bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Failure to mate enhances investment in behaviors that may promote mating reward and impairs the ability to cope with stressors via a subpopulation of Neuropeptide F receptor neurons
Authors: Ryvkin Julia , Omesi Liora , Kim Yong-Kyu , Levi Mali , Pozeilov Hadar , Barak-Buchris Lital , Agranovich Bella , Abramovich Ifat , Gottlieb Eyal , Jacob Avi , Nässel Dick R. , Heberlein Ulrike , Shohat-Ophir Galit
Published: April 2021

Living in dynamic environments such as the social domain, where interaction with others determines the reproductive success of individuals, requires the ability to recognize opportunities to obtain natural rewards and cope with challenges that are associated with achieving them. As such, actions that promote survival and reproduction are reinforced by the brain reward system, whereas coping with the challenges associated with obtaining these rewards is mediated by stress-response pathways, the activation of which can impair health and shorten lifespan. While much research has been devoted to understanding mechanisms underlying the way by which natural rewards are processed by the reward system, less attention has been given to the consequences of failure to obtain a desirable reward. As a model system to study the impact of failure to obtain a natural reward, we used the well-established courtship suppression paradigm inDrosophila melanogasteras means to induce repeated failures to obtain sexual reward in male flies. We discovered that beyond the known reduction in courtship actions caused by interaction with non-receptive females, repeated failures to mate induce a stress response characterized by persistent motivation to obtain the sexual reward, reduced male-male social interaction, and enhanced aggression. This frustrative-like state caused by the conflict between high motivation to obtain sexual reward and the inability to fulfill their mating drive impairs the capacity of rejected males to tolerate stressors such as starvation and oxidative stress. We further show that sensitivity to starvation and enhanced social arousal is mediated by the disinhibition of a small population of neurons that express receptors for the fly homologue of neuropeptide Y. Our findings demonstrate for the first time the existence of social stress in flies and offers a framework to study mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between reward, stress, and reproduction in a simple nervous system that is highly amenable to genetic manipulation.
Endosomes deliver ceramide phosphoethanolamine with unique acyl chain anchors to the cleavage furrow during male meiotic cytokinesis
Authors: Kunduri Govind , Le Si-Hung , Baena Valentina , Vijaykrishna Nagampalli , Harned Adam , Nagashima Kunio , Blankenberg Daniel , Izumi Yoshihiro , Narayan Kedar , Bamba Takeshi , Acharya Usha , Acharya Jairaj K.
Published: April 2021

Cell division, wherein one cell divides into two daughter cells, is fundamental to all living organisms. Cytokinesis, the final step in cell division, begins with the formation of an actomyosin contractile ring, positioned midway between the segregated chromosomes. Constriction of the ring with concomitant membrane deposition in a spatiotemporal manner generates a cleavage furrow that physically separates the cytoplasm. Unique lipids with specific biophysical properties have been shown to localize to intercellular bridges (also called midbody) connecting the two dividing cells; however, their biological roles and delivery mechanisms remain largely unknown. In this study, we show that Ceramide phosphoethanolamine (CPE), the structural analog of sphingomyelin, has unique acyl chain anchors in spermatocytes and is essential for meiotic cytokinesis. The head group of CPE is also important for spermatogenesis. We find that aberrant central spindle and contractile ring behavior but not mislocalization of phosphatidylinositol phosphates (PIPs) at the plasma membrane is responsible for the male meiotic cytokinesis defect in CPE deficient animals. Further, we demonstrate the enrichment of CPE in multivesicular bodies marked by Rab7, which in turn localize to cleavage furrow. Volume electron microscopy analysis using correlative light and focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy shows that CPE enriched Rab7 positive endosomes are juxtaposed on contractile ring material. Correlative light and transmission electron microscopy reveal Rab7 positive endosomes as a multivesicular body-like organelle that releases its intraluminal vesicles in the vicinity of ingressing furrows. Genetic ablation of Rab7 or expression of dominant negative Rab11 results in significant meiotic cytokinesis defects. Our results imply that endosomal delivery of CPE to ingressing membranes is crucial for meiotic cytokinesis.
A pan-cancer analysis of matrisome proteins reveals CTHRC1and LOXL2 as major ECM regulators across cancers
Authors: Harikrishnan Keerthi , Prabhu Srinivas Seshagiri , Balasubramanian Nagaraj
Published: April 2021

The extracellular matrix as part of the tumor microenvironment can regulate cancer cell growth and progression. Using TCGA data from 30 cancer types, the top 5% of matrisome genes with amplifications or deletions that affect survival in cancers were identified. Eight of these genes show altered expression in ~50% or more cancers affecting survival in ~20% or more. Among them SNED1 is the most downregulated and CTHRC1 and LOXL2 most upregulated. Differential gene expression analysis of SNED-1 did not identify any genes it regulates across cancers, while CTHRC1 and LOXL2 affected 19 and 5 genes respectively in 3 or more cancers. STRING analysis of these genes classified them as ‘extracellular’, involved prominently in ECM organization. Their correlation and co-occurrence in context of their effect on survival and staging of the disease identified MMP13, POSTN and SFRP4 along with COL11A1, COL10A1, COL1A1, ADAMTS12 and PPAPDC1A as possible interactors of CTHRC1 and LOXL2 in cancers. These are implicated in collagen organization, making it vital to matrisome regulation of cancers. Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium data confirms the changes in expression of these genes along with CTHRC1 and LOXL2 in breast and lung cancer, further supporting their implication as vital pan-cancer matrisome mediators.

Highlights

CTHRC1 and LOXL2 are prominently upregulated pan-cancer matrisome genes.

High CTHRC1 and LOXL2 expression is associated with disease progression and poor survival in cancers.

CTHRC1 with POSTN, MMP13 and SFRP4 and LOXL2 with COL11A1, COL10A1, COL1A1, ADAMTS12 and PPAPDC1A drive matrisome regulation of cancers.

CTHRC1 and LOXL2 could prominently drive collagen organization and function across cancers.
Neurotrophic control of size regulation during axolotl limb regeneration
Authors: Wells-Enright Kaylee M. , Kelley Kristina , Baumel Mary , Vieira Warren A. , McCusker Catherine D.
Published: April 2021

The mechanisms that regulate the sizing of the regenerating limb in tetrapods such as the Mexican axolotl are unknown. Upon the completion of the developmental stages of regeneration, when the regenerative organ known as the blastema completes patterning and differentiation, the limb regenerate is proportionally small in size. It then undergoes a phase of regeneration that we have called the “tiny-limb” stage, that is defined by rapid growth until the regenerate reaches the proportionally appropriate size. In the current study we have characterized this growth and have found that signaling from the limb nerves is required for its maintenance. Using the regenerative assay known as the Accessory Limb Model, we have found that the size of the limb can be positively and negatively manipulated by nerve abundance. We have additionally developed a new regenerative assay called the Neural Modified-ALM (NM-ALM), which decouples the source of the nerve from the regenerating host environment. Using the NM-ALM we discovered that non-neural extrinsic factors from differently sized host animals do not play a prominent role in determining the size of the regenerating limb. We have also discovered that the regulation of limb size is not autonomously regulated by the limb nerves. Together, these observations show that the limb nerves provide essential and instructive cues to regulate the final size of the regenerating limb.
The nature of intraspecific genome size variation in taxonomically complex eyebrights
Authors: Becher Hannes , Powell Robyn F. , Brown Max R. , Metherell Chris , Pellicer Jaume , Leitch Ilia J. , Twyford Alex D.
Published: April 2021

Genome size (GS) is a key trait related to morphology, life history, and evolvability. Although GS is, by definition, affected by presence/absence variants (PAVs), which are ubiquitous in population sequencing studies, GS is often treated as an intrinsic property of a species. Here, we studied intra- and interspecific GS variation in taxonomically complex British eyebrights (Euphrasia).

We generated GS data for 192 individuals of diploid and tetraploidEuphrasiaand analysed GS variation in relation to ploidy, taxonomy, population affiliation, and geography. We further compared the genomic repeat content of 30 samples.

We found considerable genuine intraspecific GS variation, and observed isolation-by-distance for GS in outcrossing diploids. TetraploidEuphrasiashowed contrasting patterns, with GS increasing with latitude in outcrossingEuphrasia arctica, but little GS variation in the highly selfingEuphrasia micrantha. Interspecific differences in GS genomic repeat percentages were small.

We show the utility of treating GS as the outcome of polygenic variation. Like other types of genetic variation, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms, GS variation may be increased through hybridisation and population subdivision. In addition to selection on associated traits, GS is predicted to be affected indirectly by selection due to pleiotropy of the underlying PAVs.
Astrocytic GABA Transporter controls sleep by modulating GABAergic signaling in Drosophila circadian neurons
Authors: Chaturvedi Ratna , Stork Tobias , Yuan Chunyan , Freeman Marc R , Emery Patrick
Published: April 2021

A precise balance between sleep and wakefulness is essential to sustain a good quality of life and optimal brain function. GABA is known to play a key and conserved role in sleep control, and GABAergic tone should therefore be tightly controlled in sleep circuits. Here we examined the role of the astrocytic GABA transporter (GAT) in sleep regulation using Drosophila melanogaster. We found that a hypomorphic gat mutation (gat33-1) increased sleep amount, decreased sleep latency, and increased sleep consolidation. Interestingly, sleep defects were suppressed when gat33-1 was combined with a mutation disrupting wide-awake (wake), a gene that regulates the cell-surface levels of the GABAA receptor Resistance to Dieldrin (RDL) in the wake-promoting large ventral lateral neurons (l-LNvs). Moreover, RNAi knockdown of rdl and its modulator dnlg4 in these circadian neurons also suppressed gat33-1 sleep phenotypes. Brain immunohistochemistry showed that GAT-expressing astrocytes were located near RDL-positive l-LNvs cell bodies and dendritic processes. We conclude that astrocytic GAT decreases GABAergic tone and RDL activation in arousal promoting LNvs, thus determining proper sleep amount and quality in Drosophila
Simultaneous profiling of multiple chromatin proteins in the same cells
Authors: Gopalan Sneha , Wang Yuqing , Harper Nicholas W. , Garber Manuel , Fazzio Thomas G.
Published: April 2021

Methods derived from CUT&RUN and CUT&Tag enable genome-wide mapping of the localization of proteins on chromatin from as few as one cell. These and other mapping approaches focus on one protein at a time, preventing direct measurements of colocalization of different chromatin proteins in the same cells and requiring prioritization of targets where samples are limiting. Here we describe multi-CUT&Tag, an adaptation of CUT&Tag that overcomes these hurdles by using antibody-specific barcodes to simultaneously map multiple proteins in the same cells. Highly specific multi-CUT&Tag maps of histone marks and RNA Polymerase II uncovered sites of co-localization in the same cells, active and repressed genes, and candidate cis-regulatory elements. Single-cell multi-CUT&Tag profiling facilitated identification of distinct cell types from a mixed population and characterization of cell type-specific chromatin architecture. In sum, multi-CUT&Tag increases the information content per cell of epigenomic maps, facilitating direct analysis of the interplay of different proteins on chromatin.
Fascin limits Myosin activity withinDrosophilaborder cells to control substrate stiffness and promote migration
Authors: Lamb Maureen C. , Kaluarachchi Chathuri P. , Lansakara Thiranjeewa I. , Lan Yiling , Tivanski Alexei V. , Tootle Tina L.
Published: April 2021

A key regulator of collective cell migrations, which drive development and cancer metastasis, is substrate stiffness. Increased substrate stiffness promotes migration and is controlled by Myosin. UsingDrosophilaborder cell migration as a model of collective cell migration, we identify, for the first time, that the actin bundling protein Fascin limits Myosin activityin vivo. Loss of Fascin results in: increased activated Myosin on the border cells and their substrate, the nurse cells; decreased border cell Myosin dynamics; and increased nurse cell stiffness as measured by atomic force microscopy. Reducing Myosin restores on-time border cell migration infascinmutant follicles. Further, Fascin’s actin bundling activity is required to limit Myosin activation. Surprisingly, we find that Fascin regulates Myosin activity in the border cells to control nurse cell stiffness to promote migration. Thus, these data shift the paradigm from a substrate stiffness-centric model of regulating migration, to uncover that collectively migrating cells play a critical role in controlling the mechanical properties of their substrate in order to promote their own migration. This new means of mechanical regulation of migration is likely conserved across contexts and organisms, as Fascin and Myosin are common regulators of cell migration.
The combined action of CTCF and its testis-specific paralog BORIS is essential for spermatogenesis
Authors: Rivero-Hinojosa Samuel , Pugacheva Elena M. , Kang Sungyun , Méndez-Catalá Claudia Fabiola , Kovalchuk Alexander L. , Strunnikov Alexander V. , Loukinov Dmitri , Lee Jeannie T. , Lobanenkov Victor V.
Published: April 2021

CTCF is a key organizer of the 3D genome. Its specialized paralog, BORIS, heterodimerizes with CTCF but is expressed only in male germ cells and in cancer states. Unexpectedly, BORIS-null mice have only minimal germ cell defects. To understand the CTCF-BORIS relationship, mouse models with varied CTCF and BORIS levels were generated. WhereasCtcf+/+Boris+/+,Ctcf+/-Boris+/+, andCtcf+/+Boris-/-males are fertile,Ctcf+/-Boris-/-(Compound Mutant; CM) males are sterile. Testes with combined depletion of both CTCF and BORIS show reduced size, defective meiotic recombination, increased apoptosis, and malformed spermatozoa. Although CM germ cells exhibit only 25% of CTCF WT expression, chromatin binding of CTCF is preferentially lost from CTCF-BORIS heterodimeric sites. Furthermore, CM testes lose the expression of a large number of spermatogenesis genes and gain the expression of developmentally inappropriate genes that are “toxic” to fertility. Thus, a combined action of CTCF and BORIS is required to both repress pre-meiotic genes and activate post-meiotic genes for a complete spermatogenesis program.
Rapid Structure-Function Insights via Hairpin-Centric Analysis of Big RNA Structure Probing Datasets
Authors: Radecki Pierce , Uppuluri Rahul , Aviran Sharon
Published: April 2021

The functions of RNA are often tied to its structure, hence analyzing structure is of significant interest when studying cellular processes. Recently, large-scale structure probing (SP) studies have enabled assessment of global structure-function relationships via standard data summarizations or local folding. Here, we approach structure quantification from a hairpin-centric perspective where putative hairpins are identified in SP datasets and used as a means to capture local structural effects. This has the advantage of rapid processing of big (e.g., transcriptome-wide) data as RNA folding is circumvented, yet it captures more information than simple data summarizations. We reformulate a statistical learning algorithm we previously developed to significantly improve precision of hairpin detection, then introduce a novel nucleotide-wise measure, termed the hairpin-derived structure level (HDSL), which captures local structuredness by accounting for the presence of likely hairpin elements. Applying HDSL to data from recent studies recapitulates, strengthens, and expands on their findings which were obtained by more comprehensive folding algorithms, yet our analyses are orders of magnitude faster. These results demonstrate that hairpin detection is a promising avenue for global and rapid structure-function analysis, furthering our understanding of RNA biology and the principal features which drive biological insights from SP data.
Bioconversion of pomegranate residues into biofuels and bioactive lipids
Authors: Dourou Marianna , Economou Christina N. , Aggeli Lida , Janák Miroslav , Valdés Gabriela , Elezi Nefeli , Kakavas Dimitrios , Papageorgiou Theodore , Vayenas Dimitrios V. , Certik Milan , Aggelis George
Published: April 2021

Pomegranate residues (PRs) (i.e. the solid residues remaining after juice extraction), generated currently in abundance in Greece, contain a variety of carbon sources and therefore can be regarded as a potential feedstock for chemical and biotechnological processes rather than as waste materials. In the current project, the polysaccharides contained in PRs were extracted and hydrolyzed in a one-step process without the use of chemical reagents and the resulting broth was used as substrate in biotechnological applications, including ethanol and single cell oil (SCO) production. The yeastsMeyerozyma guilliermondii,Scheffersomyces coipomoensis,Sugiyamaella paludigenaand especiallySaccharomyces cerevisiae, were able to efficiently convert PR derived reducing sugars into bioethanol. Ethanol production under anaerobic conditions ranged from 3.6 to 12.5 g/L. In addition, the oleaginous yeastsLipomyces lipoferandYarrowia lipolyticaas well asM. guilliermondii,S. coipomoensisandS. paludigenawere tested for their ability to accumulate lipids suitable as feedstock for biodiesel production. Lipids were accumulated at concentrations up to 18% and were rich in palmitic acid (C16:0) and oleic acid (C18:1). Finally, the oleaginous fungusCunnichamella echinulatawas cultivated on PR based solid substrates for γ-linolenic acid (GLA) production. The fermented bio-products (i.e. fermented substrate plus fungal mycelia) contained up to 4.8 mg GLA/g of dry weight. Phenolic removal (up to 30%) was achieved by several of the above mentioned microorganisms, includingC. echinulata,L. lipofer,M. guilliermondii,S. paludigenaandY. lipolytica. We conclude that PRs can be used as a raw material for microbial growth, ethanol and SCO production, which is of economic and environmental importance.
Whole-Colony Modeling of Escherichia coli
Authors: Skalnik Christopher J. , Agmon Eran , Spangler Ryan K. , Talman Lee , Morrison Jerry H. , Peirce Shayn M. , Covert Markus W.
Published: April 2021

Bacterial behavior is the outcome of both molecular mechanisms within each cell and interactions between cells in the context of their environment. Whereas whole-cell models simulate a single cell’s behavior using molecular mechanisms, agent-based models simulate many agents independently acting and interacting to generate complex collective phenomena. To synthesize agent-based and whole-cell modeling, we used a novel model integration software, called Vivarium, to construct an agent-based model ofE. colicolonies where each agent is represented by a current source code snapshot from theE. coliWhole-Cell Modeling Project and interacts with other cells in a shared spatial environment. The result is the first “whole-colony” computational model that mechanistically links expression of individual proteins to a population-level phenotype. Simulated colonies exhibit heterogeneous effects on their environments, heterogeneous gene expression, and media-dependent growth. Extending the cellular model with mechanisms of antibiotic susceptibility and resistance, our model also suggested that variation in the expression level of the betalactamase AmpC, and not of the multi-drug efflux pump AcrAB-TolC, was the key mechanistic driver of survival in the presence of nitrocefin. We see this as a significant step forward in the creation of more comprehensive multi-scale models, and it broadens the range of phenomena that can be modeled in mechanistic terms.

Author summary

This work combines several models of molecular and physical processes that impact the physiology and behavior of the common microbeEscherichia coliinto a multiscale model. Colonies comprised of multiple individual cells are simulated as they grow and divide—each with complex internal mechanisms, and with physical interactions and molecular diffusion in their environments. The integrative modeling methodology supports the addition of new submodels. The flexibility of this methodology is demonstrated by adding models of antibiotic resistance and simulating the colony’s response to antibiotic treatment.
A northern range extension of a Canadian species of Special Concern,Dielis pilipes(Hymenoptera: Scoliidae), in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia
Authors: Nelson Tyler D. , Moffat Chandra E.
Published: April 2021

The only known Canadian records of the yellow scarab hunter wasp,Dielis pilipes(Saussure) (Hymenoptera: Scoliidae), are from the southern Okanagan and Similkameen valleys of British Columbia. We report a 25-km northern range extension of the species into the Ponderosa Pine Biogeoclimatic Ecosystem Classification zone, collected in an unmanaged agricultural field in Summerland, British Columbia. This finding is of conservation importance and has implications for natural biological control of ten-lined June beetles,Polyphylla decemlineata(Say) andP. crinitaLeConte (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), incidental agricultural pests in the Okanagan.
Recurrent Emergence of an Antiviral Defense through Repeated Retrotransposition and Truncation of CHMP3
Authors: Rheinemann Lara , Downhour Diane Miller , Davenport Kristen A. , McKeown Alesia N. , Sundquist Wesley I. , Elde Nels C.
Published: April 2021

Most restriction factors recognize virus features to execute antiviral functions. In contrast, we discovered retroCHMP3, which instead impairs the host endosomal complexes required for transport (ESCRT) pathway to inhibit budding of enveloped viruses, including HIV-1. The ESCRT pathway is essential, so ESCRT inhibition creates the potential for cytotoxicity. We chart independent courses of retroCHMP3 emergence and reduction of cytotoxicity in New World monkeys and mice using ancestral reconstructions. Overexpression of full-length CHMP3 results in modest antiviral activity, which is enhanced by truncating mutations but causes increased cytotoxicity. We show that retroCHMP3 from squirrel monkeys acquired ancient mutations mitigating cytotoxicity before gaining the activating truncation. In contrast, a truncating mutation arose soon after the independent appearance of murine retroCHMP3, but the variant exhibits regulated expression by interferon signaling, illustrating distinct paths in the emergence of antiviral functions. RetroCHMP3 genes can repeatedly emerge in different species to independently create new immune functions.
Biosynthetic heme of malaria parasite induces cerebral pathogenesis by regulating hemozoin formation and griseofulvin can prevent cerebral malaria
Authors: Chandana Manjunatha , Anand Aditya , Ghosh Sourav , Beura Subhashree , Jena Sarita , Suryawanshi Amol Ratnakar , Padmanaban Govindarajan , Nagaraj Viswanathan Arun
Published: April 2021

Heme-biosynthetic pathway of malaria parasite is dispensable for asexual stages, but essential for sexual and liver stages. Despite having backup mechanisms to acquire hemoglobin-heme, pathway intermediates and/or enzymes from the host, asexual parasites express heme pathway enzymes and synthesize heme. Here we show heme synthesized in asexual stages promotes cerebral pathogenesis by enhancing hemozoin formation. Hemozoin is a parasite molecule associated with inflammation, aberrant host-immune responses, disease severity and cerebral pathogenesis. The heme pathway knockout parasites synthesize less hemozoin, and mice infected with knockout parasites are completely protected from cerebral malaria and death due to anaemia is delayed. Biosynthetic heme regulates food vacuole integrity and the food vacuoles from knockout parasites are compromised in pH, lipid unsaturation and proteins, essential for hemozoin formation. Targeting parasite heme synthesis by griseofulvin - a FDA-approved drug, prevents cerebral malaria in mice and provides a new adjunct therapeutic option for cerebral and severe malaria.
Evaluating the effectiveness of Farsi-English query production using ontology: a case of scientometric ontology
Authors: Manouchehri Sanaz , Mirzabeigi Mahdieh , Jowkar Tahere
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to discover the effectiveness of Farsi-English query using ontology.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study is quasi-experimental. The sample consisted of 60 students and graduate and doctoral staff from Shiraz University and the Regional Center for Science and Technology. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to assess the level of English language proficiency of users, background knowledge and their level of satisfaction with search results before and after using ontology. Each user also evaluated the relevance of the top ten results on the Google search engine results page before and after using ontology.

Findings

The findings showed that the level of complexity of the task, the use of ontology, the interactive effect of the level of complexity of the task with the domain knowledge of the users, and the interactive effect of the level of complexity of the task with ontology, influence the effectiveness of retrieval results from the users' point of view. The results of the present study also showed that the level of complexity of the task, the use of ontology, and the interactive effect of the level of complexity of the task and the use of ontology, affect the level of user satisfaction.

Originality/value

The results of this research are significant in both theoretical and practical aspects. Theoretically, given the lack of research in which the interactive effect of the use of ontology has examined the level of complexity of tasks and domain knowledge of users, the present study can be considered as an attempt to improve information retrieval systems. From a practical point of view, the results of this research will help researchers and designers of information retrieval systems to understand that the use of ontologies can be used to retrieve information and improve the query and assess the needs of users and their satisfaction in this field, and ultimately, making the information retrieval process more effective.
Materials passport's review: challenges and opportunities toward a circular economy building sector
Authors: Munaro Mayara Regina , Tavares Sergio Fernando
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Reuse and recycling building materials depend on an efficient set of information and tracking, which can be obtained by the materials passport (MP) tool. Although MP introduces principles of circular economy (CE) and brings environmental, social and economic benefits, it is little-explored in the construction sector. The purpose of this study is to explore the adoption of the MP in the sector to raise awareness about this tool. This analysis leads to the conception of a model and identifies the main challenges and opportunities to increase MP implementation in the sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a systematic literature review, based on the descriptive and thematic analysis, articles were selected, and analyzed to (1) review the MP state-of-the-art in the construction sector; (2) propose a materials passport model and (3) list the main challenges and opportunities to MP adoption.

Findings

The studies about MP were concentrated on strategies to implement general concepts and business opportunities. The MP model was proposed to overcome the lack of studies and understanding showed in the review. The model aimed to improve the recovery and reuse of materials across a building's life cycle. Challenges and opportunities were raised to direct decision-makers and support the development of this tool. A systematic regulation in the construction value chain and policy systems is crucial for creating digital platforms for data management of buildings' material.

Originality/value

This study developed an MP model to enable the management of building materials at different stages of the building's life cycle and contributes to future developments of the studies on this knowledge domain.
Expanding the PGI certification scheme as a marketing tool in the olive oil industry: a perspective on consumer behavior
Authors: Di Vita Giuseppe , Cavallo Carla , Del Giudice Teresa , Pergamo Raffaella , Cicia Gianni , D'Amico Mario
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Recently, several regional protected geographical indications (PGI) have been introduced in Italy for extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with the aim of coping with the substantial failure of protected designations of origin (PDO). This study aims to identify which characteristics consumers expect, in order to anticipate the market success.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a survey has been used on a sample of consumers from Sicily, one of the first regions which recently developed a regional PGI for EVOO. Data have been analyzed with a rank-ordered logit model.

Findings

Results yielded that consumers would accept this new product and their expectations correspond to a product with attributes such as: green color, not filtered, not with a sweet taste and with a known brand. A possible target can be represented by young men.

Practical implications

The results obtained anticipate whether this product would be accepted and provides direct indications for producers who wish to enter the market with a PGI EVOO.

Originality/value

This work focuses on consumer behavior toward products that are specifically certified with a recently introduced PGI label, and they still are not so common on the market.
Performance evaluation of privatized ports by entropy based TOPSIS and ARAS approach
Authors: Gök-Kısa A. Cansu , Çeli̇k Pelin , Peker İskender
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Ports are the key elements of maritime transportation, which is crucial for world trade. Approximately 180 port facilities are located in Turkey. After 2007, 5 of the ports, which are formerly owned by Turkish Republic Railways Administration (TRRA), are privatized. The aim of the study is to evaluate the performance of these privatized ports by multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The application process is performed by a MCDM model. This model includes both criteria (dry bulk, liquid bulk, general cargo, container, RO-RO capacity, total port area, total berth, total berths length and depth) and alternatives (Mersin, Samsun, Bandirma, Iskenderun and Derince Ports). It determines the weights of the criteria by entropy and ranks the alternatives by ARAS and Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) methods.

Findings

The results of entropy, ARAS and TOPSIS methods are compared. According to these results, “container” is the most important criteria while Mersin port has the best performance.

Originality/value

In the literature, most of the studies about this subject were analyzed by data envelopment analysis (DEA) and there are no studies had been taken into consideration ports that are owned by TRRA, in Turkey. Moreover, few of these studies used integrated MCDM models, and this is the first study that integrates entropy, ARAS and TOPSIS methods in this field.
Does the risk aversion of crude oil market investors have directional predictability for the precious metal and agricultural markets?
Authors: Zhang Yue-Jun , Pan Xu
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Risk aversion is considered as an important factor in predicting asset prices. Many studies have proved that there exists important price information spillover among crude oil, precious metals and agricultural markets. Then there naturally follows the question: Is the risk aversion of investors in crude oil market predictable for the returns of precious metals and agricultural products? The purpose of this paper is to answer this question. For this reason, the authors explore the directional predictability and the cross-quantile dependence between risk aversion of crude oil market investors and returns of precious metals and agricultural products.

Design/methodology/approach

To better describe the risk aversion of investors, this paper uses high-frequency data and model-free calculation method to obtain variance risk premium of crude oil. Then, this paper uses the cross-quantilogram method to investigate the directional predictability and cross-quantile dependence between risk aversion of crude oil market investors and returns of precious metals and agricultural products. Meanwhile, it employs the partial cross-quantilogram (PCQ) method to test the impact of control variables on the empirical results.

Findings

Firstly, risk aversion of crude oil market investors has directional predictability for returns of precious metals and agricultural products. Secondly, different degrees of risk aversion of crude oil market investors have different impacts on returns of precious metals and agricultural products. A low (high) degree of crude oil market investors' risk aversion has negative (positive) predictability for returns of precious metals and agricultural products. Finally, during the sample period, the returns of precious metals are more affected by risk aversion of crude oil market investors than returns of agricultural products.

Originality/value

First of all, this paper studies the impact of risk aversion of crude oil market investors on returns of precious metals and agricultural products. It updates previous relevant studies on the factors influencing the prices of precious metals and agricultural products, and provides a new idea for the forecast of those commodity returns. Secondly, this paper provides the evidence that different degrees of risk aversion of investors have different effects on the returns of commodities, and expands the research on the topic of commodity returns prediction. Finally, high-frequency data are employed in this paper to better capture the risk aversion of investors than commonly used daily data.
Comparative study of academic research on project management in Iran and the World with text mining approach and TF–IDF method
Authors: Toosi Hossein , Ghaaderi Mohammad Amin , Shokrani Zahra
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare the trend of academic project management research in Iran and the World in five-year periods with a text mining approach and TF–IDF method.

Design/methodology/approach

The research population consists of 1205 theses presented between 2000 and 2019 in Iranian universities. The central library website of the mentioned universities was used for data collection, and the text mining approach with the TF–IDF method was used for data analysis.

Findings

The remarkable results of this study include: Concrete structures are the most frequent among structural systems, Risk Management is the most frequent among PMBOK Knowledge Areas, Design-build (DB) system is the most frequent among Project Delivery Systems, Engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) is the most frequent among DB Project Delivery Systems, Financial Management is the most frequent among specialized construction knowledge areas, Soft Skills is the most frequent among Global Trends, Contracting Companies is the most frequent among Project Parties, Construction Projects is the most frequent among Project Areas, Power Plant and Refinery is the most frequent among Project Subjects, Optimization is the most frequent among Problem-Solving Approaches, Fuzzy Logic is the most frequent among Novel Algorithms and Motivation is the most frequent among Soft Skills.

Originality/value

The innovative aspect of this research is that for the first time, text mining has been used to analyze academic research on project and construction management, and also for the first time, academic research on construction industry in Iran has been compared with global research.
Actionable strategy framework for digital transformation in AECO industry
Authors: Bhattacharya Sanjay , Momaya K.S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) holds the potential to improve capabilities- and technology-based innovation, which will enable breakout for architectural, engineering, construction and operation and maintenance (AECO) companies, for international competitiveness. Though the top management of such companies is convinced on the utility of the applications, they are unsure on the strategy of implementing the same. The objective of this research is to suggest a strategy framework for digital transformation of the AECO value chain.

Design/methodology/approach

The nascent level of research on 4IR in construction necessitated the adoption of the integrative review methodology for the study. Extensive literature review of research on strategy and 4IR has been utilized to establish the validity of the first two pillars, namely “a strategy of simple rules in a complex environment; and deployment of dynamic capabilities.” The validation of a construct for the third pillar of “confluence of change and continuity forces” has been achieved via hypothesis testing of data obtained through a questionnaire survey.

Findings

The present study has integrated three diverse ideas of strategy, named as the pillars, to facilitate sustainable digital transformation. Within the third pillar, top three continuity forces which offer resistance to change are organization culture, existing delivery processes and networks, and existing standard operating procedures. On the other hand, the leading drivers of change are needs of competitiveness; global industry trends and the advent of new technologies/innovations.

Research limitations/implications

This provides a practical approach to operationalize digital transformation of the AECO at an organization level. The validation relied on opinion and perspectives of a sample frame in the Indian context, which was its limitation.

Originality/value

This paper suggests a strategy framework of three pillars to help address specific strategy dilemmas during implementation of digital transformation of particular organizations in AECO. The study contributes to both theory and practice by helping leaders of AECO companies, associations, policymakers and the academia to strategize transformations successfully.
Structural model for the relationships between age-friendly communities and quality of life of older adults in Hefei, China
Authors: Yu Jingyu , Ma Guixia , Ding Wenxuan , Mao Jiangfeng , Wang Jingfeng
Published: April 2021

Purpose

China is experiencing tremendous changes of rapid urbanization and aging society. The development of age-friendly communities (AFCs) has been encouraged for improving health and well-being of older adults. Hence, this study aimed to deepen the understanding of AFCs in China and to investigate the integrated relationships between AFCs and the quality of life (QoL) of older adults, using a large-scale questionnaire survey.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was conducted in Hefei, China, to investigate the complicated relationships between the components of AFCs and the QoL of older adults. Ultimately, 1,383 valid questionnaires were collected from senior respondents aged more than 60 years. Several statistical methods, including reliability analysis, correlation analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM), were adopted to develop an integrated model for AFC components and the QoL of older adults.

Findings

Six AFC components and four older adults' QoL factors were identified. The SEM results revealed integrated relationships between specific AFC components and the QoL of older adults: (1) physical QoL was affected by outdoor spaces, public transportation, housing and community and health services; (2) psychological QoL was predicted by most of the AFC components except community and health services; and (3) environmental QoL and social QoL were both influenced by outdoor spaces, communication and information and community and health services.

Practical implications

In order to enhance the QoL of older adults, it is suggested that outdoor spaces need to be enlarged by fully using the facilities and playgrounds of middle schools and renovating the older buildings. The locations of public transportation stations are recommended to be revised to be within a 5-minute walking distance of senior residents. Improvements to the social environment of AFCs, by increasing the coverage of medical services and creating multiple approaches to recreational activities, are encouraged.

Originality/value

These findings have empirical significance for urban planners and policy-makers in regard to identifying major components of AFCs and understanding the effect of those components on the QoL of older adults.
Queer India “on paper” – decriminalization, recognition and visibility of sexual diversity
Authors: Baas Michiel
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Taking as a point of departure the edited collection Yaraana (1999), ostensibly the first mainstream publication on gay writing from India, the purpose of this article is to trace the way Indian authors have dealt with the growing visibility of nonnormative sexualities. It suggests that from the start this debate has centered on a dyad between local and culturally specific sexual identities vs its globalized opposite, which is held to threaten regionally specific expressions. The continuing struggle for recognition and equality is revealing for a growing divide between those whose sexuality can rely on growing representation in Indian popular media, and those who feel increasingly marginalized.

Design/methodology/approach

This article revisits important texts that were published and publicly accessible in India from 1999 onwards. All the text considered and discussed were accessible outside academic networks and thus, available in mainstream bookstores, produced by Indian authors or long-term residents and available in English. Considering the vast language diversity of India as well as the complexity of gaining access to locally published materials, the analysis does not include texts that are only available in a vernacular language. Besides this, the article benefits from the direct input of key activists and scholars from India working on this topic.

Findings

Even if homosexuality has now been decriminalized in India, what emerges from the writing is a concern that globally hegemonic expressions of alternate sexualities might impact, homogenize and eventually eradicate locally specific expressions. Considering socioeconomic equality in India, this raises serious questions about those whose precarious positions may see them further marginalized because of this.

Originality/value

While there have been various overviews and analyses of the fight for decriminalization of homosexuality in India, so far there has not been an analysis how this benefited from a growing awareness and discussion in popularly accessible texts. This analysis also raises concerns that the fight for decriminalization might have negative consequences for those in marginalized positions.
Diversity in disability: leaders' accounts on inclusive employment in the Indian context
Authors: Suresh Vasanthi , Dyaram Lata
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Despite several concerted efforts and directives, Indian organizations have a long road to travel with respect to the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workforce. Disability taking different forms often impacts organizational decisions on employment and inclusion of persons with disabilities. Acknowledging the role of employers in improving their employment prospects, the purpose of this paper is to examine key factors that direct the decisions regarding targeted recruitment of persons with various types of disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory study is based on thematic analysis of senior executives' accounts to examine the factors that direct their decisions pertaining to employment of persons with varied types of disabilities.

Findings

Findings highlight organizational determinants that enable/disable employment of persons with varied types of disabilities. The organizational determinants reported are: knowledge about type of disability; work characteristics; accommodations based on type of disability; accessibility of physical infrastructure and external pressures; whereas, persons with orthopedic, vision, hearing and intellectual disabilities are represented in the employee base.

Research limitations/implications

The present study contributes to employer perspectives on workplace disability inclusion toward understanding the nuances of organizational dynamics and human perceptions. Future studies could explore perspectives of other key stakeholders and the conditions under which organizational determinants are perceived as enabling or disabling.

Originality/value

The present study highlights how disability type influences leaders' views on recruitment of persons with disabilities, in an under-researched study context of Indian organizations.
Channelling employability perceptions through lifelong learning: an empirical investigation
Authors: Nimmi P.M. , Zakkariya K.A. , Rahul P.R.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Graduates' attitudes towards learning, although subject to change, is a crucial indicator of their understanding and involvement in lifelong learning activities. The purpose of this paper is to explore whether lifelong learning enhances human capital worth to predict perceived employability. An enquiry into the attitudinal differences on lifelong learning among male and female students was also looked into.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical examination using Warp-PLS was conducted on the propositions among 286 engineering graduate students in Kerala, India, from January 2020 to March 2020.

Findings

The Warp-PLS examination reveals a positive association between lifelong learning and perceived employability and warrants the mediating role of lifelong learning in the association between human capital and perceived employability. A gendered variation on attitudinal differences towards lifelong learning is also looked into, and no difference between males and females is found.

Originality/value

The impact of lifelong learning on employability has been conceptually discussed before. This paper is the first attempt to empirically prove the same with a proper theoretical explanation.