bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cold-induced expression of a truncated Adenylyl Cyclase 3 acts as rheostat to brown fat function
Authors: Khani Sajjad , Topel Hande , Josephrajan Ajeetha , Larsen Bjørk Ditlev Marcher , de Almeida Tavanez Ana Rita Albuquerque , Gaudry Michael James , Leyendecker Philipp , Stanic Natasa , Gaziano Isabella , Hansmeier Nils Rouven , Schmidt Elena , Klemm Paul , Vagliano Lara-Marie , Engelhard Christoph Andreas , Nielsen Søren , Jespersen Naja Zenius , Rehimi Rizwan , Gohlke Sabrina , Frommolt Peter , Gnad Thorsten , Rada-Iglesias Alvaro , Pradas-Juni Marta , Schulz Tim Julius , Wunderlich Frank Thomas , Pfeifer Alexander , Jastroch Martin , Wachten Dagmar , Kornfeld Jan-Wilhelm
Published: August 2022

Promoting brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity has been recognized as innovative therapeutic approach to improve obesity and metabolic disease. Whilst the molecular circuitry underlying thermogenic activation of BAT is well understood, the processes underlying rheostatic regulation of BAT to maintain homeostasis and avoid excessive energy dissipation remain ill-defined. Increasing cyclic AMP (cAMP) biosynthesis is key for BAT activation. Here, we demonstrate that ADCY3, an adenylyl cyclase whose expression is induced during cold exposure and regulates cAMP homeostasis in thermogenic fat, is dispensable for BAT function in lean mice, but becomes critical during obesity. Furthermore, by combining RNA-seq with epigenomic H3K4me3 profiling, we detected a novel, cold-inducible promoter that generates a 5’ truncated Adcy3-at mRNA isoform, Adcy3-at. Mice lacking only Adcy3-at, but not full-length Adcy3, displayed increased energy expenditure already under lean conditions and were protected against obesity and ensuing metabolic imbalances. Subcellularly, translated ADCY3-AT proteins are retained in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), did not translocate to the cell membrane, and lacked enzymatic activity. By interacting with ADCY3, ADCY3-AT retained ADCY3 in the ER and, thereby, reduced the plasma membrane pool of ADCYs available for G-protein mediated cAMP synthesis. Thereby, ADCY3-AT acts as a signaling rheostat in BAT, limiting adverse consequences of uncurbed cAMP activity after long-term BAT activation. Adcy3-at induction was driven by a cold-induced, truncated isoform of the transcriptional cofactor PPARGC1A (PPARG Coactivator 1 Alpha, PPARGC1A-AT). Expression of Ppargc1a-at and Adcy3-at are evolutionary conserved, indicating that transcriptional rewiring by commissioning of alternative promoters is key for thermogenic fat function.
CADD from Chlamydia trachomatis is a manganese-dependent oxygenase that employs a self-sacrificing reaction for the synthesis of p-aminobenzoate
Authors: Wooldridge Rowan , Stone Spenser , Pedraza Andrew , Ray W. Keith , Helm Richard F. , Allen Kylie D.
Published: August 2022

CADD (chlamydia protein associating with death domains) is a p-aminobenzoate synthase involved in a non-canonical route for tetrahydrofolate biosynthesis in the intracellular bacterial pathogen, Chlamydia trachomatis. The previously solved crystal structure revealed a seven-helix bundle architecture similar to heme oxygenase with a diiron active site, making CADD a founding member of the emerging HDO (heme-oxygenase-like diiron oxidase) superfamily. The CADD-dependent route for pAB biosynthesis was shown to use L-tyrosine as a precursor, however, in vitro reactions were not stimulated by the addition of free L-tyrosine or other tyrosine-derived metabolites, leading to the proposal that the enzyme uses an internal active site tyrosine residue as a precursor to pAB. Here, we perform further biochemical characterization of CADD to clarify the details of the unique self-sacrificing reaction. Surprisingly, the pAB synthase reaction was shown to be dependent on manganese as opposed to iron and the data are most consistent with an active dimanganese cofactor analogous to class Ib and class Id ribonucleotide reductases. Experiments with 18O2 demonstrated the incorporation of two oxygen atoms from molecular oxygen into the pAB product, supporting the proposed mechanism requiring two monooxygenase reactions. Mass spectrometry-based proteomic analyses of CADD-derived peptides demonstrated a glycine substitution at Tyr27, a modification that was increased in reactions that produced pAB in vitro. Additionally, Lys152 was found to be deaminated and oxidized to aminoadipic acid. Taken together, our results support the conclusion that CADD is a manganese-dependent oxygenase that uses Tyr27 and possibly Lys152 as sacrificial substrates for pAB biosynthesis.
The kinase occupancy of T-cell coreceptors reconsidered
Authors: Mørch Alexander M. , Schneider Falk , Jenkins Edward , Santos Ana Mafalda , Fraser Scott E. , Davis Simon J. , Dustin Michael L.
Published: August 2022

The sensitivity of the αβ T-cell receptor (TCR) is enhanced by the coreceptors CD4 and CD8αβ, which are expressed primarily by cells of the helper and cytotoxic T-cell lineages, respectively. The coreceptors bind to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules and associate intracellularly with the Src-family kinase Lck, which catalyzes TCR phosphorylation during receptor triggering. Although coreceptor-kinase occupancy was initially believed to be high, a recent study suggested that most coreceptors exist in an Lck-free state, and that this low occupancy helps to effect TCR antigen discrimination. Here, using the same method, we found instead that the CD4-Lck interaction was stoichiometric (~100%) and that the CD8αβ-Lck interaction was also substantial (~60%). We confirmed our findings in live cells using fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy (FCCS) to measure coreceptor-Lck co-diffusionin situ. After introducing structurally guided mutations into the intracellular domain of CD4, we used FCCS to show that stoichiometric Lck coupling required an amphipathic α-helix present in CD4 but not CD8α. In double-positive cells expressing equal numbers of both coreceptors, but limiting amounts of kinase, CD4 out-competed CD8αβ for Lck. In T cells, TCR signaling induced CD4-Lck oligomerization but did not affect the high levels of CD4-Lck occupancy. These findings help settle the question of kinase occupancy and suggest that the binding advantages that CD4 has over CD8 could be important when Lck levels are limiting.

Significance statement

CD4 and CD8αβ are archetypal coreceptor proteins that potently enhance T-cell antigen sensitivity but how they function is still debated. A fundamental question that remains incompletely resolved is: what fractions of the coreceptors bind the signal-initiating kinase, Lck? Usingin vitroassays and non-invasive fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy in live cells, we show that most coreceptors are occupied by Lck at the surface of live cells. The structural basis for important differences in the kinase occupancy of CD4 and CD8αβ is also identified. These results provide important context for refining current models of both TCR antigen recognition and cell fate decisions made during thymopoiesis.
Kinesin-5/Cut7 moves bidirectionally on fission-yeast spindles with activity that increases in anaphase
Authors: Gergely Zachary R. , Ansari Saad , Jones Michele H. , McIntosh J. Richard , Betterton Meredith D.
Published: August 2022

Kinesin-5 motors are essential to separate mitotic spindle poles and assemble a bipolar spindle in many organisms. These tetrameric motors crosslink and slide apart antiparallel microtubules via microtubule plus-end-directed motility. However, kinesin-5s typically accumulate more at spindle poles than in the center of the spindle where antiparallel microtubule overlaps are most numerous. While the relevance of this localization has remained unclear, increasing evidence suggests that it occurs due to bidirectional motility or trafficking of kinesin-5 motors. The kinesin-5 motor Cut7p from fission yeast has been shown to move bidirectionally in reconstituted systems. However, bidirectional movement has not been shown in cells and the funtion of the minus-end-directed movement remains unclear. Here, we characterized the motility of kinesin-5/Cut7 on bipolar and monopolar spindles in fission yeast and observed movement both toward plus and minus ends of microtubules. Notably, we found that the activity of the motor increases at the onset on anaphase B. Perturbations to microtubule dynamics did not significantly change the observed Cut7p movement, while Cut7p mutation reduced or abolished observable movement. These results suggest that the directed movement of Cut7p was due to the motility of the motor itself. Mutations of Cut7p that decreased plus-end-directed motility enhanced its spindle-pole localization. In contrast, abolishing Cut7 motility or replacing it with plus-end-directed human Eg5 eliminates the pole localization. Our results suggest a new hypothesis for the function of minus-end-directed motility and spindle-pole localization of kinesin-5s in spindle assembly.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 are attenuated in rhesus macaques as compared to Delta
Authors: van Doremalen Neeltje , Singh Manmeet , Saturday Taylor A. , Yinda Claude Kwe , Perez-Perez Lizzette , Bohler W. Forrest , Weishampel Zachary A. , Lewis Matthew , Schulz Jonathan E. , Williamson Brandi N. , Meade-White Kimberly , Gallogly Shane , Okumura Atsushi , Feldmann Friederike , Lovaglio Jamie , Hanley Patrick W. , Shaia Carl , Feldmann Heinz , de Wit Emmie , Munster Vincent J. , Rosenke Kyle
Published: August 2022

Since the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, five different variants of concern (VOCs) have been identified: Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron. Due to confounding factors in the human population, such as pre-existing immunity, comparing severity of disease caused by different VOCs is challenging. Here, we investigate disease progression in the rhesus macaque model upon inoculation with the Delta, Omicron BA.1, and Omicron BA.2 VOCs. Disease severity in rhesus macaques inoculated with Omicron BA.1 or BA.2 was lower than those inoculated with Delta and resulted in significantly lower viral loads in nasal swabs, bronchial cytology brush samples, and lung tissue in rhesus macaques. Cytokines and chemokines were upregulated in nasosorption samples of Delta animals compared to Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 animals. Overall, these data suggests that in rhesus macaques, Omicron replicates to lower levels than the Delta VOC, resulting in reduced clinical disease.
Development, testing and validation of a SARS-CoV-2 multiplex panel for detection of the five major variants of concern on a portable PCR platform
Authors: Stanhope Bryce J , Peterson Brittany , Knight Brittany , Decadiz Ray Nobles , Pan Roger , Davis Phillip , Fraser Anne , Nuth Manunya , vanWestrienen Jesse , Wendlandt Erik , Goodwin Bruce , Myers Chris , Stone Jennifer , Sozhamannan Shanmuga
Published: August 2022

Many SARS-CoV-2 variants have emerged during the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. These variants have acquired mutations conferring phenotypes such as increased transmissibility or virulence, or causing diagnostic, therapeutic, or immune escape. Detection of Alpha and the majority of Omicron sublineages by PCR relied on the so-called S gene target failure due to the deletion of six nucleotides coding for amino acids 69-70 in the spike (S) protein. Detection of hallmark mutations in other variants present in samples relied on whole genome sequencing. However, whole genome sequencing as a diagnostic tool is still in its infancy due to geographic inequities in sequencing capabilities, higher cost compared to other molecular assays, longer turnaround time from sample to result, and technical challenges associated with producing complete genome sequences from samples that have low viral load and/or high background. Hence, there is a need for rapid genotyping assays. In order to rapidly generate information on the presence of a variant in a given sample, we have created a panel of four triplex RT-qPCR assays targeting 12 mutations to detect and differentiate all five variants of concern: Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta and Omicron. We also developed an expanded pentaplex assay that can reliably distinguish among the major sublineages (BA.1-BA.5) of Omicron. In silico, analytical and clinical testing of the variant panel indicate that the assays overall exhibit high sensitivity and specificity. This variant panel can be used as a Research Use Only screening tool for triaging SARS-CoV-2 positive samples prior to whole genome sequencing.
NF-κB inhibitor alpha has a cross-variant role during SARS-CoV-2 infection in ACE2-overexpressing human airway organoids
Authors: Simoneau Camille R. , Chen Pei-Yi , Xing Galen K. , Khalid Mir M. , Meyers Nathan L. , Hayashi Jennifer M. , Taha Taha Y. , Leon Kristoffer E. , Ashuach Tal , Fontaine Krystal A. , Rodriguez Lauren , Joehnk Bastian , Walcott Keith , Vasudevan Sreelakshmi , Fang Xiaohui , Maishan Mazharul , Schultz Shawn , Roose Jeroen , Matthay Michael A. , Sil Anita , Arjomandi Mehrdad , Yosef Nir , Ott Melanie
Published: August 2022

As SARS-CoV-2 continues to spread worldwide, tractable primary airway cell models that accurately recapitulate the cell-intrinsic response to arising viral variants are needed. Here we describe an adult stem cell-derived human airway organoid model overexpressing the ACE2 receptor that supports robust viral replication while maintaining 3D architecture and cellular diversity of the airway epithelium. ACE2-OE organoids were infected with SARS-CoV-2 variants and subjected to single-cell RNA-sequencing. NF-κB inhibitor alpha was consistently upregulated in infected epithelial cells, and its mRNA expression positively correlated with infection levels. Confocal microscopy showed more IκBα expression in infected than bystander cells, but found concurrent nuclear translocation of NF-κB that IκBα usually prevents. Overexpressing a nondegradable IκBα mutant reduced NF-κB translocation and increased viral infection. These data demonstrate the functionality of ACE2-OE organoids in SARS-CoV-2 research and identify an incomplete NF-κB feedback loop as a rheostat of viral infection that may promote inflammation and severe disease.
Omicron BA.2 breakthrough infection enhances cross-neutralization of BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/BA.5
Authors: Muik Alexander , Lui Bonny Gaby , Bacher Maren , Wallisch Ann-Kathrin , Toker Aras , Finlayson Andrew , Krüger Kimberly , Ozhelvaci Orkun , Grikscheit Katharina , Hoehl Sebastian , Ciesek Sandra , Türeci Özlem , Sahin Ugur
Published: August 2022

Recently, we reported that BNT162b2-vaccinated individuals after Omicron BA.1 breakthrough infection have strong serum neutralizing activity against Omicron BA.1, BA.2, and previous SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs), yet less against the highly contagious Omicron sublineages BA.4 and BA.5 that have displaced previous variants. As the latter sublineages are derived from Omicron BA.2, we characterized serum neutralizing activity of COVID-19 mRNA vaccine triple-immunized individuals who experienced BA.2 breakthrough infection. We demonstrate that sera of these individuals have broadly neutralizing activity against previous VOCs as well as all tested Omicron sublineages, including BA.2 derived variants BA.2.12.1, BA.4/BA.5. Furthermore, applying antibody depletion we showed that neutralization of BA.2 and BA.4/BA.5 sublineages by BA.2 convalescent sera is driven to a significant extent by antibodies targeting the N-terminal domain (NTD) of the spike glycoprotein, whereas their neutralization by Omicron BA.1 convalescent sera depends exclusively on antibodies targeting the receptor binding domain (RBD). These findings suggest that exposure to Omicron BA.2, in contrast to BA.1 spike glycoprotein, triggers significant NTD specific recall responses in vaccinated individuals and thereby enhances the neutralization of BA.4/BA.5 sublineages. Given the current epidemiology with a predominance of BA.2 derived sublineages like BA.4/BA.5 and rapidly ongoing evolution, these findings are of high relevance for the development of Omicron adapted vaccines.
Potential anti-monkeypox virus activity of atovaquone, mefloquine, and molnupiravir, and their potential use as treatments
Authors: Akazawa Daisuke , Ohashi Hirofumi , Hishiki Takayuki , Morita Takeshi , Iwanami Shoya , Kim Kwang Su , Jeong Yong Dam , Park Eun-Sil , Kataoka Michiyo , Shionoya Kaho , Mifune Junki , Tsuchimoto Kana , Ojima Shinjiro , Azam Aa Haeruman , Nakajima Shogo , Park Hyeongki , Yoshikawa Tomoki , Shimojima Masayuki , Kiga Kotaro , Iwami Shingo , Maeda Ken , Suzuki Tadaki , Ebihara Hideki , Takahashi Yoshimasa , Watashi Koichi
Published: August 2022

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is a zoonotic orthopoxvirus that causes smallpox-like symptoms in humans and caused an outbreak in May 2022 that led the WHO to declare global health emergency. In this study, from a screening of approved-drug libraries using an MPXV infection cell system, atovaquone, mefloquine, and molnupiravir exhibited anti-MPXV activity, with 50% inhibitory concentrations of 0.51-5.2 μM, which is more potent than cidofovir. Whereas mefloquine was suggested to inhibit viral entry, atovaquone and molnupiravir targeted post-entry process to impair intracellular virion accumulation. Inhibitors of dihydroorotate dehydrogenase, an atovaquone’s target enzyme, showed conserved anti-MPXV activities. Combining atovaquone with tecovirimat enhanced the anti-MPXV effect of tecovirimat. Quantitative mathematical simulations predicted that atovaquone can promote viral clearance in patients by seven days at clinically relevant drug concentrations. Moreover, atovaquone and molnupiravir exhibited pan-Orthopoxvirus activity against vaccinia and cowpox viruses. These data suggest that atovaquone would be potential candidates for treating monkeypox.
Brand repositioning: a case of Ufone, Pakistan
Authors: Taimoor Sadaf , Wasti Fizah , Adil Qurat Ul Ain , Raees Sikander , Arshad Umair
Published: August 2022

Learning outcomes

In the light of the case and the accompanying case questions, the students should understand:1. The theoretical underpinnings of the brand positioning and brand repositioning.2. Critical evaluation of marketing communication material in the light of theoretical underpinnings.3. The nuances of operating in emerging markets in technology-driven sectors.4. The intricate link between the business goals and communication goals5. The application of the attention-interest-desire-action model and the brand media wheel when translating business strategies into communication strategies.

Case overview/synopsis

It was in June 2016, when Asad Haroon, the young head of brands at Ufone, a Pakistani originated telecom operating company, was posed with a challenge of dwindling subscriber identity module card sales, deteriorating average revenue per user and an exponential increase in customer churn. The telecom industry itself was in a flux due to various factors such as changes in the regulatory frameworks and technological shifts.Asad felt that the reason for the brand’s decline might be the lack of synergy between the business strategy and the brand’s communication strategy.Asad knew that he would have to make some unpopular choices and review his brand’s communication strategy which had not yet proved to create a harmony between communication goals and business goals. However, he was unsure about how and if at all he should go about changing a marketing legacy and the brand’s positioning which had reigned the minds of his peers and his customers for so long.

Complexity academic level

This case is aimed toward undergraduate students enrolled in courses of principles of marketing, marketing communications and corporate media strategy.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing
Queer and trans youth (not) knowing: experiences of epistemic (in)justice in the context of an LGBTQ+-inclusive secondary curriculum
Authors: Schey Ryan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Current legislative, policy and cultural efforts to censor and illegalize classroom discussions and curricular representations of LGBTQ+ people reflect longstanding challenges in English education. In an effort to explore what curricular inclusion can (not) accomplish – especially what and how current struggles over inclusion, censorship, illegalization and ultimately representation in English education might (not) contribute to queer and trans liberation – the purpose of this article is to feature the experiences of queer and trans youth as knowers in classroom lessons with LGBTQ+-inclusive curriculum.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from a yearlong literacy ethnography at a Midwestern high school in which the author explored youth and adults reading, writing and talking about sexual and gender diversity, in this article the author focuses on one literacy learning context at the high school, a co-taught sophomore humanities that combined English language arts and social studies.

Findings

Engaging theories of epistemic (in) justice, the findings of this article highlight the experiences of queer and trans youth – especially two queer youth of Color, Camden and Imani – as knowers in the context of an LGBTQ+-inclusive classroom curriculum. The author describes epistemic harms with respect to distortions of credibility and homonormative assimilationist requirements and reflects on alternative possibilities that youth gestured toward through their small resistances.

Originality/value

By centering the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth, this article contributes to research about LGBTQ+-inclusive curriculum in English teaching. Previous research, when empirical rather than conceptual, has tended to focus on the perspectives of teachers.
Factors influencing adoption of construction technologies in Vietnam's residential construction projects
Authors: Momade Mohammed Hamza , Durdyev Serdar , Van Tam Nguyen , Shahid Shamsuddin , Mbachu Jasper , Momade Yusra
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Vietnam's construction technology (CT) adoption is low when compared to other countries with similar gross domestic product (GDP) per capita resulting in lesser productivity. The research objectives are: (1) To undertake an extensive literature review on CT adoption challenges; (2) To investigate CT adoption challenges unique to Vietnam's construction sector; and (3) To propose data-driven solutions for a greater rate of CT adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-stage descriptive survey method was adopted in alignment with the research aim and objectives. Based on the literature review of 215 articles, a questionnaire was designed and administered to experienced construction managers (CM) to identify whether CT has been adopted, barriers to adoption, drivers, and the most popular CT tools. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the characteristics of interest in the empirical dataset and SPSS-based inferential statistics to estimate the means, frequency counts, variance and test hypotheses that informed the drawing of conclusions concerning the research objectives.

Findings

The popular CT tools identified were Autodesk, Microsoft Office and Primavera. The most influential CT adoption barriers: (1) Unknow`n impact on productivity, (2) Late implementation of software in construction projects, (3) Lack of understanding of importance and needs in the construction industry (4) Lack of funds during budget planning for technological advances and implementation (5) Lack of experts required for technological change, and insufficient skills in the industry.

Practical implications

It is expected that the findings could inform data-driven regulatory and practice reforms targeted at increasing greater uptake of CT in Vietnam with potential for replication in countries facing similar adoption challenges.

Originality/value

The findings are intended to support data-driven regulatory and practice improvements aimed at improving CT adoption in Vietnam, with the possibility for replication in other countries facing comparable problems.
Is trade, energy consumption and economic growth threat to environmental quality in Bahrain–evidence from VECM and ARDL bound test approach
Authors: Alam Md Shabbir
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The Kingdom of Bahrain has had tremendous development in various areas in the last decade. As a result of this, increasing energy consumption in Bahrain puts a strain on the country's energy supplies and increased CO2 emissions. This study investigates the determinants of carbon emissions in Bahrain.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds test and vector error correction model (VECM) Granger causality cointegration methods for empirical analysis during 1980-2020. The unit root test and residual diagnosis have been applied to see the stationarity and normality of the model.

Findings

The analysis suggests no short run causality amid carbon emission, international trade, capital formation, economic development and energy consumption, but a long-run association jointly exist from the exogenous variables toward endogenous variables. The results of the study also revealed that trade and economic growth in Bahrain react negatively to environmental deterioration.

Practical implications

This research study’s outcome will help the policymakers to build sound external and environmental policies to sustain economic growth and suggested policymakers to emphasize on sustainable usage of energy, alternatives of energy supply, and creation of renewable energy to mitigate the impact of CO2 emission.

Social implications

The alternatives of energy supply and creation of renewable energy can positively influence the socio-economic state of the nation, like new job opportunities, revenue generation.

Originality/value

This study is unique as no other study till now has covered this period. The findings are also different as the past studies found short-run causality with the control variables, but the study found a long-run causality jointly.
Determinant residential real estate of millennial generation in adapting housing microfinance case Indonesia chapter
Authors: Subagyo Ahmad , Syari’udin Akhmad , Yunani Akhmad
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the variables that affect residential real estate demand by millennials based on hedonic demand functions.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of analysis in this study is robust regression ordinary least square using cross-sectional data from Indonesian Family Survey Wave 5 (IFLS-5) with a sample of 1.672 households of male married millennials.

Findings

The aspect of millennial generation characteristics is significant on the variables of income, number of dependents, education level and presence of millennial generation in urban and rural areas. While the variable of age of the millennial generation does not significantly influence expenditure for residential real estate. All aspects of the millennial generation’s spending behavior consisting of spending on food consumption, education, health, telephone and internet, transportation, recreation and the variable of the presence of urban and rural millennial generations significantly affect the spending of the millennial generation for residential real estate with the assumption of ceteris paribus.

Research limitations/implications

The implication of this study brings together the characteristics of the millennial generation with the aspect of behavior to expenditure for residential real estate assets relevant to the needs of the housing microfinance market.

Practical implications

In this study, it was found that the character and behavior of the millennial generation towards spending on residential real estate can be factors in determining policies by both the government and financial institutions that will serve the millennial generation through housing microfinance.

Social implications

This implication study, it was found that the needs and behavior of the millennial generation towards the demand for housing microfinance principles according to their character and behavior.

Originality/value

The difference between the results of this study and previous studies is possible because previous studies did not differentiate the unit of analysis for the millennial generation.
Virtual reality supported trainings for lean education: conceptualization, design and evaluation of competency-oriented teaching-learning environments
Authors: Riemann Thomas , Metternich Joachim
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this approach is to structure and facilitate the development of competency-oriented virtual training scenarios. This approach should help to develop reproducible results.

Design/methodology/approach

This publication presents a procedure for the structured, competency-oriented design of virtual teaching–learning environments. The procedure is based on the competency-oriented design of learning factories according to Tisch and consists of a total of three phases with various substeps. The different steps of the method are presented by means of an application example and the generated scenario is evaluated by means of a competency measurement according to Glass regarding its suitability for teaching competencies.

Findings

In addition to an application example that introduces the approach, this publication presents concrete results from the research project. In addition to a review of the opportunities and limitations of virtual reality (VR) in continuing education, these also refer to possible, realizable requirements for the use of VR. In addition, results on the suitability of VR learning environments for competency development in the context of value streaming mapping training are presented.

Originality/value

This approach represents a substantial extension of existing concepts for the design of physical learning factory training for lean topics. It can help learning factory operators and other training providers to design competency- and user-oriented virtual training. VR offers a multitude of potentials in this context, but these can only be exploited through conscientious use of the technology.
Latin American refugee youth in the United States: migration-related trauma exposure and implications for policy and practice
Authors: King V. Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the diversity of trauma Latin American (LA) refugee children in the USA experience across migration. It proposes ways that practitioners and policymakers can use knowledge from existing research to improve services and respect the rights of LA children.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper used a systematic review approach supplemented by additional sources to capture current representative knowledge. The paper uses staged migration and social ecological approaches for organization and discussion.

Findings

LA children have historically and contemporarily been exposed to more instances and types of trauma than their non-immigrant US counterparts. LA refugee children have a high need for international protection that is not reflected in the US policy.

Practical implications

Knowledge of possible trauma types among LA children can inform practitioner expectations and prepare them for care management. Officers must be well-trained in both potential trauma-related content and geographic context and have excellent interviewing skills. Lawyers, advocates and judges – the latter who create precedent – play a critical role in children’s cases and should have access to high-quality, geographically and historically relevant and contemporary information.

Social implications

The levels of violence in Latin America; the rate of child trauma; and the spike in unaccompanied children at the border compels the USA to reassess their positions on (a) refugee caps, (b) asylum screenings and (c) interception-related policies, protocol and practice.

Originality/value

This the first review to specifically focus on empirical trauma research specific to the LA child’s migration experience.
Explanatory structural equation model validation for territorial branding tourism policies
Authors: Méndez Prada Martha Cecilia , López Barraza Lydia María , Ziritt Trejo Gertrudis Yackeline , Ruiz Escorcia Rafael Roberto
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to validate an explanatory structural equation model for the evaluation of territorial branding tourism policies for local development and its application in cities in Mexico and Colombia.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample was calculated for finite populations of residents in the municipalities of Girón Santander, Colombia and El Fuerte, Sinaloa, Mexico, of 125 individuals for each locality, in total, 250 individuals. The study includes three latent variables, which in turn constitute three models (Model 1: State and Public Policies; Model 2: Territorial Brand for Development; Model 3: Local Development) to explain the multiple relationships with the observable variables. The results were analyzed by using IBM AMOS software (SPSSS Extension), using the maximum likelihood method.

Findings

Multiple relationships between the variables were evident, with excellent to acceptable indices. Model 1 (CMIN/DF = 1.742; CFI = 0.948; RMSEA = 0.057; PClose = 0.059) Model 2 (CMIN/DF = 1.528; CFI = 0.921; RMSEA = 0.073; PClose = 0.044). Model 3 (CMIN/DF = 3.210; CFI = 0.951); RMSEA = 0.057; PClose = 0.049), obtaining an adequate fit. The correlations between the variables reveal that the tourism policy is weak in both contexts, in its implementation in terms of the participation of residents in decision-making with respect to the management of the policy and in the lack of education and training of collaborators/workers to provide a better tourism service.

Practical implications

It was possible to establish that the measurement model is applicable in the municipalities of the two countries by considering the similarities in tourism policies, as well as the differences (social, cultural, political and economic), but with a need for explicit articulation between the pillars of the territorial brand with the legitimized public policy.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the generation of new knowledge in relation to territorial branding from residents, within the framework of a tourism policy, allowing to establish its limitations in terms of implementation.
Improved A* algorithm and model predictive control- based path planning and tracking framework for hexapod robots
Authors: Wang Zelin , Gao Feng , Zhao Yue , Yin Yunpeng , Wang Liangyu
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Path planning is a fundamental and significant issue in robotics research, especially for the legged robots, since it is the core technology for robots to complete complex tasks such as autonomous navigation and exploration. The purpose of this paper is to propose a path planning and tracking framework for the autonomous navigation of hexapod robots.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a hexapod robot called Hexapod-Mini is briefly introduced. Then a path planning algorithm based on improved A* is proposed, which introduces the artificial potential field (APF) factor into the evaluation function to generate a safe and collision-free initial path. Then we apply a turning point optimization based on the greedy algorithm, which optimizes the number of turns of the path. And a fast-turning trajectory for hexapod robot is proposed, which is applied to path smoothing. Besides, a model predictive control-based motion tracking controller is used for path tracking.

Findings

The simulation and experiment results show that the framework can generate a safe, fast, collision-free and smooth path, and the author’s Hexapod robot can effectively track the path that demonstrates the performance of the framework.

Originality/value

The work presented a framework for autonomous path planning and tracking of hexapod robots. This new approach overcomes the disadvantages of the traditional path planning approach, such as lack of security, insufficient smoothness and an excessive number of turns. And the proposed method has been successfully applied to an actual hexapod robot.
A meta-analysis on entrepreneurial orientation in the export context
Authors: Hizarci Ayça Kübra , Bıçakcıoğlu-Peynirci Nilay , İpek İlayda
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Building on the lack of adequate attention devoted to encapsulating the research on entrepreneurial orientation (EO) in the export context, the main objective of this study is to quantitatively aggregate the empirical evidence as to the effect of export EO on its consequences. In addition, this meta-analytic study aims at exploring the act of possible contextual and measurement moderators in the proposed conceptual framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a meta-analytic approach, prior empirical results were synthesized by 71 effects gathered from 5,815 firms.

Findings

The meta-analytic findings spotlight that export EO exerts the biggest influence on new product performance, and the magnitude of the relationship between export EO and its consequences is dependent upon cultural context, country’s economic development level, industry type and measurement treatment.

Originality/value

This meta-analysis is expected to provide fresh insights into the export EO literature by compiling previous empirical evidence on the export EO phenomenon, which has remained relatively untouched.
Influencing millennials to embrace sustainable fashion in an emerging market: a modified brand avoidance model perspective
Authors: Muposhi Asphat , Chuchu Tinashe
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study applies the modified brand avoidance model to examine factors that influence sustainable fashion avoidance behaviour among millennial shoppers in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

A positivistic approach and a web-based online survey were employed to collect cross-sectional data from 423 millennial fashion shoppers. Standard multiple regression analysis was used to test proposed hypotheses.

Findings

Unmet expectations, materialism and symbolic incongruence emerged as major predictors of millennials' intention to avoid sustainable fashion. Sustainable fashion avoidance intention was found to have a positive effect on sustainable fashion avoidance behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

This study relied on self-reported data collected from millennial shoppers. Future studies may improve the generalizability of this study's results by conducting a comparative study with other cohorts such as baby boomers and Generation X who espouse different shopping values. Future studies may benefit from the use of longitudinal data in order to understand how millennial shoppers relate to sustainable fashion as it evolves.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest the importance of developing value propositions that align sustainable fashion with cultural, personality and symbolic cues valued by millennial shoppers. Consumer education on the benefits of sustainable fashion is recommended as a long-term behavioural change strategy.

Social implications

The purchase behaviour of sustainable fashion should be encouraged as it enhances environmental sustainability including safeguarding the livelihoods of future generations.

Originality/value

This study contributes to literature on sustainable fashion avoidance behaviour. This is one of the pioneering studies to empirically examine the influence of unmet expectations, symbolic incongruence and ideological incompatibility in the context of an emerging market, such as South Africa.
Benchmarking of COVID-19 testing facilities: a case in the Philippines
Authors: Velos Severina Pocong , Go Marivel , Dayupay Johnry , Golbin Rodolfo Jr , Cababat Feliciana , Quiñanola Hazna , Abellana Dharyll Prince Mariscal
Published: August 2022

Purpose

With the aggressive movement towards testing for COVID-19 across the globe, this study aims to shed light on how testing facilities perform in an operational perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

With 102 testing facilities in the Philippines, the relative efficiencies of each facility are quantified using a data envelopment analysis technique. Afterwards, a best-worst method was conducted to assign priority weights to each testing facility.

Findings

Results show that the proposed approach effectively prioritizes testing facilities that most likely have high utilization.

Research limitations/implications

The findings in this study would be significant to the literature in a number of respects. For one, it reveals results that would stimulate the interest among scholars in a wide variety of disciplines such as management, data mining, policymaking, decision science and epidemiology, among others.

Originality/value

This study differs from previous works in a number of respects, particularly, in that to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the relative efficiencies of COVID-19 testing facilities.
The mediation role of intentional organizational forgetting in the relationship between organizational learning and innovation management
Authors: Ayduğ Damla , Ağaoğlu Esmahan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the mediation role of intentional organizational forgetting in the relationship between organizational learning and innovation management according to faculty members’ opinions.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was designed as a relational survey model. The population of the study consisted of faculty members who work at X University, Y University and Z University during 2019–2020 academic year. The sample consisted of 524 faculty members who were selected by using stratified sample technique from the population. Data of the study was collected with organizational learning scale, organizational forgetting scale and innovation management scale. In the analysis of the research data, descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, structural equation modeling and bootstrapping method were applied.

Findings

According to the results of the study, it was found statistically meaningful and positive relationships between organizational learning, innovation management and intentional forgetting in higher education institutions with respect to faculty members’ opinions. Moreover, according to the results of structural equation modeling, it was found that intentional forgetting had a partial mediating effect in the relationship between organizational learning and innovation management. Finally, according to the results of bootstrapping analysis, indirect effects were found to be significant.

Originality/value

Based on research results, it may be recommended for practitioners that higher education institutions implement both organizational learning processes and intentional forgetting processes effectively at the same time to become a more innovative organization.
Capacity prediction of straight and inclined slender concrete-filled double-skin tubular columns
Authors: Allouzi Rabab , Abu-Shamah Awni , Alkloub Amer
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Concrete-filled double-skin tubular (CFDST) columns have been gaining significant attention since these columns proved to be more efficient compared to concrete-filled steel-tubular (CFST) columns. This paper presents a tool to design slender CFDST columns with/without inclination.

Design/methodology/approach

First, 3D nonlinear finite element (FE) models of twenty-two straight CFDST columns are calibrated and it is found that FE results are in good agreement with the experimental outcomes. This is validated based on available experimental data. Subsequently, a parametric study is conducted by adjusting each calibrated FE model to account for three different angles of inclination. These models are used to quantify the effective length factor of these inclined columns.

Findings

It is found that FE results are in good agreement with the experimental outcomes. An equation is developed in this paper to calculate the characteristic concrete compressive strength for the design of straight CFDST columns. In addition, an equation is presented for engineering practice to calculate the effective length factor at different inclination angles and slenderness ratios to design CFDST columns. The predicted load capacity compares well with the experimental results of straight columns and FE results of inclined columns.

Originality/value

Advancement in the structural design procedure is required as a response to the continuous innovations in architectural design. Designers might introduce an inclination in columns in buildings or bridges, and there are no available guidelines to design them.
Social TV and audience engagement: investigating the relationship between Facebook engagement and TV performance of The Voice (USA)
Authors: Tsai Hsin-Yi Sandy , Lin Hui-Fei
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine entertainment TV shows' social media accounts to theoretically and practically explore the relationship between social media engagement and the performance (represented by ratings) of such shows.

Design/methodology/approach

By using the data of a popular TV show in the USA, The Voice, the present study examined the messages on the Facebook fan page of the show and how these messages correlated with the ratings of the show. Social media usage data in the course of three seasons (Seasons 10–12, 82 episodes in total) were collected from Facebook (N = 1,192,722 messages). Both regression and sentiment analysis were performed.

Findings

Overall, the findings revealed positive relationships of TV show ratings with both passive social media engagement (Facebook likes) and the number of official posts. However, active social media engagement was not positively related to show ratings.

Originality/value

By enhancing understanding of audience engagement with social media, our research extends knowledge related to the nature and development of viewer involvement with entertainment across different media platforms. Our results also help clarify how interpersonal communication (social media comments) and mass communication (TV programs) intersect. Practically, the findings could be applied to improve the interaction of TV audiences with show content, provide insights into the future of social TV development and inform decision-making amongst TV industry professionals.
Study the adsorption performance of methylene blue by modified UV-curable hydrogel/chitosan nanocomposite: isotherm and kinetics approach
Authors: Yousefi-Limaee Nargess , Shirkavand Hadavand Behzad , Rahmani Zahra
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Methylene blue (MB) is classified as a cationic dye which is widely used as chemical indicator, coloring agent and biological stain. The discharge of this dye to the water streams is harmful to the human beings. For this reason, this study investigated the removal of MB from aqueous solution by hydrogel nanocomposite.

Design/methodology/approach

In experimental part, at first, ultraviolet (UV)-curable hydrogel/chitosan nanocomposite, which improves its elasticity by urethane acrylate, was synthesized and characterized by FTIR and SEM analysis. Afterward, the synthesized hydrogel nanocomposite was applied for the removal of MB and the influence of operational condition including nanocomposite loading, dye concentration, contact time and pH of solution was specified. Moreover, isotherm studies as well as kinetics survey were performed.

Findings

Langmuir, Freundlich, Brunauer, Emmett and Teller and Tempkin adsorption isotherms were assessed for the analysis of experimental data indicating the Freundlich isotherm was the best fitted one. The adsorption kinetics data was examined indicating the adsorption kinetics appropriate to pseudo-second-order kinetics model.

Originality/value

The predominant water absorption property of the UV-curable hydrogel/chitosan nanocomposite to 8.5 steps and outstanding adsorption capacity for the elimination of MB on hydrogel nanocomposite subscribed that the synthesized hydrogel could be a favorable adsorbent for simultaneous absorption of water and removal of cationic dyes.