bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immune Correlates Analysis of the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 Vaccine Efficacy Trial
Authors: Gilbert Peter B. , Montefiori David C. , McDermott Adrian , Fong Youyi , Benkeser David , Deng Weiping , Zhou Honghong , Houchens Christopher R. , Martins Karen , Jayashankar Lakshmi , Castellino Flora , Flach Britta , Lin Bob C. , O’Connell Sarah , McDanal Charlene , Eaton Amanda , Sarzotti-Kelsoe Marcella , Lu Yiwen , Yu Chenchen , Borate Bhavesh , van der Laan Lars W. P. , Hejazi Nima , Huynh Chuong , Miller Jacqueline , El Sahly Hana M. , Baden Lindsey R. , Baron Mira , De La Cruz Luis , Gay Cynthia , Kalams Spyros , Kelley Colleen F. , Kutner Mark , Andrasik Michele P. , Kublin James G. , Corey Lawrence , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Carpp Lindsay N. , Pajon Rolando , Follmann Dean , Donis Ruben O. , Koup Richard A.
Published: August 2021

Background

In the Coronavirus Efficacy (COVE) trial, estimated mRNA-1273 vaccine efficacy against coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) was 94%. SARS-CoV-2 antibody measurements were assessed as correlates of COVID-19 risk and as correlates of protection.

Methods

Through case-cohort sampling, participants were selected for measurement of four serum antibody markers at Day 1 (first dose), Day 29 (second dose), and Day 57: IgG binding antibodies (bAbs) to Spike, bAbs to Spike receptor-binding domain (RBD), and 50% and 80% inhibitory dilution pseudovirus neutralizing antibody titers calibrated to the WHO International Standard (cID50 and cID80). Participants with no evidence of previous SARS-CoV-2 infection were included. Cox regression assessed in vaccine recipients the association of each Day 29 or 57 serologic marker with COVID-19 through 126 or 100 days of follow-up, respectively, adjusting for risk factors.

Results

Day 57 Spike IgG, RBD IgG, cID50, and cID80 neutralization levels were each inversely correlated with risk of COVID-19: hazard ratios 0.66 (95% CI 0.50, 0.88; p=0.005); 0.57 (0.40, 0.82; p=0.002); 0.42 (0.27, 0.65; p<0.001); 0.35 (0.20, 0.61; p<0.001) per 10-fold increase in marker level, respectively, multiplicity adjusted P-values 0.003-0.010. Results were similar for Day 29 markers (multiplicity adjusted P-values <0.001-0.003). For vaccine recipients with Day 57 reciprocal cID50 neutralization titers that were undetectable (<2.42), 100, or 1000, respectively, cumulative incidence of COVID-19 through 100 days post Day 57 was 0.030 (0.010, 0.093), 0.0056 (0.0039, 0.0080), and 0.0023 (0.0013, 0.0036). For vaccine recipients at these titer levels, respectively, vaccine efficacy was 50.8% (−51.2, 83.0%), 90.7% (86.7, 93.6%), and 96.1% (94.0, 97.8%). Causal mediation analysis estimated that the proportion of vaccine efficacy mediated through Day 29 cID50 titer was 68.5% (58.5, 78.4%).

Conclusions

Binding and neutralizing antibodies correlated with COVID-19 risk and vaccine efficacy and likely have utility in predicting mRNA-1273 vaccine efficacy against COVID-19.

Trial registration number

COVEClinicalTrials.govnumber,NCT04470427
Comparing Sources of Mobility for Modelling the Epidemic Spread of Zika Virus in Colombia
Authors: Perrotta Daniela , Frias-Martinez Enrique , Piontti Ana Pastore y , Zhang Qian , Luengo-Oroz Miguel , Paolotti Daniela , Tizzoni Michele , Vespignani Alessandro
Published: August 2021

Timely, accurate, and comparative data on human mobility is of paramount importance for epidemic preparedness and response, but generally not available or easily accessible. Mobile phone metadata, typically in the form of Call Detail Records (CDRs), represents a powerful source of information on human movements at an unprecedented scale. In this work, we investigate the potential benefits of harnessing aggregated CDR-derived mobility to predict the 2015-2016 Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak in Colombia, when compared to other traditional data sources. To simulate the spread of ZIKV at sub-national level in Colombia, we employ a stochastic metapopulation epidemic model for vector-borne disease. Our model integrates detailed data on the key drivers of ZIKV spread, including the spatial heterogeneity of the mosquito abundance, and the exposure of the population to the virus due to environmental and socio-economic factors. Given the same modelling settings (i.e. initial conditions and epidemiological parameters), we perform in-silico simulations for each mobility network and assess their ability in reproducing the local outbreak as reported by the official surveillance data. We assess the performance of our epidemic modelling approach in capturing the ZIKV outbreak both nationally and sub-nationally. Our model estimates are strongly correlated with the surveillance data at the country level (Pearson’sr=0.92 for the CDR-informed network). Moreover, we found strong performance of the model estimates generated by the CDR-informed mobility network in reproducing the local outbreak observed at the sub-national level. Compared to the CDR-informed network, the performance of the other mobility networks is either comparatively similar or substantially lower, with no added value in predicting the local epidemic. This suggests that mobile phone data capture a better picture of human mobility patterns. This work contributes to the ongoing discussion on the value of aggregated mobility estimates from CDRs data that, with appropriate data protection and privacy safeguards, can be used for social impact applications and humanitarian action.
In-House, Rapid, and Low-Cost SARS-CoV-2 Spike Gene Sequencing Protocol to Identify Variants of Concern Using Sanger Sequencing
Authors: Alhamlan Fatimah S. , Bakheet Dana M. , Bohol Marie F. , Alsanea Madain S. , Alahideb Basma M. , Alhadeq Faten M. , Alsuwairi Feda A. , Al-Abdulkareem Maha , Asiri Mohamed S. , Almaghrabi Reem S. , Altamimi Sarah A. , Mutabagani Maysoon S. , Althawadi Sahar I. , Alqahtani Ahmed A.
Published: August 2021

Background

The need for active genomic sequencing surveillance to rapidly identify circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) is critical. However, increased global demand has led to a shortage of commercial SARS-CoV-2 sequencing kits, and not every country has the technological capability or the funds for high-throughput sequencing platforms. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and validate a rapid, cost-efficient genome sequencing protocol that uses supplies, equipment, and methodologic expertise available in standard molecular or diagnostic laboratories to identify circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern.

Methods

Sets of primers flanking the SARS-CoV-2 spike gene were designed using SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences retrieved from the Global Initiative on Sharing Avian Influenza Data (GISAID) Database and synthesized in-house. Primer specificity and final sequences were verified using online prediction analyses with BLAST. The primers were validated using 282 nasopharyngeal samples collected from patients assessed as positive for SARS-CoV-2 at the diagnostic laboratory of the hospital. The patient samples were subjected to RNA extraction followed by cDNA synthesis, conventional polymerase chain reaction, and Sanger sequencing. Protocol specificity was confirmed by comparing these results with SARS-CoV-2 whole genome sequencing of the same samples.

Results

Sanger sequencing using the newly designed primers and next-generation whole genome sequencing of 282 patient samples indicated identical VOCs results: 123 samples contained the alpha variant (B.1.1.7); 78, beta (B.1.351), 0, gamma (P.1), and 13, delta (B.1.617.2). The remaining samples were not 100% identical to the reference genome; however, 99.97% identity indicated that there was minimal variation as the virus spread throughout the nation. Only four samples had poor sequence quality by Sanger sequencing owing to a low RNA count (Ct value >38). Therefore, mutation calls were >98% accurate.

Conclusions

Sanger sequencing method using in-house primers is an alternative approach that can be used in facilities with existing equipment to mitigate limitations in high throughput supplies required to identify SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern during the COVID-19 pandemic. This protocol is easily adaptable for detection of emerging variants.
Mixed ancestry analysis of whole-genome sequencing identifies TBX5 and PTK7 as susceptibility genes for posterior urethral valves
Authors: Chan Melanie MY , Sadeghi-Alavijeh Omid , Lopes Filipa M , Hilger Alina C , Stanescu Horia C , Voinescu Catalin D , Beaman Glenda M , Newman William G , Zaniew Marcin , Weber Stefanie , Connolly John O , Wood Dan , Stuckey Alexander , Kousathanas Athanasios ,   Genomics England Research Consortium, Kleta Robert , Woolf Adrian S , Bockenhauer Detlef , Levine Adam P , Gale Daniel P
Published: August 2021

Posterior urethral valves (PUV) are the commonest cause of end-stage renal disease in children, but the genetic architecture of this rare disorder remains largely unknown. We analyzed whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data from 132 unrelated PUV cases and 23,727 controls of mixed ancestry and identified statistically significant associations with common variants at 12q24.21 (P=7.8x10-12; OR 0.4) and rare variants at 6p21.1 (P=2x10-8; OR 7.2), that were replicated in an independent European cohort. Bayesian fine mapping and functional annotation mapped these loci to the transcription factor TBX5 and planar cell polarity gene PTK7, respectively, with the encoded proteins detected in the normal human developing urinary tract. These findings represent the first known genetic associations of PUV, providing novel insights into the underlying biology of this poorly understood disorder and demonstrate that a mixed ancestry WGS approach can increase power for disease locus discovery and facilitate fine-mapping of causal variants.
Prevalence of heterotrophic methylmercury detoxifying bacteria across oceanic regions
Authors: Sanz-Sáez Isabel , Pereira García Carla , Bravo Andrea G. , Trujillo Laura , Pla i Ferriol Martí , Capilla Miguel , Sánchez Pablo , Rodríguez Martín-Doimeadios Rosa del Carmen , Acinas Silvia G. , Sánchez Olga
Published: August 2021

Microbial reduction of inorganic divalent mercury (Hg2+) and methylmercury (MeHg) demethylation is performed by themeroperon, specifically bymerAandmerBgenes respectively, but little is known about the mercury tolerance capacity of marine microorganisms and its prevalence in the global ocean. Here, we explored the distribution of these genes in 290 marine heterotrophic bacteria (AlteromonasandMarinobacterspp.) isolated from different oceanographic regions and depths, and assessed their tolerance to diverse concentrations of Hg2+and MeHg. About 25% of the isolates presentedmerAand only 8.9% presented bothmerABgenes, including the strain ISS312 that exhibited the highest tolerance capacity and a degradation efficiency of 98.2% in 24 h. Fragment recruitment analyses of ISS312 genome against microbial metagenomes indicated an extensive distribution across the global bathypelagic ocean. Our findings highlighted that mercury resistance genes are widely distributed in a non-highly polluted environment such as the pelagic marine environment, and that degradation of the neurotoxic MeHg can be performed through the ocean water column by some heterotrophic bacteria at high efficiency with important implications in the biogeochemical cycle of mercury and potentially for the environment and human health.

Teaser

Active mercury resistance genes detected in marine cultured bacteria are widely distributed in the ocean including the bathypelagic zone.
Patient-derived triple negative breast cancer organoids provide robust model systems that recapitulate tumor intrinsic characteristics
Authors: Bhatia Sonam , Kramer Melissa , Russo Suzanne , Naik Payal , Arun Gayatri , Brophy Kyle , Andrews Peter , Fan Cheng , Perou Charles M. , Preall Jonathan , Ha Taehoon , Plenker Dennis , Tuveson David A. , Rishi Arvind , Wilkinson J Erby , McCombie W. Richard , Kostroff Karen , Spector David L.
Published: August 2021

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer with poor patient outcomes, and an unmet clinical need for targeted therapies and better model systems. Here, we developed and comprehensively characterized a diverse biobank of normal and breast cancer patient-derived organoids (PDOs) with a focus on TNBCs. PDOs recapitulated patient tumor intrinsic properties and a subset of PDOs can be propagated for long-term culture (LT-TNBCs). Single cell profiling of PDOs identified cell types and gene candidates affiliated with different aspects of cancer progression. The LT-TNBC organoids exhibit signatures of aggressive MYC-driven basal-like breast cancers and are largely comprised of luminal progenitor (LP)-like cells. The TNBC LP-like cells are distinct from normal LPs and exhibit hyperactivation of NOTCH and MYC signaling. Overall, our study validates TNBC PDOs as robust models for understanding breast cancer biology and progression, paving the way for personalized medicine and tailored treatment options.

Statement of Significance

A comprehensive analysis of TNBC patient-derived organoids is presented by genomic, transcriptomic, and in-vivo analyses, providing insights into cellular heterogeneity and mechanisms of tumorigenesis at the single cell level.
An Association Test of the Spatial Distribution of Rare Missense Variants within Protein Structures Improves Statistical Power of Sequencing Studies
Authors: Jin Bowen , Capra John A. , Benchek Penelope , Wheeler Nicholas , Naj Adam C. , Hamilton-Nelson Kara L. , Farrell John J. , Leung Yuk Yee , Kunkle Brian , Vadarajan Badri , Schellenberg Gerard D. , Mayeux Richard , Wang Li-san , Farrer Lindsay A. , Pericak-Vance Margaret A. , Martin Eden R. , Haines Jonathan L. , Crawford Dana C. , Bush William S.
Published: August 2021

Over 90% of variants are rare, and 50% of them are singletons in the Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project Whole Exome Sequencing (ADSP WES) data. However, either single variant tests or unit-based tests are limited in the statistical power to detect the association between rare variants and phenotypes. To best utilize rare variants and investigate their biological effect, we exam their association with phenotypes in the context of protein. We developed a protein structure-based approach, POKEMON (Protein Optimized Kernel Evaluation of Missense Nucleotides), which evaluates rare missense variants based on their spatial distribution on the protein rather than allele frequency. The hypothesis behind this is that the three-dimensional spatial distribution of variants within a protein structure provides functional context and improves the power of association tests. POKEMON identified four candidate genes from the ADSP WES data, namely two known Alzheimer’s disease (AD) genes (TREM2 and SORL) and two novel genes (DUSP18 and CSF1R). For known AD genes, the signal from the spatial cluster is stable even if we exclude known AD risk variants, indicating the presence of additional low frequency risk variants within these genes. DUSP18 has a cluster of variants primarily shared by case subjects around the ligand-binding domain, and this cluster is further validated in a replication dataset with a larger sample size. POKEMON is an open-source tool available at https://github.com/bushlab-genomics/POKEMON.
In-field capable loop-mediated isothermal amplification detection of fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda; Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) larvae using a rapid and simple crude extraction technique
Authors: Congdon B. S. , Webster C.G. , Severtson D. , Spafford H.
Published: August 2021

Fall armyworm,Spodoptera frugiperda(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an economically important pest worldwide and has recently been identified in Australia. Morphological identification ofS. frugiperdaat early larval stages can be difficult often requiring expert microscopy analysis. Rapid and accurate in-field diagnosis is vital for management decision support and there are no tools currently available for this purpose. In this study, a sensitive, specific and in-field capable loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed to detectS. frugiperdalarvae. A primer set based on a highly conserved region of theS. frugiperdacytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene provided detection within 30 min from both total DNA and crude extractions. The crude extraction technique of crushing 10 mg ofS. frugiperdamaterial in 50 μL ddH20 and further diluting the homogenate in ddH20 is rapid, simple and does not require heat blocks, centrifuges or special buffers increasing its utility as a field-based technique. The primer set detected as little as 24 pg ofS. frugiperdaDNA and did not cross-react with any other of the lepidopteran species tested that are easily confused withS. frugiperdain Australia. Therefore, this assay could be used in-field to correctly identify the presence ofS. frugiperdaand thereby greatly assist with timely management decisions.
Fingolimod Regulates BDNF-AS and HOTAIR Expression in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Khani-Habibabadi Fatemeh , Sahraian Mohammad Ali , Javan Mohammad , Behmanesh Mehrdad
Published: August 2021

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a member of the neurotrophin family, is expressed by neurons and glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). In the CNS, BDNF is responsible for neuroprotection and neurogenesis. Recent studies showed that the Fingolimod, the first oral medicine for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RR-MS), induces BDNF expression. Besides, It is well demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have a pivotal role in gene regulation. This study is mainly focused on how Fingolimod treatment plays role in BDNF regulation in coordination with lncRNAs. An in-silico study was performed to predict BDNF-regulatory candidate lncRNAs using online tools. Then, the expression of BDNF-related lncRNAs was analyzed in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) at baseline and after three months of Fingolimod treatment. Based on in silico results, two lncRNAs with potential regulatory functions on the BDNF including, Metastasis Associated Lung Adenocarcinoma Transcript 1 (MALAT1) and HOX Transcript Antisense RNA (HOTAIR), and also natural antisense of BDNF were selected. Fingolimod treatment increased the expression of HOTAIR lncRNA; however, the BDNF antisense RNA (BDNF-AS) expression was reduced dramatically. Furthermore, the results indicate a positive correlation between HOTAIR and MALAT1 lncRNAs and BDNF. Also, after Fingolimod treatment, the patients’ EDSS scores were declined or remained unchanged, indicating disease hindrance by Fingolimod therapy. Altogether, fingolimod exerts protective roles in RRMS patients probably by the mediation of HOTIAR and BDNF-AS lncRNAs.
Synergism vs Additivity - Defining the Interactions between Common Disinfectants
Authors: Noel Daniel J. , Keevil C. William , Wilks Sandra A.
Published: August 2021

Many of the most common disinfectant and sanitizer products are formulations of multiple antimicrobial compounds. Products claiming to contain synergistic formulations are common, although there is often little supporting evidence. The antimicrobial interactions of all pairwise combinations of common disinfectants (benzalkonium chloride, didecyldimethylammonium chloride, polyhexamethylene biguanide, chlorocresol and bronopol) were classified via checkerboard and validated by time-kill analyses. Combinations were tested againstAcinetobacter baumanniiNCTC 12156,Enterococcus faecalisNCTC 13379,Klebsiella pneumoniaeNCTC 13443 andStaphylococcus aureusNCTC 13143. Synergistic interactions were only identified between cholorocresol with benzalkonium chloride, and chlorocresol with polyhexamethylene biguanide. Synergism was not ubiquitously demonstrated against all species tested and was on the borderline of the synergism threshold. These data demonstrate that synergism between disinfectants is uncommon and circumstantial. Most of the antimicrobial interactions tested were characterised as additive. We suggest that this is due to the broad, non-specific mechanisms associated with disinfectants not providing opportunity for the combined activities of these compounds to exceed the sum of their parts.

IMPORTANCE

The scarcity of observed synergistic interactions suggests that many disinfectant-based products may be misinterpreting combined mechanisms of interaction. We emphasise the need to correctly differentiate between additivity and synergism in antimicrobial formulations, as inappropriate classification may lead to unnecessary issues in the event of regulatory changes. Furthermore, we question the need to focus on synergism and disregard additivity when considering combinations of disinfectants, as the benefits that synergistic interactions provide are not necessarily relevant to the application of the final product.
Lessons learned from implementation of interferon-gamma release assay to screen for latent tuberculosis infection in a large multicenter observational cohort study in Brazil
Authors: Costa Allyson G. , Carvalho Brenda K.S. , Araújo-Pereira Mariana , Ibiapina Hiochelson N.S. , Spener-Gomes Renata , Souza Alexandra B. , Gomes-Silva Adriano , Andrade Alice M.S. , Silva Elisangela C. , Arriaga María B. , Benjamin Aline , Rocha Michael S. , Moreira Adriana S.R. , Oliveira Jamile G. , Figueiredo Marina C. , Turner Megan M. , Durovni Betina , Cavalcante Solange , Kritski Afranio L. , Rolla Valeria C. , Sterling Timothy R. , Andrade Bruno B. , Cordeiro-Santos Marcelo ,   the RePORT Brazil Consortium
Published: August 2021

Background

Interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) has emerged as a useful tool in identifying latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). This assay can be performed through testing platforms, such as QuantiFERON-TB Gold Plus (QFT®-Plus). This in vitro test has been incorporated by several guidelines worldwide and has recently been considered for the diagnosis of LTBI by the World Health Organization (WHO). The possibility of systematically implementing IGRAs such as QFT®-Plus in centers that perform LTBI screening has been accelerated by the decreased availability of tuberculin skin testing (TST) in several countries. Nevertheless, the process to implement IGRA testing in routine clinical care has many gaps.

Methods

The study utilized the expertise acquired by the laboratory teams of the Regional Prospective Observational Research in Tuberculosis (RePORT)-Brazil consortium during study protocol implementation of LTBI screening of TB close contacts.

Results

RePORT-Brazil includes clinical research sites from Brazilian cities and is the largest multicenter cohort of TB close contacts to date in the country. Operational and logistical challenges faced during IGRA implementation in all four study laboratories are described, as well as the solutions that were developed and led to the successful establishment of IGRA testing in RePORT-Brazil.

Conclusions

The problems identified and resolved in this study can assist laboratories implementing IGRAs, in addition to manufacturers of IGRAs providing effective technical support. This will facilitate the implementation of IGRA testing in countries with a high TB burden, such as Brazil.

Importance

The interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) has emerged as a useful tool in identifying persons with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Although the implementation of IGRAs is of utmost importance, to our knowledge, there is scarce information on identification of logistical and technical challenges of systematic screening of for LTBI on a large scale. Thus, the problems identified and resolved in this study can assist laboratories implementing IGRAs, in addition to manufacturers of IGRAs providing effective technical support. This will facilitate the implementation of IGRA testing in countries with a high TB burden, such as Brazil.
Hard X-ray nanoprobe scanner
Authors: Yamada Jumpei , Inoue Ichiro , Osaka Taito , Inoue Takato , Matsuyama Satoshi , Yamauchi Kazuto , Yabashi Makina
Published: August 2021

X-ray scientists are continually striving to improve the quality of X-ray microscopy, due to the fact that the information obtained from X-ray microscopy of materials can be complementary to that obtained from optical and electron microscopes. In contrast to the ease with which one can deflect electron beams, the relative difficulty to deflect X-ray has constrained the development of scanning X-ray microscopes (SXMs) based on a scan of an X-ray small probe. This restriction has caused severe complications that hinder progress toward achieving ultimate resolution. Here, a simple and innovative method for constructing an SXM equipped with a nanoprobe scanner is proposed. The nanoprobe scanner combines X-ray prisms and advanced Kirkpatrick–Baez focusing mirrors. By rotating the prisms on the order of degrees, X-ray probe scanning with single-nanometre accuracy can be easily achieved. The validity of the concept was verified by acquiring an SXM image of a test pattern at a photon energy of 10 keV, where 50 nm line-and-space structures were resolved. This method is readily applicable to an SXM with a single-nanometre resolution and will assist effective utilization of increasing brightness of fourth-generation synchrotron radiation sources.
Crystal structures of 2-[3,5-bis(bromomethyl)-2,4,6-triethylbenzyl]isoindoline-1,3-dione and 2-{5-(bromomethyl)-3-[(1,3-dioxoisoindolin-2-yl)methyl]-2,4,6-triethylbenzyl}isoindoline-1,3-dione
Authors: Stapf Manuel , Leibiger Betty , Schwarzer Anke , Mazik Monika
Published: August 2021

The title compounds, C23H25Br2NO2 (1) and C31H29BrN2O4 (2), crystallize in the space group P21/n with two (1-A and 1-B) and one molecules, respectively, in the asymmetric unit of the cell. The molecular conformation of these compounds is stabilized by intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...N or C—H...π interactions. The crystal structure of 1 features a relatively strong Br...O=C halogen bond, which is not observed in the case of 2. Both crystal structures are characterized by the presence of C—H...Br hydrogen bonds and numerous intermolecular C—H...O hydrogen-bonding interactions.
Emotions, moods and hyperreality: social media and the stock market during the first phase of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lazzini Arianna , Lazzini Simone , Balluchi Federica , Mazza Marco
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to expand the emerging literature on COVID-19 and the financial markets by searching for a relationship between the uncertainty of the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic experienced through social media and the extreme volatility of the Italian stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze the relationship between social media and stock market trends during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic through the lens of social theory and Baudrillard's simulacra and hyperreality theory. The authors conducted the data analysis in two phases: the emotional and Granger correlation analysis by using the KPI6 software to analyze 3,275,588 tweets for the predominant emotion on each day and observe its relationship with the stock market.

Findings

The research results show a significant Granger causality relation between tweets on a particular day and the closing price of the FTSE MIB during the first phase of the COVID-19 epidemic. The results highlight a strong relationship between social media hyperreality and the real world. The study confirms the role of social media in predicting stock market volatility.

Research limitations/implications

The findings have theoretical and practical implications as they reveal the relevance of social media in our society and its relationship with businesses and economies. In an emergency, social media, as an expression of users' feelings and emotions, can generate a state of hyperreality that is strong correlated with reality. Since social media allows users to publish and share messages without any filter and mediation, the hyperreality generated is affected by highly subjective elements.

Originality/value

This research is different from the previous ones on the same topic because unlike previous studies, conducted under normal or simulated scenarios, this study is focused on the first phase of an unpredictable and unforeseen emergency event: the COVID-19 pandemic. This research adopts a multidisciplinary approach and integrates previous studies on the economic and financial effects generated by social media by applying well-known theories to a new and unexplored context. The study reveals the significant impact generated by social media on stock markets during a global pandemic.
“It’s selling like hotcakes”: deconstructing social media influencer marketing in long-form video content on youtube via social influence heuristics
Authors: Rohde Paul , Mau Gunnar
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the ability of the social influence heuristics framework to capture skillful and creative social media influencer (SMI) marketing in long-form video content on YouTube for influencer-owned brands and products.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical lens was a framework of seven evidence-based social influence heuristics (reciprocity, social proof, consistency, scarcity, liking, authority and unity). For the methodological lens, a qualitative case study approach was applied to a purposeful sample of 6 SMIs and 15 videos on YouTube.

Findings

The evidence shows that self-promotional influencer marketing in long-form video content is relatable to all seven heuristics and shows signs of high elaboration, innovativeness and skillfulness.

Research limitations/implications

The study reveals that a heuristic-based account of self-promotional influencer marketing in long-form video content can greatly contribute to the understanding of how various well-established marketing concepts (e.g. source attractivity) might be expressed in real-world communications and behaviors. Based on this improved, in-depth understanding, current research efforts, such as experimental studies using one video with a more or less arbitrary influencer and pre-post measure, are advised to explore research questions via designs that account for the observed subtle and complex nature of real-world influencer marketing in long-form video content.

Practical implications

This structured account of skillful and creative marketing can be used as educational and instructive material for influencer marketing practitioners to enhance their creativity, for consumers to increase their marketing literacy and for policymakers to rethink policies for influencer marketing.

Originality/value

Prior research has created a body of knowledge on influencer marketing. However, a conceptual disconnect has hampered the advancement of the field. The social influence heuristics framework is a highly functional conceptual bridge that links the qualitative and quantitative evidence and will advance the understanding of influencer marketing more effectively.
Supply chain integration and export performance: the mediating role of supply chain performance
Authors: Abdallah Ayman Bahjat , Rawadiah Omar Mohammad , Al-Byati Walaa , Alhyari Salah
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of supply chain integration (SCI) in terms of supplier, customer and internal integration on supply chain performance (SCP) and export performance (EXP). The effect of SCP on EXP is also explored. This study further seeks to examine the mediating effect of SCP on the relationship between the types of SCI and EXP.

Design/methodology/approach

The population of this study consists of manufacturing companies in different industries in Jordan. Data were gathered using self-administered questionnaires; managers from 271 companies responded to the survey. The study constructs were assessed for validity and reliability, and it was ensured that acceptable levels of these tests were obtained. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

The findings showed that supplier and customer integration were not drivers of EXP, but internal integration positively impacted EXP. In addition, internal and customer integration positively affected SCP, while supplier integration did not. Also, SCP positively impacted EXP. Furthermore, customer integration and internal integration indirectly impacted EXP through SCP.

Practical implications

Manufacturers should establish both intra- and inter-organizational collaborations to improve their performance. Specifically, managers in developing countries need to pay substantial attention to internal integration, as it is the key antecedent of both SCP and EXP. Furthermore, managers must be aware of the essential role of customer integration in improving SCP and subsequently EXP. Therefore, they should make long-term plans to integrate and incorporate key customers. In addition, managers are advised to reconsider their current relationships with suppliers. By failing to take advantage of the valuable expected contribution of supplier integration, manufacturers may lose export opportunities to international competitors.

Originality/value

The present study addresses an evident gap in the available literature regarding the effect of SCI on EXP. It tests a comprehensive model underlining the role of SCP on the relationship between SCI types and EXP. This study is also valuable because it was conducted in a developing country. Generally, manufacturing companies in developing countries face more SC-related difficulties than those in developed countries; these challenges can limit the export abilities of manufacturers in developing countries. The study offers important implications for the managers of manufacturing companies to improve their SCP and, subsequently enhance their EXP.
Circular economy indicators and levels of innovation: an innovative systematic literature review
Authors: Kuzma Edson Luis , Sehnem Simone , Lopes de Sousa Jabbour Ana Beatriz , Campos Lucila M.S.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This article aims to analyze the specific indicators of the circular economy (CE) in terms of analytical aspects, scope and breadth of metrics and levels of innovation associated with CE.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was developed with a sample of 125 articles, extracted from Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Emerald, Google Scholar, Online Library, Sage, Springer, Taylor and Francis and JSTOR databases.

Findings

The results indicate the lack of integration of the social dimension and predominance of environmental indicators, lack of indicators for the meso level and concentration of metrics for the product level. Methodological criteria of validity and reliability for measurement studies are recommended, as well as paths and proposals for future research in the CE.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s limitations are linked to the content and method aspects. Although the search was performed in several databases, with a significant number of articles returned compared to other reviews of the topic, the possibilities are limited by the data source and the impossibility of a broader review. The theme is not yet consolidated and this affects the linearity of the revised results. As for the method, the analysis and coding in systematic reviews involve the authors’ capacity for exploration and cognition.

Practical implications

The article proposes six theoretical propositions and the theoretical framework that portrays the main findings of the study and questions to drive future research in the topic.

Social implications

The article points out opportunities for companies, universities and the government regarding the possibilities that can be explored to develop knowledge and practice about the field.

Originality/value

This research advances the CE literature by means of providing a review of the indicators, metrics and tools oriented toward the CE literature that contributes to the improvement and consolidation of the various researches in the field.
Discourses of fact-checking in Swedish news media
Authors: Juneström Amalia
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how contemporary fact-checking is discursively constructed in Swedish news media; this serves to gain insight into how this practice is understood in society.

Design/methodology/approach

A selection of texts on the topic of fact-checking published by two of Sweden’s largest morning newspapers is analyzed through the lens of Fairclough’s discourse theoretical framework.

Findings

Three key discourses of fact-checking were identified, each of which included multiple sub-discourses. First, a discourse that has been labeled as “the affirmative discourse,” representing fact-checking as something positive, was identified. This discourse embraces ideas about fact-checking as something that, for example, strengthens democracy. Second, a contrasting discourse that has been labeled “the adverse discourse” was identified. This discourse represents fact-checking as something precarious that, for example, poses a risk to democracy. Third, a discourse labeled “the agency discourse” was identified. This discourse conveys ideas on whose responsibility it is to conduct fact-checking.

Originality/value

A better understanding of the discursive construction of fact-checking provides insights into social practices pertaining to it and the expectations of its role in contemporary society. The results are relevant for journalists and professionals who engage in fact-checking and for others who have a particular interest in fact-checking, e.g. librarians and educators engaged in media and information literacy projects.
A multi-objective opposition-based barnacles mating optimization for image super resolution using hyper-Spectral images
Authors: Bhasha A. Valli , Reddy B.D. Venkatramana
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The problems of Super resolution are broadly discussed in diverse fields. Rather than the progression toward the super resolution models for real-time images, operating hyperspectral images still remains a challenging problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to develop the enhanced image super-resolution model using “optimized Non-negative Structured Sparse Representation (NSSR), Adaptive Discrete Wavelet Transform (ADWT), and Optimized Deep Convolutional Neural Network”. Once after converting the HR images into LR images, the NSSR images are generated by the optimized NSSR. Then the ADWT is used for generating the subbands of both NSSR and HRSB images. The residual image with this information is obtained by the optimized Deep CNN. All the improvements on the algorithms are done by the Opposition-based Barnacles Mating Optimization (O-BMO), with the objective of attaining the multi-objective function concerning the “Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), and Structural similarity (SSIM) index”. Extensive analysis on benchmark hyperspectral image datasets shows that the proposed model achieves superior performance over typical other existing super-resolution models.

Findings

From the analysis, the overall analysis of the suggested and the conventional super resolution models relies that the PSNR of the improved O-BMO-(NSSR+DWT+CNN) was 38.8% better than bicubic, 11% better than NSSR, 16.7% better than DWT+CNN, 1.3% better than NSSR+DWT+CNN, and 0.5% better than NSSR+FF-SHO-(DWT+CNN). Hence, it has been confirmed that the developed O-BMO-(NSSR+DWT+CNN) is performing well in converting LR images to HR images.

Originality/value

This paper adopts a latest optimization algorithm called O-BMO with optimized Non-negative Structured Sparse Representation (NSSR), Adaptive Discrete Wavelet Transform (ADWT) and Optimized Deep Convolutional Neural Network for developing the enhanced image super-resolution model. This is the first work that uses O-BMO-based Deep CNN for image super-resolution model enhancement.
Factors affecting BIM implementation in post-conflict low-income economies: the case of Afghanistan
Authors: Al-Mohammad Mohammad S. , Haron Ahmad Tarmizi , Aloko Mohammad Numan , Rahman Rahimi A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Rejecting building information modeling (BIM) can negatively impact the architectural, engineering and construction (AEC) industries. While BIM is trending globally, its implementation in post-conflict low-income economies is still limited. The purpose of this paper is to identify the critical factors for implementing BIM in a post-conflict low-income economy, using Afghanistan as a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identifies potential affecting factors for BIM implementation through reviewing existing literature and interviewing AEC professionals in Afghanistan. Then, the factors are inserted into a questionnaire survey and disseminated with Afghanistan’s AEC practitioners. The collected data was analyzed to determine the critical factors. Also, the underlying relationships between the critical factors were established through factor analysis.

Findings

A total of 11 critical factors are affecting BIM implementation in Afghanistan. From those, nine factors can be grouped into the following three components: technological, environmental and organizational. Two factors, “cost-benefit of implementing BIM” and “market demand for BIM,” are recurring in low- and middle-income economies. Conversely, the “presence of appropriate projects to implement BIM” is the unique critical factor for Afghanistan that might affect other post-conflict low-income economies.

Originality/value

This study focuses on affecting factors for BIM implementation in post-conflict low-income economies, using Afghanistan as a reference rather than other types of economies that have been widely studied.
Value co-creation in asset integrity and improvement portfolio: evidence from the Australian mining industry
Authors: Lawson Brenton , Statsenko Larissa , Shokri-Ghasabeh Morteza
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Adopting a qualitative research design and following a single case study research methodology 21 semi-structured interviews with asset integrity project managers (PM), project sponsors (PS) and members of the project management office (PMO) were conducted. These were complemented with company’s project management framework documents and tools and direct observation by the researcher’s observation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data on the value creation in the mining asset integrity and improvement project portfolio was collected through 21 interviews with PM, PS and members of the PMO and complemented by observational data and the analysis of the Australian mining company process documentation.

Findings

The study finds that establishing a culture of delivering value supported by functional governance is critical for effective value creation practice in asset integrity and improvement project portfolios. In addition, early engagement of the key stakeholders with clearly defined roles and utilisation of project value management artifacts, enables effective value delivery throughout the project lifecycle.

Originality/value

The research offers an empirically grounded framework to facilitate value creation throughout the project lifecycle in asset integrity and improvement project portfolios drawing on a benchmarking case of an Australian mining company.
An embezzler test for norms, standards and regulations
Authors: Cardao-Pito Tiago
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to address the question that economic standards, norms and regulations can possess weak spots that might be exploitable for the embezzlement of an organization’s assets with resultant material consequences in money laundering,tax evasion, fraud, corruption and other potential financial crimes.

Design/methodology/approach

The author’s methodological approach is to introduce and discuss a new logical-deductive test that the author names “embezzler test”. The author’s test investigates regulatory architectures from the perspective of someone attempting to divert assets from or to an organization. It appraises whether a potential embezzler could divert resources without being detected and sanctioned.

Findings

The embezzler test can be applied to a broad range of standards, norms and regulations.

Research limitations/implications

This new test can be improved and further calibrated in future research.

Practical implications

Researchers, regulators and law makers can use the new test to identify and eventually fix weak spots for embezzlement in norms, standards and regulations.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, such a test has never been formulated or applied before to identify weak spots for potential embezzlement in regulatory architectures.
Investigating the role of regulatory focus in apparel attribute prioritization
Authors: Hyun Jonghan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to utilize consumers' regulatory focus as a segmentation variable to understand how and why consumers shift their tendency to prioritize certain apparel attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

Six hypotheses are developed and then tested via two experiments. Self-administered online questionnaire is used to collect data from a total of 1,178 participants recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk. The collected data is analyzed using series of Chi-square tests and ANOVAs.

Findings

Results show that promotion-focused (prevention-focused)) consumers are not only more likely to prioritize apparel attributes that ensure the attainment of satisfaction (avoidance of dissatisfaction) but also attach higher monetary value to apparel products bearing such attributes.

Originality/value

Previous studies of apparel attribute prioritization utilized static segmentation variables such as age or gender despite the dynamic nature of attribute prioritization tendency. This study extends the literature by demonstrating the significance of consumers' regulatory focus – a dynamic segmentation variable that has not been studied in the current context.
Drivers of corporate voluntary disclosure: a systematic review
Authors: Zamil Izdihar Abdullah , Ramakrishnan Suresh , Jamal Noriza Mohd , Hatif Majeed Abdulhussein , Khatib Saleh F.A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a systematic and comprehensive review of the existing literature on the determinants of firms reporting practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a systematic method, the sample literature of 135 studies was collected from the Scopus database. These studies were evaluated in terms of the theoretical lenses applied in the literature, yearly trend, regional distribution, research settings and prior studies finding to provide some recommendations for further research.

Findings

The investigation revealed that the literature was more interested in the agency theory in investigating the drivers of voluntary reporting such as company size, age, leverage, liquidity, profitability, corporate governance and ownership structure. Although firm-specific determinants were the most examined in the previous studies, however, the result is still inconclusive. Also, limited work was found on the country-related factors, while internal audit impact has yet to be explored.

Originality/value

Being the first of its kind, this research provides a comprehensive review of the current research landscape on the drivers of environmental or social disclosure and highlights several interesting opportunities for future research.