bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary arms race between virus and host drives genetic diversity in bat SARS related coronavirus spike genes
Authors: Guo Hua , Hu Bing-Jie , Yang Xing-Lou , Zeng Lei-Ping , Li Bei , Ouyang Song-Ying , Shi Zheng-Li
Published: May 2020

The Chinese horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus sinicus), reservoir host of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), carries many bat SARS-related CoVs (SARSr-CoVs) with high genetic diversity, particularly in the spike gene. Despite these variations, some bat SARSr-CoVs can utilize the orthologs of human SARS-CoV receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), for entry. It is speculated that the interaction between bat ACE2 and SARSr-CoV spike proteins drives diversity. Here, we have identified a series ofR. sinicusACE2 variants with some polymorphic sites involved in the interaction with the SARS-CoV spike protein. Pseudoviruses or SARSr-CoVs carrying different spike proteins showed different infection efficiency in cells transiently expressing bat ACE2 variants. Consistent results were observed by binding affinity assays between SARS- and SARSr-CoV spike proteins and receptor molecules from bats and humans. All tested bat SARSr-CoV spike proteins had a higher binding affinity to human ACE2 than to bat ACE2, although they showed a 10-fold lower binding affinity to human ACE2 compared with their SARS-CoV counterpart. Structure modeling revealed that the difference in binding affinity between spike and ACE2 might be caused by the alteration of some key residues in the interface of these two molecules. Molecular evolution analysis indicates that these residues were under strong positive selection. These results suggest that the SARSr-CoV spike protein andR. sinicusACE2 may have coevolved over time and experienced selection pressure from each other, triggering the evolutionary arms race dynamics. It further proves thatR. sinicusis the natural host of SARSr-CoVs.

Importance

Evolutionary arms race dynamics shape the diversity of viruses and their receptors. Identification of key residues which are involved in interspecies transmission is important to predict potential pathogen spillover from wildlife to humans. Previously, we have identified genetically diverse SARSr-CoV in Chinese horseshoe bats. Here, we show the highly polymorphic ACE2 in Chinese horseshoe bat populations. These ACE2 variants support SARS- and SARSr-CoV infection but with different binding affinity to different spike proteins. The higher binding affinity of SARSr-CoV spike to human ACE2 suggests that these viruses have the capacity of spillover to humans. The positive selection of residues at the interface between ACE2 and SARSr-CoV spike protein suggests a long-term and ongoing coevolutionary dynamics between them. Continued surveillance of this group of viruses in bats is necessary for the prevention of the next SARS-like disease.
Drosophilaphosphatidylinositol-4 kinasefwdpromotes mitochondrial fission and can suppressPink1/parkinphenotypes
Authors: Terriente-Felix Ana , Wilson Emma L. , Whitworth Alexander J.
Published: May 2020

Balanced mitochondrial fission and fusion play an important role in shaping and distributing mitochondria, as well as contributing to mitochondrial homeostasis and adaptation to stress. In particular, mitochondrial fission is required to facilitate degradation of damaged or dysfunctional units via mitophagy. Two Parkinson’s disease factors, PINK1 and Parkin, are considered key mediators of damage-induced mitophagy, and promoting mitochondrial fission is sufficient to suppress the pathological phenotypes inPink1/parkinmutantDrosophila. We sought additional factors that impinge on mitochondrial dynamics and which may also suppressPink1/parkinphenotypes. We found that theDrosophilaphosphatidylinositol 4-kinase IIIβ homologue, Four wheel drive (Fwd), promotes mitochondrial fission downstream of the pro-fission factor Drp1. Previously described only as male sterile, we identified several new phenotypes infwdmutants, including locomotor deficits and shortened lifespan, which are accompanied by mitochondrial dysfunction. Finally, we found thatfwdoverexpression can suppress locomotor deficits and mitochondrial disruption inPink1/parkinmutants, consistent with its function in promoting mitochondrial fission. Together these results shed light on the complex mechanisms of mitochondrial fission and further underscore the potential of modulating mitochondrial fission/fusion dynamics in the context of neurodegeneration.

Author Summary

Mitochondria are dynamic oganelles that can fuse and divide, in part to facilitate turnover of damaged components. These processes are essential to maintain a healthy mitochondrial network, and, in turn, maintain cell viability. This is critically important in high-energy, post-mitotic tissues such as neurons. We previously identifiedDrosophilaphosphatidylinositol-4 kinasefwdas a pro-fission factor in a cell-based screen. Here we show that loss offwdregulates mitochondrial fissionin vivo, and acts genetically downstream ofDrp1. We identified new phenotypes infwdmutants, similar to loss ofPink1/parkin, two genes linked to Parkinson’s disease and key regulators of mitochondrial homeostasis. Importantly,fwdoverexpression is able to substantially suppress locomotor and mitochondrial phenotypes inPink1/parkinmutants, suggesting manipulating phophoinositides may represent a novel route to tackling Parkinson’s disease.
Hyperbolic odorant mixtures as a basis for more efficient signaling between flowering plants and bees
Authors: Ghaninia Majid , Zhou Yuansheng , Knauer Anina C. , Schiestl Florian P. , Sharpee Tatyana O. , Smith Brian H.
Published: May 2020

Animals use odors in many natural contexts, for example, for finding mates or food, or signaling danger. Most analyses of natural odors search for either the most meaningful components of a natural odor mixture, or they use linear metrics to analyze the mixture compositions. However, we have recently shown that the physical space for complex mixtures is ‘hyperbolic’, meaning that there are certain combination of variables that have a disproportionately large impact on perception and that these variables have specific interpretation in terms of metabolic processes taking place inside the flower and fruit that produce the odors. Here we show that the statistics of odorants and odorant mixtures produced by inflorescences (Brassica rapa) are also better described with a hyperbolic rather than a linear metric, and that combinations of odorants in the hyperbolic space are better predictors of the nectar and pollen resources sought by bee pollinators than the standard Euclidian combinations. We also show that honey bee and bumble bee antennae can detect most components of theB. rapaodor space, and the strength of responses correlates with positions of odorants in the hyperbolic space. In sum, a hyperbolic representation can be used to guide investigation of how information is represented at different levels of processing in the CNS.
Role of ischemic preconditioning in cardioprotective mechanisms of mCRP deposited myocardium in a rat model
Authors: Kim Eun Na , Choi Jae-Sung , Kim Chong Jai , Kim So Ra , Kim Ki-Bong , Oh Se Jin
Published: May 2020

The deposition of monomeric C-reactive protein (mCRP) in the myocardium aggravates ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) and myocardial infarction. Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) is known to protect the myocardium against IRI. We evaluated the effects of IPC on mCRP-deposited myocardium due to IRI in a rat model. Myocardial IRI was produced by ligation of the coronary artery. Direct IPC was applied before IRI using multiple short direct occlusions of the coronary artery. CRP was infused intravenously after IRI. The study groups included the following: sham (n=3), IRI only (n=5), IRI+CRP (n=9), and IPC+IRI+CRP (n=6) groups. The infarct area and area at risk were assessed using Evans blue and 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (2,3,5-TTC) staining. Additionally, mCRP immunostaining and interleukin (IL)-6 mRNA reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed. In the IRI+CRP group, the infarcted area, mCRP deposition, and IL-6 mRNA expression were higher than those in the IRI only group. However, in the IPC+IRI+CRP group, the infarction (20% vs. 34% p=0.085) and mCRP myocardial deposition (21% vs. 44%, p=0.026) were lower and IL-6 mRNA expression was higher than those in the IRI+CRP group (fold change, 407 vs. 326, p=0.808), although this was not statistically significant. IPC has cardioprotective effects against myocardial damage caused by mCRP deposition. This protective effect is related to the increase in IL-6 mRNA expression.
Nascent mutant Huntingtin exon 1 chains do not stall on ribosomes during translation but aggregates do recruit machinery involved in ribosome quality control
Authors: Ormsby Angelique R. , Cox Dezerae , Daly James , Priest David , Hinde Elizabeth , Hatters Danny M.
Published: May 2020

Mutations that cause Huntington’s Disease involve a polyglutamine (polyQ) sequence expansion beyond 35 repeats in exon 1 of Huntingtin. Intracellular inclusion bodies of mutant Huntingtin protein are a key feature of Huntington’s disease brain pathology. We previously showed that in cell culture the formation of inclusions involved the assembly of disordered structures of mHtt exon 1 fragments (Httex1) and they were enriched with translational machinery when first formed. We hypothesized that nascent mutant Httex1 chains co-aggregate during translation by phase separation into liquid-like disordered aggregates and then convert to more rigid, amyloid structures. Here we further examined the mechanisms of inclusion assembly in a human epithelial kidney (AD293) cell culture model and examined whether ribosome quality control machinery previously implicated in stalled ribosomes were involved. We found mHttex1 did not appear to stall translation of its own nascent chain and there was no recruitment of RNA into inclusions. However, proteins involved in translation or ribosome quality control were co-recruited into the inclusions (Ltn1 and Rack1) compared to a protein not anticipated to be involved (NACAD). Furthermore, we observed co-aggregation with other proteins previously identified in inclusions, including Upf-1 and chaperone-like proteins Sgta and Hspb1, which also suppressed aggregation at high co-expression levels. The newly formed inclusions contained immobile mHttex1 molecules which points to the disordered aggregates being mechanically rigid prior to amyloid formation.
Aquaporins are main contributors of root hydraulic conductivity in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L) R. Br.]
Authors: Grondin Alexandre , Affortit Pablo , Tranchant-Dubreuil Christine , de la Fuente Cantó Carla , Mariac Cédric , Gantet Pascal , Vadez Vincent , Vigouroux Yves , Laplaze Laurent
Published: May 2020

Pearl millet is a key cereal for food security in arid and semi-arid regions but its yield is increasingly threatened by water stress. Physiological mechanisms consisting in saving water or increasing water use efficiency can alleviate that stress. Aquaporins (AQP) are water channels contributing to plant hydraulic balance that are supposedly involved in these mechanisms by mediating root water transport. However, AQP remain largely uncharacterized in pearl millet. Here, we studied AQP function in root water transport in two pearl millet lines contrasting for water use efficiency (WUE). We observed that these lines were also contrasting for root hydraulic conductivity (Lpr) and AQP contribution to Lpr, the line with lower WUE showing significantly higher AQP contribution to Lpr. To investigate the AQP isoforms contributing to Lpr, we developed genomic approaches to first identify the entire AQP family in pearl millet and second study the plasma membrane intrinsic proteins (PIP) gene expression profile. We identified and annotated 33 AQP genes in pearl millet among which ten encoded PIP isoforms. PgPIP1-3 and PgPIP1-4 were significantly more expressed in the line showing lower WUE, higher Lpr and higher AQP contribution to Lpr. Overall, our study suggests that AQP from the PIP1 family are the main contributor of Lpr in pearl millet and are possibly associated to whole plant water use mechanisms. This study paves the way for further investigations on AQP functions in pearl millet hydraulics and adaptation to environmental stresses.

The newly sequenced nucleotide sequences reported in this article have been submitted to GenBank under the submission number 2333840 (TPA grp467567). Assignment of GenBank accession number is in process.
Wild type AAV, recombinant AAV, and Adenovirus super infection impact on AAV vector mobilization
Authors: Song Liujiang , Samulski R. Jude , Hirsch Matthew L.
Published: May 2020

Recombinant Adeno-associated viral vector (rAAV) mobilization is a largely theoretical process in which intact AAV vectors spread or “mobilize” from transduced cells and infect additional cells within, or external, of the initial host. This process can be replication independent (vector alone), or replication-dependent (de novo rAAV production facilitated by super-infection of both wild-type AAV (wtAAV) and Ad helper virus). Herein, rAAV production and mobilization with and without wtAAV were analyzed following plasmid transfection or viral transduction utilizing well established in vitro conditions and analytical measurements. During in vitro production, wtAAV produced the highest titer with rAAV-luc (4.1 Kb), rAAV-IDUA (3.7 Kb), and rAAV-NanoDysferlin (4.9 Kb) generating 2.5-, 5.9-, or 10.7-fold lower amounts, respectively. Surprisingly, cotransfection of a wtAAV and a rAAV plasmid resulted in a uniform decrease in production of wtAAV in all instances with a concomitant increase of rAAV such that wtAAV:rAAV titers were at a ratio of 1:1 for all constructs investigated. These results were shown to be independent of the rAAV transgenic sequence, size, transgene, or promoter choice and point to novel aspects of wtAAV complementation that enhance current vector production systems yet to be de fined. In a mobilization assay, a sizeable amount of rAAV recovered from infected 293 cell lysate remained intact and competent for a secondary round of infection (termed non-replicative mobilization). In rAAV infected cells co-infected with Ad5 and wtAAV, rAAV particle production was increased > 50-fold compared to non-replicative conditions. In addition, replicative dependent rAAV vectors mobilized and resulted in >1,000 -fold transduction upon a subsequent 2nd round infection, highlighting the reality of these theoretical safety concerns that can be manifested under various conditions. Overall, these studies document and signify the need for mobilization resistant vectors and the opportunity to derive better vector production systems.
Improved accuracy of breast volume calculation from 3D surface imaging data using statistical shape models
Authors: Göpper M. W. , Neubauer J. , Kalash Z. , Stark G.B. , Simunovic F.
Published: May 2020

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) scanning is an established method of breast volume estimation. However, this method can never be entirely precise, since the thoracic wall cannot be imaged by the surface scanner. Current methods rely on interpolation of the posterior breast border from the surrounding thoracic wall. Here, we present a novel method to calculate the posterior border and increase the accuracy of the measurement.

Methods

Using principal component analysis, computed tomography images were used to build a statistical shape model (SSM) of the thoracic wall. The model was fitted to 3D images and the missing thoracic wall curvature interpolated (indirect volumetry). The calculations were evaluated by ordinary least squares regression between the preoperative and postoperative volume differences and the resection weights in breast reduction surgery (N=36). Also, an SSM of the breast was developed, allowing direct volumetry. Magnetic-resonance images (MRI) and 3D scans were acquired from 5 patients in order to validate the direct 3D volumetry.

Results

Volumetry based on a SSM exhibited a higher determination coefficient (R2=0,737) than the interpolation method (R2=0,404). The methods were not equivalent (p=0.75), suggesting that the methods significantly differ. There was no influence of BMI on the correlation in either method. The MRI volumetry had a strong correlation with the 3D volumetry (R2=0,978).

Conclusion

The SSM-based method of posterior breast border calculation is reliable and superior to the currently used method of interpolation. It should serve as a basis of software applications aiming at calculation of breast volume from 3D surface scanning data.
Auditory evoked potential (P300) in cochlear implant users: a scoping review
Authors: do Amaral Maria Stella Arantes , Zamberlan-Amorin Nelma Ellen , Sasso Mendes Karina Dal , Bernal Sarah Carolina , Massuda Eduardo Tanaka , Hyppolito Miguel Ângelo , Barbosa Reis Ana Cláudia Mirândola
Published: May 2020

Introduction

P300 auditory evoked potential is evoked by a long latency auditory stimulus, which provides information on neural mechanisms underlying central auditory processing, considered an objective and non-invasive technique to study the auditory central nervous system.

Objective

To identify and gather scientific evidence regarding the P3 component in adult cochlear implant users.

Methods

Scoping review of scientific literature, in the search of original articles in Portuguese, Spanish and English, published between 1991 and May 2018, in the following database websites: PubMed / Medline, Embase, LILACS and Web of Science.

Results

A total of 87 articles were identified and exported to the search software Rayyan for study selection - 58 were from Embase, 26 from PubMed and 3 from Web of Science. There were no articles found on LILACS. From those 87 articles, 16 were excluded for being duplicated. Then 71 articles were selected for title, authors, yeas and abstract scanning, from which 50 articles were excluded. From the 21 final articles for full reading, one was excluded for not performing P300, leaving us with 20 selected articles.

Conclusion

This review has contributed with evidence that indicates how important it is to include speech stimulation when measuring P300. Regardless of the stimulus being used for P300 elicitation, a pattern of results can be seen a higher latency and a lower amplitude in CI users.
Propagation, inactivation, and safety testing of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jureka Alexander S. , Silvas Jesus A. , Basler Christopher F.
Published: May 2020

In late 2019, a novel coronavirus, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerged in Wuhan, the capital of the Chinese province Hubei. Since then, SARS-CoV-2 has been responsible for a worldwide pandemic resulting in over 4 million infections and over 250,000 deaths. The pandemic has instigated widespread research related to SARS-CoV-2 and the disease that it causes, COVID-19. Research into this new virus will be facilitated by the availability of clearly described and effective procedures that enable the propagation and quantification of infectious virus. Because work with the virus is recommended to be performed at biosafety level 3, validated methods to effectively inactivate the virus to enable safe study of RNA, DNA and protein from infected cells are also needed. Here, we report methods used to grow SARS-CoV-2 in multiple cell lines and to measure virus infectivity by plaque assay using either agarose or microcrystalline cellulose as an overlay as well as a SARS-CoV-2 specific focus forming assay. We also demonstrate effective inactivation by TRIzol, 10% neutral buffered formalin, beta propiolactone, and heat.
Parallel global profiling of plant TOR dynamics reveals a conserved role for LARP1 in protein translation
Authors: Scarpin M. Regina , Leiboff Samuel , Brunkard Jacob O.
Published: May 2020

TARGET OF RAPAMYCIN (TOR) is a deeply conserved protein kinase that coordinates eukaryotic metabolism with nutrient availability. In mammals, TOR specifically promotes translation of ribosomal protein mRNAs when amino acids are available to support protein synthesis. The mechanisms controlling translation downstream from TOR remain contested, however, and are largely unexplored in plants. Here, we took parallel global profiling approaches to define thein plantaTOR-regulated transcriptome, translatome, proteome, and phosphoproteome. We found that TOR regulates ribosome biogenesis in plants at multiple levels, but through mechanisms that do not directly depend on the canonical 5′ oligopyrimidine tract motif (5′TOP) found in mammalian ribosomal protein mRNAs. To investigate this further, we focused on a putative TOR substrate identified in our phosphoproteome: LARP1, a eukaryotic RNA-binding protein that is proposed to mediate TOR translational control of 5′TOP mRNAs in humans and that has gained increased interest because it associates with SARS-CoV-2. By conducting parallel global profiling experiments withlarp1mutants, we discovered that the TOR-LARP1 signaling axis controls 5′TOP mRNA translation in plants and defined a set of conserved eukaryotic 5′TOP mRNAs that encode cyclins, importins/karyopherins, translation elongation factors, and TCTP1, among others. We then identified novel, plant-specific 5′TOP mRNAs involved in critical biological processes, including ribosome biogenesis, chromatin remodeling, and auxin signaling. Our study illuminates the ancestral roles of the TOR-LARP1-5′TOP metabolic regulatory network and provides evolutionary context for ongoing debates about the molecular function of LARP1 in eukaryotic cells.
Slowly evolving dopaminergic activity modulates the moment-to-moment probability of movement initiation
Authors: Hamilos Allison E. , Spedicato Giulia , Hong Ye , Sun Fangmiao , Li Yulong , Assad John A.
Published: May 2020

Clues from human movement disorders have long suggested that the neurotransmitter dopamine plays a key role in motor control, but how the endogenous dopaminergic system regulates movement is unknown. Here we show dynamic dopaminergic signaling over seconds-long timescales controls movement timing in mice. Animals were trained to initiate licking after a self-timed interval following a start-timing cue. The movement time was variable from trial-to-trial, as expected from previous studies. Surprisingly, dopaminergic signals ramped-up over seconds between the start-timing cue and the self-timed movement, with variable dynamics that predicted the movement time on single trials. Steeply rising signals preceded early lick-initiation, whereas slowly rising signals preceded later initiation. Higher baseline signals also predicted earlier self-timed movements. Optogenetic activation of dopamine neurons during self-timing did not trigger immediate movements, but rather caused systematic early-shifting of movement initiation, whereas inhibition caused late-shifting, as if modulating the probability of movement. Consistent with this view, the dynamics of the endogenous dopaminergic signals quantitatively predicted the moment-by-moment probability of movement initiation on single trials. These results reveal a causal role for dynamic dopaminergic signaling unfolding over seconds in modulating the decision of when to move.
Extended field-of-view ultrathin microendoscopes for high-resolution two-photon imaging with minimal invasiveness in awake mice
Authors: Antonini Andrea , Sattin Andrea , Moroni Monica , Bovetti Serena , Moretti Claudio , Succol Francesca , Forli Angelo , Vecchia Dania , Rajamanickam Vijayakumar P. , Bertoncini Andrea , Panzeri Stefano , Liberale Carlo , Fellin Tommaso
Published: May 2020

Imaging neuronal activity with high and homogeneous spatial resolution across the field-of-view (FOV) and limited invasiveness in deep brain regions is fundamental for the progress of neuroscience, yet is a major technical challenge. We achieved this goal by correcting optical aberrations in gradient index lens-based ultrathin (≤ 500 µm) microendoscopes using aspheric microlenses generated through 3D-microprinting. Corrected microendoscopes had extended FOV (eFOV) with homogeneous spatial resolution for two-photon fluorescence imaging and required no modification of the optical set-up. Synthetic calcium imaging data showed that, compared to uncorrected endoscopes,eFOV-microendoscopes led to improved signal-to-noise ratio and more precise evaluation of correlated neuronal activity. We experimentally validated these predictions in awake head-fixed mice. Moreover, usingeFOV-microendoscopes we demonstrated cell-specific encoding of behavioral state-dependent information in distributed functional subnetworks in a primary somatosensory thalamic nucleus.eFOV-microendoscopes are, therefore, small-cross-section ready-to-use tools for deep two-photon functional imaging with unprecedentedly high and homogeneous spatial resolution.
Synthesis and crystallographic, spectroscopic and computational characterization of 3,3′,4,4′-substituted biphenyls: effects of ORsubstituents on the intra-ring torsion angle
Authors: Vadra Nahir , Suarez Sebastian A. , Slep Leonardo D. , Manzano Veronica E. , Halac Emilia B. , Baggio Ricardo F. , Cukiernik Fabio D.
Published: May 2020

Presented here are the synthesis, characterization and study (using single crystal X-ray diffraction, Raman scattering, quantum mechanics calculations) of the structures of a series of biphenyls substituted in positions 3, 3′, 4 and 4′ with a variety ofR(R= methyl, acetyl, hexyl) groups connected to the biphenyl core through oxygen atoms. The molecular conformation, particularly the torsion angle between aromatic rings has been extensively studied both in the solid as well as in the liquid state. The results show that the compounds appearing as rigorously planar in the solid present instead a twisted conformation in the melt. Thesolidversusmeltissue strongly suggests that the reasons for planarity are to be found in the packing restraints. A `rule of thumb' is suggested for the design of biphenyls with different molecular conformations, based on the selection of the ORsubstituent.
Problematizing profit and profitability: discussions
Authors: Lowe Alan , Nama Yesh , Bryer Alice , Chabrak Nihel , Dambrin Claire , Jeacle Ingrid , Lind Johnny , Lorino Philippe , Robson Keith , Bottausci Chiara , Spence Crawford , Carter Chris , Svetlova Ekaterina
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the outcome of an interdisciplinary discussion on the concepts of profit and profitability and various ways in which we could potentially problematize these concepts. It is our hope that a much greater attention or reconsideration of the problematization of profit and related accounting numbers will be fostered in part by the exchanges we include here.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts an interdisciplinary discussion approach and brings into conversation ideas and views of several scholars on problematizing profit and profitability in various contexts and explores potential implications of such problematization.

Findings

Profit and profitability measures make invisible the collective endeavour of people who work hard (backstage) to achieve a desired profit level for a division and/or an organization. Profit tends to preclude the social process of debate around contradictions among the ends and means of collective activity. An inherent message that we can discern from our contributors is the typical failure of managers to appreciate the value of critical theory and interpretive research for them. Practitioners and positivist researchers seem to be so influenced by neo-liberal economic ideas that organizations are distrusted and at times reviled in their attachment to profit.

Research limitations/implications

Problematizing opens-up the potential for interesting and significant theoretical insights. A much greater pragmatic and theoretical reconsideration of profit and profitability will be fostered by the exchanges we include here.

Originality/value

In setting out a future research agenda, this paper fosters theoretical and methodological pluralism in the research community focussing on problematizing profit and profitability in various settings. The discussion perspectives offered in this paper provides not only a basis for further research in this critical area of discourse and regulation on the role and status of profit and profitability but also emancipatory potential for practitioners (to be reflective of their practices and their undesired consequences of such practices) whose overarching focus is on these accounting numbers.
BIM for lean building surveying services
Authors: Mahmood Ali , Abrishami Sepehr
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the implementation of building information modelling (BIM) concepts of the various processes involved in building surveying practice can lead to a reduction in waste. In turn leading to a synergy between BIM functionalities and lean production concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

To verify and validate the existence of this synergy between the two methods in building surveying, evidences were gathered from previous literature that supports these interactions. Next, a questionnaire was conducted for the purpose of identifying new interactions and providing further evidence to support existing interactions. Finally, based on the findings from previous literature and the results of the questionnaire, an interaction matrix was constructed linking the two concepts with the relevant evidence found.

Findings

The results of the questionnaire show that the BIM functionality with the highest interactions, maintenance of information integrity, had a high correlation with the reduction of variability, cycle time, batch size and promoting standardization of value flow. 4 D model-based scheduling, the second highest functionality, showed a high correlation with the reduction of variability, cycle time, batch size and an increase in the use of visual management. Finally, the results of the interaction matrix between the two concepts showed that the BIM functionalities with the most interactions were maintenance of information integrity, visualization of form and the automated generation of models and documents. The lean principles with the most interactions were reducing variability, cycle time, batch size as well as “enables visual management”. While most of these interactions were positive, negative interactions were also observed. These negative interactions were due to the fact that the level of competency and knowledge in BIM for building surveyors is at reduced levels which can lead to increased human errors.

Originality/value

The significance of this study is to provide the basis for building surveying organizations who wish to implement BIM and how this would lead to a synergy between BIM functionalities and lean principles. Both positive and negative interactions were considered to provide these organizations with different options for waste elimination.
Clusters in formation in a deindustrialized area: urban regeneration and structural change in Porto Marghera (Venice)
Authors: Bonello Valentina , Faraone Claudia , Gambarotto Francesca , Nicoletto Luca , Pedrini Giulio
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive vision of the formation of intra-metropolitan clusters triggered by the deindustrialization of an urban area, namely, the district of Porto Marghera in the metropolitan area of Venice and propose possible regeneration scenarios based on intra-metropolitan clustering.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a multi-disciplinary approach and relies on both descriptive and qualitative evidence to show the economic transition occurred in the area of Porto Marghera in recent years.

Findings

Evidence shows the rise of two potential clusters in the KIBS and the creative industries in a well-delimited fringe area placed at the boundary between the urban centre and the core of the deindustrialized zone. Such clustering processes have been, however, characterized by two different and in some way alternative paths. The former stems from the combination of two autonomous entrepreneurial ideas that complemented one to each other. The latter relies on university-industry collaboration and on the presence of places of informal exchanges that proved to support personal networking, knowledge exchange and business opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

This paper suggests that local development policies could leverage on the presence of social entrepreneurs to substitute the creation of amenities and the provision of public goods in fragile territories.

Originality/value

This paper shows that, in presence of specific spatial conditions, deindustrialization can stimulate the formation of new intra-metropolitan through both top-down and bottom-up agglomeration process.
Symmetrically scaled coexisting behaviors in two types of simple jerk circuits
Authors: Hua Mengjie , Yang Shuo , Xu Quan , Chen Mo , Wu Huagan , Bao Bocheng
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop two types of simple jerk circuits and to carry out their dynamical analyses using a unified mathematical model.

Design/methodology/approach

Two types of simple jerk circuits only involve a nonlinear resistive feedback channel composited by a nonlinear device and an inverter. The nonlinear device is implemented through parallelly connecting two diode-switch-based series branches. According to the classifications of switch states and circuit types, a unified mathematical model is established for these two types of simple jerk circuits, and the origin symmetry and scale proportionality along with the origin equilibrium stability are thereby discussed. The coexisting bifurcation behaviors in the two types of simple jerk systems are revealed by bifurcation plots, and the origin symmetry and scale proportionality are effectively demonstrated by phase plots and attraction basins. Moreover, hardware experimental measurements are performed, from which the captured results well validate the numerical simulations.

Findings

Two types of simple jerk circuits are unified through parallelly connecting two diode-switch-based series branches and a unified mathematical model with six kinds of nonlinearities is established. Especially, the origin symmetry and scale proportionality for the two types of simple jerk systems are discussed quantitatively. These jerk circuits are all simple and inexpensive, easy to be physically implemented, which are helpful to explore chaos-based engineering applications.

Originality/value

Unlike previous works, the significant values are that through unifying these two types of simple jerk systems, a unified mathematical model with six kinds of nonlinearities is established, upon which symmetrically scaled coexisting behaviors are numerically disclosed and experimentally demonstrated.
Techniques that facilitate knowledge hiding: perspectives of ethical dilemmas from both sides of the coin
Authors: Issac Abraham Cyril , Baral Rupashree
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper examines the ethical dilemmas of a multi-dimensional contributor and end-user in the world of knowledge management by underscoring the different techniques of knowledge hiding observed in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

We categorize the ethical issues into identity, ownership, privacy, and reputation. We also analyze the different knowledge hiding techniques organizations can use to provide privacy to their contributors.

Findings

To help organizations better understand how to implement knowledge hiding, we present a new typology: the Heptagon Model.

Originality/value

This manuscript provides a practice-oriented overview of the key knowledge hiding techniques. This overview provides the reader with an introduction to techniques used in an emerging and vital construct.
Digital information literacy skills of Pakistani librarians: exploring supply-demand mismatches, adoption strategies and acquisition barriers
Authors: Khan Asad
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the current and needed levels of the digital information literacy (DIL) skills of Pakistani librarians and further explored the strategies of and barriers to its acquisition and/or enhancement.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the quantitative approach, a cross-sectional survey was conducted. A convenience sample of Pakistani university librarians was recruited. Out of 225 distributed questionnaires, only 180 surveys were returned, a response rate of 80%. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analyzes.

Findings

The present status of DIL skills was found low and there is a high demand for its acquisition. The results also explored that the present level of DIL skills is not matching with its required level and thus training is needed. Further, strategies adopted for its attainment were identified including training programs, seminars and social media. Additionally, barriers in the attainment of DIL skills were also established including librarians’ lack of interest, poor internet facilities, absence of users’ demand, no training programs and lack of collaboration between the faculty and librarians.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to librarians serving in three different universities of Pakistan. The findings of this study may motivate librarians toward the adoption of digital innovations. This study also informs librarians to recognize gaps in their DIL skills and should attempt to diminish it using diverse strategies. The results also inform the concerned authorities about the barriers faced by librarians in the acquisition of DIL skills and can plan for training programs. Additionally, LIS curriculum should be revised to incorporate topics related to the learning of innovative digital skills. Finally, results motivate librarians to attain DIL skills that possibly augment their performance.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt in Pakistan that examined supply-demand mismatches, adoption strategies and acquisition barriers in the context of librarians’ DIL skills serving in the university libraries of Peshawar. As the current status of DIL skills of Pakistani librarians was found low, thus university authorities should organize professional development programs for librarians to acquire and/or enhance the DIL skills.
Identifying financial statement fraud with decision rules obtained from Modified Random Forest
Authors: An Byungdae , Suh Yongmoo
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Financial statement fraud (FSF) committed by companies implies the current status of the companies may not be healthy. As such, it is important to detect FSF, since such companies tend to conceal bad information, which causes a great loss to various stakeholders. Thus, the objective of the paper is to propose a novel approach to building a classification model to identify FSF, which shows high classification performance and from which human-readable rules are extracted to explain why a company is likely to commit FSF.

Design/methodology/approach

Having prepared multiple sub-datasets to cope with class imbalance problem, we build a set of decision trees for each sub-dataset; select a subset of the set as a model for the sub-dataset by removing the tree, each of whose performance is less than the average accuracy of all trees in the set; and then select one such model which shows the best accuracy among the models. We call the resulting model MRF (Modified Random Forest). Given a new instance, we extract rules from the MRF model to explain whether the company corresponding to the new instance is likely to commit FSF or not.

Findings

Experimental results show that MRF classifier outperformed the benchmark models. The results also revealed that all the variables related to profit belong to the set of the most important indicators to FSF and that two new variables related to gross profit which were unapprised in previous studies on FSF were identified.

Originality/value

This study proposed a method of building a classification model which shows the outstanding performance and provides decision rules that can be used to explain the classification results. In addition, a new way to resolve the class imbalance problem was suggested in this paper.
Numerical solution of nonlinear stochastic Itô – Volterra integral equation driven by fractional Brownian motion
Authors: Saha Ray S. , Singh S.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to study fractional Brownian motion and its applications to nonlinear stochastic integral equations. Bernstein polynomials have been applied to obtain the numerical results of the nonlinear fractional stochastic integral equations.

Design/methodology/approach

Bernstein polynomials have been used to obtain the numerical solutions of nonlinear fractional stochastic integral equations. The fractional stochastic operational matrix based on Bernstein polynomial has been used to discretize the nonlinear fractional stochastic integral equation. Convergence and error analysis of the proposed method have been discussed.

Findings

Two illustrated examples have been presented to justify the efficiency and applicability of the proposed method. The corresponding obtained numerical results have been compared with the exact solutions to establish the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, nonlinear stochastic Itô–Volterra integral equation driven by fractional Brownian motion has been for the first time solved by using Bernstein polynomials. The obtained numerical results well establish the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.
Total factor productivity growth and its contribution: lessons from the Chinese construction industry pre- and post-2008 financial crisis
Authors: Wang Yuhe , Ye Gui , Zhang Yuxin , Mu Ping , Wang Hongxia
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In response to the 2008 financial crisis, the performance of the Chinese construction industry seems to be more successful, especially in total factor productivity growth (TFPG) and its contribution (TFPGC). Hence, the purpose of this paper is to investigate and reveal the potential successful lessons in this regard.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is conducted innovatively based on a special comparative analysis of TFPG and TFPGC between pre- and post-2008 financial crisis. Solow Residual Approach is used to measure TFPG and TFPGC for the period 2002–2016. Given that the crisis hit China at the end of 2008, the pre-2008 financial crisis period is from 2002 to 2008, and the post-2008 financial crisis period is limited to 2009–2016.

Findings

The results indicate that the industry indeed has better performance in promoting TFPG and TFPGC, TFP thus achieved significant accumulative growth before and after the crisis. However, from an evolutionary perspective, both TFPG and TFPGC presented an overall downward trend from before the crisis to after the crisis. Further, the game between the centrally planned economy and the market-oriented economy was identified and revealed as the essential reason behind the evolution of TFPG and TFPGC.

Practical implications

Some valuable lessons for policies and practices in promoting TFPG and TFPGC were summarized and learned from the Chinese experience, such as reducing administrative intervention and making the construction market play a decisive role.

Originality/value

This study provides some new empirical evidence to enrich the overall body of knowledge on growth theory, especially in promoting TFPG and TFPGC.
The emotional side of organizational decision-making: examining the influence of messaging in fostering positive outcomes for the brand
Authors: Kemp Elyria , Briggs Elten , Anaza Nwamaka A.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Researchers and practitioners have traditionally maintained that organizational buying requires rational decision-making. However, individuals at organizations make decisions daily applying a confluence of rationalizations and emotions. This study aims to address the roles of personal feelings, facts and emotional advertising content in the organizational decision-making process.

Design/methodology/approach

In two studies, the authors apply both qualitative and quantitative methods to explore emotional and cognitive reactions to advertising. In Study 1, depth interviews were conducted with marketing and advertising content developers from a Fortune 100 technology company. In Study 2, a web-based survey was sent out to a Fortune 100 company’s buyer panel.

Findings

Results suggest that advertising using emotion-based themes helps to foster brand engagement tendencies and advocacy for a brand. Findings also demonstrate that organizational status (C-level executive’s vs non-C-level employees) moderates the relationship between buyers’ reliance on facts and their receptivity to advertising using emotion-based themes, such that reliance on facts increases the appeal of emotional advertising.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the organizational buying literature by addressing the dearth of research on the role of emotions in organizational decision-making and providing insight into the role of advertising in business-to-business (B2B) decision-making.

Practical implications

These results imply that advertising incorporating emotion-based themes provide meaningful information to B2B buyers and is especially effective when targeted at buyers at higher levels in an organization.

Originality/value

B2B buying behavior has traditionally been considered a rational undertaking. This research explores how decision-making orientation and the presence of advertising using emotion-based themes help to foster engagement and advocacy for the brand.
Gamification in sport apps: the determinants of users' motivation
Authors: Bitrián Paula , Buil Isabel , Catalán Sara
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Gamification is a tool with great potential to motivate individuals to increase their physical activity. That is why sport apps for mobile devices, such as Nike+ or Strava, have integrated game elements. There is, however, little evidence of gamification's effectiveness in this field. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to analyze the impact of game elements included in gamified sports' apps on the satisfaction of basic psychological needs (i.e. competence, autonomy and relatedness). Similarly, the research analyzes the impact of these needs on autonomous motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve these goals, data were collected from users of gamified sport apps, using an online questionnaire. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results showed that interaction in the app with achievement-related game elements satisfied the needs for competence, autonomy and relatedness; social-related elements satisfied the need for relatedness; and immersion-related elements satisfied the needs for competence and autonomy. Similarly, satisfaction of the needs for autonomy and relatedness while using the app is crucial to experience autonomous motivation.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide guidelines for practitioners and app developers.

Originality/value

Based on self-determination theory, the paper provides new insights into the relationship between game elements included in sport apps and individuals' basic psychological needs and motivation.