bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomics and weighted protein network analysis of the LRRK2 protein interactome reveal distinct molecular signatures for sporadic and LRRK2 Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Zhao Yibo , Bracher-Smith Matthew , Harvey Kirsten , Escott-Price Valentina , Lewis Patrick A , Manzoni Claudia
Published: September 2023

Mutations in the LRRK2 gene are the most common genetic cause for familial Parkinson’s Disease (LRRK2-PD) and an important risk factor for sporadic PD (sPD). Multiple clinical trials are ongoing to evaluate the benefits associated with the therapeutical reduction of LRRK2 kinase activity. In this study, we described the changes on transcriptomic profiles (whole blood mRNA levels) of LRRK2 protein interactors in the sPD and LRRK2-PD cases as compared to healthy controls with the aim of comparing the two PD conditions. We went on to model the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network around LRRK2, which was weighted to reflect the transcriptomic changes in the network based on the expression and co-expression levels. Our results showed that LRRK2 interactors present both similar but also different alterations in expression levels and co-expression behaviours in the sPD and LRRK2-PD cases. The similar changes result in decreased connectivity within a topological cluster of the LRRK2 PPI network associated with ribosomal functions and DNA/RNA metabolism in both the sPD and LRRK2-PD scenario; while the connectivity within the autophagy/mitophagy/neurotransmitter-transport related cluster was increased exclusively in the LRRK2-PD condition as compared to the healthy controls. These results suggest that, albeit being classified as the same disease based on clinical features, LRRK2-PD and sPD show some significant differences from a molecular perspective.
Nucleoporin-binding nanobodies that either track or inhibit nuclear pore complex assembly
Authors: Colom Mireia Solà , Fu Zhenglin , Güttler Thomas , Trakhanov Sergei , Srinivasan Vasundara , Gregor Kathrin , Pleiner Tino , Görlich Dirk
Published: September 2023

Nuclear pore complex (NPC) biogenesis is a still enigmatic example of protein self-assembly. We now introduce several cross-reacting anti-Nup nanobodies for imaging intact NPCs from frog to human. We further report a simplified assay that directly tracks postmitotic NPC assembly by added labeled anti-Nup nanobodies. In interphase, NPCs are inserted into a pre-existing nuclear envelope. This makes it difficult to monitor this process as newly-assembled NPCs must be distinguished from pre-existing ones. We solved this problem by insertingXenopusNPCs into human nuclear envelopes and using frog-specific anti-Nup nanobodies for detection. We also asked whether anti-nucleoporin (Nup) nanobodies could serve as NPC assembly inhibitors. A first generation, selected from immune libraries againstXenopusNups, comprised only bright stainers of intact NPCs but no inhibitors, perhaps because the immune response was biased towards non-conserved and, thus, functionally-irrelevant epitopes. To overcome this bias, we selected for crossreactivity betweenXenopusand human Nups and obtained anti-Nup93, Nup98, and Nup155 nanobodies that block Nup-Nup interfaces and arrest NPC assembly. We solved structures of nanobody-target complexes and identified roles for the Nup93-α-solenoid in recruiting Nup358 and the Nup214·88·62 complex, and for Nup155 and the Nup98 autoproteolytic domain in NPC-scaffold assembly. The latter suggests an assembly checkpoint linking pore formation to permeability barrier assembly.
Gastric emptying and nutrient absorption of pea protein products differing in heat treatment and texture: a randomizedin vivocrossover trial andin vitrodigestion study
Authors: Roelofs Julia J.M. , van Eijnatten Elise J.M. , Prathumars Patteela , de Jong Joris , Wehrens Ron , Esser Diederik , Janssen Anja E.M. , Smeets Paul A.M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Pea protein is an interesting alternative for animal-based proteins due to its good availability, low cost and relatively balanced amino acid (AA) profile. Its digestibility may be affected by heat treatment and food texture.

Objectives

To studyin-vivoAA absorption kinetics and gastric behavior of pea protein products differing in heat treatment and texture and compare this within-vitrodigestion.

Design

Fourteen males participated in a randomized crossover trial. Iso-caloric and iso-volumetric treatments were a 420-mL heated drink, 420-mL unheated drink and 105-g heated gel (semi-solid) consumed with 315 mL water, all containing 20 g pea protein. Gastric MRI scans were made until 90 minutes post-prandial. Blood samples were collected at baseline and up to five hours. All treatments were tested with anin-vitrodigestion model (INFOGEST).

Results

Heat treatment did not alter AA absorption kinetics and gastric emptying. Time to maximum peak was delayed for the gel treatment (total AAs: 66.9 versus 48.0 min for both drinks, essential AAs: 75.4 versus 50.0 and 46.6 min for the drinks). For the gel treatment initial emptying was faster due to the rapid passage of water.In-vitro, the degree of hydrolysis was highest for the unheated drink in the gastric phase and for the gel treatment in the intestinal phase.

Conclusion

Heat treating pea protein products does not affect digestion. In contrast, texture of pea protein products can be altered to influence the rate of gastric emptying and AA absorption without affecting total AA absorption.
COST AND UTILIZATION TRENDS OF ENDOMYOCARDIAL BIOPSY IN HEART TRANSPLANT PATIENTS: A 4-YEAR CLAIMS DATA ANALYSIS
Authors: Vilalta Adrian
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study evaluated patterns of utilization, complications, and costs of endomyocardial biopsies (EMB) in heart transplant patients.

Methods

The IBM®Treatment Pathways®tool was used to analyze claims data selected from the IBM®’sMarketScan®de-identified, HIPAA-compliant dataset. Differences in EMB paid amounts and utilization patterns were assessed for commercial payers and Medicare for years 2016 to 2019. Type, frequency, and overall cost of complications of the EMB procedure in these patients were also evaluated.

Results

A total of 8,170 records (6,385 commercial payers and 1,785 Medicare) of heart transplant patients with evidence of EMB procedures performed between 2016 and 2019 were identified in the database. In 2019, the median paid amount for an outpatient EMB in a heart transplant patient was US $7,918 (commercial) and US $2,980 (Medicare). Heart transplant patients received between 4.6 and 6.8 (median; Medicare, commercial) EMBs the first year after the transplant. Approximately 25% of EMB procedures were associated with complications. In 2019 the total cost of EMB complications per patient was US $9,049.

Discussion

Analysis showed that the paid amount for the EMB procedure increased by almost 25% from 2016 to 2019 for commercial payers. Given the high frequency of complications after the EMB procedure and the associated cost of the complications it is estimated that the median paid amounts are closer to US $10,000 per patient per EMB. Given the number of EMBs provided, the associated risks, and the paid amount trends, non-invasive alternatives to EMB should be considered for the surveillance of heart transplant patients.
Structural Variation Detection and Association Analysis of Whole-Genome-Sequence Data from 16,905 Alzheimer’s Diseases Sequencing Project Subjects
Authors: Wang Hui , Dombroski Beth A , Cheng Po-Liang , Tucci Albert , Si Ya-Qin , Farrell John J , Tzeng Jung-Ying , Leung Yuk Yee , Malamon John S ,   The Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project, Wang Li-San , Vardarajan Badri N , Farrer Lindsay A , Schellenberg Gerard D , Lee Wan-Ping
Published: September 2023

Structural variations (SVs) are important contributors to the genetics of numerous human diseases. However, their role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains largely unstudied due to challenges in accurately detecting SVs. Here, we analyzed whole-genome sequencing data from the Alzheimer’s Disease Sequencing Project (ADSP, N=16,905 subjects) and identified 400,234 (168,223 high-quality) SVs. We found a significant burden of deletions and duplications in AD cases (OR=1.05,P=0.03), particularly for singletons (OR=1.12,P=0.0002) and homozygous events (OR=1.10,P<0.0004). On AD genes, the ultra-rare SVs, including protein-altering SVs inABCA7,APP,PLCG2, andSORL1, were associated with AD (SKAT-OP=0.004). Twenty-one SVs are in linkage disequilibrium (LD) with known AD-risk variants, e.g., a deletion (chr2:105731359-105736864) in complete LD (R2=0.99) with rs143080277 (chr2:105749599) inNCK2. We also identified 16 SVs associated with AD and 13 SVs associated with AD-related pathological/cognitive endophenotypes. Our findings demonstrate the broad impact of SVs on AD genetics.

Search Terms

Alzheimer’s disease, Structural variation, Copy number variation
Trajectories and correlates of poor mental health in India over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic: a nation-wide survey
Authors: Nichols Emma , Petrosyan Sarah , Khobragade Pranali , Banerjee Joyita , Angrisani Marco , Dey Sharmistha , Bloom Prof David E. , Schaner Simone , Dey AB , Lee Jinkook
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic had large impacts on mental health; however, most existing evidence is focused on the initial lockdown period and high-income contexts. By assessing trajectories of mental health symptoms in India over two years, we aim to understand the effect of later time periods and pandemic characteristics on mental health in a lower-middle income context.

Methods

We used data from the Real-Time Insights of COVID-19 in India (RTI COVID-India) cohort study (N=3,662). We used covariate-adjusted linear regression models with generalized estimating equations to assess associations between mental health (PHQ-4 score) and pandemic periods as well as pandemic characteristics (COVID-19 cases and deaths, government stringency, self-reported financial impact, COVID-19 infection in the household) and explored effect modification by age, gender, and rural/urban residence.

Results

Mental health symptoms dropped immediately following the lockdown period but rose again during the delta and omicron waves. Associations between mental health and later pandemic stages were stronger for adults 45 years of age and older (p<0.001). PHQ-4 scores were significantly and independently associated with all pandemic characteristics considered, including estimated COVID-19 deaths (PHQ-4 difference of 0.041 SD units; 95% Confidence Interval 0.030 - 0.053), government stringency index (0.060 SD units; 0.048 - 0.072), self-reported major financial impacts (0.45 SD units; 0.41-0.49), and COVID-19 infection in the household (0.11 SD units; 0.07-0.16).

Conclusion

While the lockdown period and associated financial stress had the largest mental health impacts on Indian adults, the effects of the pandemic on mental health persisted over time, especially among middle-age and older adults. Results highlight the importance of investments in mental health supports and services to address the consequences of cyclical waves of infections and disease burden due to COVID-19 or other emerging pandemics.
Expanded statistical analysis plan for legacy and long-term effects of aspirin in the ASPREE-XT observational follow-up study of participants in the ASPREE randomized trial
Authors: Wolfe Rory , Broder Jonathan , Chan Andrew , Murray Anne , Orchard Suzanne , Polekhina Galina , Ryan Joanne , Tonkin Andrew , Webb Katherine , Woods Robyn
Published: September 2023

The ASPREE randomized controlled trial (2010-2017) of 19,114 community-dwelling older adults without cardiovascular disease and significant disability compared daily 100mg aspirin to placebo. A total of 16,317 (93%) of 17,546 surviving and non-withdrawn participants agreed to continue regular study follow-up visits in the post-trial phase, named ASPREE-XT (2017-2024). We present a statistical analysis plan to underpin three main papers to report aspirin effects through to the fourth post-trial ASPREE-XT study visit with focus areas of: (1) death, dementia, and disability, (2) CVD events and bleeding, and (3) cancer. The focus of the plan is to estimate long-term (entire timespan of RCT plus post-trial) and legacy (post-trial period only) effects of aspirin in the setting of primary prevention for older individuals. Preliminary insights to these effects are presented that are based on data that has been reported to the study’s observational study monitoring board however formal data lock is not expected until October 2023.
Leucine zipper-based sorting system enables generation of multi-functional CAR T cells
Authors: James Scott E. , Chen Sophia , Ng Brandon D. , Fischman Jacob S. , Jahn Lorenz , Boardman Alexander P. , Rajagopalan Adhithi , Elias Harold K. , Massa Alyssa , Manuele Dylan , Nichols Katherine B. , Lazrak Amina , Lee Nicole , Fei Teng , DeWolf Susan , Peled Jonathan U. , Vardhana Santosha A. , Klebanoff Christopher A. , van den Brink Marcel R. M.
Published: September 2023

Resistance to chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy develops through multiple mechanisms including antigen-loss escape and tumor-induced immune suppression. Expression of multiple CARs may overcome multi-antigen-loss escape. Similarly, expression of switch receptors that convert inhibitory immune checkpoint signals into positive costimulatory signals may enhance CAR T cell activity in the tumor microenvironment. Engineering multiple features into one cell product, however, is limited by transgene packaging constraints of current vector systems. Here, we describe a leucine zipper-based cell sorting methodology that enables selective single-step immunomagnetic purification of cells co-transduced with two vectors, designed to potentially double the number of incorporated transgenes. This “Zip-sorting” system facilitated generation of T cells simultaneously expressing up to four CARs and co-expressing up to three switch receptors. These multi-CAR multi-Switch receptor arrays enabled T cells to eliminate antigenically heterogeneous syngeneic leukemia populations co-expressing multiple inhibitory ligands. Zip-sorted multi-CAR multi-Switch receptor T cells represent a potent therapeutic strategy to overcome multiple mechanisms of CAR T cell resistance.
APP substrate ectodomain defines Aβ length by restraining γ-secretase processivity and facilitating product release
Authors: Koch Matthias , Enzlein Thomas , Chen Shu-Yu , Petit Dieter , Lismont Sam , Zacharias Martin , Hopf Carsten , Chávez-Gutiérrez Lucía
Published: September 2023

Sequential proteolysis of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) by γ-secretases (GSECs) generates amyloid-β (Aβ) and defines the proportion of short-to-long Aβ peptides, which is tightly connected to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis.

Here, we study the mechanism controlling substrate processing by GSECs and defining product length. We found that polar interactions established by the APPC99ectodomain (ECD), involving but not limited to its juxtamembrane region, restrain both the extent and degree of GSEC processive cleavage by destabilizing enzyme-substrate (E-S) interactions. We show that increasing hydrophobicity at APPC99-ECD – due to mutation or ligand binding – attenuates this substrate-driven product release mechanism, and rescues the effects that AD pathogenic variants exert on Aβ profiles. In addition, our study reveals that APPC99-ECD facilitates the paradoxical production of longer Aβs caused by some GSEC inhibitors that act as high-affinity competitors to the substrate.

These findings assign a pivotal role to the substrate ECD in the sequential proteolysis by GSEC and suggest it as a sweet spot for the potential design of APP targeting compounds selectively promoting its processing by GSEC.
CD81 represses NF-κB in HCV-expressing hepatoma cells
Authors: Bunz Maximilian , Eisele Mona , Hu Dan , Ritter Michael , Kammerloher Julia , Lampl Sandra , Schindler Michael
Published: September 2023

The tetraspanin CD81 is one of the main entry receptors for Hepatitis C virus, which is a major causative agent to develop liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we identify CD81 as one of few surface proteins that are downregulated in HCV expressing hepatoma cells, discovering a functional role of CD81 beyond mediating HCV entry. CD81 was downregulated at the mRNA level in hepatoma cells that replicate HCV. Kinetics of HCV protein expression were increased in CD81-knockout cells and accompanied by enhanced cellular growth. Furthermore, loss of CD81 compensated for inhibition of pro-survival TBK1-signaling in HCV expressing cells. Analysis of functional phenotypes that could be associated with pro-survival signaling revealed that CD81 is a negative regulator of NF-κB. Interaction of the NF-κB subunits p50 and p65 was increased in cells lacking CD81. Similarly, we witnessed an overall increase in the total levels of phosphorylated and cellular p65 upon CD81-knockout. Finally, translocation of p65 in CD81-negative hepatoma cells was markedly induced upon stimulation with TNFα or PMA. Altogether, CD81 emerges as aregulator of pro-survival NF-κB signaling. Considering the important and established role of NF-κB for HCV replication and tumorigenesis, the downregulation of CD81 by HCV and the associated increase in NF-κB signaling might serve as viral mechanism to maintain persistent infection, ultimately causing chronic inflammation and HCC.

Highlights

CD81 is downregulated and transcriptionally silenced upon HCV genome replication

Loss of CD81 is associated with increased cell growth and HCV expression

CD81 suppresses NF-κB signaling.

CD81 interferes with p65 activation and nuclear translocation
No evidence for phylogenetic structure or environmental filtering of springtail microbiomes
Authors: Veres Róbert , Romahn Juliane , Schneider Clément , Bálint Miklós
Published: September 2023

Microorganisms play crucial roles in the lives of metazoans and can significantly impact host fitness. However, recent evidence suggests that many species may lack microorganisms that are positively associated with host fitness. Assessing the prevalence of host-specific microbiomes in animals has proven challenging due to limited studies in most higher taxa, with most investigations focusing on microbes in mammals, cephalopods, fish, and corals. This knowledge gap extends to springtails (Arthropoda: Collembola), which are widespread and abundant hexapods found in terrestrial and semi-aquatic habitats, contributing to important ecological functions. Here we investigated taxonomic bycatch in genome sequences generated from entire individuals of 70 springtail species. We aimed to understand whether microbial and other taxa associated with springtails are influenced by host phylogeny and environmental parameters. The analyses revealed high richness of bacteria and other taxa in the analyzed sequences, but detected no phylosymbiotic or environmental filtering signal in community composition. The findings suggest that springtails may be one of potentially many animal groups lacking distinct microbiomes. The study demonstrates how entire eukaryotic groups can be tested for phylosymbiotic patterns with taxonomic bycatch from genome sequences.
Deep quantitative glycoproteomics reveals gut microbiome induced remodeling of the brain glycoproteome
Authors: Potel Clément M , Burtscher Mira Lea , Garrido-Rodriguez Martin , Brauer-Nikonow Amber , Becher Isabelle , Typas Athanasios , Zimmermann Michael , Savitski Mikhail M
Published: September 2023

Highlights

High throughput glycoproteomics method with multiplexed quantification

25-fold improvement of the mouse brain glycoproteome coverage

Structural features dictate level of glycosite micro-heterogeneity

Gut microbiome composition extensively impacts the brain glycoproteome

Modulation of glycosylation is site-specific

Protein glycosylation is a highly diverse post-translational modification, modulating key cellular processes such as cell signaling, adhesion and cell-cell interactions. Its deregulation has been associated with various pathologies, including cancer and neurological diseases. Methods capable of quantifying glycosylation dynamics are essential to start unraveling the biological functions of protein glycosylation. Here we present Deep Quantitative Glycoprofiling (DQGlyco), a method that combines high-throughput sample preparation, high-sensitivity detection, and precise multiplexed quantification of protein glycosylation. We used DQGlyco to profile the mouse brain glycoproteome, in which we identify 158,972 and 15,056 unique N- and O-glycopeptides localized on 3,199 and 2,365 glycoproteins, respectively - this amounts to 25-fold more glycopeptides identified compared to previous studies. We observed extensive heterogeneity of glycoforms and determined their functional and structural preferences. The presence of a defined gut microbiota resulted in extensive remodeling of the brain glycoproteome when compared to that of germ-free animals, exemplifying how the gut microbiome may affect brain protein functions.
Structure and dynamics of the contractile vacuole complex inTetrahymena thermophila
Authors: Cheng Chao-Yin , Romero Daniel P. , Zoltner Martin , Yao Meng-Chao , Turkewitz Aaron P.
Published: September 2023

The contractile vacuole complex (CVC) is a dynamic and morphologically complex membrane organelle, comprised of a large vesicle (bladder) linked with a tubular reticulum (spongiome). CVCs provide key osmoregulatory roles across diverse eukaryotic lineages, but probing the mechanisms underlying the structure and function is hampered by the limited tools available forin vivoanalysis. In the experimentally tractable ciliateTetrahymena thermophila, we describe four proteins that, as endogenously tagged constructs, localize specifically to distinct CVC zones. The DOPEY homolog Dop1p and the CORVET subunit Vps8Dp localize both to the bladder and spongiome but with different local distributions that are sensitive to osmotic perturbation, while the lipid scramblase Scr7p co-localizes with Vps8Dp. The H+- ATPase subunit Vma4 is spongiome-specific. The live imaging permitted by these probes revealed dynamics at multiple scales including rapid exchange of CVC-localized and soluble protein pools vs. lateral diffusion in the spongiome, spongiome extension and branching, and CVC formation during mitosis. While the association withDOP1andVPS8Dimplicate the CVC in endosomal trafficking, both the bladder and spongiome are isolated from bulk endocytic input.

Summary statement

In the ciliateTetrahymena thermophila, four proteins are shown to provide markers for different zones of the contractile vacuole complex. They shed light on its formation and maintenance by enablingin vivoanalysis of its dynamics.
Flexibility of tandem leaders resolves traffic jams during colony relocation in an ant
Authors: Pathak Manish Kumar , Annagiri Sumana
Published: September 2023

Ants, renowned for their intricate social behaviors, exhibit remarkable collective movement patterns that enable them to forage and tunnel efficiently. Despite significant research into their navigation skills and traffic avoidance mechanisms mostly in the context of central-place foraging, the dynamics of bi-directional movement during colony relocation remains an underexplored domain. This study delves into the behavior ofDiacamma indicum, an ant species, that recruits by tandem running during the relocation of their nest. Our findings reveal that constricted pathway linking the old and new nests lead to frequent interruptions and traffic jams, and this significantly extended transportation durations when compared to control. Through analysis of 56 traffic jam instances, we unveil the adaptability of tandem leaders. Their decisions on recruiting followers midway and adjusting heading directions amalgamates into emergent mass orientation towards the new nest acting as critical factors in untangling the traffic jam. This study not only illuminates the intricacies of collective ant movement during nest relocation but also unveils insights into the mechanisms that underscore their exceptional traffic jam mitigation abilities. By addressing this uncharted aspect of ant behavior, we contribute to a broader comprehension of the remarkable strategies these superorganisms employ to navigate complex environments.
X-ray-determined structure of the technetium complex [Tc2(μ-CO)2(NC5H5)2(CO)6] revisited: [Tc2(μ-OMe)2(NC5H5)2(CO)6] as the correct formulation
Authors: Zuhayra Maaz , Lützen Arne , Ruiz Miguel A.
Published: September 2023

Some of us reported previously the structure of di-μ-carbonyl-bis[tricarbonyl(pyridine)technetium], [Tc2(μ-CO)2(C5H5N)2(CO)6], as the main product of the reaction of [Tc2(CO)10] with pyridine at room temperature, using the reagent itself as solvent [Zuhayra et al. (2008). Inorg. Chem.
47, 10177–10182]. On the basis of an X-ray analysis of the product, a molecular structure was proposed with two bridging carbonyls displaying very unusual geometrical features, not explained at the time. Subsequent chemical considerations, coupled with density functional theory (DFT) calculations, prompted us to revise the original structure determination. Using the original raw diffraction data, we have now performed new refinements to show that the previously proposed `bridging carbonyls' actually correspond to bridging methoxide groups, and that the crystals analyzed at the time therefore would correspond to the complex di-μ-methoxido-bis[tricarbonyl(pyridine)technetium], syn-[Tc2(μ-OMe)2(NC5H5)2(CO)6]. This methoxide-bridged complex likely was a minor side product formed along with the main product in the above reaction, perhaps due to the presence of trace amounts of methanol and air in the reaction mixture.
How did polycentric spatial structure affect carbon emissions of the construction industry? A case study of 10 Chinese urban clusters
Authors: Wang Yousong , Shi Guolin , Zhang Yangbing
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Due to the close connection between urban cluster and carbon emissions (CEs) but a lack of study on it of the construction industry, this paper aims to explore the relationship between the polycentric spatial structure (PSS) of the urban clusters and CEs of the construction industry (CECI).

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses panel data of 10 Chinese urban clusters from 2006–2021, calculates their PSSs in the aspects of economy and employment and adopts a panel regression model to explore the effect of the spatiotemporal characteristics of the PSSs on the CECI.

Findings

First, the CECI in 10 Chinese urban clusters showed a rising trend in general, and the CECI in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) was much higher than those in the rest of urban clusters. Second, both Shandong Peninsula (SP) and Guangdong-Fujian-Zhejiang (GFZ) exhibited high degrees of polycentric characteristics, while Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) showed weaker degrees. Third, the results demonstrated that the polycentric development of urban clusters did not help reduce the CECI but rather promote the CE. The polycentric index, considering the linear distance from the main center to sub center, had a more significant impact on the CECI.

Originality/value

Previous studies have investigated the impact of urban spatial structure (USS) on CEs; however, few of them have studied in the field of construction industry. Moreover, most research of CEs have concentrated at the national and provincial levels, with fewer studies on urban clusters. This paper contributes to this knowledge by investigating how the PSS of urban cluster influence the CECI.
Assessment of university archives management practices
Authors: Bajwa Muhammad Suleman , Rafiq Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Archives and records are important resources for individuals, organizations and the country. The academic archives are created and maintained for the effective execution of university educational and corporate functions. The archives management practices in universities are being studied in the developed countries; however, a scarcity of empirical research is observed in the context of developing countries, for instance, Pakistan. Thus, the purpose of this study is to assess the archives management practices performed in the archival units of University of the Punjab (UoP), Lahore, in association with the successful execution of university educational functions.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured survey questionnaire was developed to collect responses from the record-keepers and archives monitoring staff using a complete enumerative (census) approach. The collected data were analyzed in SPSS 23.0 in addition to structural equation modeling (SEM) run in AMOS 22v.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed an inconsistency regarding the policies and procedures, arrangement and filing records and access and retrieval due to the practice of self-developed procedures in the UoP archival units. Although archives management practices have significant impact on university academic as well as research-related functions, however, there is lack of centralized and standardized practices for archiving records in the UoP. Lack of professional/trained staff and policy document are key limitations in building systematic and standardized archives management system in academic intuitions, particularly in the UoP.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical study in Pakistan that has explored archives management practices used in university archives. It also contributes theoretically and methodologically through the underpinnings of archival principles in association with university functions and developing a validated scale to explore archives management practices in universities. The findings of this study may be helpful for the concerned bodies, university administrations and archives managers to establish, manage and improve the academic archives systematically.
Investigation of system transient availability under imperfect maintenance
Authors: Alaswad Suzan , Salman Sinan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

While steady-state analysis is useful, it does not consider the inherent transient characteristics of repairable systems' behavior, especially in systems that have relatively short life spans, or when their transient behavior is of special concern such as the motivating example used in this paper, military systems. Therefore, a maintenance policy that considers both transient and steady-state availability and aims to achieve the best trade-off between high steady-state availability and rapid stabilization is essential.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper studies the transient behavior of system availability under the Kijima Type II virtual age model. While such systems achieve steady-state availability, and it has been proved that deploying preventive maintenance (PM) can significantly improve its steady-state availability, this improvement often comes at the price of longer and increased fluctuating transient behavior, which affects overall system performance. The authors present a methodology that identifies the optimal PM policy that achieves the best trade-off between high steady-state availability and rapid stabilization based on cost-availability analysis.

Findings

When the proposed simulation-based optimization and cost analysis methodology is applied to the motivating example, it produces an optimal PM policy that achieves an availability–variability balance between transient and steady-state system behaviors. The optimal PM policy produces a notably lower availability coefficient of variation (by 11.5%), while at the same time suffering a negligible limiting availability loss of only 0.3%. The new optimal PM policy also provides cost savings of about 5% in total maintenance cost. The performed sensitivity analysis shows that the system's optimal maintenance cost is sensitive to the repair time, the shape parameter of the Weibull distribution and the downtime cost, but is robust with respect to changes in the remaining parameters.

Originality/value

Most of the current maintenance models emphasize the steady-state behavior of availability and neglect its transient behavior. For some systems, using steady-state availability as the sole metric for performance is not adequate, especially in systems that have relatively short life spans or when their transient behavior affects the overall performance. However, little work has been done on the transient analysis of such systems. In this paper, the authors aim to fill this gap by emphasizing such systems and applications where transient behavior is of critical importance to efficiently optimize system performance. The authors use military systems as a motivating example.
Once upon a time: using brand stories to sell signature sneakers
Authors: Williams Antonio , Heo Yoon
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Storytelling has long been a popular strategy in marketing. Despite its ubiquity, the influence of storytelling in the sport marketing literature has not been investigated, especially on consumers' perspective. Thus, the purpose of this study is to (a) examine the effect of storytelling on sport consumers, and (b) explore the moderation effect of product involvement on the relationship between storytelling and purchase intention of a signature sneaker.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments using 3 (storytelling: bullet-point type vs. athlete-based story vs. product-based story) × 2 (product involvement: low vs. high) between-subjects experimental design were conducted.

Findings

The main finding illustrates that both the athlete-based story and the product-based story had a stronger influence on a consumer's purchase intention than the information that was given in a bullet-point condition. This study provides a theoretical implication of storytelling strategy for sport marketing literature. From a managerial perspective, the authors heavily recommend the use of storytelling in sport product advertisements.

Originality/value

Previous literature has highlighted the effect of storytelling in sports organization such as professional sports team or utilization in social media. However, limited studies could be found in the sports product industry and consumer behavior sector. Thus, the current study has a significant value of understanding the storytelling strategy in the perspective of sports consumers as well as brand marketers.
Supply chain efficiency and relation with the firm performance: a study of the food processing sector in India
Authors: Maini Nitin , Dharni Khushdeep , Rathore Rakesh
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the supply chain efficiency of selected companies in the Indian food processing sector. Additionally, it explores the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

To determine the supply chain efficiency, the study uses supply chain efficiency measures, such as supply chain length, inefficiency ratio and working capital productivity. Secondary data were collected from the Center for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) Prowess database for the years 2011–2017. Various return measures, such as Return on Net Worth (RONW), Return on Total Assets (ROTA) and Return on Capital Employed (ROCE), were used to measure firm performance. Collected data were analyzed to investigate the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.

Findings

Findings of the study reveal the prevalence of inefficient supply chains in the context of the selected companies. There is a significant negative correlation between supply chain efficiency and firm performance. RONW has a significant negative correlation with the length of supply chain as well as supply chain inefficiency.

Research limitations/implications

This study expands the limited existing research perspective; the study helps to understand the supply chain efficiency and firm performance.

Originality/value

This is an original piece of work and provides valuable insight into the relationship between supply chain efficiency and firm performance.
A novel approach to screening patents for securitization: a machine learning-based predictive analysis of high-quality basic asset
Authors: Liu Cheng , Shi Yi , Xie Wenjing , Bao Xinzhong
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a complete analysis framework and prediction method for the construction of the patent securitization (PS) basic asset pool.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes an integrated classification method based on genetic algorithm and random forest algorithm. First, comprehensively consider the patent value evaluation model and SME credit evaluation model, determine 17 indicators to measure the patent value and SME credit; Secondly, establish the classification label of high-quality basic assets; Then, genetic algorithm and random forest model are used to predict and screen high-quality basic assets; Finally, the performance of the model is evaluated.

Findings

The machine learning model proposed in this study is mainly used to solve the screening problem of high-quality patents that constitute the underlying asset pool of PS. The empirical research shows that the integrated classification method based on genetic algorithm and random forest has good performance and prediction accuracy, and is superior to the single method that constitutes it.

Originality/value

The main contributions of the article are twofold: firstly, the machine learning model proposed in this article determines the standards for high-quality basic assets; Secondly, this article addresses the screening issue of basic assets in PS.
A review on energy efficiency in autonomous mobile robots
Authors: Wu Mingyu , Yeong Che Fai , Su Eileen Lee Ming , Holderbaum William , Yang Chenguang
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the state of the art in energy efficiency for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), focusing on energy sources, consumption models, energy-efficient locomotion, hardware energy consumption, optimization in path planning and scheduling methods, and to suggest future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

The systematic literature review (SLR) identified 244 papers for analysis. Research articles published from 2010 onwards were searched in databases including Google Scholar, ScienceDirect and Scopus using keywords and search criteria related to energy and power management in various robotic systems.

Findings

The review highlights the following key findings: batteries are the primary energy source for AMRs, with advances in battery management systems enhancing efficiency; hybrid models offer superior accuracy and robustness; locomotion contributes over 50% of a mobile robot’s total energy consumption, emphasizing the need for optimized control methods; factors such as the center of mass impact AMR energy consumption; path planning algorithms and scheduling methods are essential for energy optimization, with algorithm choice depending on specific requirements and constraints.

Research limitations/implications

The review concentrates on wheeled robots, excluding walking ones. Future work should improve consumption models, explore optimization methods, examine artificial intelligence/machine learning roles and assess energy efficiency trade-offs.

Originality/value

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of energy efficiency in AMRs, highlighting the key findings from the SLR and suggests future research directions for further advancements in this field.
Aligning governance, brand governance and social media strategies for improved organizational performance: a qualitative comparative analysis of national sport organizations
Authors: Lefebvre Arthur , Parent Milena M. , Taks Marijke , Naraine Michael L. , Séguin Benoit , Hoye Russell
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the potential configurations of governance, brand governance and social media strategies leading to effective organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis including 28 Canadian national sport organizations (NSOs) and six conditions highlighted two sufficient configurations for effective organizational performance, defined as either budget per capita or athlete numbers.

Findings

Although no single component of governance, brand governance, or social media strategy is necessary to succeed overall, brand reputation and the strategic use of social media to communicate NSO identity were common to both identified configurations. Accountability was important for effective organizational performance in terms of budget per capita, while transparency was more important for higher athlete numbers. Thus, condition specificity is paramount in non-profit organizations that often have multiple objectives.

Originality/value

This study provides substantial theoretical and managerial implications, including the need to integrate brand governance and social media in non-profit organizations' overall governance activities.
Beyond the state’s reach? Education and citizen making in China
Authors: Zhao Zhenzhou , Wang Canglong
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This special issue aims to address the complexities and dynamics in contemporary China’s citizen-making processes, with a focus on the educational dimension.

Design/methodology/approach

The four articles in this special issue present citizen-making processes in both educational and cultural arenas. Based on the rich, first-hand data collected inside and outside China, the researchers revealed the dynamics of the educative processes, as the interplay of different mechanisms produces new understandings of citizenship practice.

Findings

This special issue sheds light on the rise of new types of citizens, who are emerging at the grassroots level in China, beyond the state’s strict direct regulations, along with the rise of market forces and multicultural communities in Chinese society today. Contributors to this special issue have captured an ongoing change, in that the diversified citizen-making mechanisms are, to a certain extent, mitigating the party-state’s definitive monopoly on forging citizens and are creating new spaces for individuals to develop fresh forms of political subjectivity and citizenship practice. In this sense, we argue for the unpacking of the citizen-making processes in present-day China not only from the lens of state-dominated, top-down initiatives but also from that of participatory, bottom-up initiatives performed by grassroots groups with differentiated socio-economic statuses and cultural traditions.

Originality/value

This special issue can be regarded as a contribution to the growing field of Chinese citizenship studies, which constitutes an integral part of the unfinished project of citizenship after orientalism.
Sea‐weeding: Manual removal of macroalgae facilitates rapid coral recovery
Authors: Smith Hillary A. , Fulton Stella E. , McLeod Ian M. , Page Cathie A. , Bourne David G.
Published: September 2023

Coral reef ecosystems globally are under threat, leading to declining coral cover and macroalgal proliferation. Manually removing macroalgae (i.e. ‘sea‐weeding’) may promote local‐scale coral recovery by reducing a biological barrier, though the impact of removal on community composition of benthic reef organisms has not been quantified.

In this three‐year study (2018–2021), fleshy macroalgae (predominantly Sargassum spp.) were periodically removed from 25 m2 experimental plots on two inshore fringing reefs of Yunbenun (Magnetic Island) in the central Great Barrier Reef.

By the end of the study, coral cover in removal plots (n = 12 plots) assessed through in‐field transects increased by at least 47% (2019 mean: 25.5%, 2021 mean: 37.4%), and macroalgal cover decreased by more than half. In contrast, in control plots (n = 12 plots), there was no change in macroalgal cover while coral cover remained stable (2019 mean: 16.4%, 2021 mean: 13.6%).

Changes in benthic cover were supported by photoquadrat data, with Bayesian probability modelling indicating a 100% likelihood that coral cover more than doubled in removal plots over the study period, compared to only a 29% chance of increased coral cover in control plots.

Synthesis and applications. Manual macroalgal removal can provide rapid benefits and enhance inshore coral reef recovery. Through involvement of community groups and citizen scientists, larger scale removal of macroalgae is a low‐tech, high‐impact, and achievable method for local reef management.
Association Between Partisan Affiliation of State Governments and State Mortality Rates Before and During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: WOOLF STEVEN H. , SABO ROY T. , CHAPMAN DEREK A. , LEE JONG HYUNG
Published: September 2023

Policy Points

The increasing political polarization of states reached new heights during the COVID‐19 pandemic, when response plans differed sharply across party lines.

This study found that states with Republican governors and larger Republican majorities in legislatures experienced higher death rates during the COVID‐19 pandemic—and in preceding years—but these associations often lost statistical significance after adjusting for the average income and health status of state populations and for the policy orientations of the states.

Future research may help clarify whether the higher death rates in these states result from policy choices or have other explanations, such as the tendency of voters with lower incomes or poorer health to elect Republican candidates.

Context

Increasing polarization of states reached a high point during the COVID‐19 pandemic, when the party affiliation of elected officials often predicted their policy response. The health consequences of these divisions are unclear. Prior studies compared mortality rates based on presidential voting patterns, but few considered the partisan orientation of state officials. This study examined whether the partisan orientation of governors or legislatures was associated with mortality outcomes during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Data on deaths and the partisan orientation of governors and legislators were obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Conference of State Legislatures, respectively. Linear regression was used to measure the association between Republican representation (percentage of seats held) in legislatures and (1) age‐adjusted, all‐cause mortality rates (AAMRs) in 2015–2021 and (2) excess death rates during three phases of the COVID‐19 pandemic, controlling for median household income, the prevalence of four risk factors (obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart attack, stroke), and state policy orientation. Associations between excess death rates and the governor's party were also examined.

Findings

States with Republican governors or greater Republican representation in legislatures experienced higher AAMRs during 2015–2021, lower excess death rates during Phase 1 of the COVID‐19 pandemic (weeks ending March 28, 2020, through June 13, 2020), and higher excess death rates in Phases 2 and 3 (weeks ending June 20, 2020, through April 30, 2022; p < 0.05). Most associations lost statistical significance after adjustment for control variables.

Conclusions

Mortality was higher in states with Republican governors and greater Republican legislative representation before and during much of the pandemic. Observed associations could be explained by the adverse effects of policy choices, reverse causality (e.g., popularity of Republican candidates in states with lower socioeconomic and health status), or unmeasured factors that predominate in states with Republican leaders.