bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hybrid boundary element-finite element method to solve the EEG forward problem
Authors: Dayarian Nasireh , Khadem Ali
Published: December 2021

This article presents a hybrid boundary element-finite element (BE-FE) method to solve the EEG forward problem and take advantages of both the boundary element method (BEM) and finite element method (FEM). Although realistic EEG forward problems with heterogeneous and anisotropic regions can be solved by FEM accurately, the FEM modeling of the brain with dipolar sources may lead to singularity. In contrast, the BEM can solve EEG forward problems with isotropic tissue regions and dipolar sources using a suitable integral formulation. This work utilizes both FEM and BEM strengths attained by dividing the regions into some homogeneous BE regions with sources and some heterogeneous and anisotropic FE regions. Furthermore, the BEM is applied for modeling the brain, including dipole sources and the FEM for other head layers. To validate the proposed method, inhomogeneous isotropic/anisotropic three- and four-layer spherical head models are studied. Moreover, a four-layer realistic head model is investigated. Results for six different dipole eccentricities and two different dipole orientations are computed using the BEM, FEM, and hybrid BE–FE method together with statistical analysis and the related error criteria are compared. The proposed method is a promising new approach for solving realistic EEG forward problems.
PTHrP Induces STAT5 Activation, Secretory Differentiation and Mammary Tumor Progression
Authors: Grinman Diego Y. , Boras-Granic Kata , Takyar Farzin M. , Dann Pamela , Hens Julie R. , Marmol Christina , Lee Jongwon , Choi Jungmin , Chodosh Lewis A. , Garcia Sola Martin E. , Wysolmerski John J.
Published: December 2021

Background

Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is required for embryonic breast development and has important functions during lactation, when it is produced by alveolar epithelial cells and secreted into the maternal circulation to mobilize skeletal calcium used for milk production. PTHrP is also produced by breast cancers and GWAS studies suggest that it influences breast cancer risk. However, the exact functions of PTHrP in breast cancer biology remain unsettled.

Methods

We developed a tetracyline-regulated, MMTV (mouse mammary tumor virus)-driven model of PTHrP overexpression in mammary epithelial cells (Tet-PTHrP mice) and bred these mice with the MMTV-PyMT (polyoma middle tumor-antigen) breast cancer model to analyze the impact of PTHrP overexpression on normal mammary gland biology and in breast cancer progression.

Results

Overexpression of PTHrP in luminal epithelial cells caused alveolar hyperplasia and secretory differentiation of the mammary epithelium with milk production. This was accompanied by activation of Stat5 and increased expression of E74-like factor-5 (Elf5). In MMTV-PyMT mice, overexpression of PTHrP (Tet-PTHrP;PyMT mice) shortened tumor latency and accelerated tumor growth, ultimately reducing overall survival. Tumors overproducing PTHrP also displayed increased expression of nuclear pSTAT5 and Elf5, increased expression of markers of secretory differentiation and milk constituents, and histologically resembled secretory carcinomas of the breast. Overexpression of PTHrP within cells isolated from tumors, but not PTHrP exogenously added to cell culture media, led to activation of STAT5 and milk protein gene expression. In addition, neither ablating the Type 1 PTH/PTHrP receptor (PTH1R) in epithelial cells or treating Tet-PTHrP;PyMT mice with an anti-PTH1R antibody prevented secretory differentiation or altered tumor latency. These data suggest that PTHrP acts in a cell-autonomous, intracrine manner. Finally, expression of PTHrP in human breast cancers is associated with expression of genes involved in milk production and STAT5 signaling.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that PTHrP promotes pathways leading to secretory differentiation and proliferation in both normal mammary epithelial cells and in breast tumor cells.
Simple and cost-effective SNP genotyping method for discriminating subpopulations of the fish pathogen, Nocardia seriolae
Authors: Le Cuong T. , Price Erin P. , Sarovich Derek S. , Nguyen Thu T.A , Vu-Khac Hung , Kurtböke Ipek , Knibb Wayne , Chen Shih-Chu , Katouli Mohammad
Published: December 2021

Nocardia seriolae has caused significant fish losses in Asia and the Americas in recent decades, including in Vietnam, which has witnessed devastating economic and social impacts due to this bacterial pathogen. Surveillance strategies are urgently needed to mitigate N. seriolae dissemination in Vietnamese aquaculture and mariculture industries. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) offers the highest level of resolution to discriminate closely related strains and to determine their putative origin and transmission routes. However, WGS is impractical for epidemiological investigations and pathogen surveillance due to its time-consuming and costly nature, putting this technology out-of-reach for many industry end-users. To overcome this issue, we targeted two previously characterised, phylogenetically informative single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in N. seriolae that accurately distinguish: i) Vietnamese from non-Vietnamese strains, and ii) the two Vietnamese subclades. Using the mismatch amplification mutation assay (MAMA) format, we developed assays that genotype strains based on differences in amplicon melting temperature (melt-MAMA) and size (agarose-MAMA). Our MAMA assays accurately genotyped strains both from culture and fish tissues at low cost, using either real-time (~AUD$1/per sample) or conventional (~AUD$0.50/per sample) PCR instrumentation. Our novel assays provide a rapid, reproducible, and cost-effective tool for routine genotyping of this pathogen, allowing faster identification and treatment of nocardiosis-effected permit fish within Vietnamese aquaculture/mariculture facilities, an essential step in mitigating N. seriolae-associated losses.
A versatile active learning workflow for optimization of genetic and metabolic networks
Authors: Pandi Amir , Diehl Christoph , Kharrazi Ali Yazdizadeh , Faure Léon , Scholz Scott A. , Nattermann Maren , Adam David , Chapin Nils , Foroughijabbari Yeganeh , Moritz Charles , Paczia Nicole , Cortina Niña Socorro , Faulon Jean-Loup , Erb Tobias J.
Published: December 2021

The study, engineering and application of biological networks require practical and efficient approaches. Current optimization efforts of these systems are often limited by wet lab labor and cost, as well as the lack of convenient, easily adoptable computational tools. Aimed at democratization and standardization, we describe METIS, a modular and versatile active machine learning workflow with a simple online interface for the optimization of biological target functions with minimal experimental datasets. We demonstrate our workflow for various applications, from simple to complex gene circuits and metabolic networks, including several cell-free transcription and translation systems, aLacI-based multi-level controller and a 27-variable synthetic CO2-fixation cycle (CETCH cycle). Using METIS, we could improve above systems between one and two orders of magnitude compared to their original setup with minimal experimental efforts. For the CETCH cycle, we explored the combinatorial space of ∼1025conditions with only 1,000 experiments to yield the most efficient CO2-fixation cascade described to date. Beyond optimization, our workflow also quantifies the relative importance of individual factors to the performance of a system. This allows to identify so far unknown interactions and bottlenecks in complex systems, which paves the way for their hypothesis-driven improvement, which we demonstrate for theLacImulti-level controller that we were able to improve by 34-fold after having identified resource competition as limiting factor. Overall, our workflow opens the way for convenient optimization and prototyping of genetic and metabolic networks with customizable adjustments according to user experience, experimental setup, and laboratory facilities.
Deciphering the quality of SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell response associated with disease severity, immune memory and heterologous response
Authors: Pérez-Gómez Alberto , Gasca-Capote M Carmen , Vitallé Joana , Ostos Francisco J. , Serna-Gallego Ana , Trujillo-Rodríguez María , Muñoz-Muela Esperanza , Giráldez-Pérez Teresa , Praena-Segovia Julia , Navarro-Amuedo María D. , Paniagua-García María , García-Gutiérrez Manuel , Aguilar-Guisado Manuela , Rivas-Jeremias Inmaculada , Jimenez-Leon María R. , Bachiller Sara , Fernández-Villar Alberto , Pérez-González Alexandre , Gutiérrez-Valencia Alicia , Benhnia Mohammed Rafii-El-Idrissi , Weiskopf Daniela , Sette Alessandro , López-Cortes Luis F. , Poveda Eva , Ruiz-Mateos Ezequiel ,   Virgen del Rocío Hospital COVID-19,   COHVID-GS Working Teams
Published: December 2021

SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell response has been associated with disease severity, immune memory and heterologous response to endemic coronaviruses. However, an integrative approach combining a comprehensive analysis of the quality of SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell response with antibody levels in these three scenarios is needed. In the present study we found that, in acute infection, while mild disease was associated with high T-cell polyfunctionality biased to IL-2 production and inversely correlated with anti-S IgG levels, combinations only including IFN-γ with absence of perforin production predominated in severe disease. Seven months after infection, both non-hospitalized and previously hospitalized patients presented robust anti-S IgG levels and SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell response. In addition, only previously hospitalized patients showed a T-cell exhaustion profile. Finally, combinations including IL-2 in response to S protein of endemic coronaviruses, were the ones associated with SARS-CoV-2 S-specific T-cell response in pre-COVID-19 healthy donors’ samples. These results have implications for protective immunity against SARS-CoV-2 and recurrent COVID-19 and may help for the design of new prototypes and boosting vaccine strategies.
Intranasal inhibitor broadly blocks SARS-CoV-2 including recent highly immunoevasive Omicron subvariants
Authors: Mäkelä Anna R. , Uğurlu Hasan , Hannula Liina , Kant Ravi , Salminen Petja , Fagerlund Riku , Mäki Sanna , Haveri Anu , Strandin Tomas , Kareinen Lauri , Hepojoki Jussi , Kuivanen Suvi , Levanov Lev , Pasternack Arja , Naves Rauno A. , Ritvos Olli , Österlund Pamela , Sironen Tarja , Vapalahti Olli , Kipar Anja , Huiskonen Juha T. , Rissanen Ilona , Saksela Kalle
Published: December 2021

The recent emergence of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants capable of efficiently escaping neutralizing antibodies emphasizes the need for prophylactic strategies to complement vaccination in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. Nasal epithelium is rich in the ACE2 receptor and important for SARS-CoV-2 transmission by supporting early viral replication before seeding to the lung1. Intranasal administration of SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies or antibody fragments has shown encouraging potential as a protective measure in animal models2–5. However, there remains a dire need for SARS-CoV-2 blocking agents that are less vulnerable to mutational variation in the neutralization epitopes of the viral spike glycoprotein and more economical to produce in large scale. Here we describe TriSb92, a highly manufacturable and extremely stable trimeric human SH3 domain-derived antibody mimetic targeted against a conserved region in the receptor-binding domain of spike. TriSb92 potently neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 and its variants of concern, including Omicron BA.5 as well as the latest and most immunoevasive variants like BF.7, XBB, and BQ.1.1. Intranasal administration of a modest dose of TriSb92 (5 or 50 micrograms) as early as eight hours before a challenge with SARS-CoV-2 efficiently protected mice from infection, and was still effective even when given 4 h after the viral challenge. The target epitope of TriSb92 was defined by cryo-EM, which revealed triggering of a conformational shift in the spike trimer rather than competition for ACE2 binding as the molecular basis of its strong inhibitory action. The high potency and robust biochemical properties of TriSb92 together with the remarkable resistance of its inhibitory action against viral sequence evolution suggest that TriSb92 could be useful as a nasal spray for protecting susceptible individuals from SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Effect of nebulised BromAc® on rheology of artificial sputum: relevance to muco-obstructive respiratory diseases including COVID-19
Authors: Pillai Krishna , Mekkawy Ahmed H. , Akhter Javed , Valle Sarah J. , Morris David L.
Published: December 2021

Respiratory diseases such as cystic fibrosis, COPD, bronchiectasis asthma and COVID-19 are difficult to treat owing to viscous secretions in the airways that evade mucocilliary clearance. Since earlier studies have shown success with BromAc® as mucolytic agent for treating a rare disease known as pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP), we tested the formulation on two gelatinous airway representative sputa models, in order to determine whether similar efficacy exist.

The sputum (1.5 ml) lodged in an endotracheal tube was treated to aerosolised N-acetylcysteine, bromelain, or their combination (BromAc®) using a nebuliser with 6.0 ml of the agents in phosphate buffer saline, over 25 min. Controls received phosphate buffer saline. The dynamic viscosity was measured before and after treatment using a capillary tube method, whilst the sputum flow (ml/sec) was assessed using a 0.5 ml pipette. Finally, the sequestered agents (concentration) in the sputa after treatment were quantified using standard bromelain and N-acetylcysteine chromogenic assays.

Results indicated that bromelain and N-acetylcysteine affected both the dynamic viscosities and pipette flow in the two sputa models, with changes in the former parameter having immense effect on the latter. BromAc® showed a greater rheological effect on both the sputa models compared to individual agents. Further, correlation was found between the rheological effects and the concentration of agents in the sputa.

Hence, this study indicates that BromAc® may be used as a successful mucolytic for clearing airway congestion caused by thick mucinous immobile secretion, however further studies with patient sputum samples using aerosol BromAc® is warranted.
SynLethDB 2.0: A web-based knowledge graph database on synthetic lethality for novel anticancer drug discovery
Authors: Wang Jie , Wu Min , Huang Xuhui , Wang Li , Zhang Sophia , Liu Hui , Zheng Jie
Published: December 2021

Two genes are synthetic lethal if mutations in both genes result in impaired cell viability, while mutation of either gene does not affect the cell survival. The potential usage of synthetic lethality (SL) in anticancer therapeutics has attracted many researchers to identify synthetic lethal gene pairs. To include newly identified SLs and more related knowledge, we present a new version of the SynLethDB database to facilitate the discovery of clinically relevant SLs. We extended the first version of SynLethDB database significantly by including new SLs identified through CRISPR screening, a knowledge graph about human SLs, and new web interface, etc. Over 16,000 new SLs and 26 types of other relationships have been added, encompassing relationships among 14,100 genes, 53 cancers, and 1,898 drugs, etc. Moreover, a brand-new web interface has been developed to include modules such as SL query by disease or compound, SL partner gene set enrichment analysis and knowledge graph browsing through a dynamic graph viewer. The data can be downloaded directly from the website or through the RESTful APIs. The database is accessible online at http://synlethdb.sist.shanghaitech.edu.cn/v2.
Single-cell analysis resolves the genetic program of primary vascular system formation in hybrid poplar
Authors: Conde Daniel , Triozzi Paolo M. , Pereira Wendell J. , Schmidt Henry W. , Balmant Kelly M. , Knaack Sara A. , Roy Sushmita , Dervinis Christopher , Kirst Matias
Published: December 2021

Despite the enormous potential of novel approaches to explore gene expression at a single-cell level, we lack a high-resolution and cell type-specific gene expression map of the shoot apex in woody perennials. We use single-nuclei RNA sequencing to determine the cell type-specific transcriptome of the Populus vegetative shoot apex. We identified highly heterogeneous cell populations clustered into seven broad groups represented by 18 transcriptionally distinct cell clusters. Next, we established the developmental trajectories of epidermal cells, leaf mesophyll, and vascular tissue. Motivated by the high similarities between Populus and Arabidopsis cell population in the vegetative apex, we created and applied a pipeline for interspecific single-cell expression data integration. We contrasted the developmental trajectories of primary phloem and xylem formation in both species, establishing the first comparison of primary vascular development between a model annual herbaceous and a woody perennial plant species. Our results offer a valuable resource for investigating the basic principles underlying cell division and differentiation conserved between herbaceous and perennial species, which also allows the evaluation of the divergencies at single-cell resolution.
Towards Generalizable Predictions for the Effects of Mutations on G-Protein Coupled Receptor Expression
Authors: Kuntz Charles P. , Woods Hope , McKee Andrew G. , Zelt Nathan B. , Mendenhall Jeffrey L. , Meiler Jens , Schlebach Jonathan P.
Published: December 2021

Missense mutations that compromise the plasma membrane expression (PME) of integral membrane proteins (MPs) are the root cause of numerous genetic diseases. Differentiation of this class of mutations from those that specifically modify the activity of the folded protein has proven useful for the development and targeting of precision therapeutics. Nevertheless, it remains challenging to predict the effects of mutations on the stability and/ or expression of MPs. In this work, we utilize deep mutational scanning data to train a series of artificial neural networks to predict the effects of mutations on the PME of the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) rhodopsin from structural and/ or evolutionary features. We show that our best performing network, which we term PMEpred, can differentiate pathogenic rhodopsin variants that induce misfolding from those that primarily compromise signaling. This network also generates statistically significant predictions for the effects of mutations on the PME of another GPCR (β2 adrenergic receptor) but not for an unrelated voltage-gated potassium channel (KCNQ1). Notably, our analyses of these networks suggest structural features alone are generally sufficient to recapitulate the observed mutagenic trends. Moreover, our findings imply that networks trained in this manner may be generalizable to proteins that share a common fold. Implications of our findings for the design of mechanistically specific genetic predictors are discussed.
Advancing genomic technologies and clinical awareness accelerates discovery of disease-associated tandem repeat sequences
Authors: Gall-Duncan Terence , Sato Nozomu , Yuen Ryan K.C. , Pearson Christopher E.
Published: December 2021

Expansions of gene-specific DNA tandem repeats (TRs), first described in 1991 as a disease-causing mutation in humans, are now known to cause >60 phenotypes, not just disease, and not only in humans. TRs are a common form of genetic variation with biological consequences, observed, so far, in humans, dogs, plants, oysters, and yeast. Repeat diseases show atypical clinical features, genetic anticipation, and multiple and partially penetrant phenotypes among family members. Discovery of disease-causing repeat expansion loci accelerated through technological advances in DNA sequencing and computational analyses. Between 2019 and 2021, 17 new disease-causing TR expansions were reported, totaling 63 TR loci (>69 diseases), with a likelihood of more discoveries, and in more organisms. Recent and historical lessons reveal that properly assessed clinical presentations, coupled with genetic and biological awareness, can guide discovery of disease-causing unstable TRs. We highlight critical but underrecognized aspects of TR mutations. Repeat motifs may not be present in current reference genomes but will be in forthcoming gapless long-read references. Repeat motif size can be a single nucleotide to kilobases/unit. At a given locus, repeat motif sequence purity can vary with consequence. Pathogenic repeats can be “insertions” within nonpathogenic TRs. Expansions, contractions, and somatic length variations of TRs can have clinical/biological consequences. TR instabilities occur in humans and other organisms. TRs can be epigenetically modified and/or chromosomal fragile sites. We discuss the expanding field of disease-associated TR instabilities, highlighting prospects, clinical and genetic clues, tools, and challenges for further discoveries of disease-causing TR instabilities and understanding their biological and pathological impacts—a vista that is about to expand.
Transposable element variants and their potential adaptive impact in urban populations of the malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii
Authors: Vargas-Chavez Carlos , Longo Pendy Neil Michel , Nsango Sandrine E. , Aguilera Laura , Ayala Diego , González Josefa
Published: December 2021

Anopheles coluzzii is one of the primary vectors of human malaria in sub-Saharan Africa. Recently, it has spread into the main cities of Central Africa threatening vector control programs. The adaptation of An. coluzzii to urban environments partly results from an increased tolerance to organic pollution and insecticides. Some of the molecular mechanisms for ecological adaptation are known, but the role of transposable elements (TEs) in the adaptive processes of this species has not been studied yet. As a first step toward assessing the role of TEs in rapid urban adaptation, we sequenced using long reads six An. coluzzii genomes from natural breeding sites in two major Central Africa cities. We de novo annotated TEs in these genomes and in an additional high-quality An. coluzzii genome, and we identified 64 new TE families. TEs were nonrandomly distributed throughout the genome with significant differences in the number of insertions of several superfamilies across the studied genomes. We identified seven putatively active families with insertions near genes with functions related to vectorial capacity, and several TEs that may provide promoter and transcription factor binding sites to insecticide resistance and immune-related genes. Overall, the analysis of multiple high-quality genomes allowed us to generate the most comprehensive TE annotation in this species to date and identify several TE insertions that could potentially impact both genome architecture and the regulation of functionally relevant genes. These results provide a basis for future studies of the impact of TEs on the biology of An. coluzzii.
Conceptual design of the Hybrid Ring with superconducting linac
Authors: Harada Kentaro , Funamori Nobumasa , Yamamoto Naoto , Shimosaki Yoshito , Shimada Miho , Miyajima Tsukasa , Umemori Kensei , Sakai Hiroshi , Nakamura Norio , Sakanaka Shogo , Kobayashi Yukinori , Honda Tohru , Nozawa Shunsuke , Nakao Hironori , Niwa Yasuhiro , Wakabayashi Daisuke , Amemiya Kenta , Igarashi Noriyuki
Published: December 2021

The Hybrid Ring with a superconducting-linac injector as a highly flexible synchrotron radiation source to enable new experimental techniques and enhance many existing ones is proposed. It is designed to be operated with the coexistence of the storage (SR) bunches characterized by the performance of the storage ring, and the single-pass (SP) bunches characterized by the performance of the superconducting linac. Unique experiments can be performed by simultaneous use of the SR and SP beams, in addition to research with various experimental techniques utilizing the versatile SR beam and research in the field of ultrafast dynamics utilizing the ultrashort pulse of the SP beam. The extendability of the Hybrid Ring will allow it to be developed into a synchrotron radiation complex.
Identifying food fraud vulnerability factors in food fraud incidents – a review of global incidents 2000–2018
Authors: Rezazade Faeze , Summers Jane , Lai Teik Derek Ong
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Global food fraud incidents are regularly reported and are on the rise due to the ineffectiveness of traditional food safety intervention strategies. The increase in food fraud opportunity is prevalent in the state of the COVID-19 pandemic as well. Food fraud vulnerability assessment (FFVA) is acknowledged as a critical requirement by the Global Food Safety Initiatives (GFSIs) and the World Health Organisation for an effective food fraud mitigation plan. However, there is no clear direction or ways to identify and analyse food fraud vulnerability factors based on real-data.

Design/methodology/approach

Combining the barrier analysis technique and the routine activity theory to review the 580 cases of food fraud recorded in the Decernis database, this paper identified new food fraud vulnerability dimensions and insights pinpointed to three categories of opportunity, motivation and countermeasures.

Findings

New dimensions of food fraud vulnerability factors are identified in this paper over the period 2000–2018. Where possible, new insights related to each food fraud vulnerability factor and dimension were identified, and literature evidence was used to confirm their contribution.

Originality/value

There is a gap observed in the first step of FFVA in the literature. This paper is the first study to undertake a FFVA based on evidence recorded in a global food fraud database. This paper offers critical insights into global food fraud regulations by exploring the new emerging root causes of food fraud and analysing them, supporting developing effective food fraud prevention plans (FFPPs).
The effects of COVID-19 pandemic on the UK construction industry and the process of future-proofing business
Authors: Stride Mark , Renukappa Suresh , Suresh Subashini , Egbu Charles
Published: December 2021

Purpose

COVID-19 was officially declared as a worldwide pandemic by the World Health Organisation on 11th March 2020, before the UK was put into lockdown on the 23rd March 2020. Organisations had to reconsider their policies and procedures to allow their businesses to continue. This paper aims to focus on the effects of COVID-19 that the UK construction sector has had to undertake to enable businesses while employees had to adhere to COVID-19 lockdown rules. In addition, how the sector can positively continue once normality has returned within the industry. In doing so, this paper understands the historical issues within the construction sector and has had an effect during COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research methodology approach was taken to help obtain live information. In total, 19 semi-structured interviews from 15 organisations related to the construction sector were conducted to collect data. This information was evaluated using thematic analysis to arrive at the results, inferences and recommendations to the sector.

Findings

This research has revealed that companies have had to adopt a three-stage process to overcome a new dimensional challenge of COVID-19. These include: 1. Making quick decisions during the first stage of the pandemic. 2. Producing new policies and procedures to restart businesses enabling staff to return to the workplace safely. 3. Implementing methods to future-proof organisations against any potential pandemics. To help organisations future-proof their business five C’s are recommended.

Originality/value

This paper provides a rich insight into the understanding and awareness of the effects of COVID-19 and the changes that the construction sector has had to undertake to adhere to the lockdown rules while remaining productive. This research contributes towards informing policymakers on some of the lessons learned during the management of the COVID-19 pandemic from a construction sector perspective.
Unified and non-ideal switch model for analysis of switching circuits
Authors: Pekdemir Alperen , Yildiz Ali Bekir
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new unified and non-ideal switch model for analysis of switching circuits.

Design/methodology/approach

The model has a single unified structure that includes all possible states (on, off) of the switches. The analysis with the proposed switch model requires only one topology and uses the single system equation regardless of states of switches. Moreover, to improve accuracy, the model contains the on-state resistance and capacitive effect of switches. The system equations and the states of switches are updated by control variables, used in the model.

Findings

There are no restrictions on circuit topology and switch connections. Switches can be internally and externally controlled. The non-ideal nature of the model allows the switch to be modeled more realistically and eliminates the drawbacks of the ideal switch concept. After modeling with the proposed switch model, a linear circuit is obtained. Two examples related to switching circuits are included into the study. The results confirm the accuracy of the model.

Originality/value

This paper contributes a different switch model for analysis of switching converters to the literature. The main advantage of the model is that it has a unified and non-ideal property. With the proposed switch model, the transient events, like voltage spikes and high-frequency noises, caused by inductor and capacitor elements at switching instants can be observed properly.
When, for whom and why expanding single-option offerings creates value: locomotion fit from choice between options
Authors: Mathmann Frank , Chylinski Mathew
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Emerging direct-to-consumer brands offer a single option to consumers before expanding their assortment as the business grows. This provides a counterexample to commonly held beliefs concerning consumers’ aversion to single options. The purpose of this paper is to study when, for whom and why offering two product options (vs a single option) is valued by consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Across six experiments, this research investigates consumers’ locomotion orientation (a motivation for controlling progress), which affects the valuation of choice (vs single options).

Findings

Consumers’ locomotion orientation determines perceived product value for products chosen from a two-option set (vs when considering a single option) because choice offers active control, which is engaging for high-locomotion consumers. Expanding the set to six options has no such effect.

Research limitations/implications

Studies 1, 4a and 4b are set in the context of expert-selected single options, while Studies 2, 3 and 5 do not involve expert selection. However, the authors does not contrast expert vs non-expert conditions directly.

Practical implications

Managers can increase consumers’ willingness to pay by using advertisements to induce locomotion or segmenting consumers based on locomotion orientations.

Originality/value

Research suggests that consumers value choice between options, yet many emerging brands succeed with a single option. The authors reconcile this by providing insights into motivations that determine when, for whom and why choice (vs a single option) is valued.
Ethics, corporate social responsibility and the role of human resource development: the academic experts’ view
Authors: Alizadeh Amin , Kurian Deepu , Qiu Shaoping , Dirani Khalil M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to get the perspectives of human resource development (HRD) scholars about connections among HRD, corporate social responsibility and ethics. The authors also sought to discover if HRD academic programs need to have ethics-related courses for their graduate students.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors reviewed the literature and interviewed ten HRD scholars who substantially contributed to the field of HRD and have influential publications related to ethics or corporate social responsibility to find out the relationship between HRD, ethics and corporate social responsibility. A semi-structured interview method was adopted to collect data and purposeful sampling technique was used for analyzing data into identified themes.

Findings

The results from the interviews were categorized into seven different themes. While some scholars argued that ethics-related discussion needs to be integrated within every course, most scholars stated that ethics can be a required standalone course for HRD graduate programs.

Originality/value

Despite ongoing consideration of the ethical nature of HRD, little research has been conducted on how ethics and corporate social responsibility are represented in the field of study and practice. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first empirical paper in HRD that collected and analyzed experts’ perspectives in this topic.
Decision-making method based on game theory and grey theory in a single-value neutrosophic environment and its application to typhoon disaster assessment
Authors: Tan Ruipu , Yang Lehua , Chen Shengqun , Zhang Wende
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The Chinese believe that “man will conquer the sky” and “fighting with the sky brings endless joy”. Considering that disaster assessment can be regarded as a two-person, zero-sum game problem between nature and human beings, this paper proposes a multi-attribute decision-making method based on game theory and grey theory in a single-value neutrosophic set environment. Due to the complexity and uncertainty of the decision-making environment, the method builds a decision matrix based on single-valued neutrosophic numbers.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors use the single-value neutrosophic information entropy to calculate the attribute weights and the weighted decision matrix. Second, the optimal mixed strategy method based on linear programming solves the optimal mixed strategy for both sides of the game so that the expected payoff matrix can be obtained. Finally, grey correlation analysis is used to obtain the closeness coefficient of each alternative based on the expectation payoff matrix to identify the ranking result of the alternative.

Findings

An example is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method, and its rationality is verified through a comprehensive comparison and analysis of the various aspects.

Practical implications

The proposed decision-making method can be applied to typhoon disaster assessment. Such assessment results can provide intelligent decision support to the relevant disaster management departments, thereby reducing the negative impact of typhoon disasters on society, stabilizing society and improving people's happiness. Further, the method can be used for decision-making, recommendation and evaluation in other fields.

Originality/value

The proposed method uses single-value neutrosophic numbers to solve the information representation problem of decision-making in a complex environment. Under a new perspective, game theory is used to handle the decision matrix, while grey relational analysis converts inexact numbers to exact numbers for comparison and sorting. Thus, the proposed method can be used to make reasonable decisions while preserving information to the extent possible.
Global research trends in augmented reality: scientometric mapping based on Scopus database
Authors: Borgohain Dhruba Jyoti , Bhanage Deepali Arun , Verma Manoj Kumar , Pawar Ambika Vishal
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to present a scientometric analysis of publications related to “Augmented Reality.” In today’s Information Technology-driven era, augmented reality (A.R.) has evolved as a new immersive data source for developing knowledge combining authentic and digital images. Consequently, extensive research is going on “Augmented Reality” to discover its potential in knowledge development.

Methodology

The paper analyses and emphasizes the bibliographic data of Scopus articles with a suitable search query. The study was done concerning the chronological growth of research publications, highly cited publications, productive countries, prominent journals, prolific authors and institutions, author and country co-authorship network analysis and keywords analysis. The analysis was conducted by using open-source tools such as VOSViewer, Biblioshiny and Gephi.

Findings

The study reveals that a maximum number of publications on research in “Augmented Reality” are in the form of conference proceedings and articles. A.R., Virtual reality and A.R. application are the keywords with maximum number of occurrences. A significant number of publications are done in the USA, followed by Germany in the year 2020.

Originality/value

This study provides a precise idea of work done in different countries, a network of co-authorship between authors and countries, publication and citation impact of authors, journals, institutions and countries, year-wise progression and trending “augmented reality” topics research. This investigation will be advantageous for researchers and stakeholders to obtain rigorous bibliographic knowledge on literature related to the topic and work accordingly for R&D activities.
Radicalization and attenuation in the construction of tourism employment images: a multi-level frame analysis
Authors: Mölk Andreas , Auer Manfred , Peters Mike
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Tourism employment is very diverse ranging from precarious, exploitative study to high-quality workplaces. However, poor employment images dominate the tourism industry, which makes attracting employees difficult. This study aims to examine the processes that lead to such image construction.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative methodology, the study develops a multilevel framing cycle comprising a media analysis of newspapers and magazines (macro-level), a conversation analysis of peer communication/negotiations (meso-level) and a content analysis of single employee/manager interviews (micro-level); and a comparative analysis of the macro-, meso- and micro-level findings.

Findings

The multilevel frame cycle identifies image-construction processes that pass through working conditions, payment, seasonality and human resource problems. These processes are shaped by the two cross-level dynamics of radicalization and attenuation. The latter consists of rationalized and repressed framings of tourism employment images (TEI) and the former consists of ideological and emotional framings.

Practical implications

Tourism stakeholders should support and participate in a pragmatic and open dialog to overcome the radicalization and attenuation of tourism employment. The key players require a new deal to end the “information warfare” on tourism employment, inaugurating a new era of collaborative and constructive employment relations.

Originality/value

This study develops a holistic and dynamic understanding of TEI by exploring how media products, peer groups and employees/managers jointly construct these images. It demonstrates how attenuation and radicalization shape poor employment images in tourism. It argues that these dynamics “lock in” the status-quo, create mutual recrimination between employers and employees and counteract common strategies that could otherwise improve employment structures and the image of tourism.
Corporate risk-taking after changes in credit rating
Authors: Koerniadi Hardjo
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to investigate corporate risk-taking following changes in firms' credit ratings (CR) and the mechanisms the firms use in implementing the risk-taking.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs fixed-effect regression models to examine risk-taking behaviour after firms experience changes in CR after their ratings are downgraded to the lower edge of the investment grade rating (i.e. BBB-) and after their CRs are downgraded below the investment rating.

Findings

The paper finds that, whilst in general, changes in CR are negatively associated with post-event risk-taking, firms downgraded to BBB- do not increase their risk-taking. Only when firms are rated below this grade, firms significantly increase their risk-taking, suggesting that the association between downgrades in CR and firm risk-taking following the event is not linear. Further analysis suggests that these downgraded firms do not increase research and development (R&D) expenses or capital expenditures but employ long-term debt as their risk-taking mechanism.

Practical implications

The findings of the paper have practical implications for investors considering investing in downgraded-rating firms to shareholders of such firms and especially to those overseeing the firms' risk-taking policies.

Originality/value

The study fills the gap in the literature by providing empirical evidence on corporate risk-taking after changes in CR and also contributes to the optimal debt-maturity choice literature.
How to survive in the age of artificial intelligence? Exploring the intelligent transformations of SMEs in central China
Authors: Wang Jinqiang , Lu Yaobin , Fan Si , Hu Peng , Wang Bin
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to explore how small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in central China achieve intelligent transformation through the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Because of unequal resource allocation, constraints on the intelligent transformation of SMEs in central China are different from those in economically and technologically well-developed coastal provinces. Hence, the authors focus on SMEs in central China to identify drivers of and barriers to intelligent transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The interview data were collected from 66 SMEs across 20 industries in central China. To verify the validity of the data collection method, the authors used two methods to control for retrospective bias: multi-level informants and enterprises' AI project application materials (Wei and Clegg, 2020). The final data were validated without conflicts. Next, the authors cautiously followed a two-step approach recommended by Venkatesh et al. (2010) and used NVivo 11.0 to analyze the collected text data.

Findings

SMEs in central China are enthusiastic about intelligent transformation while facing both internal and external pressures. SMEs need to pay attention to both internal (enterprise development needs, implementation cost, human resources and top management involvement) and external factors (external market pressure, convenience of AI technology and policy support) and their different impacts on intelligent transformation. However, constrained by limited resources, SMEs in central China have been forced to take a step-by-step intelligent transformation strategy based on their actual needs with the technological flexibility method in the short term.

Originality/value

Considering the large number of SMEs and their importance in promoting China's economic development and job creation (SME Bureau of MIIT, 2020), more research on SMEs with limited resources is needed. In the study, the authors confirmed that enterprises should handle “social responsibility” carefully because over-emphasizing it will hinder intelligent transformation. However, firms should pay attention to the role of executives in promoting intelligent transformation and make full use of policy support to access more resources.
The effect of talent management and human capital on sustainable business performance: an empirical investigation in Malaysian hospitals
Authors: AlQershi Nagwan Abdulwahab , Thurasamy Ramayah , Ali Gamal Abdualmajed , Al-Rejal Hussein Abu , Al-Ganad Amr , Frhan Ebrahim
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the mediating role of human capital on the talent management in hospitals’ sustainable business performance in the health-care sector of Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a quantitative approach, with an initial sample of 174 Malaysian hospitals. The theoretical framework was based on previous studies of talent management (TM), human capital (HC) and sustainable business performance (SBP). Partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

Talent management mindset (TMM), but not talent management strategy (TMS), has a significant relationship with HC and SBP. HC has a significant direct relationship with SBP, and also mediates the relationship between TMM and SBP but not between TMS and SBP.

Research limitations/implications

This work is one of a limited number of studies to empirically address TM, HC and SBP in this context. The study is limited to Malaysian hospitals. It provides theoretical contributions by broadening the knowledge of HC, TM and the multifocal perspective of hospitals’ SBP, a relevant but underexplored issue, offering several avenues for future research.

Practical implications

The findings have beneficial practical implications for both policy makers and managers. First, focusing on talented people will directly improve sustainable performance in the Malaysian health sector. The findings also have important theoretical implications both for Malaysia and countries in similar situations. The study will serve as a reference point for such countries in trying to understand factors influencing SBP.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the mediating effect of HC on the relationship between talent management and hospitals’ sustainable business performance in Malaysia, or worldwide.
Let the buyer beware: how network structure can enable (and prevent) supply chain fraud
Authors: DuHadway Scott , Mena Carlos , Ellram Lisa Marie
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Supply chain fraud is a significant global concern for firms, consumers and governments. Evidence of major fraud events suggests the role of supply chain structures in enabling and facilitating fraud, as they often involve several parties in complicated networks designed to obfuscate the fraud. This paper identifies how the structural characteristics of supply chains can play an important role in enabling, facilitating and preventing fraud.

Design/methodology/approach

The research follows a theory elaboration approach. The authors build on structural holes theory in conjunction with a multiple case study research design to identify new concepts and develop propositions regarding the role of network structure on supply chain fraud.

Findings

This research shows how structural holes in a supply chain can create advantages for unscrupulous firms, a role we call tertius fraudans, or the cheating third. This situation is exacerbated by structural ignorance, which refers to the lack of knowledge about structural connections in the network. Both structural holes and structural ignorance can create information gaps that facilitate fraud, and the authors propose solutions to detect and prevent this kind of fraud.

Originality/value

This paper extends structural holes theory into the domain of fraud. Novel concepts including tertius fraudans, structural ignorance and bridge collapse are offered, alongside a series of propositions that can help understand and manage structural supply chain fraud.