bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CpG Transformer for imputation of single-cell methylomes
Authors: De Waele Gaetan , Clauwaert Jim , Menschaert Gerben , Waegeman Willem
Published: June 2021

Abstract

Motivation

The adoption of current single-cell DNA methylation sequencing protocols is hindered by incomplete coverage, outlining the need for effective imputation techniques. The task of imputing single-cell (methylation) data requires models to build an understanding of underlying biological processes.

Results

We adapt the transformer neural network architecture to operate on methylation matrices through combining axial attention with sliding window self-attention. The obtained CpG Transformer displays state-of-the-art performances on a wide range of scBS-seq and scRRBS-seq datasets. Further-more, we demonstrate the interpretability of CpG Transformer and illustrate its rapid transfer learning properties, allowing practitioners to train models on new datasets with a limited computational and time budget.

Availability and Implementation

CpG Transformer is freely available at https://github.com/gdewael/cpg-transformer.
Computational modeling of cell signaling and mutations in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Telmer Cheryl A. , Sayed Khaled , Butchy Adam A. , Bocan Kara , Kaltenmeier Christof , Lotze Michael , Miskov-Zivanov Natasa
Published: June 2021

Published research articles are rich sources of data when the knowledge is incorporated into models. Complex biological systems benefit from computational modeling’s ability to elucidate dynamics, explain data and address hypotheses. Modeling of pancreatic cancer could guide treatment of this devastating disease that has a known mutational profile disrupting signaling pathways but no reliable therapies. The approach described here is to utilize discrete modeling of the major signaling pathways, metabolism and the tumor microenvironment including macrophages. This modeling approach allows for abstraction in order to assemble large networks to capture numerous facets of the biological system under investigation. The Hallmarks of Cancer are represented as the processes of apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle progression, inflammation, immune response, oxidative phosphorylation and proliferation. The model is initialized with pancreatic cancer receptors and mutations and simulated in time. The model portrays the hallmarks of cancer and suggests combinations of inhibitors as therapies.
Online μSEC2-nRPLC-MS for improved sensitivity of intact protein detection of IEF separated non-human primate cerebrospinal fluid proteins
Authors: Cline Erika N. , Alvarez Carina , Duan Jiana , Patrie Steven M.
Published: June 2021

Proteoform-resolved information, obtained by top-down (TD) “intact protein” proteomics, is expected to contribute substantially to the understanding of molecular pathogenic mechanisms and in turn, identify novel therapeutic and diagnostic targets. However, the robustness of mass spectrometry (MS) analysis of intact proteins in complex biological samples is hindered by high dynamic range in protein concentration and mass, protein instability, and buffer complexity. Here, we describe an evolutionary step for intact protein investigations through the online implementation of tandem microflow size exclusion chromatography with nanoflow reversed-phase liquid chromatography and MS (μSEC2-nRPLC-MS). Online serial high-/low-pass SEC filtration overcomes the aforementioned hurdles to intact proteomic analysis through automated sample desalting/cleanup and enrichment of target mass ranges (5-155 kDa) prior to nRPLC-MS. The coupling of μSEC to nRPLC is achieved through a novel injection volume control (IVC) strategy of inserting protein trap columns pre- and post-μSEC columns to enable injection of dilute samples in high volumes without loss of sensitivity or resolution. Critical characteristics of the approach are tested via rigorous investigations on samples of varied complexity and chemical background. Application of the platform to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pre-fractionated by OFFGEL isoelectric focusing drastically increases the number of intact mass tags (IMTs) detected within the target mass range (5-30 kDa) in comparison to one-dimensional nRPLC-MS with approximately 100x less CSF than previous OFFGEL studies. Furthermore, the modular design of the μSEC2-nRPLC-MS platform is robust and promises significant flexibility for large-scale TDMS analysis of diverse samples either directly or in concert with other multidimensional fractionation steps.
Vestibular and auditory hair cell regeneration following targeted ablation of hair cells with diphtheria toxin in zebrafish
Authors: Jimenez Erin , Slevin Claire C. , Colón-Cruz Luis , Burgess Shawn M.
Published: June 2021

Millions of Americans experience hearing or balance disorders due to loss of hair cells in the inner ear. The hair cells are mechanosensory receptors used in the auditory and vestibular organs of all vertebrates as well as the lateral line systems of aquatic vertebrates. In zebrafish and other non-mammalian vertebrates, hair cells turn over during homeostasis and regenerate completely after being destroyed or damaged by acoustic or chemical exposure. However in mammals, destroying or damaging hair cells results in permanent impairments to hearing or balance. We sought an improved method for studying hair cell damage and regeneration in adult aquatic vertebrates by generating a transgenic zebrafish with the capacity for targeted and inducible hair cell ablation in vivo. This model expresses the human diphtheria toxin receptor (hDTR) gene under the control of the myo6b promoter, resulting in hDTR expressed only in hair cells. Cell ablation is achieved by an intraperitoneal injection of diphtheria toxin (DT) in adult zebrafish or DT dissolved in the water for larvae. In the lateral line of 5 dpf zebrafish, ablation of hair cells by DT treatment occurred within 2 days in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, in adult utricles and saccules, a single intraperitoneal injection of 0.05 ng DT caused complete loss of hair cells in the utricle and saccule by 5 days post-injection. Full hair cell regeneration was observed for the lateral line and the inner ear tissues. This study introduces a new method for efficient conditional hair cell ablation in adult zebrafish inner ear sensory epithelia (utricles and saccules) and demonstrates that zebrafish hair cells will regenerate in vivo after this treatment.
PRDM9 losses in vertebrates are coupled to those of paralogs ZCWPW1 and ZCWPW2
Authors: Cavassim Maria Izabel A. , Baker Zachary , Hoge Carla , Schierup Mikkel H. , Schumer Molly , Przeworski Molly
Published: June 2021

In most mammals and likely throughout vertebrates, the gene PRDM9 specifies the locations of meiotic double strand breaks; in mice and humans at least, it also aids in their repair. For both roles, many of the molecular partners remain unknown. Here, we take a phylogenetic approach to identify genes that may be interacting with PRDM9, by leveraging the fact that PRDM9 arose before the origin of vertebrates, but was lost many times, either partially or entirely––and with it, its role in recombination. As a first step, we characterize PRDM9 domain composition across 446 vertebrate species, inferring at least thirteen independent losses. We then use the interdigitation of PRDM9 orthologs across vertebrates to test whether it co-evolved with any of 241 candidate genes co-expressed with PRDM9 in mice or associated with recombination phenotypes in mammals. Accounting for the phylogenetic relationship among species, we find two genes whose presence and absence is unexpectedly coincident with that of PRDM9: ZCWPW1, which was recently shown to facilitate double strand break repair, and its paralog ZCWPW2, as well as more tentative evidence for TEX15 and FBXO47. ZCWPW2 is expected to be recruited to sites of PRDM9 binding; its tight coevolution with PRDM9 across vertebrates suggests that it is a key interactor, with a role either in recruiting the recombination machinery or in double strand break repair.

Author Summary

Our understanding of meiotic recombination in mammals has seen great progress over the past 15 years, spurred in part by the convergence of lines of evidence from molecular biology, statistical genetics and evolutionary biology. We now know that in most mammals and likely in many vertebrates, the gene PRDM9 specifies the location of meiotic double strand breaks and that in mice and humans at least, it also aids in their repair. For both roles, however, many of the molecular partners remain unknown. To search for these, we take a phylogenetic approach, leveraging the fact that the complete PRDM9 has been lost at least thirteen times in vertebrates and thus that its presence is interdigitated across species. By this approach, we identify two genes whose presence or absence across vertebrates is coupled to the presence or absence of PRDM9, ZCWPW1 and ZCWPW2, as well as two genes for which the evidence is weaker, TEX15 and FBXO47. ZCWPW1 was recently shown to be recruited to sites of PRDM9 binding and to aid in the repair of double strand breaks. ZCWPW2 is likely recruited to sites of PRDM9 binding as well; its tight coevolution with PRDM9 across vertebrates suggests that it plays an important role either in double strand break formation, potentially as the missing link that recruits the recombination machinery to sites of PRDM9 binding, or in double strand break repair.
Analysis of subcellular transcriptomes by RNA proximity labeling with Halo-seq
Authors: Engel Krysta L. , Lo Hei-Yong G. , Goering Raeann , Li Ying , Spitale Robert C. , Taliaferro J. Matthew
Published: June 2021

Thousands of RNA species display nonuniform distribution within cells. However, quantification of the spatial patterns adopted by individual RNAs remains difficult, in part by a lack of quantitative tools for subcellular transcriptome analysis. In this study, we describe an RNA proximity labeling method that facilitates the quantification of subcellular RNA populations with high spatial specificity. This method, termed Halo-seq, pairs a light-activatable, radical generating small molecule with highly efficient Click chemistry to efficiently label and purify spatially defined RNA samples. We compared Halo-seq with previously reported similar methods and found that Halo-seq displayed a higher efficiency of RNA labeling, indicating that it is well suited to the investigation of small, precisely localized RNA populations. We then used Halo-seq to quantify nuclear, nucleolar, and cytoplasmic transcriptomes, characterize their dynamic nature following perturbation, and identify RNA sequence features associated with their composition. Specifically, we found that RNAs containing AU-rich elements are relatively enriched in the nucleus. This enrichment becomes stronger upon treatment with the nuclear export inhibitor leptomycin B, both expanding the role of HuR in RNA export and generating a comprehensive set of transcripts whose export from the nucleus depends on HuR.
Microfluidic deep mutational scanning of the human executioner caspases reveals differences in structure and regulation
Authors: Roychowdury Hridindu , Romero Philip A.
Published: June 2021

The human caspase family comprises 12 cysteine proteases that are centrally involved in cell death and inflammation responses. The members of this family have conserved sequences and structures, highly similar enzymatic activities and substrate preferences, and overlapping physiological roles. In this paper, we present a deep mutational scan of the executioner caspases CASP3 and CASP7 to dissect differences in their structure, function, and regulation. Our approach leverages high-throughput microfluidic screening to analyze hundreds of thousands of caspase variants in tightly controlled in vitro reactions. The resulting data provides a large-scale and unbiased view of the impact of amino acid substitutions on the proteolytic activity of CASP3 and CASP7. We use this data to pinpoint key functional differences between CASP3 and CASP7, including a secondary internal cleavage site, CASP7 Q196 that is not present in CASP3. Our results will open avenues for inquiry in caspase function and regulation that could potentially inform the development of future caspasespecific therapeutics.
Intranasal administration of a monoclonal neutralizing antibody protects mice against SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Halwe Sandro , Kupke Alexandra , Vanshylla Kanika , Liberta Falk , Gruell Henning , Zehner Matthias , Rohde Cornelius , Krähling Verena , Gellhorn-Serra Michelle , Kreer Christoph , Klüver Michael , Sauerhering Lucie , Schmidt Jörg , Cai Zheng , Han Fei , Young David , Yang Guangwei , Widera Marek , Koch Manuel , Werner Anke , Kämper Lennart , Becker Nico , Marlow Michael S , Eickmann Markus , Ciesek Sandra , Schiele Felix , Klein Florian , Becker Stephan
Published: June 2021

Despite recent availability of vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2), there is an urgent need for specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 drugs. Monoclonal neutralizing antibodies are an important drug class in the global fight against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic due to their ability to convey immediate protection and their potential to be used as both, prophylactic and therapeutic drugs. Clinically used neutralizing antibodies against respiratory viruses are currently injected intravenously, which can lead to suboptimal pulmonary bioavailability and thus to a lower effectiveness.

Here we describe DZIF-10c, a fully human monoclonal neutralizing antibody that binds the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. DZIF-10c displays an exceptionally high neutralizing potency against SARS-CoV-2 and retains activity against the variants of concern B.1.1.7 and B.1.351. Importantly, not only systemic but also intranasal application of DZIF-10c abolished presence of infectious particles in the lungs of SARS-CoV-2 infected mice and mitigated lung pathology. Along with a favorable pharmacokinetic profile, these results highlight DZIF-10c as a novel human SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody with high in vitro and in vivo antiviral potency. The successful intranasal application of DZIF-10c paves the way for clinical trials investigating topical delivery of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.

Significance Statement

Monoclonal neutralizing antibodies are important in the global fight against the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic due to their ability to convey immediate protection. However, their intravenous application might lead to suboptimal bioavailability in the lung. We here precisely characterize a new monoclonal neutralizing antibody (DZIF-10c) that binds to the receptor binding domain of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2. DZIF-10c neutralizes SARS-CoV-2 with exceptionally high potency and maintains activity against circulating variants of concern. The antibody has a favorable pharmacokinetic profile and protects mice from SARS-CoV-2 infection. Importantly, we show that intranasal administration of DZIF-10c generates protective efficacy. These results not only identify DZIF-10c as a novel highly potent neutralizing antibody, but further pave the way for a topical application of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.
Multi-color super-resolution imaging to study human coronavirus RNA during cellular infection
Authors: Wang Jiarui , Han Mengting , Roy Anish R. , Wang Haifeng , Möckl Leonhard , Zeng Leiping , Moerner W. E. , Qi Lei S.
Published: June 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the third human coronavirus within 20 years that gave rise to a life-threatening disease and the first to reach pandemic spread. To make therapeutic headway against current and future coronaviruses, the biology of coronavirus RNA during infection must be precisely understood. Here, we present a robust and generalizable framework combining high-throughput confocal and super-resolution microscopy imaging to study coronavirus infection at the nanoscale. Employing the model human coronavirus HCoV-229E, we specifically labeled coronavirus genomic RNA (gRNA) and double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) via multicolor RNA-immunoFISH and visualized their localization patterns within the cell. The exquisite resolution of our approach uncovers a striking spatial organization of gRNA and dsRNA into three distinct structures and enables quantitative characterization of the status of the infection after antiviral drug treatment. Our approach provides a comprehensive framework that supports investigations of coronavirus fundamental biology and therapeutic effects.
Corrosion behavior of steel bar embedded in high-ductility cementitious composites under the coupled action of dry–wet cycles and chloride attack
Authors: Guo Li-Ping , Chai Li-Juan , Xu Yan-Hui , Ding Cong , Cao Yuan-Zhang
Published: June 2021

Purpose

High-ductility cementitious composites (HDCC) have an excellent crack controlled capacity and corrosion resistance capacity, which has a promising application in structure engineering under harsh environment. The purpose of this study is to explore the corrosion mechanism of steel bar in HDCC.

Design/methodology/approach

Intact and the pre-cracked HDCC specimens under the coupled action of different dry–wet cycles and chloride attack were designed, and intact normal concrete (NC) was also considered for comparison. Corrosion behavior of a steel bar embedded in HDCC was analyzed by an electrochemical method, a chloride permeability test and X-ray computed tomography.

Findings

Steel corrosion probability is related to the chloride permeability of the HDCC cover, and the chloride permeability resistance of HDCC is better than that of NC. Besides, crack is the key factor affecting the corrosion of steel bars, and the HDCC with narrower cracks have a lower corrosion rate. Slight pitting occurs at the crack tips. In addition, the self-healing products and corrosion products fill up the cracks in HDCC, preventing the external aggressive ions from entering and thereby decreasing the steel corrosion rate.

Originality/value

HDCC has a superior corrosion resistance than that of NC, effects of variable crack width on corrosion behavior of steel bar in HDCC under the coupled actions of different dry–wet cycles and chloride attack are investigated, which can provide the guide for the design application of HDCC material in structure engineering exposed to marine environment.
Impact of thriving at work on eustress and distress: career growth as mediator
Authors: Um-e-Rubbab Um-e-Rubbab , Faiz Shazia , Safdar Samyia , Mubarak Namra
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Thriving at work can affect eustress and distress differently, so the main purpose of this study is to determine the impact of thriving at work on stress and to extend the existing literature on stress by examining the mediating mechanism of career growth, which is one of the functions of human resource development, in the relationship between thriving at work and stress. Person environment fit theory is used to explain the framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 179 employees of the hospitality sector of Pakistan to assess the impact of thriving at work on eustress and distress through the mediation of career growth. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results revealed thriving at work is positively related to eustress whereas it is negatively related to distress, and there is a positive association between thriving and career growth. Furthermore, career growth appeared as an effective explanatory mechanism for relationships between thriving at work and stress. Implications for managers are also discussed.

Originality/value

This study encompasses both positive and negative stressors. There are lots of studies available that examine thriving at work and stress, but the present study aims to examine the impact of thriving on both aspects of stress in the presence of career growth as the mediator in the hospitality sector of Pakistan. It also opens new avenues for research on P-E fit theory to gain benefit from the eustress of employees.
Humanitarian supply chain management: modeling the pre and post-disaster relief operations
Authors: Agarwal Sachin , Kant Ravi , Shankar Ravi
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study proposed a mathematical model for decision-making in the pre- and post-disaster phases. This research aims to develop a mathematical model for three important fields in the context of humanitarian logistics; stock prepositioning, facility location and evacuation planning in the humanitarian supply chain (HSC) network design.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied three optimization techniques; classical approach (CA), pattern search algorithm (PSA) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) to solve the proposed mathematical model. The proposed mathematical model attempts to minimize the total relief items supply chain cost and evacuation chain cost of the HSC. A real case study of cyclone Fani, 2019 in Orissa, India is applied to validate the proposed mathematical model and to show the performance of the model.

Findings

The results demonstrate that heuristic approach; PSA performs better and optimal solutions are obtained in almost all the cases as compared to the GA and CA.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to deterministic demands in the affected regions, and different scenarios of the disaster events are not considered.

Social implications

The finding reveals that the proposed model can help the humanitarian stakeholders in making decisions on facility location, relief distribution and evacuation planning in disaster relief operations.

Originality/value

The results of this study may offer managerial insights to practitioners and humanitarian logisticians who are engaged in HSC implementation.
The exploration of effect of financial performance to the public welfare
Authors: Habbe Abdul Hamid
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the effects of the financial performance of local governments to the level of welfare in 25 city/regency in South Sulawesi during 2009–2014.

Design/methodology/approach

The financial performance is measured by the rate of local autonomy, the effectiveness of local own-source revenue, budget harmony and budget absorption, while the welfare society measured by the Human Development Index (HDI), unemployment and poverty level.

Findings

The regression analysis showed that the performance of region autonomy proved to increase the HDI over the next year and to reduce the poverty rate in two and three years ahead, however, has no correlation with the unemployment. The effectiveness of local own-source revenue can lower unemployment at two and three years ahead but failed to increase the HDI and to reduce poverty. Harmony of spending also neglected to raise the HDI and to reduce the level of unemployment although it can alleviate poverty. The level of budget absorption can improve HDI and reduce the unemployment at two and three years ahead, but failed to lower poverty. Expenditure harmony and budget absorption failed to moderate the relationship between local autonomy, the effectiveness of local own-source revenue and all measurement of welfare, while the expenditure harmony able to moderate the relationship between the effectiveness of local own-source revenue and HDI.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, no previous study has comprehensively studied the effects of level of regionality autonomy and effectivity of local own-source revenue to public welfare, and the moderation effect of Expenditure harmony, budget absorption in relationship between financial performance of local government to public welfare, especially in Indonesia.
Organization cross domain interventions managing strategies and employee outcomes: a role of work–family balance
Authors: Bashir Mohsin , Bhutta M. Khurrum S. , Bari Muhammad Waseem , Saleem Ammara , Tanveer Yasir
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Although an emerging field in work and family literature, organization cross domain intervention managing strategies (CDIMS) is an under-researched area. This study aims to investigate whether organization non-monetary CDIMS (control over work hours and supervisor support) have an impact on employee outcomes via the mediating effect work–family balance (WFB).

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study have been gathered in two distinct surveys from 300 employees working at the managerial level in various manufacturing companies of Pakistan with a seven-week time interval to reduce common method variance. Data were collected during January and March 2020. Confirmatory factor analysis has been performed before testing the mediated model.

Findings

Organization non-monetary CDIMS i.e. control over work hours and supervisor support has been associated positively with WFB, which has further mediated the relationship between workplace non-monetary CDIMS and employee professional outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

Both supervisor support and control over work hours improve employee outcomes by experiencing the satisfaction with WFB. It has been recommended that organizations embed cross-domain interventions in their job design to benefit all employees impartially. Thus, all employees can enjoy better WFB and show positive work behaviors.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of non-monetary organization CDIMS in enhancing the experience of employee’s WFB and improving their professional outcomes.
Improving professional service operations: action research in a law firm
Authors: Balthu Krishna Chaitanya , Clegg Ben
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how action research-based interventions can effect change in a complex and challenging professional service environment (Lewis and Brown, 2012). This paper presents a successful way to do this. First, by eliciting factors for change driven by deregulation in the United Kingdom’s (UK) legal service sector (Falconer, 2005). Second, by designing and implementing context-sensitive change in a selected legal service firm.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a participatory action research methodology involving the use of systems thinking (namely the PrOH modelling methodology) to design suitable interventions and catalyse change.

Findings

This study has generated new knowledge on three fronts–to the legal service operations, to methodology and to the intellectual framework used for abductive reasoning (Checkland and Poulter, 2006). Lessons are transferable to wider professional service operations research. Findings indicate, despite traditional challenges of delivering typical professional services, there is potential for rationalising processes and service delivery commodification, mainly in the low volume, high variety legal service typology (Silvestroet al., 1992).

Research limitations/implications

This research uses data from an in-depth study of a single organisation.

Practical implications

This research helped legal service professionals to improve overall efficiency and effectiveness and create new management tools.

Social implications

This research could help improve legal service operations and make them more accessible.

Originality/value

This research applies a novel, systems thinking based methodology for the first time in a complex professional service operations environment leading to three-fold contributions in the areas of practice, theory and methodology. The paper uses a change management framework (the Change Kaleidoscope), a soft systems methodology (PrOH modelling) and applies these to legal services.
Applying SDGs as a systematic approach for incorporating sustainability in higher education
Authors: Rajabifard Abbas , Kahalimoghadam Masoud , Lumantarna Elisa , Herath Nilupa , Hui Felix Kin Peng , Assarkhaniki Zahra
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The achievement of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) for all communities and jurisdictions require a comprehensive roadmap that encompasses all dimensions of data infrastructure, social, economic, environmental and governance ecosystems. With this in mind, this paper aims to establish the link between the curriculum and intended learning outcomes of undergraduate and postgraduate subjects offered by the University and sustainability. This study is a part of a wider university strategy to embed sustainability knowledge and values in the university curricula. The 17 SDGs developed as a part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainability Development was used as tool to measure and map how the subjects are linked with sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

To incorporate sustainability into the curriculum, this paper developed an interdisciplinary approach for analysing the interconnection between the SDGs, the expected subject learning points and the relevant aspects of sustainability (geospatial information, the legal, policies and institutional components). As part of the approach, in the first phase of the study, qualitative data were collected through a review of published information on the SDGs and the content of the subjects available in the subject handbook. Subject codes were assigned to the keywords and key phrases extracted from the SDGs and the subject content, and then compared and matched to establish the link between the subjects and the SDGs. Six university schools offering over 2,157 subjects were investigated. In the second phase, a survey was conducted involving subject coordinators with the purpose of validating the findings of the first phase and determining the strength of the linkages between the subjects and the SDGs. In the third phase, a plugin was designed to be used in the digital twin platform developed in the UoM, allowing visualisation of the research outcomes.

Findings

Based on the interim findings, it was found that some subjects within the schools are linked to more than one SDG. However, not all of the subjects within the schools can be linked to the SDGs. There is a scope of improvement for embedding sustainability in more subjects within the schools. Some of the schools were also found to have weak linkages with sustainability, which demonstrate the challenge in technical subjects in linking their subject contents with sustainability.

Originality/value

This study provides a methodology which enables the integration of sustainability into current state of the curricula at the university to be established. Further, with the advancement of geospatial technology and new visualisation opportunities through the use of the digital twin platform provides capabilities to communicate the outcomes of sustainability and involvement of each faculties and departments more effectively to the university community and wider stakeholders.
Factors affecting user acceptance for NFC mobile wallets in the U.S. and Korea
Authors: Shin Seungjae , Lee Won-Jun
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors affecting user acceptance for NFC mobile wallets in both Korean and US markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model extends the UTAUT2 model with new constructs of credibility (CR) and service smartness (SS). This study was analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling on data collected from 701 college students between the ages of 18 and 29.

Findings

The results of this study demonstrate that performance expectancy (PE), effort expectancy (EE), CR, SS and habit (HB) have strong positive relationships with a user’s behavioral intention to use NFC mobile wallets. Comparing the results of the USA and South Korea, there are different results regarding PE and CR.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows that all factors except social influence (SI) have significant positive relationships with the intention to adopt NFC mobile wallets: Among the original UTUAT2 factors, PE, EE and HB are important determinants of NFC mobile wallet adoption and the new constructs, CR and SS, are significant determinants that influence BI. However, the target respondents are limited to college students of South Korea and the USA Thus, caution should be used when applying the results of this study towards less ICT developed countries and towards different age groups.

Practical implications

This study provides multiple practical contributions. First, this study emphasizes HB as the strongest factor for adopting NFC mobile wallets in both South Korea and the USA Second, this study also highlights the importance of SS. Third, this study reveals that SI is not associated with the adoption of NFC mobile wallets. Fourth, nationality differences between the USA and South Korea account for the differences in consumer behaviors.

Originality/value

This study has two main contributions: First, this study introduces a modified UTAUT2 model with two new variables (CR and SS) useful for NFC mobile wallets. Second, this study compares the results of partial least square structured equation models (PLS-SEM) of the two nationality groups, South Korea and the USA
A framework model for AEC/FM knowledge in adaptive reuse projects
Authors: Hamida Mohammad B. , Hassanain Mohammad A.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present a generic lifecycle framework model for guiding architects, engineers, contractors and facilities managers (AEC/FM) practitioners on the effective implementation of adaptive reuse projects.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed approach of qualitative and quantitative techniques was followed in the development of the framework model. A literature review was conducted to comprehend the processes involved in adaptive reuse projects. In total, 90 AEC/FM practitioners were surveyed to identify the current practices in these projects. A generic framework model was then developed to standardize the processes involved, using integration definition for function modeling process modeling methodology. Face-to-face interviews with a targeted group of 30 AEC/FM practitioners were conducted, to validate the developed framework model, by assessing the importance and the frequency of implementing each function in the developed framework model.

Findings

The framework model consisted of four sequential processes, namely, assess the feasibility of the adaptive reuse project, design the adaptive reuse project, construct the adaptive reuse project and operate and maintain the adaptive reuse project. The validation confirmed the importance of all the framework functions and the frequency of their implementation.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature and the AEC/FM professions, through developing a lifecycle and knowledge-oriented framework model for building adaptive reuse. The framework presents clear documentation of adaptive reuse processes. Thus, it holds the potential of endeavoring on adaptive reuse projects to be more efficient.
What do we know about zakat literature? A bibliometric review
Authors: Alshater Muneer M. , Saad Ram Al Jaffri , Abd. Wahab Norazlina , Saba Irum
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a meaningful single-source reference for Islamic economics and finance scholars concerning zakat intellectual structure published in journals indexed by the Scopus database.

Design/methodology/approach

The bibliometric method is used to describe and analyze the evolution of publication structure and its various co-relations such as co-citation, co-authorship and bibliographical coupling.

Findings

The authors discuss the influential and conceptual aspects of the published literature on zakat. An interesting finding is that few papers have received more than 50 citations. The analysis revealed that the Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research is the most cited source. Nevertheless, the list of the eight most cited papers reflects that research in this field is still dearth. Further, the authors find that zakat is discussed within the context of religion, its institutional framework, its role to eradicate poverty and distribution management of zakat. The authors also identify and present 14 research directions that will further stimulate scholarly work in the zakat field.

Research limitations/implications

The study confines on English papers and reviews published in journals indexed by the Scopus database only; hence, the study is representative of the moderate and high-quality papers published in this area of knowledge.

Practical implications

Researchers envision that this bibliometric study will complement meta-analysis and qualitative structured literature reviews as a method of reviewing and evaluating the scientific literature of this study area; thus, this may help researchers for futuristic research directions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to tackle the zakat area from a bibliometric aspect. The authors believe that this will help scholars and researchers to stand on firm bases regarding the scientific development of this area of study.
India’s new education policy: a case of indigenous ingenuity contributing to the global knowledge economy?
Authors: Varma Arup , Patel Parth , Prikshat Verma , Hota Deepak , Pereira Vijay
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Given that the policy is rather comprehensive and detailed, this paper aims to identify some of the key features and discuss the mechanisms by which the benefits of the policy might reach all sections of society.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we analyse India’s new education policy (NEP) and discuss how it might impact education and employment in India and the neighbourhood.

Findings

This paper believes that the NEP (2020) is likely to alter the educational landscape of India and make education accessible to all sections of society. In addition, the impact of this bill will be felt in the Indian workplace.

Research limitations/implications

This paper would urge the policymakers, educationists and corporate leaders to conduct research on the benefits of the NEP in two phases. In the short run, they could study the implementation – in the long run, all three stakeholders should track the changes in the quality of graduates being produced as a result of the new policy.

Originality/value

This is the first known critique of the NEP (2020) written by five Indian-origin academics and practitioners, offering insight into the policy for scholars and practitioners.
Dynamic game analysis on pricing and service strategy in a retailer-led supply chain with risk attitudes and free-ride effect
Authors: Ma Junhai , Hong Yalan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The convenience of online shopping enables the manufacturer to develop direct channels. To counter manufacturer encroachment, the retailer tends to provide presale service to attract more customers. Meanwhile, the service provided by the retailer also has a positive impact on the manufacturer's sale volume, which is usually called the showrooming effect or free-ride. The purpose of this paper is to explore the dynamic game of pricing and service strategy in a dual-channel supply chain with risk attitudes and free-ride.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers the risk attitude, characterized by mean-variance theory. First, the optimal pricing and service strategy of two static models under two scenarios are derived. Second, dynamic games are then considered to explore the evolution of the decisions. The classical optimization method is used to solve the problem, and numerical experiments are done to analyze the complex characteristic of the system.

Findings

The result shows that the retailer is willing to provide a higher level of service if his risk preference is higher. The offline retail price and online retail price are positively related to the retailer's risk preference. Besides, the free-ride behavior can reduce the offline retail price and the level of service provided by the retailer. Furthermore, the study indicates that the system is more likely to enter chaos if the retailer's risk preference is higher. Additionally, consumers' service sensitivity and cost coefficient affect the stability of the system.

Originality/value

The study provides a different perspective on supply chain management considering risk attitudes and free-ride The findings of the study can offer theoretical and practical guidance for enterprises to choose adjustment measures according to their risk preference.
Empowerment in call centers and customer satisfaction
Authors: Proenca Teresa , Rodrigues Helena
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Call center is a large and growing sector worldwide and is facing important human resource management (HRM) and service challenges. The purpose of this study is to analyze the impact of structural empowerment (SE) and psychological empowerment (PE) on customer satisfaction (CS) through employee job satisfaction (JS) at a call center in Portugal.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by means of a survey handed over personally to 267 employees at the call center of a telecommunication company. This was then linked to their respective net promoter score (CS) provided by the call center. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used as analytical tools.

Findings

SE affects PE, and both have a positive impact on JS. Empowerment impacts CS: SE positively affects CS mediated by PE; and PE affects CS mediated by JS.

Practical implications

This study emphasizes the importance of the use of organizational practices of SE in call centers to achieve two important organizational outcomes: employee JS and CS.

Originality/value

This study tests a process model involving two domains, HRM (employee side) and service delivery (customer side), which are traditionally dealt with separately in the context of call centers. This helps to understand how HRM polices are connected to CS. Although some of these relationships have been studied separately in different contexts, the research offers a strong methodological design by linking employee perceptions of empowerment with data provided by the firm on CS.
Exploring the potentials of clawbacks to check earnings management practices and enhance financial reporting quality: perceptions from the UAE
Authors: Mahmood Kahkashan , Barghathi Yasser , Lasyoud Alhashmi Aboubaker
Published: June 2021

Purpose

For investors to wholeheartedly entrust their finances to the supposed executives, there is the need to set up policies to checkmate the excesses of such executives, hence clawback policy. This study aims to explore the perceptions of professionals regarding the impact of clawback provisions on earnings management (EM) and financial reporting quality in the context of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

The application of a qualitative approach in an EM is of great significance in this study. For convenience, perceptions of the professionals were collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews, internet forums and telephone conversations from which the data were initially transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate that clawbacks will have a significant impact on EM and financial reporting quality, and apart from this, other firm-level factors have also been supporting clawbacks.

Practical implications

EM has been a widespread practice; this research may potentially assist directors and regulatory bodies to comprehend factors that should be considered to reduce it. It may also provide practical insights from professionals regarding clawbacks and their bearing on EM and the quality of financial information from an emerging economy perspective.

Originality/value

A significant gap in the contemporary literature regarding the impact of clawback provisions on EM and financial reporting quality has been filed by this work, in the context of the UAE economy. Consequently, it provides a great insight into the effect of clawback in a business setting and how it can help checkmate the excesses of company executives.
Utilizing DNase I and graphene oxide modified magnetic nanoparticles for sensing PD-L1 in human plasma
Authors: He Xudong , Yang GuangYi , Yang E. , Zhang Moli , Luo Dan , Liu Jingjian , Zhao Chongnan , Chen Qinhua , Ran Fengying
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Based on DNase I and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-magnetic silicon microspheres (MNPS), a highly sensitive and selective fluorescent probe for the detection of PD-L1 was developed.

Design/methodology/approach

Here °C we present a feasibility of biosensor to detection of PD-L1 in lung tumors plasma. In the absence of PD-L1°C the PD-L1 aptamer is absorbed on the surface of graphene oxide modified magnetic nanoparticles °8rGO-MNPS°9 and leading to effective fluorescence quenching. Upon adding PD-L1°C the aptamer sequences could be specifically recognized by PD-L1 and the aptamer/PD-L1 complex is formed°C resulting in the recovery of quenched fluorescence.

Findings

This sensor can detect PD-L1 with a linear range from 100 pg mL−1 to 100 ng mL−1, and a detection limit of 10 pg•m−1 was achieved.

Originality/value

This method provides an easy and sensitive method for the detection of PD-L1 and will be beneficial to the early diagnosis and prognosis of tumors.
Experimental measurements of the shear force on surface mount components simulating the wave soldering process
Authors: Carvalho Violeta , Arcipreste Bruno , Soares Delfim , Ribas Luís , Rodrigues Nelson , Teixeira Senhorinha , Teixeira José C.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to determine the minimum force required to pull out a surface mount component in printed circuit boards (PCBs) during the wave soldering process through both experimental and numerical procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

An efficient experimental technique was proposed to determine the minimum force required to pull out a surface mount component in PCBs during the wave soldering process.

Findings

The results showed that the pullout force is approximately 0.4 N. Comparing this value with the simulated force exerted by the solder wave on the component (

≅ 0.001158 N), it can be concluded that the solder wave does not exert sufficient force to remove a component.

Originality/value

This study provides a deep understanding of the wave soldering process regarding the component pullout, a critical issue that usually occurs in the microelectronics industry during this soldering process. By applying both accurate experimental and numerical approaches, this study showed that more tests are needed to evaluate the main cause of this problem, as well as new insights were provided into the depositing process of glue dots on PCBs.
Sentiment analysis and sarcasm detection from social network to train health-care professionals
Authors: Godara Jyoti , Aron Rajni , Shabaz Mohammad
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Sentiment analysis has observed a nascent interest over the past decade in the field of social media analytics. With major advances in the volume, rationality and veracity of social networking data, the misunderstanding, uncertainty and inaccuracy within the data have multiplied. In the textual data, the location of sarcasm is a challenging task. It is a different way of expressing sentiments, in which people write or says something different than what they actually intended to. So, the researchers are showing interest to develop various techniques for the detection of sarcasm in the texts to boost the performance of sentiment analysis. This paper aims to overview the sentiment analysis, sarcasm and related work for sarcasm detection. Further, this paper provides training to health-care professionals to make the decision on the patient’s sentiments.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper has compared the performance of five different classifiers – support vector machine, naïve Bayes classifier, decision tree classifier, AdaBoost classifier and K-nearest neighbour on the Twitter data set.

Findings

This paper has observed that naïve Bayes has performed the best having the highest accuracy of 61.18%, and decision tree performed the worst with an accuracy of 54.27%. Accuracy of AdaBoost, K-nearest neighbour and support vector machine measured were 56.13%, 54.81% and 59.55%, respectively.

Originality/value

This research work is original.