bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The biology of imaging
Authors: Reynaud Emmanuel G.
Published: February 2022

On the cave wall, a discrete but stunning silhouette runs across the uneven surface. Standing still for more than 45 000 years, this is a witness to the ever-enduring need of mankind to image the world around us. The biological world that feeds us is a primary source of inspiration but also an essential element to creating the imaging systems we use every day. But once obscured by the technological jargon and the thunderstorm of numbers and algorithms, those origins fade away into the background. This small piece is about a few marvellous little stories about the biology of imaging, not the debate about the origin of vision and the eye but rather about plants and animals that open the world to new dimensions of biological imaging to fully image the biological world. An eye for an eye.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (part 2)’.
Super-resolution microscopy: a brief history and new avenues
Authors: Prakash Kirti , Diederich Benedict , Heintzmann Rainer , Schermelleh Lothar
Published: February 2022

Super-resolution microscopy (SRM) is a fast-developing field that encompasses fluorescence imaging techniques with the capability to resolve objects below the classical diffraction limit of optical resolution. Acknowledged with the Nobel prize in 2014, numerous SRM methods have meanwhile evolved and are being widely applied in biomedical research, all with specific strengths and shortcomings. While some techniques are capable of nanometre-scale molecular resolution, others are geared towards volumetric three-dimensional multi-colour or fast live-cell imaging. In this editorial review, we pick on the latest trends in the field. We start with a brief historical overview of both conceptual and commercial developments. Next, we highlight important parameters for imaging successfully with a particular super-resolution modality. Finally, we discuss the importance of reproducibility and quality control and the significance of open-source tools in microscopy.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (part 2)'.
Quality control of image sensors using gaseous tritium light sources
Authors: McFadden David , Amos Brad , Heintzmann Rainer
Published: February 2022

We propose a practical method for radiometrically calibrating cameras using widely available gaseous tritium light sources (
betalights
). Along with the gain (conversion factor) and read noise level, the predictable photon flux of the source allows us to gauge the quantum efficiency. The design is easily reproducible with a 3D printer (three-dimensional printer) and three inexpensive parts. Suitable for common image sensors, we believe that the method has the potential to be a useful tool in microscopy facilities and optical laboratories alike.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (part 2)’.
Structured illumination ophthalmoscope: super-resolution microscopy on the living human eye
Authors: Schock Florian , Best Gerrit , Celik Nil , Heintzmann Rainer , Dithmar Stefan , Cremer Christoph
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we present the prototype of an ophthalmoscope that uses structured illumination microscopy (SIM) to enable super-resolved imaging of the human retina, and give first insights into clinical application possibilities. The SIM technique was applied to build a prototype that uses the lens of the human eye as an objective to ‘super-resolve’ the retina of a living human. In our multidisciplinary collaboration, we have adapted this well-established technique in ophthalmology and successfully imaged a human retina using significantly lower light intensity than a state-of-the-art ophthalmoscope. Here, we focus on the technical implementation and highlight future perspectives of this method. A more application-oriented note for physicians on the diagnostic and disease-preventive value of this method, as well as the medical results of the clinical study carried out, will be published in a report addressed to an appropriate specialist audience.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (part 2)’.
Spatially modulated illumination microscopy: application perspectives in nuclear nanostructure analysis
Authors: Cremer Christoph , Birk Udo
Published: February 2022

Thousands of genes and the complex biochemical networks for their transcription are packed in the micrometer sized cell nucleus. To control biochemical processes, spatial organization plays a key role. Hence the structure of the cell nucleus of higher organisms has emerged as a main topic of advanced light microscopy. So far, a variety of methods have been applied for this, including confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy, 4Pi-, STED- and localization microscopy approaches, as well as (laterally) structured illumination microscopy (SIM). Here, we summarize the state of the art and discuss application perspectives for nuclear nanostructure analysis of spatially modulated illumination (SMI). SMI is a widefield-based approach to using axially structured illumination patterns to determine the axial extension (size) of small, optically isolated fluorescent objects between less than or equal to 200 nm and greater than or equal to 40 nm diameter with a precision down to the few nm range; in addition, it allows the axial positioning of such structures down to the 1 nm scale. Combined with SIM, a three-dimensional localization precision of less than or equal to 1 nm is expected to become feasible using fluorescence yields typical for single molecule localization microscopy applications. Together with its nanosizing capability, this may eventually be used to analyse macromolecular complexes and other nanostructures with a topological resolution, further narrowing the gap to Cryoelectron microscopy.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Super-resolution structured illumination microscopy (part 2)’.
Clinically healthy household dogs and cats as carriers of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica with variable R plasmids
Authors: Chantharothaiphaichit Thanich , Phongaran Dusadee , Angkittitrakul Sunpetch , Aunpromma Surasit , Chuanchuen Rungtip
Published: February 2022

Introduction. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a One Health issue concerning humans, animals and the environment and a unified One Health approach is required to contain this problematic issue. Dogs and cats are popular pet animals and are known to carry many bacterial pathogens that are of public health importance, including

Salmonella

. However, data on AMR in companion animals is limited.

Gap statement. Scant AMR data from bacteria originating from companion animals limits an accurate assessment of the impacts of pet-animal-related AMR on public health.

Purpose. This study aimed to phenotypically and genetically investigate AMR in

Salmonella

isolated from pet dogs and cats in Thailand.

Methodology.

Salmonella enterica

were isolated from pet dogs (n=159) and cats (n=19) in Thailand between 2016 and 2019. All isolates were serotyped. Phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance was examined. PCR-based replicon typing, replicon sequence typing and plasmid multilocus sequence typing were conducted to characterize plasmids.

Results. Seventy-seven serovars were identified, with serovars Weltevreden (9.6%) and Stockholm (9.0%) the most common. Most of the isolates (34.3%) were multidrug-resistant. The serovar Stockholm was an ESBL-producer and carried the β-lactamase genes bla
TEM-1 and bla
CTX-M-55. The plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) gene, qnrS, was also detected (10.1%). Class 1 integrons carrying the dfrA12-aadA2 cassette array were most frequent (45.9%). Five plasmid replicon types as IncA/C (0.6%), N (1.1%), IncFIIA (28.7%), IncHI1 (2.2%), and IncI1 (3.4%) were identified. Based on the pMLST typing scheme (n=9), plasmids were assigned into five different STs including IncA/C-ST6 (n=1), IncH1-ST16 (n=4), IncI1-ST3 (n=1), IncI1-ST60 (n=1) and IncI1-ST136 (n=1). The ST 16 of IncHI1 plasmid was a novel plasmid ST. Subtyping F-type plasmids using the RST scheme (n=9) revealed four different combinations of replicons including S1:A-:B- (n=4), S1:A-:B22 (n=2), S3:A-:B- (n=1) and S-:A-:B47 (n=1).

Conclusions. Our findings highlight the role of clinically healthy household dogs and cats as carriers of AMR

Salmonella

strains with different R plasmid. The implementation of AMR phenotypes instigation and genotypic monitoring and surveillance programmes in companion animals are imperative as integral components of the One Health framework.
An Optrode Array for Spatiotemporally Precise Large-Scale Optogenetic Stimulation of Deep Cortical Layers in Non-human Primates
Authors: Clark Andrew M. , Ingold Alexander , Reiche Christopher F. , Cundy Donald , Balsor Justin L. , Federer Frederick , McAlinden Niall , Cheng Yunzhou , Rolston John D. , Rieth Loren , Dawson Martin D. , Mathieson Keith , Blair Steve , Angelucci Alessandra
Published: February 2022

Optogenetics has transformed studies of neural circuit function, but remains challenging to apply in large brains, such as those of non-human primates (NHPs). A major challenge is delivering intense, spatiotemporally precise, patterned photostimulation across large volumes in deep tissue. Such stimulation is critical, for example, to modulate selectively deep-layer corticocortical feedback projections. To address this unmet need, we have developed the Utah Optrode Array (UOA), a 10×10 glass needle waveguide array fabricated atop a novel opaque optical interposer then bonded to an electrically addressable μLED array.In vivoexperiments with the UOA demonstrated large-scale, spatiotemporally precise, activation of deep circuits in monkey cortex. Specifically, the UOA permitted both focal (confined to single layers/columns), and widespread (multiple layers/columns) optogenetic activation of deep layer neurons, simply by varying the number of activated μLEDs and/or the irradiance. Thus, the UOA represents a powerful optoelectronic device for targeted manipulation of deep-layer circuits in NHP models.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron triggers cross-reactive neutralization and Fc effector functions in previously vaccinated, but not unvaccinated individuals
Authors: Richardson Simone I , Madzorera Vimbai Sharon , Spencer Holly , Manamela Nelia P , van der Mescht Mieke , Lambson Bronwen E , Oosthuysen Brent , Ayres Frances , Makhado Zanele , Moyo-Gwete Thandeka , Mzindle Nonkululeko , Motlou Thopisang , Strydom Amy , Mendes Adriano , Tegally Houriiyah , de Beer Zelda , de Villiers Talita Roma , Bodenstein Annie , van den Berg Gretha , Venter Marietjie , de Oliviera Tulio , Ueckermann Veronica , Rossouw Theresa M , Boswell Michael T , Moore Penny L
Published: February 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant escapes neutralizing antibodies elicited by vaccines or infection. However, whether Omicron triggers cross-reactive humoral responses to other variants of concern (VOCs) remains unknown. We use plasma from 20 unvaccinated and seven vaccinated individuals infected by Omicron BA.1 to test binding, Fc effector function and neutralization against VOCs. In unvaccinated individuals, Fc effector function and binding antibodies target Omicron and other VOCs at comparable levels. However, Omicron BA.1-triggered neutralization is not extensively cross-reactive for VOCs (14 to 31-fold titer reduction) and we observe 4-fold decreased titers against Omicron BA.2. In contrast, vaccination followed by breakthrough Omicron infection was associated with improved cross-neutralization of VOCs, with titers exceeding 1:2,100. This has important implications for vulnerability of unvaccinated Omicron-infected individuals to reinfection by circulating and emerging VOCs. While Omicron-based immunogens may be adequate boosters, they are unlikely to be superior to existing vaccines for priming in SARS-CoV-2 naive individuals.
Biogeography and Validation of species limits in Caribbean Red Bats (Vespertilionidae:Lasiurus)
Authors: Soto-Centeno J. Angel , Calderón-Acevedo Camilo A.
Published: February 2022

Abstract

Defining species limits using an integrative framework is crucial for biodiversity assessments and to maintain taxonomic stability. These approaches are robust and can be useful to also validate the status of species that are uncommon and underrepresented in biological collections. We examined the species limits and validated the taxonomic status of the Minor Red Bat (Lasiurus minor), an uncommon species originally described from four specimens. Our approach consisted of three independent lines of evidence combining genetic and phenotypic data. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the uniqueness ofL. minorcompared to three other geographically and closely related Red Bat species. Furthermore, coalescent species delimitation supported the four Red Bat species hypothesis. Linear phenotypic analyses demonstrated thatL. minoris distinct from other Red Bats despite a morphological continuum. Finally, we reassessed the diagnosability of characters used to describeL. minorusing an objective shape analysis approach, which emphasized the support for this taxon. Based on our findings, while identification in the field could still pose a challenge, there is strong support to recognizeL. minor. This study settles a longstanding taxonomic question and provides evidence to better understand Caribbean biodiversity.
Gain-of-function, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis Trpc6 mutation minimally affects susceptibility to renal injury in several mouse models
Authors: Brown Brittney J. , Boekell Kimber L. , Stotter Brian R. , Talbot Brianna E. , Schlondorff Johannes S.
Published: February 2022

Mutations in TRPC6 are a cause of autosomal dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis in humans. Many of these mutations are known to have a gain-of-function effect on the non-specific cation channel function of TRPC6. In vitro studies have suggested these mutations affect several signaling pathways, but in vivo studies have largely compared wild-type and Trpc6-deficient rodents. We developed mice carrying a gain-of-function Trpc6 mutation encoding an E896K amino acid change, corresponding to a known FSGS mutation in TRPC6. Homozygous mutant Trpc6 animals have no appreciable renal pathology, and do not develop albuminuria until very advanced age. The Trpc6E896K mutation does not impart susceptibility to PAN nephrosis. The animals show a slight delay in recovery from the albumin overload model. In response to chronic angiotensin II infusion, Trpc6E896K/E896K mice have slightly greater albuminuria initially compared to wild-type animals, an effect that is lost at later time points, and a statistically non-significant trend toward more glomerular injury. This phenotype is nearly opposite to that of Trpc6-deficient animals previously described. The Trpc6 mutation does not appreciably impact renal interstitial fibrosis in response to either angiotensin II infusion, or folate-induced kidney injury. TRPC6 protein and TRPC6-agonist induced calcium influx could not be detected in glomeruli. In sum, these findings suggest that a gain-of-function Trpc6 mutation confers only a mild susceptibility to glomerular injury in the mouse.
Two-pore channel blockade by phosphoinositide kinase inhibitors YM201636 and PI-103 determined by a histidine residue near pore-entrance
Authors: Du Canwei , Guan Xin , Yan Jiusheng
Published: February 2022

Human two-pore channels (TPCs) are endolysosomal cation channels and play an important role in NAADP-evoked Ca2+ release and endomembrane dynamics. TPCs are activated by PI(3,5)P2, which is synthesized by PIKfyve. Here, we found that YM201636, a widely used PIKfyve inhibitor, potently inhibits PI(3,5)P2-induced human TPC2 channel Na+ currents in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 of 0.16 μM. YM201636 also effectively inhibits the currents of a constitutively open TPC2 mutant channel, whereas it exerts no effect when applied in the channel’s closed state. A YM201636 analog, PI-103, an inhibitor of PI3K and mTOR, also inhibits human TPC2 with an IC50 of 0.64 μM. Substitution of the pore-constriction residues Leu690, Leu694 and Tyr312 by Ala reduced the effectiveness of YM201636 and PI-103 in channel inhibition. Interestingly, a His699 residue located near the cytosolic pore entrance is a key determinant for the TPC2 channels’ sensitivity to YM201636 and PI-103, whose substitution with a Phe in the human TPC1 largely accounts for the channel’s loss of inhibition by YM201636. Molecular dynamic simulation and docking analysis of YM201636’s binding to TPC2 indicated that His699 can interact with the inhibitor and facilitate the channel-blockade at the cytosolic end of the pore. We conclude that YM201636 and PI-103 directly block the TPC2’s open-state channel pore at the cytosolic entrance where the His699 is a key determinant for the blockers’ access to the pore. These findings identify two new potent TPC2 channel blockers, reveal a channel pore entrance blockade mechanism, and provide a new protein target in interpreting the pharmacological effects of these two widely used phosphoinositide kinase inhibitors.
Cerebral organoids for modeling of HSV-1-induced-multiscale neuropathology associated with Alzheimer’s disease and phenotypic rescue
Authors: Qiao Haowen , Zhao Wen , Guo Moujian , Zhu Lili , Chen Tao , Wang Jibo , Zhang Zhentao , Wu Ying , Chen Pu
Published: February 2022

Herpes simplex virus type I (HSV-1) infection is a potential risk factor involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and contributes to the AD viral hypothesis. However, further understanding of the neuropathological effects of the HSV-1 infection is hampered by the limitations of existing infection models due to the distinct differences between human brains and other mammalians’ brains. Here we generated cerebral organoid models derived from pluripotent stem cells to investigate the HSV-induced pathogenesis associated with AD and the role of antiviral drugs in the phenotypic rescue. Our results identified that the HSV-1-infected cerebral organoids recapitulated multiscale neuropathology pertaining to the onset and progression of AD across the genetic, cellular, and tissue levels, including the multicellular Aβ deposition, dysregulated endogenous AD mediators, reactive gliosis, neuroinflammation, and neural loss. Furthermore, we identified that two antiviral drugs, namely Ribavirin (RBV) and Valacyclovir (VCV), inhibited HSV-1 replication and rescued the neuropathological phenotypes associated with AD in the HSV-1-infected cerebral organoids, implying their therapeutic potential to slow down the progression of AD. Our study provides a high-fidelity human-relevant in-vitro HSV-1 infection model to reconstitute the multiscale neuropathological features associated with AD and discover therapeutic drug candidates relevant to the AD viral hypothesis.

IMPORTANCE

AD is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuronal death, brain atrophy, and cognitive impairment. HSV-1 is a neurotropic double-stranded DNA virus resulting in long-term neurological sequelae in adults.

There is accumulating evidence indicating that AD may be associated with HSV-1 infections. In this study, we generated human-physiologically related cerebral organoids derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) to investigate the influence of HSV-1 infection on the neuropathology associated with AD. We found that the HSV-1-infected cerebral organoids could model typical neuropathological features associated with AD. Additionally, we discovered that both RBV and VCV significantly rescued the HSV-1-induced pathological phenotypes associated with AD. These findings may open new avenues of consideration related to HSV-1 infection and AD. Furthermore, the contribution of these antiviral drugs to AD linked to HSV-1 infection will provide new clues to potential new therapies.
Risk of severe COVID-19 in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases treated with immunosuppressive therapy in Scotland
Authors: McKeigue Paul M , Porter Duncan , Hollick Rosemary J , Ralston Stuart H , McAllister David A , Colhoun Helen M
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To investigate the association of severe COVID-19 in those with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRD) treated with immunosuppressive drugs.

Methods

A list of 4633 patients on biologics and targeted synthetic (ts) DMARDs in March 2020 was linked to a case-control study that includes all cases of COVID-19 in Scotland.

Results

By 22 November 2021 433 of the 4633 patients treated with biologics and tsDMARDs had been diagnosed with COVID-19, of whom 58 had been hospitalised. With all those in the population not on DMARDs as reference category, the rate ratio for hospitalised COVID-19 associated with DMARD treatment was 2.14 (95% CI 2.02 to 2.26) in those on conventional synthetic (cs) DMARDs, 2.01 (95% CI 1.38 to 2.91) in those on TNF inhibitors as the only biologic agent, and 3.83 (95% CI 2.65 to 5.56) in those on other biologic agents. Among those on csDMARDs, rate ratios for hospitalised COVID-19 were lowest at 1.66 (95% CI 1.51 to 1.82) in those on methotrexate and highest at 5.4 (95% CI 4.4 to 6.7) in those on glucocorticoids at average dose >10 mg/day prednisolone equivalent.

Conclusion

The risk of hospitalised COVID-19 is elevated in IRD patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs. Of these drugs, methotrexate, hydroxychloroquine, and TNF inhibitors carry the lowest risk, JAK inhibitors and B-cell depleting agents a higher risk and prednisolone the highest risk. A larger study is needed to estimate reliably the risks associated with each class of biologic agent.

Key messages

Risk of hospitalised COVID-19 is about twofold higher in IRD patients treated with immunosuppressive therapies – csDMARDS or biologics – than in the general population.

Risk is lowest in those treated with methotrexate, hydroxychoroquine and TNF inhibitors. Of the other biologic drugs, treatment with B cell depleters and JAK inhibitors is associated with higher risk but the numbers are too small for risk associated with each drug class to be estimated reliably.

The risk of severe COVID-19 with glucocorticoids at a dose greater than 10 mg/day prednisolone equivalent is higher than that of any other drug class studied.
High-Resolution Tandem Mass Spectrometry Indicates Rubisco Activase is Associated with PS I-LHC I-LHC II Membranes
Authors: Kale Ravindra S. , Sallans Larry , Frankel Laurie K. , Bricker Terry M.
Published: February 2022

During proteomic investigations examining the mobile LHC II chlorophyll antenna complex associated with Photosystem I (PS I), we identified, with very high confidence, the association of Rubisco Activase with PS I-LHC I-LHC II membranes. Using very rigorous criteria (p-values ≤ 10-5), a total of fifty-three high-quality Rubisco Activase peptides were identified by high resolution tandem mass spectrometry in two biological replicates, each digested with either trypsin or chymotrypsin, independently. Using these criteria, and searching the entire spinach proteome, only proteins previously known to be associated with PS I (the PS I subunits PsaD and PsaL, Lhca1-4, Lhcb1-3), the monomeric Lhcb proteins, Lhcb4-6 (which will be discussed elsewhere), and Rubisco Activase were identified. The presence of Rubisco Activase closely associated with PS I has important implications with respect to the activation of this enzyme and, consequently, the Calvin cycle by PS I, which will be discussed.
Multi-modal single-cell and whole-genome sequencing of minute, frozen specimens to propel clinical applications
Authors: Wang Yiping , Fan Joy Linyue , Melms Johannes C. , Amin Amit Dipak , Georgis Yohanna , Ho Patricia , Tagore Somnath , Abril-Rodríguez Gabriel , Biermann Jana , Hofree Matan , Caprio Lindsay , Berhe Simon , Khan Shaheer A. , Henick Brian S. , Ribas Antoni , Taylor Alison M. , Schwartz Gary K. , Carvajal Richard D. , Azizi Elham , Izar Benjamin
Published: February 2022

Single-cell genomics are enabling technologies, but their broad clinical application remains challenging. We report an easily adaptable approach for single-cell transcriptome and T cell receptor (TCR)-sequencing, and matched whole-genome sequencing from tiny, frozen clinical specimens. We achieve similar quality and biological outputs while reducing artifactual signals compared to data from matched fresh tissue samples. Profiling sequentially collected melanoma samples from the KEYNOTE-001 trial, we resolve cellular, genomic, and clonotype dynamics that encapsulate molecular patterns of tumor evolution during anti-PD-1 therapy. To demonstrate applicability to banked biospecimens of rare diseases, we generate a large uveal melanoma liver metastasis single-cell and matched WGS atlas, which revealed niche-specific impairment of clonal T cell expansion. This study provides a foundational framework for propelling single-cell genomics to the clinical arena.
In silico drug design of benzothiadiazine derivatives interacting with bilayer cell membranes
Authors: Hu Zheyao , Marti Jordi
Published: February 2022

The use of drugs derived from benzothiadiazine, a bicyclic heterocyclic benzene derivative, has become a widespread treatment for diseases such as hypertension, low blood sugar or the human immunodeficiency virus, among others. In this work we have investigated the interactions of benzothiadiazine and several selected derivatives designed in silico, with the basic components of cell membranes and solvents such as phospholipids, cholesterol and water. The analysis of the mutual microscopic interactions is of central importance to elucidate the local structure of benzothiadiazine as well as the mechanisms responsible for the distribution and access of benzothiadiazine to the interior of the cell. We have performed molecular dynamics simulations of benzothiadiazine and its derivatives embedded in a model zwitterionic bilayer membrane made by phospholipids dioleoylphosphatidylcholine, 1,2-dioleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoserine and cholesterol inside aqueous potassium chloride solution in order to systematically examine microscopic interactions of benzothiadiazine derivatives with the cell membrane at liquid-crystalline phase conditions. From data obtained through radial distribution functions, time dependent hydrogen-bond lengths and potentials of mean force based on reversible work calculations, we have observed that benzothiadiazine derivatives have a strong affinity to stay at the cell membrane interface although their solvation characterisitics can vary significantly: they can be fully solvated by water in short periods of time or continuously attached to specific lipid sites during intervals of 10-70 ns. Furthermore, benzothiadiazines are able to bind lipids and cholesterol chains by means of single and double hydrogen-bonds of different characteristic lengths between 1.6 and 2.1 Å.
Consumers across cultures: a comparative study about consumers’ role in food safety-related academic literature
Authors: Lenart Istvan , Lakner Zoltan , Kovacs Laszlo , Kasza Gyula
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The research aims at scrutinising food safety as a global concept and problem that has numerous cross-cultural aspects reflecting the diversity of consumption patterns and the culturally differing role of the consumer as well as mirroring the heterogeneity of socio-economic environment.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the role of consumer in food safety-related academic literature is investigated in seven languages (countries) including American English, French, German, Hungarian, Italian, Mandarin Chinese and Russian from a multidisciplinary, cross-cultural perspective.

Findings

With the aid of seven linguistic corpora built from the above mentioned languages, the research reveals noteworthy differences in the consumer-focused approach.

Research limitations/implications

The study could have benefited from the inclusion of further languages (i.e. Portuguese, Spanish, Hindi etc.), the authors' lack of reliable language skills outside of the covered domain had to be taken into account. Further to that, the analysis conducted is based on a static observation, while food safety-related consumer science is developing quickly. Therefore, a dynamic analysis of consumer roles would most certainly yield in further salient outcome.

Practical implications

Food safety can be regarded in many ways–this is reflected in different national legislations, dissimilar country-level risk communication patterns as well as different perception of basic notions of food safety. It has not yet been extensively analysed, however, how different languages use the notion of food safety or consumer, which activities and which characteristics are most connected to these notions, and how food safety-related topics and the focus of scientific discourse in different languages differ from each other.

Social implications

Practical implications of the research results also include preparatory activities for food safety risk communication campaigns. In this field, the cultural aspects of food safety are as important as scientific risk assessment. The tools presented in this paper help a quick and comprehensive analysis of linguistic corpora, which could be used either in academic or general literature resources, even press releases. The results also call attention to the culture-driven perspectives of food safety; these new insights can be applied by researchers to review food safety literature more exhaustively considering the cultural context. Future elaboration of the topic (e.g. by introducing a time factor that would enable a dynamic analysis) can further enhance the utility value of similar studies.

Originality/value

The novelty of the article lies in the unique application of corpus linguistic methods with the aim of investigating the area, the trends and phenomena of food safety-related science. This study combines the achievements of food safety-related consumer science with corpus linguistic methods.
Dietary Chlorella vulgaris with a specific enzyme mixture enriches pork in potassium and improves its sodium to potassium ratio
Authors: Costa Mónica , Madeira Marta , Coelho Diogo , Falcão Cátia , Mourato Miguel , Mestre Prates José António
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of dietary inclusion of 5% Chlorella vulgaris, individually or supplemented with two carbohydrase mixtures, on pork's mineral profile (calcium, copper, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, sodium, phosphorous, sulfur and zinc).

Design/methodology/approach

Forty male finishing pigs were assigned to four dietary treatments: cereal and soybean meal-based diet (control), control diet with 5% microalga (CCV), CCV diet supplemented with 0.005% of a commercial xylanase and β-glucanase-based complex and CCV diet supplemented with 0.01% of a mixture of four carbohydrate-active enzymes. Pigs were slaughtered after 41 ± 7.8 days of trial and the mineral composition of longissimus lumborum muscle was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry.

Findings

When C. vulgaris was supplemented with a four-CAZyme mixture, an increase of total minerals in meat was found due to a higher content of potassium, which led to a decrease of sodium to potassium ratio in pork. However, CCV treatment decreased the amount of calcium and manganese in meat, which was likely due to a lower bioavailability of these minerals in the diet.

Originality/value

Considering the imbalance of sodium and potassium in most Western diets and the increasing occurrence of cardiovascular diseases in the population, the improvement of meat quality caused by a reduction of sodium to potassium ratio might help to reduce the prevalence of high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases, having thus benefits for consumers' health.
Research on optimization and simulation of sand casting production line based on VSM
Authors: Chao Bao , Zhang Chaoyong , Zhang Yu , Guo Hongfei , Ren Yaping , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to provide feasible countermeasures for the application of lean manufacturing in automatic sand casting workshops to optimize production line balance.

Design/methodology/approach

A production line balance optimization model for sand casting workshops is proposed. The value stream mapping (VSM) approach is applied to diagnose the problems in the production process. An optimization scheme is established based on eliminate, combine, rearrange, simplify and increase theory and Kanban management method. Further, simulation is done to compare current VSM and future VSM.

Findings

After implementing the proposed model, findings indicated that the idle time of equipment was effectively reduced, the line of balance of the production line was increased by 44.7%, the production lead time was shortened by 60.3% and the production capacity was increased by 50.0%.

Research limitations/implications

Application of the optimization model in this study is limited to sand casting workshops that have realized automatic or semi-automatic production.

Originality/value

This paper provides an optimization model for the implementation of lean manufacturing in sand casting workshops and provides a reference case that reflects the actual application of lean manufacturing tools in a real situation.
Lecturers' preparedness for applying service-learning after intensive training
Authors: Resch Katharina , Hoyer-Neuhold Andrea , Schrittesser Ilse
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how lecturers in European higher education institutions perceive the service-learning approach as a teaching concept and feel prepared for its implementation after a short-term training. Service-learning connects theory and practice by allowing students to participate in a service that meets community needs, reflect on this experience and gain an enhanced sense of civic engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The evaluation study drew on data from four focus group discussions with n = 21 lecturers from five European countries following a Winter School on service-learning in 2020. The qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate four themes of preparedness: (1) overall conceptions of service-learning, (2) continuum of preparedness for service-learning, (3) influential factors for preparedness and (d) transfer to home universities. The participants viewed themselves as multipliers for service-learning in their home universities; however, they were skeptical about being able to fully implement the service-learning approach after only one training and without a community of practice with lecturers with similar experiences in their home universities.

Originality/value

This study complements previous studies by adding a cross-national perspective of higher education lecturers. It underlines the importance of continuing training in didactics of university lecturers and a support network for the implementation of complex teaching concepts in higher education.
Artificial Intelligence Adoption in the Post COVID-19 New-Normal and Role of Smart Technologies in Transforming Business: a Review
Authors: Agarwal Pragati , Swami Sanjeev , Malhotra Sunita Kumari
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give an overview of artificial intelligence (AI) and other AI-enabled technologies and to describe how COVID-19 affects various industries such as health care, manufacturing, retail, food services, education, media and entertainment, banking and insurance, travel and tourism. Furthermore, the authors discuss the tactics in which information technology is used to implement business strategies to transform businesses and to incentivise the implementation of these technologies in current or future emergency situations.

Design/methodology/approach

The review provides the rapidly growing literature on the use of smart technology during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

The 127 empirical articles the authors have identified suggest that 39 forms of smart technologies have been used, ranging from artificial intelligence to computer vision technology. Eight different industries have been identified that are using these technologies, primarily food services and manufacturing. Further, the authors list 40 generalised types of activities that are involved including providing health services, data analysis and communication. To prevent the spread of illness, robots with artificial intelligence are being used to examine patients and give drugs to them. The online execution of teaching practices and simulators have replaced the classroom mode of teaching due to the epidemic. The AI-based Blue-dot algorithm aids in the detection of early warning indications. The AI model detects a patient in respiratory distress based on face detection, face recognition, facial action unit detection, expression recognition, posture, extremity movement analysis, visitation frequency detection, sound pressure detection and light level detection. The above and various other applications are listed throughout the paper.

Research limitations/implications

Research is largely delimited to the area of COVID-19-related studies. Also, bias of selective assessment may be present. In Indian context, advanced technology is yet to be harnessed to its full extent. Also, educational system is yet to be upgraded to add these technologies potential benefits on wider basis.

Practical implications

First, leveraging of insights across various industry sectors to battle the global threat, and smart technology is one of the key takeaways in this field. Second, an integrated framework is recommended for policy making in this area. Lastly, the authors recommend that an internet-based repository should be developed, keeping all the ideas, databases, best practices, dashboard and real-time statistical data.

Originality/value

As the COVID-19 is a relatively recent phenomenon, such a comprehensive review does not exist in the extant literature to the best of the authors’ knowledge. The review is rapidly emerging literature on smart technology use during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
ESG, operational efficiency and operational performance: evidence from Real Estate Investment Trusts
Authors: Aroul Ramya Rajajagadeesan , Sabherwal Sanjiv , Villupuram Sriram V.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to examine the relationship between the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and their operational efficiency and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use S&P Global (formerly SNL Real Estate) for the study analyses and examine all publicly traded REITs based in the United States over the 2019–2020 sample period. The authors regress the measures of REIT operational efficiency and operational performance on REIT ESG scores while controlling for REIT characteristics and use an ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation model with heteroscedasticity-robust standard errors. The authors also run additional regressions to examine the implications of operational efficiency on the relationship between ESG and operational performance.

Findings

The authors find that REITs that perform well on the ESG scale have higher operational efficiency. In addition, the authors find that REITs with better ESG scores are associated with better operational performance. Finally, the authors find that the positive association between ESG scores and operational performance is stronger in REITs with higher operational efficiency.

Practical implications

First, the adoption of ESG adds value to the REIT in terms of increased operational performance and efficiency. Second, the value addition of ESG to an REIT is driven by the better operational efficiency of some REITs over the others. Therefore, the authors’ findings suggest that REITs that currently score poorly on ESG performance would first need to focus on all the possible avenues to improve economies of scale and hence operational efficiency. This approach would help ensure that when those REITs adopt ESG initiatives, they get the most bang for their buck.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that relates operational efficiency and operational performance of REITs to their ESG scores.
The Effect of 9/11 on Preservice Teachers’ Perspectives and Dispositions toward Global Concerns
Authors: Ukpokodu Omiunota Nelly
Published: February 2022

This paper reports on a three-year study that examined the effect of 9/11 on preservice teachers’ perspectives and dispositions toward global concerns and global perspective pedagogy. Participants responded to a “before” and “after” survey in which they indicated the level of their awareness of global concerns, perceptions of their importance, perceived impact on self, and dispositions toward global-perspective pedagogy. The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The data revealed that 9/11 had a significant effect on preservice teachers that resulted in a shift in perspectives and dispositions toward critical global concerns and teaching about them. The findings highlight the critical importance of preparing preservice teachers to develop global perspectives, cultivate critical knowledge and perceptual understandings of global concerns, and nurture favorable dispositions toward global perspective pedagogy.
Social Studies Methods Class as Crucible for K-8 Curricular Change: Considering the United States Constitution
Authors: O’Mahony Carolyn
Published: February 2022

This article describes the evolution of a study of the U.S. Constitution in a social studies methods class and its effects on teacher candidates and experienced colleagues in K-8 classrooms. It provides details on how a fifth grade teacher’s curriculum was subsequently shaped by using the Constitution as a lens for investigating U.S. history. It demonstrates how the methods class can serve as a crucible for actively addressing curricular and instructional issues in local schools.
Early Childhood Social Studies Learning for Social Justice
Authors: Christensen Lois McFadyen
Published: February 2022

Early childhood social studies students deserve to learn in a powerful, in-depth fashion about their interests with teachers who facilitate cognitive and affective growth. Humanistic teachers offer democratic learning experiences characterized by exploration and inquiry within a challenging and caring environment. Growth toward acceptance of all types of diversity and every classmate is featured. Through discussion about social studies topics, learners proceed to graphically represent what they learn. This powerful social studies learning is found in Reggio Emilia, Italy. The tenets, strategies, and approaches are easily transferable and modified to create powerful and exemplar early childhood social studies learning for social rights and social justice. Early childhood is the perfect place to set social justice learning in motion.
Gender Balance in K-12 American History Textbooks
Authors: Chick Kay A.
Published: February 2022

This research study evaluated K-12 American history textbooks for gender balance. Elementary, middle school, and high school texts were assessed for the number of male and female historical figures in text content and illustrations. Significantly more males than females were found at all levels in both content and illustrations, and all differences were significant at the .001 level. However, American history textbooks do include more women than in previous editions and since the publication of the National History Standards. The challenges of defining gender balance are discussed, and recommendations for teachers and textbook adoption committees are presented.
Importing Peace Education from Belfast: A Prosocial Approach to School Improvement in the US
Authors: Pickett Linda , Carson Susan
Published: February 2022

This paper presents the results and experiences of one school within a unique university/K-12 school district partnership that approached school reform through a framework of peace education. Faced with the challenge of improving academic achievement in a district with a history of five years failing to meet Annual Yearly Progress (AYP) as defined by the No Child Left Behind Act, university faculty collaborated with elementary school teachers to implement principles of peace education that have been successfully applied at Oldwood Integrated Primary School in Belfast, Northern Ireland. As two university faculty involved in the project, we present challenges, theoretical perspectives, and the model that guided our initiative, the process, and results of social change in teaching practice.
Virginia vs. Florida: Two Beginning History Teachers’ Perceptions of the Influence of High-Stakes Tests on Their Instructional Decision-Making
Authors: Yeager Elizabeth Anne , Hover Stephanie van
Published: February 2022

This paper examines how a beginning teacher in Virginia and a beginning teacher in Florida make sense of the high-stakes tests in their state. By examining beginning teachers in two states where the tests are so very different, we gain important insight into whether there are similarities and differences across states and how the nature of the test affects the teaching and learning of history. We first offer insight into the context of accountability in Virginia and Florida and then discuss what ambitious teaching and learning look like in these states as informed by the literature. Then, we turn to our research methods, findings, and implications for the field of social studies.
Notable Trade Book Lesson Plan—Rachel: The Story of Rachel Carson
Authors: Gallavan Nancy P.
Published: February 2022

Rachel Carson was a notable woman who studied the environment and cared for the planet Earth. Her life was highlighted by several significant events that unfolded to future events culminating with her writing the landmark book Silent Spring. In this NCSS notable trade book lesson plan format, students record 12 significant events in Rachel Carson’s life on a graphic organizer. The graphic organizer is designed as 12 circles like the face of a clock to show chronological order. Using the information provided in the book Rachel: The Story of Rachel Carson (Ehrlich, 2003), students record 12 events to illustrate the cycle of life. This practical graphic organizer also can be used for recording important events in other people’s lives read in biographies and autobiographies as well as important events in each student’s life. Reading and sharing from the graphic organizer in chronological order prompts meaningful class conversations and learning experiences.
Notable Trade Book Lesson: Be My Neighbor
Authors: Corso Dawn T.
Published: February 2022

The following lesson is an example of how to begin a unit of study on cultural universals through the accessibility of quality literature. Be My Neighbor (2004) by Maya Ajmera and John Ivanko is an NCSS Notable Book (2005) that attempts to bring the world closer to readers’ homes and lives through the theme of being a neighbor to people around the world; the book provides vivid examples of cultural universals related to the theme. Following the lesson are ideas for developing related instructional units and relevant websites and literature to assist in creating such a curriculum.