conserved. These results hint at distinct adhesive properties for 7D-cadherins.
Computation of sales performance score and key cross-functional factors: a performance dynamics in IT/ITES
Authors: Saha Sumit , Kar Subhasree
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to identify the cross-functional factors and their impact after exploratory factor analysis (EFA), especially in B2B context and constructing a model to interpret and quantify the influences (sales performance score) specifically to the IT/ITES companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Getting answer for a corporate that where its current stand in the industry is important for the strategy making, especially for the sales team. Few academic researches charted direction toward cross-functional sales factors, but getting answer whether we can quantify that sales performance and identify what is the numeric benchmark value, is difficult. For the companies to understand the need to focus on which cross-functional factors and when, is also difficult.

Findings

After 1,079+ literature study, concluded with the 25 antecedents strongly used in previous studies and 8 more on after focused group study, pilot study and discussion with the industry leaders, 35 questions addressing 33 indicators collected in 10 months duration from 310 sales professionals, 90+ IT companies. Three samples were removed as outliers using “Mahalanobis Distance Test” for multivariate analysis, dropped two variables by “Missing value Not at Random” (MNAR). Final 15 determinants of cross-functional sales performance indicators forming four best factors with very high reliability after EFA to form a future formative model and sales performance score.

Research limitations/implications

(1) In this study no moderator and mediator effect are analyzed. (2) This study is the precursor to the final model construction. (3) Business down due to recession, global pandemic, terrorism, earthquake, war etc. are not considered during this analysis and study. Only the cross-functional reasons for natural business down have been considered and analyzed. (4) Exact “Sales Performance Score (SPS)” should be calculated after model forming, adjusting and confirmatory factor analysis.

Practical implications

(1) The major implication of this study would be for IT/ITES companies. It will be very easy for them to quantify the sales performance and measure that scientifically. (2) There will be a way to measure, predict and take measurable actions in case sales performance of the company downfalls. (3) Also the impact will be known to the top management of the company well in advance so that they can make the proper strategy. This will be very useful in current situation when measuring business outcome and make strategy well in advance is of any company's utmost priority.

Originality/value

Focusing on these identified factors companies can improve its sales performance. The authors contribute in creating a statistical model and computing a sales performance score, based on the final factor loading values, would be unique and unprecedented to measure the current industry performance by quantifying its standard or benchmark value for better strategic support toward the achievement of targets.
The mediation effects of team information processing on new product development success: revising the role of innovation orientation and team unlearning
Authors: Amaya Adriana Andrea , Wu Wann-Yih , Liao Ying-Kai
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Although previous studies noted the importance for organizations in establishing an innovation strategy, few have examined innovation orientation as a multidimensional knowledge configuration. Therefore, this study draws on the valuable theoretical underpinnings of the resource-based view and information processing theory to examine the mechanism through which an organization's innovation orientation (IO) and team unlearning (TU) can impact new product development (NPD) success.

Design/methodology/approach

A causal model was developed in order to analyze the role of innovation orientation and team unlearning on NPD success. This proposed model and several hypotheses were gauged using data from 255 NPD team members from Taiwanese high-tech and traditional companies.

Findings

The results indicate that both IO and TU relate to outcomes. Specifically, this study demonstrates that it is insufficient that firms simply establish the configurations needed to enhance their IO and TU, firms also need to find out the correct mechanism to enhance NPD success. The relationships between IO, TU and NPD success were fully mediated by team information processing.

Originality/value

This report sheds light on the importance of innovation orientation and team unlearning in today's NPD process and uncovers the underlying mechanism through which IO and TU contribute to NPD success. It also offers precise advice for the assessment of management of team information-processing to boost the performance of new products.
Adoption of green innovations by SMEs: an investigation about the influence of stakeholders
Authors: Thomas Antonio , Scandurra Giuseppe , Carfora Alfonso
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Pursuing sustainable development has become a necessity for all types of businesses, owing to the increasing sensitivity of stakeholders towards pollution and environmental degradation related to economic activities. To sustain this approach, investments supporting green innovations (GIs) are required. The paper investigates how stakeholders affect the choices of companies to pursue sustainable development objectives through the use of GIs.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 222 innovative Italian SMEs was collected and analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling technique and the importance performance map analysis.

Findings

The authors found that the stakeholders with not-contractual ties with SMEs affect GIs. Among stakeholders with not-contractual ties only workforce represents a strong stimulus to eco-innovate. Anyway, contrary to expectations, public administrations exert a negative influence; that is, they appear to hinder SMEs approach towards GIs.

Practical implications

This paper contributes to filling the knowledge gaps about the factors stimulating innovative SMEs' investments in GIs. Specifically, by analysing the stakeholders' influences, many policy indications emerge, such as extending facilities and regulations, encouraging partnerships and networking and attracting private and institutional investors.

Originality/value

Until now, the prominent interest of researchers and policymakers has been focused almost exclusively on large manufacturing corporations because of their higher ecological footprints and the belief that SMEs are supposed to be mainly followers rather than first adopters of innovations. But in many international areas, the role of SMEs is widely predominant, and these SMEs chiefly operate in the service sectors.
Learning preference: development in smart learning environments
Authors: Zhang Lizhao , Du Xu , Hung Jui-Long , Li Hao
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to conduct a systematic review to understand state-of-art research related to learning preferences from the aspects of impacts, influential factors and evaluation methods.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the systematic synthesis method to provide state-of-the-art knowledge on learning preference research by summarizing published studies in major databases and attempting to aggregate and reconcile the scientific results from the individual studies. The findings summarize aggregated research efforts and improve the quality of future research.

Findings

After analyzing existing literature, this study proposed three possible research directions in the future. First, researchers might focus on how to use the real-time tracking mechanism to further understand other impacts of learning preferences within the learning environments. Second, existing studies mainly focused on the influence of singular factors on learning preferences. The joint effects of multiple factors should be an important topic for future research. Finally, integrated algorithms might become the most popular evaluation method of learning preference in the era of smart learning environments.

Research limitations/implications

This review used the search results generated by Google Scholar and Web of Science databases. There might be published papers available in other databases that have not been taken into account.

Originality/value

The research summarizes the state-of-art research related to learning preferences. This paper is one of the first to discuss the development of learning preference research in smart learning environments.
Multicomponent stress-strength reliability estimation based on unit generalized Rayleigh distribution
Authors: Jha Mayank Kumar , Tripathi Yogesh Mani , Dey Sanku
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to derive inference for multicomponent reliability where stress-strength variables follow unit generalized Rayleigh (GR) distributions with common scale parameter.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors derive inference for the unknown parametric function using classical and Bayesian approaches. In sequel, (weighted) least square (LS) and maximum product of spacing methods are used to estimate the reliability. Bootstrapping is also considered for this purpose. Bayesian inference is derived under gamma prior distributions. In consequence credible intervals are constructed. For the known common scale, unbiased estimator is obtained and is compared with the corresponding exact Bayes estimate.

Findings

Different point and interval estimators of the reliability are examined using Monte Carlo simulations for different sample sizes. In summary, the authors observe that Bayes estimators obtained using gamma prior distributions perform well compared to the other studied estimators. The average length (AL) of highest posterior density (HPD) interval remains shorter than other proposed intervals. Further coverage probabilities of all the intervals are reasonably satisfactory. A data analysis is also presented in support of studied estimation methods. It is noted that proposed methods work good for the considered estimation problem.

Originality/value

In the literature various probability distributions which are often analyzed in life test studies are mostly unbounded in nature, that is, their support of positive probabilities lie in infinite interval. This class of distributions includes generalized exponential, Burr family, gamma, lognormal and Weibull models, among others. In many situations the authors need to analyze data which lie in bounded interval like average height of individual, survival time from a disease, income per-capita etc. Thus use of probability models with support on finite intervals becomes inevitable. The authors have investigated stress-strength reliability based on unit GR distribution. Useful comments are obtained based on the numerical study.
Determinants of earnings management in Spanish SMEs and its relationship with CSR: the relevance of sector life cycle stage
Authors: Martinez-Martinez Domingo , Andrades Javier , Larrán Manuel , Muriel María José , Lechuga Sancho María Paula
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper addresses the link between earnings management (EM) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 317 Spanish SMEs to perform: (1) bivariate analysis between EM, CSR and some firm-factors (i.e. size, sector, sector life cycle stage, corporate age, family ownership, profitability and financial risk); and (2) multiple regression analysis for a better understanding of EM behavior and test the influence of sector life cycle stage variable.

Findings

Results emphasize the relevance of the sector life cycle stage as an explanatory factor. Firms operating in sectors that are growing or declining in terms of sales are more proactive to EM than those with consolidated sales levels. Stratified regression analysis also confirms that the stage of the industry life cycle influences the EM-CSR relationship. Only for SMEs with stable sales in maturity sectors, lower interest in EM can be significantly explained by higher CSR performance. Firms with regular sales levels show a more outstanding socially responsible commitment and are less pressured to legitimize their operational decisions and therefore show lower levels of EM involvement.

Originality/value

This paper makes a twofold contribution. On the one hand, it examines the relationship between EM and CSR, focusing on SMEs' context, in which EM study could be considered incipient. On the other hand, the controversial empirical evidence on the significance and sign of EM and social responsibility link could be explained by the stage of the life cycle of the sector in which each company operates.
A neo-institutional view of the transaction cost drivers of construction supply chain risk management
Authors: Obayi Raymond , Ebrahimi Seyed Nasrollah
Published: March 2021

Purpose

In a departure from the efficiency theory assumptions implicit in most supply chain risk management (SCRM) literature, this study aims to explore the role that external neo-institutional pressures play in shaping the risk management strategies deployed to mitigate transaction cost risks in construction supply chains (CSC).

Design/methodology/approach

A theory-elaborating case study is used to investigate how regulatory, normative and mimetic neo-institutional pressures underpin SCRM strategies in state-led and private-led CSC in China.

Findings

The study finds that institutionalized Confucianist networks serve as proxies for regulatory accountability and thereby create a form of dysmorphia in the regulatory, normative and mimetic drivers of SCRM strategies in state-led and private-led CSC in China.

Originality/value

The findings reveal that relational costs such as bargaining, transfer and monitoring costs underpin SCRM in state-led CSC. Behavioral costs associated with search, screening and enforcement are the core drivers of SCRM in private-led CSC. These differences in transaction cost drivers of SCRM arise from the risk-buffering effect of personalized Guanxi networks, creating variants of institutional pressures on actors' risk analysis, identification and treatment strategies in China. Considering China's global hegemony in construction and related industries, this study provides valuable insights for practitioners and researchers on the need for a constrained efficiency view of SCRM in global CSC.
Do human rights violations elicit or impede social entrepreneurship?
Authors: Alnahedh Mishari , Alabduljader Nawaf
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate two competing hypotheses about the relationship between a country’s human rights violation and social entrepreneurship entry.

Design/methodology/approach

Using multilevel logistic regression with random effect, this paper tested the hypotheses on a sample of 110,460 individuals in 49 countries using data from Global Entrepreneurship Monitor’s Adult Population Survey and the Survey of Social Entrepreneurship for the year 2009. This paper takes advantage of the Cingranelli-Richards Human Rights Data Project to measure a country’s level of human rights protection.

Findings

Human rights are positively related to social entrepreneurship entry. The findings also indicate that public sector expenditure strengthens the relationship between human rights, measured by the judiciary independence and social entrepreneurship entry.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the social entrepreneurship literature by conducting a novel empirical investigation of the direct relationship between a country’s human rights and social entrepreneurship entry.
Effective factors of addiction treatment communities in Peru, Nicaragua and Czechia
Authors: Horák Miroslav , Somerlikova Kristina , Kocarova Rita , Verter Nahanga , Aldama Gonzalez Hector Santiago , Cruz de Souza Tronco Mariah
Published: March 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the effective factors that influence the treatment of drug addiction in therapeutic communities (TCs) and to determine its essential elements in the Peruvian, Nicaraguan and Czech context.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative data were collected during semi-structured interviews with inpatients/clients of seven TCs based in Peru (Takiwasi), Nicaragua (Centro de Especialiades en Adicciones, Centro de Rehabilitación del Alcohólico y Adicto a Otras Drogas and Albergue de Miembros Adictos en Recuperación) and the Czech Republic (Renarkon, Sejrek and Kladno-Dubi). All 90 interviews were manually transcribed, and content analysis was performed. Codes were created using the grounded theory method.

Findings

The effective factors of TC, treatment in Peru, Nicaragua and Czechia are identical in conditions such as the presence of a personal therapist, the use of psychotherapy and the importance of group cohesion. In Peru, the administration of medicinal plants and diet was perceived as a principal part of the treatment. Nicaraguan TCs were specific for practicing 12 steps. In Czechia, an emphasis is put on the therapeutic program, workshops and leisure activities. Spirituality and religion play a main role in the Peruvian and Nicaraguan TCs only.

Originality/value

The current study presents a unique insight into the factors considered effective by inpatients/clients of TCs in different socio-cultural contexts.
Six Sigma to distinguish patterns in COVID-19 approaches
Authors: Salentijn Willem , Antony Jiju , Douglas Jacqueline
Published: March 2021

Purpose

COVID-19 has changed life as we know. Data are scarce and necessary for making decisions on fighting COVID-19. The purpose of this paper is to apply Six Sigma techniques on the current COVID-19 pandemic to distinguish between special cause and common cause variation. In the DMAIC structure, different approaches applied in three countries are compared.

Design/methodology/approach

For three countries the mortality is compared to the population to distinguish between special cause variation and common cause variation. This variation and the patterns in it are assessed to the countries' different approaches to COVID-19.

Findings

In the DMAIC problem-solving approach, patterns in the data are distinguished. The special cause variation is assessed to the special causes and approaches. The moment on which measures were taken has been essential, as well as policies on testing and distancing.

Research limitations/implications

Cross-national data comparisons are a challenge as countries have different moments on which they register data on their population. Furthermore, different intervals are taken, varying from registering weekly to registering yearly. For the research, three countries with similar data registration and different approaches in fighting COVID-19 were taken.

Originality/value

This is the first study with Master Black Belts from different countries on the application of Six Sigma techniques and the DMAIC from the viewpoint of special cause variation on COVID-19.