bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a Market for Land in India
Authors: Bhattacharjee Subhomoy
Published: May 2020

Years after the Government of India (GOI) has notified the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 there is still uncertainty on how land should be acquired. India still has no national market for land. The absence of such a market makes it difficult to set an efficient and transparent price for land. Its absence makes those who have the smallest parcels of it more vulnerable as the cost of inefficiency are borne by them disproportionately reducing the welfare outcomes for the economy. Also government agencies hold the largest block of land in the country, not as a sovereign entity but as a business entity. These abundant holdings create incentive for interested parties to game the system to get preferential access to those land parcels, instead of buying the same at a discovered price from the market. Thus, the policy of non-market-based allocation of land breeds corruption.
Thrown to the Wolves?
Authors: Metelits Michael D.
Published: May 2020

Chapter 3 takes the corruption case to the primary court level. The aim was to convict Crawford’s chief agent, Hanmantrao, of corruption. Then, based on that trial record and evidence still being gathered, the government planned to go after Crawford, the big fish. The narrative follows events of the trial and reasoning that supported the verdict. The verdict is important because the local savvy behind the rationale for the verdict is in stark contrast to the way of decision making at higher levels of government.
Silver, Globalization, and Capitalism
Authors: Flynn Dennis O.
Published: May 2020

Generations of scholars have attempted, without success, to link Spanish-American silver to the dawn of European capitalism. Rather, historical connections across the globe have come into clearer focus during recent decades, including awareness of the fact that American, European, and Japanese silver gravitated largely to China (and also India). Having begun during the sixteenth century, globalization has involved deep connections, including trade regimes that linked together multiple free and coerced labour systems simultaneously. Lessons from global history suggest that national ‘capitalisms’ can no longer serve as reasonable units of analysis. From the outset of sixteenth-century origins, globalization generated intertwined economic, environmental, epidemiological, demographic, and cultural accumulations that continue to reverberate across planet Earth today. Wealth creation, wealth distribution, and environmental consequences remain central features of a historical process that requires analysis at a global level.
Saints and Sinners
Authors: Farrall Stephen , Karstedt Susanne
Published: May 2020

This chapter draws upon qualitative and quantitative data to assess the extent of both victimization and offending in the market place. It examines what consumers did when they found they had been cheated, and discusses the extent to which there is an overlap between being a victim and offender. The chapter paints a detailed picture of victimization, offending, and the degree to which these are related. Findings show that some types of victimization are very common in all three regions, like e.g. unnecessary repairs, while considerable differences exist between them in terms of being offered too little by one’s insurer (most common in West Germany), or being sold faulty second-hand goods (most common in England and Wales). Differences in offending are by far more distinct, with the West Germans outdoing their East Germans and English and Welsh counterparts. For both victimization and offending trajectories of mostly ‘slow-burning change’ were detected for all three regions. Middle-class consumers do not differ from disadvantaged social groups with regard to the relation between victimization and offending: the findings suggest as strong a relationship between victimization and offending, similar to what is usually found for violent offenders and their victimization in marginalized neighbourhoods.
Clerks, Crowns, and Consumers
Authors: Farrall Stephen , Karstedt Susanne
Published: May 2020

This chapter is devoted to an in-depth analysis of the relationship between victimization and offending among people acting as citizens and consumers. The chapter starts with an examination, relying upon structural equation modelling, of how experiences of victimization are turned into intentions to offend, and actual offending via various belief structures, and attitudes. Following this it explores beliefs about the role of the state and the role of social networks. Finally, these are brought together in one model which examines the role of a variety of routes of transmission from victimization to offending.
Introduction
Authors: Breitbarth Anne , Lucas Christopher , Willis David
Published: May 2020

This chapter first situates the work against the background of the existing literature. It further introduces the key concepts and terminology used in the volume. After an explanation of the difference between standard negation and sentential negation, the cyclical changes affecting the expression of negation, as well as the typical types of interaction between indefinites and the expression of negation are introduced. Finally, the theoretical framework used in the volume is sketched. As the chapter considers both language-internal motivations for the changes affecting negative expressions and indefinites in the scope of negation, and language-external ones, the theoretical background for both are discussed in separate sections.
External motivations for Jespersen’s cycle
Authors: Breitbarth Anne , Lucas Christopher , Willis David
Published: May 2020

This chapter turns to external motivations for Jespersen’s cycle. Given the apparent diffusion pattern of the development in northwestern Europe observed in chapter 2, the current chapter considers the question of whether Jespersen’s cycle was a single innovation that spread through language contact, or whether there were several separate instances of Jespersen’s cycle in the languages of Europe and the Mediterranean. The timing of the changes in the different languages are mapped to the socio-historical situations, leading to the conclusion that in northwestern Europe at least, the trigger of Jespersen’s cycle was much less frequently contact-induced than previously thought. An in-depth case study of three Afro-Asiatic languages in North Africa, however, shows that language contact can lead to the diffusion of Jespersen’s cycle across a wide area. Furthermore, the stability of the transitional stage II may be related to the type of contact situation.
Cloud structures in M 17 SWex : Possible cloud–cloud collision
Authors: Kinoshita Shinichi W , Nakamura Fumitaka , Nguyen-Luong Quang , Wu Benjamin , Shimoikura Tomomi , Sugitani Koji , Dobashi Kazuhito , Takemura Hideaki , Sanhueza Patricio , Kim Kee-Tae , Kang Hyunwoo , Evans Neal J , White Glenn J , Fallscheer Cassandra
Published: May 2020

Using wide-field 13CO (J = 1−0) data taken with the Nobeyama 45 m telescope, we investigate cloud structures of the infrared dark cloud complex in M 17 with Spectral Clustering for Interstellar Molecular Emission Segmentation. In total, we identified 118 clouds that include 11 large clouds with radii larger than 1 pc. The clouds are mainly distributed in the two representative velocity ranges of 10–20 km s−1 and 30–40 km s−1. By comparing this with the ATLASGAL catalog, we found that the majority of the 13CO clouds with 10–20 km s−1 and 30–40 km s−1 are likely located at distances of 2 kpc (Sagittarius arm) and 3 kpc (Scutum arm), respectively. Analyzing the spatial configuration of the identified clouds and their velocity structures, we attempt to reveal the origin of the cloud structure in this region. Here we discuss three possibilities: (1) overlapping with different velocities, (2) cloud oscillation, and (3) cloud–cloud collision. In the position–velocity diagrams, we found spatially extended faint emission between ∼20 km s−1 and ∼35 km s−1, which is mainly distributed in the spatially overlapped areas of the clouds. Additionally, the cloud complex system is unlikely to be gravitationally bound. We also found that in some areas where clouds with different velocities overlapped, the magnetic field orientation changes abruptly. The distribution of the diffuse emission in the position–position–velocity space and the bending magnetic fields appear to favor the cloud–cloud collision scenario compared to other scenarios. In the cloud–cloud collision scenario, we propose that two ∼35 km s−1 foreground clouds are colliding with clouds at ∼20 km s−1 with a relative velocity of 15 km s−1. These clouds may be substructures of two larger clouds having velocities of ∼35 km s−1 (≳103 M⊙) and ∼20 km s−1 (≳104 M⊙), respectively.
Phases of a matrix model with non-pairwise index contractions
Authors: Obster Dennis , Sasakura Naoki
Published: May 2020

Recently a matrix model with non-pairwise index contractions has been studied in the context of the canonical tensor model, a tensor model for quantum gravity in the canonical formalism. This matrix model also appears in the same form with different ranges of parameters and variables, when the replica trick is applied to the spherical $p$-spin model ($p=3$) in spin glass theory. Previous studies of this matrix model suggested the presence of a continuous phase transition around $R\sim N^2/2$, where $N$ and $R$ designate its matrix size $N\times R$. This relation between $N$ and $R$ intriguingly agrees with a consistency condition of the tensor model in the leading order of $N$, suggesting that the tensor model is located near or on the continuous phase transition point and therefore its continuum limit is automatically taken in the $N\rightarrow \infty$ limit. In the previous work, however, the evidence for the phase transition was not satisfactory due to the slowdown of the Monte Carlo simulations. In this work, we provide a new setup for Monte Carlo simulations by integrating out the radial direction of the matrix. This new strategy considerably improves the efficiency, and allows us to clearly show the existence of the phase transition. We also present various characteristics of the phases, such as dynamically generated dimensions of configurations, cascade symmetry breaking and a parameter zero limit, and discuss their implications for the canonical tensor model.
Eye movements in real-life search are guided by task-irrelevant working-memory content
Authors: Zhou Cherie , Lorist Monicque M. , Mathôt Sebastiaan
Published: May 2020

Attention is automatically guided towards stimuli that match the contents of working memory. This has been studied extensively using simplified computer tasks, but it has never been investigated whether (yet often assumed that) memory-driven guidance also affects real-life search. Here we tested this open question in a naturalistic environment that closely resembles real life. In two experiments, participants wore a mobile eye-tracker, and memorized a color, prior to a search task in which they looked for a target word among book covers on a bookshelf. The memory color was irrelevant to the search task. Nevertheless, we found that participants’ gaze was strongly guided towards book covers that matched the memory color. Crucially, this memory-driven guidance was evident from the very start of the search period. These findings support that attention is guided towards working-memory content in real-world search, and that this is fast and therefore likely reflecting an automatic process.

Significance statement

A core concept in the field of visual working memory (VWM) is that visual attention is automatically guided towards things that resemble the content of VWM. For example, if you hold the color red in VWM, your attention and gaze would automatically be drawn towards red things in the environment. So far, studies on such memory-driven guidance have only been done with well-controlled computer tasks that used simplified search displays. Here we address the crucial and open question of whether attention is guided by the content of VWM in a naturalistic environment that closely resembles real life. To do so, we conducted two experiments with mobile eye tracking. Crucially, we found strong memory-driven guidance from the very early phase of the search, reflecting that this is a fast, and therefore likely automatic, process that also driven visual search in real life.
The AMPK-related kinase NUAK1 controls cortical axons branching though a local modulation of mitochondrial metabolic functions
Authors: Lanfranchi Marine , Meyer-Dilhet Géraldine , Dos Reis Raphael , Garcia Audrey , Blondet Camille , Javin Luc , Amar Alizée , Courchet Julien
Published: May 2020

The precise regulation of the cellular mechanisms underlying axonal morphogenesis is essential to the formation of functional neuronal networks. We previously identified the autism-candidate kinase NUAK1 as a central regulator of axon branching in mouse cortical neurons through the control of mitochondria trafficking. How does local mitochondrial position or function regulate axon branching during development? Here, we characterized the metabolic regulation in the developing axon and report a marked metabolic decorrelation between axon elongation and collateral branching. We next solved the cascade of event leading to presynaptic clustering and mitochondria recruitment during spontaneous branch formation. Interestingly and contrary to peripheral neurons, mitochondria are recruited after but not prior to branch formation in cortical neurons. Using flux metabolomics and fluorescent biosensors, we observed that NUAK1 deficiency significantly impairs mitochondrial metabolism and axonal ATP concentration. Upregulation of mitochondrial function is sufficient to rescue axonal branching in NUAK1 null neuronsin vitroandin vivo. Altogether, our results indicate that NUAK1 exerts a dual function during axon branching through its ability to control mitochondria distribution and activity, and suggest that a mitochondrial-dependent remodeling of local metabolic homeostasis plays a critical role during axon morphogenesis.
Who should we test for COVID-19? A triage model built from national symptom surveys
Authors: Shoer Saar , Karady Tal , Keshet Ayya , Shilo Smadar , Rossman Hagai , Gavrieli Amir , Meir Tomer , Lavon Amit , Kolobkov Dmitry , Kalka Iris , Godneva Anastasia , Cohen Ori , Kariv Adam , Hoch Ori , Zer-Aviv Mushon , Castel Noam , Sudre Caroel , Zohar Anat Ekka , Irony Angela , Spector Tim , Geiger Benjamin , Hizi Dorit , Shalev Varda , Balicer Ran , Segal Eran
Published: May 2020

The gold standard for COVID-19 diagnosis is detection of viral RNA in a reverse transcription PCR test. Due to global limitations in testing capacity, effective prioritization of individuals for testing is essential. Here, we devised a model that estimates the probability of an individual to test positive for COVID-19 based on answers to 9 simple questions regarding age, gender, presence of prior medical conditions, general feeling, and the symptoms fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat and loss of taste or smell, all of which have been associated with COVID-19 infection. Our model was devised from a subsample of a national symptom survey that was answered over 2 million times in Israel over the past 2 months and a targeted survey distributed to all residents of several cities in Israel. Overall, 43,752 adults were included, from which 498 self-reported as being COVID-19 positive. We successfully validated the model on held-out individuals from Israel where it achieved a positive predictive value (PPV) of 46.3% at a 10% sensitivity and demonstrated its applicability outside of Israel by further validating it on an independently collected symptom survey dataset from the U.K., U.S. and Sweden, where it achieved a PPV of 34.7% at 10% sensitivity. Moreover, evaluating the model’s performance on this latter independent dataset on entries collected one week prior to the PCR test and up to the day of the test we found the highest performance on the day of the test. As our tool can be used online and without the need of exposure to suspected patients, it may have worldwide utility in combating COVID-19 by better directing the limited testing resources through prioritization of individuals for testing, thereby increasing the rate at which positive individuals can be identified and isolated.
Development of diagnostic PCR and LAMP markers forMALE STERILITY 1(MS1) inCryptomeria japonicaD. Don
Authors: Hasegawa Yoichi , Ueno Saneyoshi , Wei Fu-Jin , Matsumoto Asako , Ujino-Ihara Tokuko , Uchiyama Kentaro , Moriguchi Yoshinari , Kasahara Masahiro , Fujino Takeshi , Shigenobu Shuji , Yamaguchi Katsushi , Bino Takahiro , Hakamata Tetsuji
Published: May 2020

Objective

Due to the allergic nature of the pollen ofCryptomeria japonica, the most important Japanese forestry conifer, a pollen-free cultivar is preferred. Mutant trees detected in nature have been used for the production of a pollen-free cultivar. In order to reduce the time and cost needed for the production and breeding, we aimed to develop simple diagnostic molecular markers for mutant alleles of the causative geneMALE STERILITY 1(MS1) inC. japonica. The expected function of this gene, its two dysfunctional mutations, and genetic diversity were described recently in a related study.

Results

We have developed PCR and LAMP markers to detect mutant alleles and to present experimental options depending on available laboratory equipment. At field stations, where PCR machines are not available, LAMP markers were developed. LAMP only needs heat-blocks or a water bath to perform the isothermal amplification and assay results can be easily seen by eye. Because the causative mutations were deletions, two kinds of PCR markers, amplified length polymorphism (ALP) and allele specific PCR (ASP) markers, were developed. These assays can be carried out by capillary or agarose gel electrophoresis.
Ultra-high resolution fMRI reveals origins of feedforward and feedback activity within laminae of human ocular dominance columns
Authors: de Hollander Gilles , van der Zwaag Wietske , Qian Chencan , Zhang Peng , Knapen Tomas
Published: May 2020

Ultra-high field MRI can functionally image the cerebral cortex of human subjects at the submillimeter scale of cortical columns and laminae. Here, we investigate both in concert, by, for the first time, imaging ocular dominance columns (ODCs) in primary visual cortex (V1) across different cortical depths. We ensured that putative ODC patterns in V1 (a) are stable across runs, sessions, and scanners located in different continents (b) have a width (∼1.3 mm) expected from post-mortem and animal work and (c) are absent at the retinotopic location of the blind spot. We then dissociated the effects of bottom-up thalamo-cortical input and attentional feedback processes on activity in V1 across cortical depth. Importantly, the separation of bottom-up information flows into ODCs allowed us to validly compare attentional conditions while keeping the stimulus identical throughout the experiment. We find that, when correcting for draining vein effects and using both model-based and model-free approaches, the effect of monocular stimulation is largest at deep and middle cortical depths. Conversely, spatial attention influences BOLD activity exclusively near the pial surface. Our findings show that simultaneous interrogation of columnar and laminar dimensions of the cortical fold can dissociate thalamocortical inputs from top-down processing, and allow the investigation of their interactions without any stimulus manipulation.

Significance Statement

The advent of ultra-high field fMRI allows for the study of the human brain non-invasively at submillimeter resolution, bringing the scale of cortical columns and laminae into focus. De Hollander et al imaged the ocular dominance columns and laminae of V1 in concert, while manipulating top-down attention. This allowed them to separate feedforward from feedback processes in the brain itself, without resorting to the manipulation of incoming information. Their results show how feedforward and feedback processes interact in the primary visual cortex, highlighting the different computational roles separate laminae play.
Physiologic RNA Targets and Refined Sequence Specificity of Coronavirus EndoU
Authors: Ancar Rachel , Li Yize , Kindler Eveline , Cooper Daphne A. , Ransom Monica , Thiel Volker , Weiss Susan R. , Hesselberth Jay R. , Barton David J.
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus EndoU inhibits dsRNA-activated antiviral responses; however, the physiologic RNA substrates of EndoU are unknown. In this study, we used mouse hepatitis virus (MHV)-infected bone-marrow-derived macrophage (BMM) and cyclic phosphate cDNA sequencing to identify the RNA targets of EndoU. EndoU targeted viral RNA, cleaving the 3′ side of pyrimidines with a strong preference for U⬇A and C⬇A sequences (endoY⬇A). EndoU-dependent cleavage was detected in every region of MHV RNA, from the 5′ NTR to the 3′ NTR, including transcriptional regulatory sequences (TRS). Cleavage at two CA dinucleotides immediately adjacent to the MHV poly(A) tail suggest a mechanism to suppress negative-strand RNA synthesis and the accumulation of viral dsRNA. MHV with EndoU (EndoUmut) or 2′-5′ phosphodiesterase (PDEmut) mutations provoked the activation of RNase L in BMM, with corresponding cleavage of RNAs by RNase L. The physiologic targets of EndoU are viral RNA templates required for negative-strand RNA synthesis and dsRNA accumulation.

Impact

Coronavirus EndoU cleaves U⬇A and C⬇A sequences (endoY⬇A) within viral (+) strand RNA to evade dsRNA-activated host responses.
Vimentin Intermediate Filaments Stabilize Dynamic Microtubules by Direct Interactions
Authors: Schaedel Laura , Lorenz Charlotta , Schepers Anna V. , Klumpp Stefan , Köster Sarah
Published: May 2020

The cytoskeleton determines cell mechanics and lies at the heart of important cellular functions. Growing evidence suggests that the manifold tasks of the cytoskeleton rely on the interactions between its filamentous components – actin filaments, intermediate filaments and microtubules. However, the nature of these interactions and their impact on cytoskeletal dynamics are largely unknown. Here, we show in a reconstituted in vitro system that vimentin intermediate filaments stabilize microtubules against depolymerization and support microtubule rescue. To understand these stabilizing effects, we directly measured the interaction forces between individual microtubules and vimentin filaments. Combined with numerical simulations, our observations provide detailed insight into the physical nature of the interactions and how they affect microtubule dynamics. Thus, we describe an additional, direct mechanism for cells to establish the fundamental cross-talk of cytoskeletal components alongside linker proteins. Moreover, we suggest a novel strategy to estimate the binding energy of tubulin dimers within the microtubule lattice.
Quasi-essentiality of RNase Y inBacillus subtilisis caused by its critical role in the control of mRNA homeostasis
Authors: Benda Martin , Woelfel Simon , Gunka Katrin , Klumpp Stefan , Poehlein Anja , Kálalová Debora , Šanderová Hana , Daniel Rolf , Krásný Libor , Stülke Jörg
Published: May 2020

RNA turnover is essential in all domains of life. The endonuclease RNase Y (rny) is one of the key components involved in RNA metabolism of the model organismBacillus subtilis. Essentiality of RNase Y has been a matter of discussion, since deletion of thernygene is possible, but leads to severe phenotypic effects. In this work, we demonstrate that thernymutant strain rapidly evolves suppressor mutations to at least partially alleviate these defects. All suppressor mutants had acquired a duplication of an about 60 kb long genomic region encompassing genes for all three core subunits of the RNA polymerase – α, β, β′. When the duplication of the RNA polymerase genes was prevented by relocation of therpoAgene in theB. subtilisgenome, all suppressor mutants carried distinct single point mutations in evolutionary conserved regions of genes coding either for the β or β’ subunits of the RNA polymerase that were not tolerated by wild type bacteria.In vitrotranscription assays with the mutated polymerase variants showed massive decreases in transcription efficiency. Altogether, our results suggest a tight cooperation between RNase Y and the RNA polymerase to establish an optimal RNA homeostasis inB. subtiliscells.
SARS-CoV-2 targets cortical neurons of 3D human brain organoids and shows neurodegeneration-like effects
Authors: Ramani Anand , Müller Lisa , Ostermann Philipp Niklas , Gabriel Elke , Abida-Islam Pranty , Müller-Schiffmann Andreas , Mariappan Aruljothi , Goureau Olivier , Gruell Henning , Walker Andreas , Andrée Marcel , Hauka Sandra , Houwaart Torsten , Dilthey Alexander , Wohlgemuth Kai , Omran Heymut , Klein Florian , Wieczorek Dagmar , Adams Ortwin , Timm Jörg , Korth Carsten , Schaal Heiner , Gopalakrishnan Jay
Published: May 2020

COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection is a public health emergency. COVID-19 typically exhibits respiratory illness. Unexpectedly, emerging clinical reports indicate that neurological symptoms continue to rise, suggesting detrimental effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the central nervous system (CNS). Here, we show that a Düsseldorf isolate of SARS-CoV-2 enters 3D human brain organoids within two days of exposure. Using COVID-19 convalescent serum, we identified that SARS-CoV-2 preferably targets soma of cortical neurons but not neural stem cells, the target cell type of ZIKA virus. Imaging cortical neurons of organoids reveal that SARS-CoV-2 exposure is associated with missorted Tau from axons to soma, hyperphosphorylation, and apparent neuronal death. Surprisingly, SARS-CoV-2 co-localizes specifically with Tau phosphorylated at Threonine-231 in the soma, indicative of early neurodegeneration-like effects. Our studies, therefore, provide initial insights into the impact of SARS-CoV-2 as a neurotropic virus and emphasize that brain organoids could model CNS pathologies of COVID-19.

One sentence summary

COVID-19 modeling in human brain organoids
A localization screen reveals translation factories and widespread co-translational RNA targeting
Authors: Chouaib Racha , Safieddine Adham , Pichon Xavier , Imbert Arthur , Kwon Oh Sung , Samacoits Aubin , Traboulsi Abdel-Meneem , Robert Marie-Cécile , Tsanov Nikolay , Coleno Emeline , Poser Ina , Zimmer Christophe , Hyman Anthony , Hir Hervé Le , Zibara Kazem , Peter Marion , Mueller Florian , Walter Thomas , Bertrand Edouard
Published: May 2020

Local translation allows a spatial control of gene expression. Here, we performed a dual protein/mRNA localization screen, using smFISH on 523 human cell lines expressing GFP-tagged genes. A total of 32 mRNAs displayed specific cytoplasmic localizations, and we observed local translation at unexpected locations, including cytoplasmic protrusions, cell edges, endosomes, Golgi, the nuclear envelope and centrosomes, the latter being cell cycle dependent. Quantitation of mRNA distribution and automatic pattern classification revealed a high degree of localization heterogeneity between cells. Surprisingly, mRNA localization frequently required ongoing translation, indicating widespread co-translational RNA targeting. Interestingly, while P-body accumulation was frequent (15 mRNAs), four mRNAs accumulated in foci that were distinct structures. These foci lacked the mature protein, but nascent polypeptide imaging showed that they were specialized translation factories. For β-catenin, foci formation was regulated by Wnt, relied on APC-dependent polysome aggregation, and led to nascent protein degradation. Thus, translation factories uniquely regulate nascent protein metabolism and create a fine granular compartmentalization of translation.
Homeostatic regulation of STING by Golgi-to-ER membrane traffic
Authors: Mukai Kojiro , Ogawa Emari , Uematsu Rei , Kuchitsu Yoshihiko , Uemura Takefumi , Waguri Satoshi , Suzuki Takehiro , Dohmae Naoshi , Arai Hiroyuki , Shum Anthony K. , Taguchi Tomohiko
Published: May 2020

Coat protein complex I (COP-I) mediates the retrograde transport from the Golgi to the ER1,2. Mutation of theCOPAgene, encoding one of the COP-I subunits (α-COP), causes an immune dysregulatory disease (COPA syndrome)3. The molecular mechanism by which the impaired retrograde transport results in autoinflammation is not understood. Here we report that STING4, an innate immunity protein, is a cargo of the Golgi-to-ER membrane transport. In the presence of the disease-causative α-COP variants, STING cannot be retrieved back to the ER from the Golgi. The forced Golgi residency of STING results in the cGAS-independent and palmitoylation-dependent activation of the STING downstream signalling pathway. Surf45, a protein that circulates between the ER and the Golgi, binds STING and α-COP, and mediates retrograde transport of STING to the ER. STING/Surf4/α-COP complex is disrupted in the presence of the disease-causative α-COP variant. Intriguingly, the STING ligand cGAMP also impairs the formation of STING/Surf4/α-COP complex. Our results suggest a homeostatic regulation of STING at the resting state by the Golgi-to-ER membrane traffic and provide insights into the pathogenesis of COPA syndrome.
Emerging market currency risk exposure: evidence from South Africa
Authors: Molele Mashukudu Hartley , Mukuddem-Petersen Janine
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the level of foreign exchange exposure of listed nonfinancial firms in South Africa. The study spans the period January 2002 and November 2015. Foreign exchange risk exposure is estimated in relation to the exchange rate of the South African Rand relative to the US$, the Euro, the British Pound and the trade-weighted exchange rate index.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the augmented-market model of Jorion (1990). The Jorion (1990) is a capital asset pricing model-inspired framework which models share returns as a function of the return on the market index and changes in the exchange rate factor. The market risk factor is meant to discount the effect of macroeconomic factors on share returns, thus isolating the foreign exchange risk factor. In addition, the study further added the size, value, momentum, investment and profitability risk factors in line with the Fama–French three-factor model, Carhart four-factor model and the Fama–French five-factor model to account for the fact that equity capital markets in countries such as South Africa are known to be partially segmented.

Findings

Foreign exchange risk exposure levels were estimated at more than 40% for all the proxy currencies on the basis of the standard augmented market model. However, after controlling for idiosyncratic factors, through the application of the Fama–French three-factor model, the Carhart four-factor model and the Fama–French five-factor model, exposure levels were found to range between 6.5 and 12%.

Research limitations/implications

These results indicate the importance of controlling for the effects of idiosyncratic facto0rs in the estimation of foreign exchange risk exposure in the context of emerging markets of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Originality/value

This is the first study to apply the Fama–French three-factor model, Carhart four-factor model and the Fama–French five-factor model in the estimation of foreign exchange exposure of nonfinancial firms in the context of a SSA country. These results indicate the importance of controlling for the effects of idiosyncratic factors in the estimation of foreign exchange risk exposure in the context of emerging markets.
The impact of STEAM integration on preservice teachers' disposition and knowledge
Authors: An Shuhua
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study intended to provide such an opportunity to preservice teachers with a project-based learning (PBL) approach and an inquiry-based pedagogy to engage them in learning science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) knowledge and skills of integration with adding an art component to STEM as science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) for K-8 children, and developing their own STEAM tasks. The purpose of this project was to explore how STEAM integration in mathematics methods courses influenced K-8 preservice teachers' disposition and knowledge of STEAM integration.

Design/methodology/approach

This project used a mixed-research design in data collection and analysis to examine the effects of using the STEAM integration on preservice teachers' knowledge and disposition. The preservice teachers in two EDEL 462 classes in Spring 2019 participated in STEAM learning and development in the inquiry process of four steps of STEAM integration. Data collection includes the pre- and postquestionnaires on teachers' knowledge and disposition.

Findings

The results in this study show that the STEAM integration in the mathematics methods courses engaged preservice teachers in four steps of the inquiry process of connection, collaboration, communication and evaluation for STEAM integration using PBL approach. The preservice teachers not only enhanced their disposition in attitude and confidence but also enhanced their knowledge of STEAM integration.

Research limitations/implications

The following conclusions can be drawn from the present study that integrating STEAM components in mathematics methods fosters preservice teachers' creativity, connection, communication, application and teamwork skills, and importantly, it enhances K-8 preservice teachers' productive dispositions and knowledge in STEAM integration.

Practical implications

The results of this study indicate that using math methods courses to engage preservice teachers in learning STEAM integration and designing authentic STEAM tasks in four steps enhanced preservice teachers' attitude and confidence that significantly related to their knowledge of STEAM integration.

Originality/value

These findings have significant implications for the understanding of how to prepare future teachers in STEAM integration in higher education.
Direct and indirect negatively valenced engagement behavior
Authors: Azer Jaylan , Alexander Matthew
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to show the impact of direct and indirect customers’ negatively valenced influencing behavior (NVIB) on other actors in online social networks.

Design/methodology/approach

Four experiments were conducted in an online review setting that encompasses both restaurant and hotel reviews. The first study compares the impact of direct and indirect NVIB. The second, third and fourth studies measure this impact moderated by aggregate ratings, the volume of positive reviews and managerial responses.

Findings

Drawing on recent literature of customer engagement behavior, online reviews and social influence theory, this paper provides the first empirical results of the impact of direct and indirect NVIB, revealing the significant difference in their impact and the moderating role of the aggregate ratings, number of positive reviews and managerial responses on the cause-effect relationship between direct and indirect NVIB and other actors’ attitudes and behavioral intentions toward service providers.

Research limitations/implications

TripAdvisor reviews were selected for the reason of appropriateness rather than representativeness, using two service providers, hotels and restaurants.

Practical implications

This paper provides managers with new insights, which capture not only what customers say about service providers but also the impact of how they say it, suggesting that managers move beyond framing NVIB in generalized terms to considering the differences in the impact of its direct and indirect facets.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to provide empirical results about the significant difference in the impact of direct and indirect NVIB on other actors’ attitudes and behavioral intentions toward service providers, moderated by different heuristics, namely, ratings, volume of positive reviews and managerial responses.
Big data analytics adoption model for small and medium enterprises
Authors: Maroufkhani Parisa , Wan Ismail Wan Khairuzzaman , Ghobakhloo Morteza
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Big data analytics (BDA) is recognized as a turning point for firms to improve their performance. Although small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are crucial for every economy, they are lagging far behind in the usage of BDA. This study aims to provide a single and unified model for the adoption of BDA among SMEs with the integration of the technology–organization–environment (TOE) model and resource-based view.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 112 manufacturing SMEs in Iran was conducted, and the data were analysed using structural equation modelling to test the model of this study.

Findings

The results offer evidence of a BDA mediation effect in the relationship between technological, organizational and environmental contexts, and SMEs performance. The findings also demonstrated that technological and organizational elements are the more significant determinants of BDA adoption in the context of SMEs. In addition, the result of this study confirmed that BDA adoption could enhance the financial and market performance of SMEs.

Practical implications

Providing a single unified framework of BDA adoption for SMEs enables them to appreciate the importance of most influential elements (technology, organization and environment) in the adoption of BDA. Also, this study may encourage SMEs to be more willing to use BDA in their businesses.

Originality/value

Although there are studies on BDA adoption and firm performance among large companies, there is a lack of empirical research on SMEs, in particular, based on the TOE model. SMEs differ from large companies in terms of the availability of resources and size. Therefore, this study aimed to initiate a conceptual framework of BDA adoption for SMEs to assist them to be able to take advantage of the adoption of such technology.
Research data management at a public university in Malawi: the role of “three hands”
Authors: Chawinga Winner Dominic , Zinn Sandy
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Considering that research data is increasingly hailed as an important raw material for current and future science discoveries, many research stakeholders have joined forces to create mechanisms for preserving it. However, regardless of generating rich research data, Africa lags behind in research data management thereby potentially losing most of this valuable data. Therefore, this study was undertaken to investigate the research data management practices at a Malawian public university with the aim to recommend appropriate data management strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is inspired by the pragmatic school of thought thereby adopting quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Quantitative data was collected using a questionnaire from 150 researchers and 25 librarians while qualitative data was collected by conducting an interview with the Director of Research.

Findings

Researchers are actively involved in research activities thereby generating large quantities of research data. Although researchers are willing to share their data, only a handful follow through. Data preservation is poor because the university uses high risk data storage facilities, namely personal computers, flash disks, emails and external hard drives. Researchers and librarians lacked core research data-management competencies because of the lack of formal and information training opportunities. Challenges that frustrate research data-management efforts are many but the key ones include absence of research data management policies, lack of incentives, lack of skills and unavailability of data infrastructure.

Research limitations/implications

The study's findings are based on one out of four public universities in the country; hence, the findings may not adequately address the status of research data management practices in the other universities.

Practical implications

Considering that the university under study and its counterparts in Malawi and Africa in general operate somewhat in a similar economic and technological environment, these findings could be used as a reference point for other universities intending to introduce research data management initiatives.

Originality/value

With seemingly limited studies about research data management in Africa and particularly in Malawi, the study sets the tone for research data management debates and initiatives in the country and other African countries.
Transformations in the built form as a reflection of social change, the case of apartment buildings in Amman
Authors: Al-Betawi Yamen N. , Al Nassar Fadia H. , Al Husban Ahmad A. , Al Husban Safa
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to trace the transformation in the form of apartment building and the connotations it has in understanding the changes that occurred in the Jordanian society’s lifestyle over the past five decades.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative case study analysis has been conducted amongst 170 apartments, covering 70 design attributes related to aspects of appearance, spatial organisation, parking and access to building, outdoor space and finishing. This was followed by experts and households solicitation to help giving more confidence on the validity and reliability of findings regarding the sorts and justifications for the changes that have taken place in the form of apartments over the studied time frame.

Findings

The results reveal changes in design attributes indicating particular alterations in people’s lifestyle. New interests act in formulating recent housing design attributes. People seem to turn into a more open social life within public community but more privatised living amongst family members. People are becoming more attached to indoor modernised lifestyle, in homes and public areas where activities take place. This entails pursuing a more comfortable, facilitating and enjoyable life that presents luxury and tranquillity.

Originality/value

Understanding the relationship between transformations in the built form of apartment buildings and the associated social alterations provides useful insights towards improving housing provision to better match the ever-changing demands of people and respond to alterations in their lifestyles.
Effective and efficient usage of big data analytics in public sector
Authors: Merhi Mohammad I. , Bregu Klajdi
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to achieve three goals: present a holistic, flexible and dynamic model; define the model’s factors and explain how these factors lead to effective and efficient usage of big data; and generate indexes based on experts’ input to rank them based on their importance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the analytic hierarchy process, a quantitative method of decision-making, to evaluate the importance of the factors presented in the model. The fundamental principle of the overall model is that of a dynamo which is borrowed from electromagnetic physics. The model is also based on three IS theories.

Findings

Technological advancements and data security are among the most important factors that may impact the effectiveness and efficiency of big data usage. Authentication, governments’ focus on it and transparency and accountability are the most important factors in techno-centric, governmental-centric and user-centric factors, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper confirmed earlier findings in the literature and quantitatively assessed some of the factors that were conceptually presented. This paper also presented a framework that can be used in future studies.

Practical implications

Policy and decision-makers may need to upgrade pertinent technologies such as internet security, frame policies toward information technology (IT) and train the users.

Originality/value

This paper fills a gap in the literature by presenting a comprehensive study of how different factors dynamically contribute to the effective usage of big data in the public sector. It also quantitatively presents the importance of the factors based on the data collected from 12 IT experts.
Organizational learning and bureaucracy: an alternative view
Authors: Ingvaldsen Jonas A. , Engesbak Vetle
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to reconceptualize the relationship between organizational learning and bureaucracy. Although the two are generally considered to be antithetical, this paper shows that, in some organizations, bureaucracy can be functional for organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The central argument is theoretical and builds on two main ideas: firstly, the nature of knowledge creation and organizational learning is conditioned by the organization’s main technological characteristics; and secondly, bureaucracy has a dual nature as an instrument of managerial control and as a vehicle of large-scale collaboration. This study uses examples from process industries as empirical illustrations.

Findings

As products and production systems come to embody deeper and more diverse knowledge, their development takes on an increasingly collaborative character. The need to integrate differentiated knowledge and material artefacts calls for specialization, formalization, centralization and staff roles. Hence, technological complexity drives a bureaucratization of organizational learning.

Research limitations/implications

The core argument is developed with reference to industries where organizational learning involves the accumulation of knowledge, not its periodic replacement associated with technological shifts. Its relevance outside these industries remains to be assessed.

Practical implications

Organizations, whose knowledge creation fits the pattern of creative accumulation, should learn to harness formal structures for large-scale collaboration.

Originality/value

The main thesis runs counter to mainstream perspectives on organizational learning. This paper explores organizational learning in sectors that have received little attention in debates about organizational learning.
Food tourism research: a perspective article
Authors: Okumus Bendegul
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to critically review current research on food tourism and discuss future research directions in this field of inquiry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviewed and synthesized current food tourism research.

Findings

The findings suggest that food tourism has made considerable progress over the past two decades in both academia and its own industry. Key research themes in food tourism include offering unique food experiences, authenticity through food experiences, using food in destination marketing and focusing on food tourism and sustainability together.

Research limitations/implications

This study identifies and discusses key themes on past, current and future food tourism research. Previous studies have focused on analyzing the nature and extent of linkages between the food and tourism sectors. Future studies should focus on designing and co-creating of unique local food tourism experiences, development of new culinary events, culinary medicine, establishment of stronger stakeholder engagements in food tourism development and the role of social media in promoting food tourism experiences.

Practical implications

The study offers practical implications for industry practitioners and policymakers.

Originality/value

This paper provides a clear perspective on future developments of food tourism research. In particular, future research studies should follow more a multidisciplinary approach and use both qualitative and quantitative research methods.