A compendium and functional characterization of mammalian genes involved in adaptation to Arctic or Antarctic environments

Many mammals are well adapted to surviving in extremely cold environments. These species have likely accumulated genetic changes that help them efficiently cope with low temperatures. It is not known whether the same genes related to cold adaptation in one species would be under selection in another species. The aims of this study therefore were: to create a compendium of mammalian genes related to adaptations to a low temperature environment; to identify genes related to cold tolerance that have been subjected to independent positive selection in several species; to determine promising candidate genes/pathways/organs for further empirical research on cold adaptation in mammals

Time-based responsive logistics for a maintenance service network: A case study of an automated teller manufacturer

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to identify the main reasons for spare parts logistics failures and address logistics distribution design in order to achieve the desired level of after-sales maintenance service. Design/methodology/approach: This research is based on an empirical case study on a large corporation providing worldwide with retail banking hardware, software and services. The case study focuses on the automated teller machine (ATM) part of activities, with a focus on the spare parts distribution and after-sales service network in the Eastern Europe. Findings: The proposed network solution of multiple distribution centers with short-cut distance saving approach will enable the case study company to redesign their spare part logistics architecture in order to achieve short response time. Research findings reveal possible spare parts delivery delays and thus the service-level agreement failures with clients in the case study company. Research limitations/implications: This research covers a particular supply chain environment and identified research gaps. It discusses a time-based responsive logistics problem and develops a conceptual framework that would help researchers to better understand logistics challenges of installed equipment maintenance and after-sales service. Originality/value: This case study research shows the big picture of spare parts logistics challenges as vital part of installed equipment after-sales and maintenance service network, as well as emphasizes how the unique context of a market like Russian Federation can set-up a distribution network efficiently. Strategies applied to handle such service-level failures, reverse logistics aspects of repairable and non-repairable spare parts to such large ATM after-sales service network based on this longitudinal case offer value for similar scale companies

Metabolite\u2002targeted analysis and physiological traits of zea mays L. In response to application of a leonardite-humate and lignosulfonate-based products for their evaluation as potential biostimulants

open6noThe main aim of this study is to identify and investigate specific humates (Hs) as potential biostimulants. Five specialty lignosulfonates (LS1-5), one commercial leonardite-humate (PH), and one commercial lignosulfonate (LH), were analyzed for their carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur contents, and the distribution of functional groups using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopies. Hs were further supplied for two days to Zea mays L. in hydroponics to test their capacity to trigger changes in physiological target-responses. LS1, LS2, LS3, and LS5 determined the most pronounced effects on plant growth and accumulation of proteins and phenolics, perhaps because of their chemical and spectroscopic features. Root growth was more increased (+51–140%) than leaf growth (+5–35%). This effect was ascribed to higher stimulation of N metabolism in roots according to the increased activity of N-assimilation enzymes (GS and GOGAT) and high consumption of sugars for energy-dependent processes. Increased values of RuBisCO, SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development values), and leaf sugar accumulation refer to enhanced photosynthesis attributed to Hs. We conclude that Hs tested in this study functioned as biostimulants, but the specialty lignosulfonates were more efficient in this role, possibly because of the type of starting material and process used for their production, which may have influenced their chemical propertiesopenAndrea Ertani, Serenella Nardi, Ornella Francioso, Diego Pizzeghello, Anna Tinti, Michela SchiavonAndrea Ertani, Serenella Nardi, Ornella Francioso, Diego Pizzeghello, Anna Tinti, Michela Schiavo