bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of neurofeedback training for improving attentional performance in healthy adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kimura Ikko , Noyama Hiroki , Onagawa Ryoji , Takemi Mitsuaki , Osu Rieko , Kawahara Jun-ichiro
Published: March 2023

This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the NFT effects on attentional performance in healthy adults. Six databases were searched until June 2022 to identify parallel randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating attentional improvements after NFT. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. We identified 41 RCTs for qualitative synthesis and 15 RCTs (569 participants) for meta-analysis. The overall NFT effect on attentional performance was significant (standardized mean difference = 0.27, 95% confidence interval = 0.10–0.44). However, no significant pooled effect was found within the trials comparing its effect with sham NFT (8 RCTs). Additionally, variable effects were observed on individual subsets of attentional performance. Further sham-controlled RCTs are required to validate the improvement of attentional performance with NFT.
BRCA1secondary splice-site mutations drive exon-skipping and PARP inhibitor resistance
Authors: Nesic Ksenija , Krais John J. , Vandenberg Cassandra J. , Wang Yifan , Patel Pooja , Cai Kathy Q. , Kwan Tanya , Lieschke Elizabeth , Ho Gwo-Yaw , Barker Holly E. , Bedo Justin , Casadei Silvia , Farrell Andrew , Radke Marc , Shield-Artin Kristy , Penington Jocelyn S. , Geissler Franziska , Kyran Elizabeth , Zhang Fan , Dobrovic Alexander , Olesen Inger , Kristeleit Rebecca , Oza Amit , Ratnayake Gayanie , Traficante Nadia ,   Australian Ovarian Cancer Study, DeFazio Anna , Bowtell David D. L. , Harding Thomas C. , Lin Kevin , Swisher Elizabeth M. , Kondrashova Olga , Scott Clare L. , Johnson Neil , Wakefield Matthew J.
Published: March 2023

BRCA1splice isoforms Δ11 and Δ11q can contribute to PARP inhibitor (PARPi) resistance by splicing-out the mutation-containing exon, producing truncated, partially-functional proteins. However, the clinical impact and underlying drivers ofBRCA1exon skipping remain undetermined.

We analyzed nine ovarian and breast cancer patient derived xenografts (PDX) withBRCA1exon 11 frameshift mutations for exon skipping and therapy response, including a matched PDX pair derived from a patient pre- and post-chemotherapy/PARPi.BRCA1exon 11 skipping was elevated in PARPi resistant PDX tumors. Two independent PDX models acquired secondaryBRCA1splice site mutations (SSMs), predictedin silicoto drive exon skipping. Predictions were confirmed using qRT-PCR, RNA sequencing, western blots andBRCA1minigene modelling. SSMs were also enriched in post-PARPi ovarian cancer patient cohorts from the ARIEL2 and ARIEL4 clinical trials.

We demonstrate that SSMs driveBRCA1exon 11 skipping and PARPi resistance, and should be clinically monitored, along with frame-restoring secondary mutations.

Statement of significance

Few PARPi resistance mechanisms have been confirmed in the clinical setting. While secondary/reversion mutations typically restore a gene’s reading frame, we have identified secondary mutations in patient cohorts that hijack splice sites to enhance mutation-containing exon skipping, resulting in the overexpression ofBRCA1hypomorphs, which in turn promote PARPi resistance.
Distinct Transcriptomic Responses to Aβ plaques, Neurofibrillary Tangles, andAPOEin Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Das Sudeshna , Li Zhaozhi , Wachter Astrid , Alla Srinija , Noori Ayush , Abdourahman Aicha , Tamm Joseph A. , Woodbury Maya E. , Talanian Robert V. , Biber Knut , Karran Eric H. , Hyman Bradley T. , Serrano-Pozo Alberto
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION

Omics studies have revealed that various brain cell types undergo profound molecular changes in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) but the spatial relationships with plaques and tangles andAPOE-linked differences remain unclear.

METHODS

We performed laser capture microdissection of Aβ plaques, the 50μm halo around them, tangles with the 50μm halo around them, and areas distant (>50μm) from plaques and tangles in the temporal cortex of AD and control donors, followed by RNA-sequencing.

RESULTS

Aβ plaques exhibited upregulated microglial (neuroinflammation/phagocytosis) and downregulated neuronal (neurotransmission/energy metabolism) genes, whereas tangles had mostly downregulated neuronal genes. Aβ plaques had more differentially expressed genes than tangles. We identified a gradient Aβ plaque>peri-plaque>tangle>distant for these changes. ADAPOEε4 homozygotes had greater changes thanAPOEε3 across locations, especially within Aβ plaques.

DISCUSSION

Transcriptomic changes in AD consist primarily of neuroinflammation and neuronal dysfunction, are spatially associated mainly with Aβ plaques, and are exacerbated by theAPOEε4 allele.
Semi-rational evolution of a recombinant DNA polymerase for modified nucleotide incorporation efficiency
Authors: Zhai Lili , Wang Zi , Liu Fen , Xu Chongjun , Wang Jingjing , Han Hongyan , Xie Qingqing , Zhang Wenwei , Zheng Yue , Buell Alexander K. , Dong Yuliang
Published: March 2023

Engineering improved B-family DNA polymerases to incorporate 3′-O-modified nucleotide reversible terminators is limited by an insufficient understanding of the structural determinants that define polymerization efficiency. To explore the key mechanism for unnatural nucleotide incorporation, we engineered a B-family DNA polymerase fromThermococcus Kodakaraenis(KOD pol) by using semi-rational design strategies. We first scanned the active pocket of KOD pol through site-directed saturation mutagenesis and combinatorial mutations and identified a variant Mut_C2 containing five mutation sites (D141A, E143A, L408I, Y409A, A485E) using a high-throughput microwell-based screening method. Mut_C2 demonstrated high catalytic efficiency in incorporating 3’-O-azidomethyl-dATP labeled with a Cy3 dye, whereas the wild-type KOD pol failed to incorporate it. Computational simulations were then conducted towards the DNA binding region of KOD pol to predict additional mutations with enhanced catalytic activity, which were subsequently experimentally verified. By a stepwise combinatorial mutagenesis approach, we obtained an eleven-mutation variant, named Mut_E10 by introducing additional mutations to the Mut_C2 variant. Mut_E10, which carried six specific mutations (S383T, Y384F, V389I, V589H, T676K, and V680M) within the DNA-binding region, demonstrated over 20-fold improvement in kinetic efficiency as compared to Mut_C2. In addition, Mut_E10 demonstrated satisfactory performance in two different sequencing platforms (BGISEQ-500 and MGISEQ-2000), indicating its potential for commercialization. Our study demonstrates that an effective enhancement in its catalytic efficiency towards modified nucleotides can be achieved efficiently through combinatorial mutagenesis of residues in the active site and DNA binding region of DNA polymerase. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms that underlie the incorporation of modified nucleotides by DNA polymerase. The beneficial mutation sites, as well as the nucleotide incorporation mechanism identified in this study, can provide valuable guidance for the engineering of other B-family DNA polymerases.
The central renin angiotensin II system – a genetic pathway, functional decoding and selective target engagement characterization in humans
Authors: Xu Ting , Chen Zhiyi , Zhou Xinqi , Wang Lan , Zhou Feng , Yao Dezhong , Zhou Bo , Becker Benjamin
Published: March 2023

The brain renin angiotensin II system plays a pivotal role in cognition and neuropathology via the central angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R), yet the lack of a biologically informed framework currently impedes translational and therapeutic progress. We combined imaging transcriptomic and meta-analyses with pharmaco-resting state fMRI employing a selective AT1R antagonist in a discovery-replication design (n=132 individuals). The AT1R was densely expressed in subcortical systems engaged in reward, motivation, stress, and memory. Pharmacological target engagement suppressed spontaneous neural activity in subcortical systems with high AT1R expression and enhanced functional network integration in cortico-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical circuits. AT1R-regulation on functional network integration was further mediated by dopaminergic, opioid and corticotrophin-releasing hormone pathways. Overall, this work provides the first comprehensive characterization of the architecture and function of the brain renin angiotensin II system indicating that the central AT1R-mediates human cognition and behavior via regulating specific circuits and interacting with classical transmitter systems.
The importance of cellulolytic and xylanolytic activities ofBacillus subtilison dairy cow feed digestibility
Authors: Bontà Valeria , Battelli Marco , Rama Erlinda , Casanova Michela , Pasotti Lorenzo , Galassi Gianluca , Colombini Stefania , Calvio Cinzia
Published: March 2023

A large body of literature has accumulated on the beneficial impact of the administration ofBacillito dairy cows, particularly on dry matter intake, lactation performances and milk composition. In this work we sought to establish whether the ability ofB. subtilisto secrete cellulase and xylanase enzymes could be involved in the positive effect exerted by these bacteria.

Several feed ingredients were treated with twoB. subtilisstrains only differing for the amount of secreted cellulosolytic and xylanolytic enzymes, and feed quality was assessed. We found thatin vitrofibre digestibility correlated with the activity of those enzymes. Our results revealed thatB. subtiliscellulases and xylanases can effectively improve forage quality, providing a scientific rationale on the use ofBacillias forage supplements to improve animal productivity. Moreover, a particular care was taken in designing a sustainable and economically viableBacillus-based additive preparation process.
Activity-based tyrosine phosphatomics using F2Pmp probes
Authors: Niinae Tomoya , Ishihama Yasushi
Published: March 2023

We showed that the F2Pmp probe binds to PTP in a sequence-dependent manner. In addition, this study is the first successful example of comprehensive enrichment of classical PTP at the protein level. Furthermore, we found that F2Pmp probe can enrich PTPs in a PTP activity dependent manner. Using the F2Pmp probe, the fluctuation of PTPN1 and PTPN2 activities were revealed. This enrichment approach using the F2Pmp probe could be a generic tool for activity-based tyrosine phosphatomics.
Testosterone acts through membrane protein GPRC6A to cause cardiac edema in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Zadmajid Vahid , Shahriar Shayan , Gorelick Daniel A
Published: March 2023

Androgen actions are classically thought to be mediated by intracellular androgen receptors (AR), but they can also exert non-genomic effects via binding to integral membrane proteins. Although several putative membrane androgen receptors were cloned and characterized in vitro, their function as androgen receptors in vivo remains to be further investigated. Here, we used a chemical-genetic screen in zebrafish and found that the G-protein coupled receptor GPRC6A mediates non-genomic androgen action during embryonic development. Exposure to three androgens, 5α-Androstane-3,17-dione (androstanedione), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and testosterone, caused cardiac edema or tail curvature in wild-type embryos. ar mutant embryos also exhibited cardiac edema or tail curvature following exposure to these androgens, suggesting the involvement of ar-independent pathways. To identify the causative receptor, we mutated putative membrane androgen receptors gprc6a, hcar1-4, or zip9 genes and exposed mutant embryos to the androgens. We found that hcar1-4 and zip9 mutant embryos were susceptible to the identified androgens and developed cardiac edema or tail curvature phenotype following exposure. In contrast, we observed a significant reduction in cardiac edema phenotype in the gprc6a mutants compared to the wild-type embryos following testosterone treatment. Additionally, we exposed wild-type embryos to testosterone together with GPRC6A antagonists and observed a significant suppression of the cardiac edema phenotype. These results suggest that testosterone causes cardiac edema in zebrafish embryos by acting via the integral membrane protein GPRC6A, independently of nuclear androgen receptors. Using RNA-seq and RNA rescue approaches, we find that testosterone-GPRC6A causes cardiac phenotypes by reducing Pak1 signaling. Our study provides insights into non-genomic androgen signaling during embryonic development and identifies GPRC6A as a key receptor mediating androgen action.
Kinome screening identifies integrated stress response kinase EIF2AK1 / HRI as a negative regulator of PINK1 mitophagy signaling
Authors: Singh Pawan K. , Agarwal Shalini , Volpi Ilaria , Wilhelm Léa P. , Becchi Giada , Keenlyside Andrew , Macartney Thomas , Toth Rachel , Rousseau Adrien , Masson Glenn R. , Ganley Ian G. , Muqit Miratul M. K.
Published: March 2023

Loss-of-function mutations of the PINK1 kinase cause familial early-onset Parkinson’s disease (PD). PINK1 is activated upon mitochondrial damage to phosphorylate Ubiquitin and Parkin to trigger removal of damaged mitochondria by autophagy (mitophagy). PINK1 also indirectly phosphorylates a subset of Rab GTPases including Rab8A. We have performed an siRNA screen targeting all human Ser/Thr kinases in HeLa cells and discovered that knockdown of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2-alpha kinase 1 (EIF2AK1), also known as heme-regulated inhibitor (HRI) kinase, a branch of the integrated stress response (ISR), selectively enhances mitochondrial depolarization-induced stabilization of PINK1 and increased phosphorylation of ubiquitin and Rab8A. We confirm our findings in multiple human cell lines, including SK-OV-3, U2OS and ARPE-19 cells. Knockdown of the upstream mitochondrial-cytosol relay component, DELE1, enhanced PINK1 stabilisation and activation similar to EIF2AK1 knockdown. Strikingly, we demonstrate that the small molecule ISR inhibitor, ISRIB, also enhances PINK1 activation and signaling under conditions of mitochondrial damage. Using themito-QC mitophagy reporter in human cells, we observe that EIF2AK1 knockdown or ISRIB treatment significantly enhances PINK1-dependent mitophagy but does not alter deferiprone-induced mitophagy. Our findings indicate that the DELE1-EIF2AK1 ISR signaling relay is a negative regulator of PINK1-dependent mitophagy and suggest that inhibitors of DELE1-EIF2AK1 and/or ISRIB analogues could have therapeutic benefits in PD and related disorders.
First insights into nasal microbiome in wine tasters
Authors: Duarte-Coimbra Sofia , Forcina Giovanni , Pérez-Pardal Lucía , Beja-Pereira Albano
Published: March 2023

Over the last decades, the study of the microbiome has been receiving increasing attention as a major driver of individual health and wellbeing. The accumulation of knowledge on microbiomes sparked new research lines, from which the association between oral microbiome composition and taste perception is of great interest. Taste plays a paramount role in food and beverage choice as well as emotions. For wine tasters, the smell is also part of the tasting evaluation. However, the nasal microbiome is relatively unexplored. The relation between the microorganisms residing in the nostrils is still poorly known despite their leading role in flavor perception. Therefore, characterizing the composition of nasal microbiomes represents a fundamental prerequisite to elucidate their relationship with taste. To improve our understanding of the relationship between taste and the microorganism inhabiting the nostrils, the nasal microbiome of 5 wine tasters versus 5 non-tasters was analyzed through the sequencing of the V3-V4 region of the16S rRNAgene. The taxonomic composition of these nasal microbiomes was characterized, and the comparison of diversity indexes revealed no significant differences. However, the experimental group showed a lower number of identified taxa (171) when compared to the control group (287). Another interesting result was the higher presence of Krebs Cycle pathways in wine tasters, which could indicate the importance of the nostril bacterial community in alcohol oxidation. Regarding smoking habits, smokers presented a lower microbiome diversity. These preliminary results should be confirmed in a larger sample dataset of wine tasters and controls.
Metacognition in the audiovisual McGurk illusion: perceptual and causal confidence
Authors: Meijer David , Noppeney Uta
Published: March 2023

Almost all decisions in everyday life rely on multiple sensory inputs that can come from common or independent causes. These situations invoke perceptual uncertainty about environmental properties and the signals’ causal structure.

Using the audiovisual McGurk illusion this study investigated how observers formed perceptual and causal confidence judgments in multisensory integration tasks under causal uncertainty. Observers were presented with spoken syllables, their corresponding articulatory lip movements, or their congruent and McGurk combinations (e.g. auditory ‘B/P’ with visual ‘G/K’). Observers reported their perceived auditory syllable, the causal structure and confidence for each judgement.

Observers were more accurate and confident on congruent than unisensory trials. Their perceptual and causal confidence were tightly related over trials as predicted by the interactive nature of perceptual and causal inference. Further, observers assigned comparable perceptual and causal confidence to veridical ‘G/K’ percepts on audiovisual congruent trials and their causal and perceptual metamers on McGurk trials (i.e. illusory ‘G/K’ percepts). Thus, observers metacognitively evaluate the integrated audiovisual percept with limited access to the conflicting unisensory stimulus components on McGurk trials.

Collectively, our results suggest that observers form meaningful perceptual and causal confidence judgments about multisensory scenes that are qualitatively consistent with principles of Bayesian causal inference.
Nanopore adaptive sampling of a metagenomic sample derived from a human monkeypox case
Authors: Hewel C , Schmidt H , Runkel S , Kohnen W , Schweiger-Seemann S , Michel A , Bikar S-E , Plachter B , Hankeln T , Linke M , Gerber S
Published: March 2023

In 2022, a series of human monkeypox cases in multiple countries led to the largest and most widespread outbreak outside the known endemic areas. Genomic surveillance is of utmost importance to control such outbreaks. To this end, we performed Nanopore Whole Genome Sequencing of a local monkeypox sample on a PromethION 24. Adaptive sampling was applied forin silicodepletion of the human host genome, allowing for the enrichment of low abundance viral DNA withouta prioriknowledge of sample composition. Nanopore sequencing allowed for high viral genome coverage, tracking of sample composition during sequencing, strain determination, and preliminary assessment of mutational pattern. Nanopore sequencing is a highly versatile method to characterize a virus in real-time without pre-sequencing target enrichment.
Mechanistic and structural insights into a divergent PLP-dependent L-enduracididine cyclase from a toxic cyanobacterium
Authors: Cordoza Jennifer L. , Chen Percival Yang-Ting , Blaustein Linnea R. , Lima Stella T. , Fiore Marli F. , Chekan Jonathan R. , Moore Bradley S. , McKinnie Shaun M. K.
Published: March 2023

Cyclic arginine noncanonical amino acids (ncAAs) are found in several actinobacterial peptide natural products with therapeutically useful antibacterial properties. The preparation of ncAAs like enduracididine and capreomycidine currently takes multiple biosynthetic or chemosynthetic steps, thus limiting the commercial availability and applicability of these cyclic guanidine-containing amino acids. We recently discovered and characterized the biosynthetic pathway of guanitoxin, a potent freshwater cya-nobacterial neurotoxin, that contains an arginine-derived cyclic guanidine phosphate within its highly polar structure. The ncAA L-enduracididine is an early intermediate in guanitoxin biosynthesis and is produced by GntC, a unique pyridoxal-5’-phosphate (PLP)-dependent enzyme. GntC catalyzes a cyclodehydration from a stereoselectively γ-hydroxylated L-arginine precursor via a reaction that functionally and mechanistically diverges from previously established actinobacterial cyclic arginine ncAA pathways. Herein, we interrogate L-enduracididine biosynthesis from the cyanobacteriumSphaerospermopsis torques-reginaeITEP-024 using spectroscopic, stable isotope labeling techniques, and X-ray crystal structure-guided site-directed mutagenesis. GntC initially facilitates the reversible deprotonations of the α- and β-positions of its substrate prior to catalyzing an irreversible diastereoselective dehydration and subsequent intramolecular cyclization. The comparison ofholo-and substrate bound GntC structures and activity assays on sitespecific mutants further identified amino acid residues that contribute to the overall catalytic mechanism. These interdisciplinary efforts at structurally and functionally characterizing GntC enables an improved understanding of how Nature divergently produces cyclic arginine ncAAs and generates additional tools for their biocatalytic production and downstream biological applications.
The association of the RSC remodeler complex with chromatin depends on prefoldin-like Bud27 and determines nucleosome positioning and polyadenylation sites usage inSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Cuevas-Bermúdez A. , Martínez-Fernández V. , Garrido-Godino A.I. , Jordán-Pla A. , Peñate X. , Martín-Expósito M. , Gutiérrez G. , Govind C.K. , Chávez S. , Pelechano V. , Navarro F.
Published: March 2023

The tripartite interaction between the chromatin remodeler complex RSC, RNA polymerase subunit Rpb5 and prefoldin-like Bud27 is necessary for proper RNA pol II elongation. Indeed lack of Bud27 alters this association and affects transcription elongation. This work investigates the consequences of lack of Bud27 on the chromatin association of RSC and RNA pol II, and on nucleosome positioning. Our results demonstrate that RSC binds chromatin to gene bodies and lack of Bud27 alters this association, mainly around polyA sites. This alteration impacts chromatin organization and leads to the accumulation of RNA pol II molecules around polyA sites, likely to be arrested or slower. Our data suggest that RSC is necessary to maintain chromatin organization around those sites, and any alteration of this organization results in the widespread use of alternative polyA sites. Finally, we also find a similar molecular phenotype that occurs upon TOR inhibition with rapamycin, which suggests that alternative polyadenylation observed upon TOR inhibition is likely Bud27-dependent.
Broad sialic acid usage amongst species D human adenovirus
Authors: Mundy Rosie M. , Baker Alexander T. , Bates Emily A. , Cunliffe Tabitha G. , Teijeira-Crespo Alicia , Moses Elise , Rizkallah Pierre J. , Parker Alan L.
Published: March 2023

Human adenoviruses (HAdV) are widespread pathogens causing infections of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, genitourinary system and the eye. Species D (HAdV-D) are the most diverse species and cause both gastrointestinal tract infections and epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC). Despite being significant pathogens, HAdV-D are understudied and knowledge around basic mechanisms of cell infection is lacking. Sialic acid (SA) usage has been proposed as a major mechanism of cell infection for EKC causing HAdV-D. Here, we provide apo state crystal structures for fiber knob proteins of 7 previously undetermined HAdV-D, and provide crystal structures of HAdV-D25, HAdV-D29 and HAdV-D53 knob proteins bound to SA. Biologically, we demonstrate that removal of cell surface SA reduced infectivity of HAdV-C5 vectors pseudotyped with HAdV-D fiber knob proteins, whilst engagement of the classical HAdV receptor, CAR was variable. Together, these data indicate an important role for SA engagement in the tropism of many HAdV-D and may facilitate the development of suitable antivirals to control EKC outbreaks.
Mitigation of chromosome loss in clinical CRISPR-Cas9-engineered T cells
Authors: Tsuchida Connor A. , Brandes Nadav , Bueno Raymund , Trinidad Marena , Mazumder Thomas , Yu Bingfei , Hwang Byungjin , Chang Christopher , Liu Jamin , Sun Yang , Hopkins Caitlin R. , Parker Kevin R. , Qi Yanyan , Satpathy Ansuman T. , Stadtmauer Edward A. , Cate Jamie H.D. , Eyquem Justin , Fraietta Joseph A. , June Carl H. , Chang Howard Y. , Ye Chun Jimmie , Doudna Jennifer A.
Published: March 2023

CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing has enabled advanced T cell therapies, but occasional loss of the targeted chromosome remains a safety concern. To investigate whether Cas9-induced chromosome loss is a universal phenomenon and evaluate its clinical significance, we conducted a systematic analysis in primary human T cells. Arrayed and pooled CRISPR screens revealed that chromosome loss was generalizable across the genome and resulted in partial and entire loss of the chromosome, including in pre-clinical chimeric antigen receptor T cells. T cells with chromosome loss persisted for weeks in culture, implying the potential to interfere with clinical use. A modified cell manufacturing process, employed in our first-in-human clinical trial of Cas9-engineered T cells,1dramatically reduced chromosome loss while largely preserving genome editing efficacy. Expression of p53 correlated with protection from chromosome loss observed in this protocol, suggesting both a mechanism and strategy for T cell engineering that mitigates this genotoxicity in the clinic.
SpatDistCalib: a GUI Python software for spatial-distortion correction of 2D detectors using splines
Authors: Chèvremont William
Published: March 2023

CCD-based X-ray detector systems often suffer from spatial distortions. Reproducible distortions can be quantitatively measured with a calibration grid and described as a displacement matrix or as spline functions. The measured distortion can be used afterwards to undistort raw images or to refine the actual position of each pixel, e.g. for azimuthal integration. This article describes a method using a regular grid, not necessarily orthogonal, to measure the distortions. The graphical user interface (GUI) Python software that is used to implement this method is available under a GPLv3 license on ESRF GitLab, and produces a spline file that is usable with data-reduction software such as FIT2D or pyFAI.
An innovative material for space-oriented structures and habitat design
Authors: Frulla Giacomo , Cestino Enrico , Cumino Federico , Piccolo Alessio , Giulietti Nicola , Fossat Eugenio , Kharrazi Ehsan
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate a new and innovative sandwich material evaluating its capability for use in space habitat structural components in deployable and foldable configurations. The main habitat requirements were considered in the preliminary design of a typical space outpost, proposing a preliminary architecture.

Design/methodology/approach

The stiffness properties of the innovative sandwich (MAdFlex ®) were evaluated using numerical and experimental investigations. Four-point bending tests were performed for complete sandwich characterization. Numerical FE simulations were performed using typical material properties and performance. The application to a space habitat main structure as a basic material has also been discussed and presented.

Findings

MAdFlex basic stiffness performances have been determined considering its double behavior: sufficiently stiff if loaded in a specific direction, flexible if loaded in the opposite direction and enhanced folding performance. Successful application to a typical space habitat confirms the validity and convenience of such a material in designing alternative structures.

Research limitations/implications

The innovative material demonstrates wide potential for structural application and design in demanding space situations under operating conditions and in stored ones at launch.

Practical implications

Several simple deployable structural components can be designed and optimized both for the space environment and for the more traditional terrestrial applications.

Social implications

Simplification in structural design can be derived from deployable low-weight items.

Originality/value

Innovative customized material in sandwich configuration has been proposed and investigated with the aim to demonstrate its potentiality and validity in alternative design architecture.
Comments on the article “Marketing or methodology? Exposing the fallacies of PLS with simple demonstrations” and PLS-SEM in general
Authors: Yuan Ke-Hai
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the pros and cons of partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The topics include bias, consistency, maximization of R2, reliability and model validation.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach in this study is descriptive, and the method consists of logical arguments and analysis that are supported by results in references.

Findings

Several optimal properties of the PLS-SEM methodology are clarified. A proposal for transforming PLS-SEM mode A to mode B is highlighted, and the transformed mode possesses the desired properties of both modes A and B. Issues with the application of regression analysis using composite scores are also discussed. The strength of PLS-SEM is also compared against that of covariance-based SEM.

Research limitations/implications

Additional studies on PLS-SEM are needed when the population structure contains cross-loadings and/or correlated errors.

Practical implications

PLS-SEM may have inflated type I errors and R2 values even with normally distributed data.

Originality/value

The content of this paper is new, and there does not exist such an in-depth discussion of the pros and cons of PLS-SEM methodology in the literature.
Smart tourism city governance: exploring the impact on stakeholder networks
Authors: Ivars-Baidal Josep , Casado-Díaz Ana B. , Navarro-Ruiz Sandra , Fuster-Uguet Marc
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Building on new trends in tourism and smart city governance, this study aims to examine the degree of interrelation between stakeholder networks involved in tourism governance and smart city development. A model describing the transition towards smart tourism city governance is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model is tested through a multiple case study of seven European cities. This choice of sample makes the study highly representative. Data collection is based on an exhaustive search and analysis of available data on smart city initiatives, destination management organisations and tourism plans. Social network analysis using Gephi software is used to build stakeholder networks.

Findings

Analysis of the stakeholder networks that shape tourism governance and smart initiatives in several cities reveals a disconnection between the two types of networks. The results show limited progress towards the expected synergies of true smart tourism city governance.

Practical implications

Theoretically, the study contributes to the debate on new forms of governance for the complex evolution of urban tourism. In practice, the relationship between tourism governance and smart city initiatives needs to be redefined to achieve synergies that increase the inclusiveness and efficiency of urban tourism policies.

Originality/value

This study examines the under-researched topic of the interrelation between tourism governance and smart city initiatives. By comparing the networks of actors resulting from these two processes, it assesses the extent to which this interrelation helps the emergence of new governance models (smart tourism city governance).
How the real estate indexes have performed during the COVID-19 crisis? Multifractal analysis revisited with wavelet
Authors: Zaouga Ons , Loukil Nadia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the existence of stylized facts, such as the volatility clustering, heavy tails seen on financial series, long-term dependence and multifractality on the returns of four real estate indexes using different types of indexes: conventional and Islamic by comparing pre and during COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the authors examined the characteristics of the indexes. Secondly, the authors estimated the parameters of the stable distribution. Then, the long memory is detected via the estimation of the Hurst exponents. Afterwards, the authors determine the graphs of the multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MF-DFA). Finally, the authors apply the WTMM method.

Findings

The results suggest that the real estate indexes are far from being efficient and that the lowest level of multifractality was observed for Islamic indexes.

Research limitations/implications

The inefficiency behavior of real estate indexes gives us an idea about the prediction of the behavior of future returns in these markets on the basis of past informations. Similarly, market participants would do well to reassess their investment and risk management framework to mitigate new and somewhat higher levels of risk of their exposures during the turbulent period.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first real estate market study employing STL decomposition before applying the MF-DFA in the context of the COVID-19 crisis. Likewise, the study is the first investigation that focuses on these four indexes.
Disrupting the fashion retail journey: social media and GenZ's fashion consumption
Authors: Siregar Yuri , Kent Anthony , Peirson-Smith Anne , Guan Congying
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the use of social media by Gen Z consumers and the ways they impact on and re-shape their fashion consumption journey. This generational approach uses the lens of uses and gratifications theory (UGT) to explore the customer fashion retail journey from the perspective of the Gen Z consumer.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses an exploratory approach in response to the relative lack of research in to GenZ consumers combined with a need to understand shopping journeys. Mixed methods were used with a first phase of interviews followed by a survey of 102 Gen Z students recruited online in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

The study found that GenZ users of social media for shopping sought gratification from experiences derived from social relationships, entertainment and information. The need for immediate gratification was found in new information and meeting new people to maintain social relationships, learn about products and inform the shopping journey. Further, the research supported the importance of visual images in the affective gratification of shopping needs. Resale sites on social media were favoured for their low prices, information about previously owned fashion items and the opportunity to exercise sustainable fashion choices.

Originality/value

The research advances understanding of fashion shopping journeys through social media and online resale sites. It demonstrates that younger consumers, GenZ, shop through the gratification of experiences informed by their social networks and wider contacts. The linear stages of pre to post–purchase shopping are merged and looped as they exchange information about their shopping journey, from information gathering to post–purchase comments. The role of the brand to these knowledgeable consumers conducting their own resale trade is to facilitate access to and information about their products.
Heat resistance and sorptivity of an air-entrained concrete containing mineral admixtures and CBA
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Sharma Shashi Kant , Akbar M. Abdul
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this work is to improve the air entrainment capacity of a concrete by using fine mineral admixtures such as fly ash (FA) and silica fume (SF) as cement substitute, and coal bottom ash (CBA) as fine aggregate substitute. Air entrainment capacity has been studied indirectly as a measure of heat resistance of concrete. Literature has suggested that mineral admixtures improve the air absorption in the paste component of the concrete, on the one hand, whereas they perform pore and grain size refinement, on the other, thereby reducing the air entrainment. CBA, which being porous, creates the possibility of air adsorption by the aggregate component. Therefore, the study finds out whether a double benefit of adding both of these materials will be achieved, or CBA will try to improve the deficiency in the air entrainment created by the mineral admixtures.

Design/methodology/approach

Air-entrained concrete (AEC) mixes were constituted in three groups. First group represents mixes with natural fine aggregates only, and second with 25% fine aggregates substituted by CBA. Progressively, the third group has 50% fine aggregates substituted with CBA. In all the three groups, cement was substituted with FA and SF @ 0%, 20% and 40%, and 0%, 5% and 10%, respectively, thereby creating four binary and four ternary mixes corresponding to each group. Compressive and flexural strength tests were conducted at 28 days on the concrete mixes pre and post high-temperature heat treatment, i.e. 100°C, 200°C and 400°C, respectively. This study also examines the microstructure characteristics of AEC after 14 days of curing via X-ray diffraction. Sorptivity test was also conducted to estimate the capillary and air-entrained voids in concrete.

Findings

It was found that a concrete mix containing 20% FA and 10% SF along with 50% CBA could give similar post-heated strength to a normal (without mineral admixtures) AEC. In AECs where only CBA is present and cement paste is not substituted, both of the pre- and post-heated strengths of concrete reduce. Also, some mixtures containing large amounts of mineral admixtures in concrete with nil CBA show a high reduction in post-heated strength though they show good pre-heated strength. Therefore, mineral admixtures and CBA complement each other in improving the post-heated strength. Air pore structure found from sorptivity test also verifies these results.

Originality/value

AEC is very helpful for insulation of buildings during summer season by absorbing heat waves. AEC containing FA and CBA reduces carbon footprint because of substitution of cement and it also helps to conserve natural resources by the use of CBA in place of fine aggregates.
Change management and digital transformation project success in SMEs located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Kala Kamdjoug Jean Robert
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Managerial practices are essential in the success of information technology (IT) projects of digital transformation (DT). However, the literature has not yet specified all these managerial practices. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the influence of change management on the success of IT projects of DT. Additionally, the author examines the consequences on SMEs in the economic context of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on a research model that elucidates aspects of the resource-based view (RBV) framework, notably the transformation of human resources based on change management. This model demonstrates the relationship between change management, DT and IT project success, which facilitates the performance and resilience of SMEs. To empirically validate and test the developed research model, we gathered 299 responses from SME managers in the DRC through cross-sectional data collection using a structured questionnaire. The author performed statistical analyses using variance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the help of SmartPLS 3.0.

Findings

This paper reveals how SME managers can succeed in DT projects with the change management of human resources. Furthermore, it establishes that the success of IT projects of DT is an essential for enhancing the performance and resilience of SMEs in the DRC.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the information systems (IS) literature on developing countries by highlighting the DRC context. Little research deals with the success factors of DT projects and their organizational impact on SMEs in developing countries. This study thus enriches the IS literature by filling this void.
Advancing beyond technicism when managing big data in companies’ decision-making
Authors: Caputo Francesco , Keller Barbara , Möhring Michael , Carrubbo Luca , Schmidt Rainer
Published: March 2023

Purpose

In recognising the key role of business intelligence and big data analytics in influencing companies’ decision-making processes, this paper aims to codify the main phases through which companies can approach, develop and manage big data analytics.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting a research strategy based on case studies, this paper depicts the main phases and challenges that companies “live” through in approaching big data analytics as a way to support their decision-making processes. The analysis of case studies has been chosen as the main research method because it offers the possibility for different data sources to describe a phenomenon and subsequently to develop and test theories.

Findings

This paper provides a possible depiction of the main phases and challenges through which the approach(es) to big data analytics can emerge and evolve over time with reference to companies’ decision-making processes.

Research limitations/implications

This paper recalls the attention of researchers in defining clear patterns through which technology-based approaches should be developed. In its depiction of the main phases of the development of big data analytics in companies’ decision-making processes, this paper highlights the possible domains in which to define and renovate approaches to value. The proposed conceptual model derives from the adoption of an inductive approach. Despite its validity, it is discussed and questioned through multiple case studies. In addition, its generalisability requires further discussion and analysis in the light of alternative interpretative perspectives.

Practical implications

The reflections herein offer practitioners interested in company management the possibility to develop performance measurement tools that can evaluate how each phase can contribute to companies’ value creation processes.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the ongoing debate about the role of digital technologies in influencing managerial and social models. This paper provides a conceptual model that is able to support both researchers and practitioners in understanding through which phases big data analytics can be approached and managed to enhance value processes.
Upstream Addicks–Barker reservoir damages during Hurricane Harvey: A case study of urban hydrology and policy failure in Houston, TX
Authors: Furrh Jacob True , Bedient Philip
Published: March 2023

Addicks and Barker reservoirs were built in the 1940s to protect downtown Houston from flooding and have generally worked very well until 2017 when Hurricane Harvey devastated much of Houston and surroundings with up to 40 inches (102 cm) of rainfall causing flooding of 154,000 homes in over 22 watersheds in Houston/Harris County alone. However, the story of how Addicks and Barker flooded upstream residential areas from a hydrologic standpoint is a harsh lesson in flood infrastructure policy and funding. This failure to protect both downstream properties in Buffalo Bayou and upstream areas behind the dams ended up with tens of thousands of flooded homes and properties, with many having flood waters for over 10 days. This paper explores the main causes for the flooding and addresses the hydrologic issues upstream in both reservoirs. The main causes of flooding were not just related to a massive rainfall event, but also explosive urban expansion of land use upstream of reservoirs, altered and updated reservoir design issues, and lack of governmental action in the years leading up to the disaster. Potential long‐term solutions to the flooding and design problems are addressed in this article as well.
Effectiveness of ambulatory non‐invasive fetal electrocardiography: impact of maternal and fetal characteristics
Authors: Liu Becky , Thilaganathan Basky , Bhide Amar
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Non‐invasive fetal electrocardiography (NIFECG) has potential benefits over the computerized cardiotocography (cCTG) that may permit its development in remote fetal heart‐rate monitoring. Our study aims to compare signal quality and heart‐rate detection from a novel self‐applicable NIFECG monitor against the cCTG, and evaluate the impact of maternal and fetal characteristics on both devices.

Material and methods

This prospective observational study took place in a university hospital in London. Women with a singleton pregnancy from 28 + 0 weeks’ gestation presenting for cCTG were eligible. Concurrent monitoring with both NIFECG and cCTG were performed for up to 60 minutes. Post‐processing of NIFECG produced signal loss, computed in both 0.25 (E240)‐ and 3.75 (E16)‐second epochs, and fetal heart‐rate and maternal heart‐rate values. cCTG signal loss was calculated in 3.75‐second epochs. Accuracy and precision analysis of 0.25‐second epochal fetal heart‐rate and maternal heart‐rate were compared between the two devices. Multiple regression analyses were performed to assess the impact of maternal and fetal characteristics on signal loss. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04941534.

Results

285 women underwent concurrent monitoring. For fetal heart‐rate, mean bias, precision and 95% limits of agreement were 0.1 beats per minute (bpm), 4.5 bpm and −8.7 bpm to 8.8 bpm, respectively. For maternal heart‐rate, these results were −0.4 bpm, 3.3 bpm and −7.0 to 6.2 bpm, respectively. Median NIFECG E240 and E16 signal loss was 32.0% (interquartile range [IQR] 6.5%–68.5%) and 17.3% (IQR 1.8%–49.0%), respectively. E16 cCTG signal loss was 1.0% (IQR 0.0%–3.0%). For NIFECG, gestational age was negatively associated with signal loss (beta = −2.91, 95% CI −3.69 to −2.12, P < 0.001). Increased body mass index, fetal movements and lower gestational age were all associated with cCTG signal loss (beta = 0.30, 95% CI 0.17–0.43, P < 0.001; beta = 0.03, 95% CI 0.01–0.05, P = 0.014; and beta = −0.28, 95% CI −0.51 to −0.05, P = 0.017, respectively).

Conclusions

Although NIFECG is complicated by higher signal loss, it does not appear to be influenced by increased body mass index or fetal movement. NIFECG signal loss varies according to method of computation, and standards of signal acceptability need to be defined according to the ability of the device to produce clinically reliable physiological indices. The high accuracy of heart‐rate indices is promising for NIFECG usage in the remote setting.
An alternative option of the retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach for limited hepatectomy for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma at the transected edge after previous hepatectomy
Authors: Hamada Takeomi , Yano Koichi , Kitamura Eiji , Hiyoshi Masahide , Imamura Naoya , Kai Kengo , Tahira Kosei , Kawano Fumiya , Ohta Yusuke , Nanashima Atsushi
Published: March 2023

Laparoscopic hepatectomy is safely performed with minimal invasiveness on patients with recurrent liver tumors after previous hepatectomy. However, it is still difficult to dissect and expose the operative field at the transected edge or plane after open right hepatectomy, even for limited resection by a laparoscopic approach, due to severe adhesion to the surrounding peritoneum or organs. We herein applied the retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach to limited resection of the dorsal surface at the transected edge of Couinaud's segment 6 after previous repeated hepatectomies in a patient with recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) by avoiding severe intra‐abdominal adhesion. We safely resected recurrent HCC via the retroperitoneal space. This approach is a useful and alternative option for laparoscopy which minimizes the dissecting time and avoids organ injury on the right side of the transected area of the liver after hepatectomy in patients with liver malignancies.