bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population turnover reverses classic island biogeography predictions in river-like landscapes
Authors: Harvey Eric , Gounand Isabelle , Fronhofer Emanuel A. , Altermatt Florian
Published: August 2017

Statement of authorship

EH, IG, EAF and FA designed the research; IG and EAF designed the model; IG programmed and ran the model, analyzed the simulation data with support from EAF and produced the figures; EH conducted the lab experiment with support from IG, EAF and FA, processed the experimental data with support from IG, and carried out the analysis of experimental data; all authors participated in results interpretation; EH wrote the first draft of the manuscript; All authors significantly contributed to further manuscript revisions. EH and IG contributed equally to this work.
Supervised machine learning reveals introgressed loci in the genomes ofDrosophila simulansandD. sechellia
Authors: Schrider Daniel R. , Ayroles Julien , Matute Daniel R. , Kern Andrew D.
Published: August 2017

Hybridization and gene flow between species appears to be common. Even though it is clear that hybridization is widespread across all surveyed taxonomic groups, the magnitude and consequences of introgression are still largely unknown. Thus it is crucial to develop the statistical machinery required to uncover which genomic regions have recently acquired haplotypes via introgression from a sister population. We developed a novel machine learning framework, called FILET (Finding Introgressed Loci via Extra-Trees) capable of revealing genomic introgression with far greater power than competing methods. FILET works by combining information from a number of population genetic summary statistics, including several new statistics that we introduce, that capture patterns of variation across two populations. We show that FILET is able to identify loci that have experienced gene flow between related species with high accuracy, and in most situations can correctly infer which population was the donor and which was the recipient. Here we describe a data set of outbred diploidDrosophila sechelliagenomes, and combine them with data fromD. simulansto examine recent introgression between these species using FILET. Although we find that these populations may have split more recently than previously appreciated, FILET confirms that there has indeed been appreciable recent introgression (some of which might have been adaptive) between these species, and reveals that this gene flow is primarily in the direction ofD. simulanstoD. sechellia.

AUTHOR SUMMARY

Understanding the extent to which species or diverged populations hybridize in nature is crucially important if we are to understand the speciation process. Accordingly numerous research groups have developed methodology for finding the genetic evidence of such introgression. In this report we develop a supervised machine learning approach for uncovering loci which have introgressed across species boundaries. We show that our method, FILET, has greater accuracy and power than competing methods in discovering introgression, and in addition can detect the directionality associated with the gene flow between species. Using whole genome sequences fromDrosophila simulansandDrosophila sechelliawe show that FILET discovers quite extensive introgression between these species that has occurred mostly fromD. simulanstoD. sechellia.Our work highlights the complex process of speciation even within a well-studied system and points to the growing importance of supervised machine learning in population genetics.
Small GTPases and BAR domain proteins regulate branched actin to make clathrin and dynamin independent endocytic vesicles
Authors: Sathe Mugdha , Muthukrishnan Gayatri , Rae James , Disanza Andrea , Thattai Mukund , Scita Giorgio , Parton Robert G. , Mayor Satyajit
Published: August 2017

Numerous endocytic pathways operate simultaneously at the cell surface. Here we focus on the molecular machinery involved in the generation of endocytic vesicles of the clathrin and dynamin-independent CLIC/GEEC (CG) pathway. This pathway internalises many GPI-anchored proteins and a large fraction of the fluid-phase in different cell types. We developed a real-time TIRF assay using pH-sensitive GFP-GPI to identify nascent CG endocytic sites. The temporal profile of known CG pathway modulators showed that ARF1/GBF1 (GTPase/GEF pair) and CDC42 (RhoGTPase) are recruited sequentially to CG endocytic sites, ∼60s and ∼9s prior to scission. Using a limited RNAi screen, we found several BAR domain proteins affecting CG endocytosis and focused on IRSp53 and PICK1 that have interactions with CDC42 and ARF1 respectively. IRSp53, an I-BAR domain containing protein, was recruited to the plasma membrane at the site of forming CG endocytic vesicles and in its absence, nascent endocytic CLICs, did not form. The requirement for actin polymerization in the CG pathway suggested a role for nucleators of actin polymerization, and ARP2/3 was found enriched at the site of the forming endocytic vesicle. PICK1, a BAR domain containing protein and the ARP2/3 inhibitor is recruited at an early stage along with ARP2/3, but is removed from the endocytic site coincident with CDC42 recruitment and a burst of Factin polymerization. This study provides a spatio-temporal understanding of the molecular machinery necessary to build a CG endocytic vesicle.
Bayesian Optimisation of Large-Scale Biophysical Networks
Authors: Hadida J. , Sotiropoulos S.N. , Abeysuriya R.G. , Woolrich M.W. , Jbabdi S.
Published: August 2017

The relationship between structure and function in the human brain is well established, but not yet well characterised. Large-scale biophysical models allow us to investigate this relationship, by leveraging structural information (e.g. derived from diffusion tractography) in order to couple dynamical models of local neuronal activity into networks of interacting regions distributed across the cortex. In practice however, these models are difficult to parametrise, and their simulation is often delicate and computationally expensive. This undermines the experimental aspect of scientific modelling, and stands in the way of comparing different parametrisations, network architectures, or models in general, with confidence. Here, we advocate the use of Bayesian optimisation for assessing the capabilities of biophysical network models, given a set of desired properties (e.g. band-specific functional connectivity); and in turn the use of this assessment as a principled basis for incremental modelling and model comparison. We adapt an optimisation method designed to cope with costly, high-dimensional, non-convex problems, and demonstrate its use and effectiveness. We find that this method is able to converge to regions of high functional similarity with real MEG data, with very few samples given the number of parameters, without getting stuck in local extrema, and while building and exploiting a map of uncertainty defined smoothly across the parameter space. We compare the results obtained using different methods of structural connectivity estimation from diffusion tractography, and find that one method leads to better simulations.
PyBoost: A parallelized Python implementation of 2D boosting with hierarchies
Authors: Greenside Peyton G. , Hussami Nadine , Chang Jessica , Kundaje Anshul
Published: August 2017

Motivation:Gene expression is controlled by networks of transcription factors that bind specific sequence motifs in regulatory DNA elements such as promoters and enhancers. GeneClass is a boosting-based algorithm that learns gene regulatory networks from complementary paired feature sets such as transcription factor expression levels and binding motifs across conditions. This algorithm can be used to predict functional genomics measures of cell state, such as gene expression and chromatin accessibility, in different cellular conditions. We present a parallelized, Python-based implementation of GeneClass, called PyBoost, along with a novel hierarchical implementation of the algorithm, called HiBoost. HiBoost allows regulatory logic to be constrained to a hierarchical group of conditions or cell types. The software can be used to dissect differentiation cascades, time courses or other perturbation data that naturally form a hierarchy or trajectory. We demonstrate the application of PyBoost and HiBoost to learn regulators of tadpole tail regeneration and hematopoeitic stem cell differentiation and validate learned regulators through an inducible CRISPR system.

Availability:The implementation is publicly available here:https://github.com/kundajelab/boosting2D/.
Forgot what you like? Evidence for hippocampal dependence of value-based decisions
Authors: Enkavi A. Z. , Weber B. , Zweyer I. , Wagner J. , Elger C.E. , Weber E. U. , Johnson E. J.
Published: August 2017

Consistent decisions are intuitively desirable and theoretically important for utility maximization. Neuroeconomics has established the neurobiological substrate of value representation, but brain regions that provide input to the value-processing network is less explored. The constructed-preference tradition within behavioral decision research gives a critical role to cognitive processes that rely on associations, suggesting a role for the hippocampus in making decisions and to do so consistently. We compared the performance of 31 patients with mediotemporal lobe (MTL) epilepsy and hippocampal lesions, 30 patients with extratemporal lobe epilepsy, and 30 healthy controls on two tasks: binary choices between candy bars based on their preferences and a number-comparison control task where the larger number is chosen. MTL patients make more inconsistent choices than the other two groups for the value-based choice but not the number-comparison task. These inconsistencies increase with the volume of compromised hippocampal tissue. These results suggest a critical involvement of the MTL in preference construction and value-based choices.

Significance

Our days are full of choices that reflect our preferences. Economics lays out models of how to optimally make these decisions. Neuroeconomics has identified a cortical value-processing network whose activity correlates with constructs related to valuation and choice in economic models. However open questions remain: How are these value signals formed, and what regions might be necessary for retrieving and computing these value signals? Inspired by cognitive models calling on associative processes in value-based decisions, this paper uses unique neuropsychological data to establish the critical role of the medial temporal lobe in making consistent choices and further informs our understanding of the value-processing network.
Yeast Reciprocal Hemizygosity to Confirm the Causality of a Quantitative Trait Loci-Associated Gene
Authors: Warringer Jonas , Liti Gianni , Blomberg Anders
Published: August 2017

Pinpointing causal alleles within a quantitative trait loci region is a key challenge when dissecting the genetic basis of natural variation. In yeast, homing in on culprit genes is often achieved using engineered reciprocal hemizygotes as outlined here. Based on prior information on gene–trait associations, candidate genes are identified. In haploid versions of both founder strains, a candidate gene is then deleted. Gene knockouts are independently mated to a wild-type version of the other strain, such that two diploid hybrid strains are obtained. These strains are identical with regard to the nuclear genome, except for that they are hemizygotic at the locus of interest and contain different alleles of the candidate gene. If correctly measured, a trait difference between these reciprocal hemizygotes can confidently be ascribed to allelic variation at the target locus.
Mating-Type Determination in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Ekwall Karl , Thon Geneviève
Published: August 2017

Here we describe how mating-type tests are conducted in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Two methods can be employed: matings with h− and h+ tester strains and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for mat1 content.
Genetic Analysis of Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Ekwall Karl , Thon Geneviève
Published: August 2017

In this introduction we discuss some basic genetic tools and techniques that are used with the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. Genes commonly used for selection or as reporters are discussed, with an emphasis on genes that permit counterselection, intragenic complementation, or colony-color assays. S. pombe is most stable as a haploid organism. We describe its mating-type system, how to perform genetic crosses and methods for selecting and propagating diploids. We discuss the relative merits of tetrad dissection and random spore preparation in strain construction and genetic analyses. Finally, we present several types of mutant screens, with an evaluation of their respective strengths and limitations in the light of emerging technologies such as next-generation sequencing.
Refurbishment of a used in-vacuum undulator from the National Synchrotron Light Source for the National Synchrotron Light Source-II ring
Authors: Tanabe Toshiya , Bassan Harmanpreet , Broadbent Andrew , Cappadoro Peter , Escallier John , Harder David , Hetzel Charles , Hidas Dean , Kitegi Charles , Kosciuk Bernard , Musardo Marco , Kirkland Johnny
Published: August 2017

The National Synchrotron Light Source (NSLS) ceased operation in September 2014 and was succeeded by NSLS-II. There were four in-vacuum undulators (IVUs) in operation at NSLS. The most recently constructed IVU for NSLS was the mini-gap undulator (MGU-X25, to be renamed IVU18 for NSLS-II), which was constructed in 2006. This device was selected to be reused for the New York Structural Biology Consortium Microdiffraction beamline at NSLS-II. At the time of construction, IVU18 was a state-of-the-art undulator designed to be operated as a cryogenic permanent-magnet undulator. Due to the more stringent field quality and impedance requirements of the NSLS-II ring, the transition region was redesigned. The control system was also updated to NSLS-II specifications. This paper reports the details of the IVU18 refurbishment activities including additional magnetic measurement and tuning.
Pseudosymmetry and highZ′ structures: the case ofrac-(2R,2′R,5′S)-2-methyl-5′-[(1R,2R,5S,5′S)-1,4,4,5′-tetramethyldihydro-3′H-3,8-dioxaspiro[bicyclo[3.2.1]octane-2,2′-furan]-5′-yl]-3,4,1′,2′,3′,4′-hexahydro-[2,2′-bifuran]-5(2H)-one
Authors: Piccialli Vincenzo , Tuzi Angela , Centore Roberto
Published: August 2017

The title compound, C22H34O6, is one of the products obtained by oxidation of squalene with the catalytic system RuO4(cat.)/NaIO4. It crystallizes in theP-1 space group, with four crystallographically independent molecules related by a pseudo-C2symmetry axis. The structural analysis also shows that the title compound is isomeric with two products previously reported in the literature and that are obtained by the same reaction procedure. In particular, out of the seven chiral C atoms present in the molecule, the title compound shows the opposite configuration at, respectively, four and two chiral centres with respect to the isomeric compounds.
Crystal structure of a 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane-solvated hydrazinecarbothioamide compound
Authors: Riyadh Sayed , Hughes David L. , Said Musa A
Published: August 2017

The title compound, [(1-{4-[2-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)diazen-1-yl]phenyl}ethylidene)amino]thiourea, 1,1,2,2-tetrachloroethane monosolvate, C15H15N5O2S·C2H2Cl4, was prepared from 4-(4-acetylphenyldiazendiyl)resorcinol and thiosemicarbazide and recrystallized from mixed solvents of tetrachloroethane andn-hexane.1H NMR and X-ray diffraction data are in support of the thione tautomeric form. The X-ray analysis shows the molecule crystallizes as a zwitterion, with proton transfer from the nominal phenol to the azide group; the N—N bond length is 1.291 (5) Å, and an intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond is formed. In the crystal, N—H...O, N—H...N and O—H...S hydrogen bonds connect the molecules into a three-dimensional network. The tetrachloroethane solvent molecules are linked to this network through weak C—H...O linkages.
Crystal structure of chlorido(dimethyl sulfoxide-κS)bis[4-(pyridin-2-yl)benzaldehyde-κ3C2,N]iridium(III) acetonitrile monosolvate
Authors: Peloquin Andrew J. , Smith Madelyn B. , Balaich Gary J. , Iacono Scott T.
Published: August 2017

The title compound, [IrCl(C12H8NO)2{(CH3)2SO}]·H3CCN or [IrCl(fppy)2(DMSO)]·H3CCN [where fppy is 4-(pyridin-2-yl)benzaldehyde and DMSO is dimethyl sulfoxide], is a mononuclear iridium(III) complex including two fppy ligands, a sulfur-coordinating DMSO ligand, and one terminal chloride ligand that define a distorted octahedral coordination sphere. The complex crystallizes from 1:1 DMSO–acetonitrile as an acetonitrile solvate. In the crystal, weak C—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen-bonding interactions between adjacent complexes and between the acetonitrile solvent and the complex consolidate the packing.
Crystal structure of ethylenedioxytetrathiafulvalene-4,5-bis(thiolbenzoic acid) 0.25-hydrate
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , He Qiqian , Bao Huijie , Wang Lejia , Xiao Xunwen
Published: August 2017

In the title compound (systematic name: 4,4′-{[2-(5,6-dihydro-[1,3]dithiolo[4,5-b][1,4]dioxin-2-ylidene)-1,3-dithiole-4,5-diyl]bis(sulfanediyl)}dibenzoic acid 0.25-hydrate), C22H14O6S6·0.25H2O, the tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) core adopts a boat conformation, where the central S2C=CS2plane makes dihedral angles of 31.34 (4) and 26.83 (6)°, respectively, with the peripheral S2C=CS2and S2C2O2planes. In the crystal, the benzoic acid molecules are linkedviaO—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers withR22(8) motifs. The dimers are linked through weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds into a chain structure along [-101]. The chains stack along theaaxis through S...S and S...C short contacts, forming layers parallel to theacplane.
Switching to renewables: what will Russia gain?
Authors: Ermolenko Georgy V. , Proskuryakova Liliana , Ermolenko Boris V.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to show the technical potentials of a variety of renewable energy sources in Russia, as well as benefits from their deployment including hydrocarbon savings, emission reduction and lower energy cost.

Design/methodology/approach

In the paper, Russia is compared with other countries in terms of actual installed capacity and its dynamics, actual and projected share of renewables in the energy mix. The authors offer calculations of the technical potentials (fuel, heat energy, electrical energy, resource saving and environmental) of renewables (solar PV, wind, biomass, geothermal, low-grade heat, small hydro), identify social and economic preconditions and key effects of their deployment.

Findings

The paper features calculations on the renewable energy technology potential, based on the data by Andreenko et al. (2015), authors' calculations and statistical data. This study proves that the cumulative technical potential of the renewables in Russia amounts to 133,935 million units of oil equivalent. This study also offers assessments of oil fuel, black coal and natural gas savings that may be achieved by replacing fossil fuels with renewables; assessments of avoided air pollution calculated as CO- and CO2-equivalents.

Originality/value

The paper fills in the gap of comprehensive assessments of renewable energy potentials in Russia and a variety of effects that their deployment may entail, based on a single integral methodology. The authors offer a new evaluation of existing and future renewable energy potentials, overcoming the methodological and data constraints faced by previous similar studies. The up-to-date, comprehensive and accurate data will help make the right investment and policy choices.
Creating sustainable impact from Foresight on STI Policy
Authors: Meissner Dirk , Rudnik Pavel
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Foresight is frequently used to establish science and technology investment priorities and develop corresponding technology and innovation support programmes. In the light of technology and innovation policy, many individual Foresight studies are undertaken which are separate and little linked with the broader policy scope and ambition. This paper aims to look at an approach towards a consistent Foresight system which is linked closely to science, technology and innovation policy.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an in-depth case study of the Russian Foresight system. The case study is based on desk research and extensive experience of the authors with the system.

Findings

Russia has developed a systematic approach towards organising Foresight which involves and serves multiple stakeholders, including government, ministries, federal and regional agencies, higher education institutions, public research institutes, state-owned companies and private businesses and a large range of associations. Under the auspicious of a dedicated commission, targeted Foresight is undertaken with clearly defined scope for each. The paper finds that the Russian system is unique in its organisational structure and in the integration of Foresight with science, technology and innovation policy measures.

Originality/value

The paper describes all facets of the Russian Foresight system which has not been done before. It also outlines the practical steps to further develop and leverage the system.
Using foresight for smart policy actions: the case of Russian energy exports
Authors: Chulok Alexander , Slobodianik Svetlana N. , Moiseichev Evgeny
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This study aims to assess future prospects for Russian energy exports until 2040, as global energy markets are undergoing major changes, with possible impacts on Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative and quantitative approaches are integrated under a proposed foresight framework. The qualitative method involves an expert survey aimed at identifying major energy trends and their influence on Russia. As the trends are validated, an algorithm is proposed to assess the contribution of separate trends to Russian energy exports.

Findings

Experimental quantitative scenarios are conducted to assess the prospects for Russian energy exports until 2040 under the given exogenous scenario calculations of the IEA. Factor analysis allows for an assessment of the contribution of separate factors in dynamics of net energy imports into the regional economies. The future prospects for fossil fuels’ exports on regional markets are considered. Priority markets for Russian energy exporters are identified.

Practical implications

The results of the paper may be used by decision-makers for adjustments in the system of government policy or corporate strategy.

Originality/value

The paper provides an algorithm to assess energy export flows to macroregions based upon the synthesis of quantitative and qualitative information. Experimental scenario calculations of the Russian fossil fuels’ exports are provided. Strategic decision-making map is elaborated.
Flow of a radioactive Casson fluid through a deformable asymmetric porous channel
Authors: Mohyud-Din Syed Tauseef , Ahmed Naveed , Khan Umar
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate numerically the influence of nonlinear thermal radiation on the flow of a viscous fluid. The flow is confined in a channel with deformable porous walls.

Design/methodology/approach

Two numerical schemes, namely, Galerkin’s method (GM) and Runge–Kutta–Fehlberg (RKF) method have been used to obtain solutions after reducing the governing equations to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations.

Findings

Heat transfer rate falls at the upper wall owing to the decreasing values of the permeability parameter. However, at the lower wall, the same rate rises. Increment in θw increases the rate of heat transfer at both walls. Nusselt number also increases with the increasing values of Rd. Rd also uplifts the temperature distribution, except for the case where it falls near the lower wall owing to the contraction coupled with injection.

Originality/value

It is confirmed that the presented work is original.
The dynamics of guiding and interpreting in red tourism
Authors: Zhao Shengnan , Timothy Dallen
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Despite the significance of tour guiding and interpreting in the tourism system, relevant research is lacking in both depth and breadth. Current scholarly work tends to ignore tour guides’ self-expectations and assumes they are altruistic mediators who carry out their tasks without question. Considering tourism intermediaries are rational individuals who attempt to maximize their own benefits, the purpose of this paper is to situate tour guiding and interpreting practices in a larger political and social context, to explore the external and intrapersonal factors that might influence the content and approaches of interpreting Chinese communist heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering tourism intermediaries are rational individuals who attempt to maximize their own benefits, this study situates tour guiding and interpreting practices in a larger political and social context, to explore the external and intrapersonal factors that might influence the content and approaches of interpreting Chinese communist heritage.

Findings

The study reveals that institutional arrangements, environmental settings, characteristics of tourists and tourist-intermediary onsite interactions can have salient repercussions on intermediaries’ job skills, career attitudes and orientation, and self-perceived roles, and further shape their way of interpreting the past. Several managerial implications regarding enhancing the effectiveness of tour guiding and interpreting are also discussed.

Originality/value

It is mentioned above. The Chinese government has invested enormously in red tourism to achieve a political end. In reality, however, there are always gaps between official narratives and actual interpretation. To lessen such deviation, efforts are needed to understand the dynamics of tour guiding practices. Anchoring interpretation and guiding practices in a broader political, social, and economic context, this paper attempts to improve the static research by comparing two major types of intermediaries, site interpreter and tour guide, with regard to the content of, and approach to their interpretation of red heritage. It provides an in-depth insight into the meaning-making process of the communist heritage tourism in China.
Determining the contribution of distraction factors on Malaysian seafarers using a systematic average mean value
Authors: Othman Mohammad Khairuddin , Abdul Rahman Noorul Shaiful Fitri , Fadzil Mohd Naim
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the distraction factors based on their contributions in affecting seafarers’ physical and psychological well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic average mean value technique incorporated with quantitative data collection is applied to determine the contributions of the involved factors in establishing the distraction problems among seafarers.

Findings

Element of “Food and nutrition” is recorded as the highest contributing factor to Malaysian seafarers, for deck and engine department, respectively, in establishing the distraction-related problem among five other factors involved.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is only providing a scope of knowledge regarding the contribution of potential distraction factors existing on board the offshore ships. However, the potential distraction factors and their contributions, respectively, are very dynamic and may vary, depending on the situation of a particular area and who are being involved.

Practical implications

The result assists the shipping industry in recognizing the actual causes of the occurrences of marine casualties and incidents related to human factors.

Social implications

The benefits are addressed to seafarers’ community where their well-being and work performances could be enhanced, thus reducing the occurrences of marine casualties and incidents. Local community at the shores also will be less threatened by marine pollution caused by the accidents of ships at sea.

Originality/value

The result provides a scope of knowledge regarding distraction-related factors in shipboard operation and also the introduction to a systematic assessment approach to determine and rank the parameters by using the systematic average mean value technique which is also a straightforward method and can be applied in any other circumstances.
Location of regional and international hub ports in liner shipping
Authors: Zheng Jianfeng , Fu Cong , Kuang Haibo
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the location of regional and international hub ports in liner shipping by proposing a hierarchical hub location problem.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a mixed-integer linear programming model for the authors’ proposed problem. Numerical experiments based on a realistic Asia-Europe-Oceania liner shipping network are carried out to account for the effectiveness of this model.

Findings

The results show that one international hub port (i.e. Rotterdam) and one regional hub port (i.e. Zeebrugge) are opened in Europe. Two international hub ports (i.e. Sokhna and Salalah) are located in Western Asia, where no regional hub port is established. One international hub port (i.e. Colombo) and one regional hub port (i.e. Cochin) are opened in Southern Asia. One international hub port (i.e. Singapore) and one regional hub port (i.e. Jakarta) are opened in Southeastern Asia and Australia. Three international hub ports (i.e. Hong Kong, Shanghai and Yokohama) and two regional hub ports (i.e. Qingdao and Kwangyang) are opened in Eastern Asia.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a hierarchical hub location problem, in which the authors distinguish between regional and international hub ports in liner shipping. Moreover, scale economies in ship size are considered. Furthermore, the proposed problem introduces the main ports.
Strategic positioning analysis of Spanish cruise ports
Authors: Esteve-Perez Jeronimo , Garcia-Sanchez Antonio
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Cruise traffic has dynamically advanced worldwide over the past two decades. This maritime business and tourism typology is strongly concentrated in several links that comprise the cruise product. With regard to destination regions, the concentration occurs both in the few worldwide destination regions and in the specific ports within a given destination region. Moreover, in a cruise itinerary’s configuration, there is a strong spatial dependence between the ports that comprise it. Taking these into account, the aims of this paper are to identify the current competitive positions of Spanish cruise ports and to explain the different features of the competitive positions obtained.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 21 Spanish ports is selected to conduct a competitive positioning analysis. The analysis is developed by applying portfolio analysis based on the “growth-share matrix” adapted to the port industry. Moreover, the sample of ports is divided into three groups based on geographical positions of ports on the Spanish coast, and each group is analysed separately.

Findings

The three Spanish coastal areas have a behavioural pattern in which few ports concentrate the greater share of the cruising activity. The highest number of competitive positions are mature leader and high potential. In the three Spanish coastal areas, there are ports with these positions. Additionally, there are homeports available in the three coastal areas.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the research of the cruise industry sector especially from the point of view of cruise ports. The results obtained may be useful to cruise port managers for developing strategies aimed at increasing cruise traffic in a port.
Key success factors of international market development
Authors: Lin Hsiu-Fen , Chang Kai-Lin
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an evaluation model to determine the relative weights of key factors influencing international market development (IMD) success through analysis network process (ANP) during group decision-making. An empirical case of the Taiwan bulk shipping industry is used to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature review is performed to generate 20 key success factors (KSFs) along with four factor categories in IMD (such as organizational capability, environmental scanning, international strategy and internationalization behavior). Then, ANP is applied to develop an evaluation model that prioritizes the relative importance linking the above four factor categories with 20 evaluated KSFs.

Findings

With respect to the final weights for factor categories, “international strategy” and “environmental scanning” are the two most important criteria, followed by “organizational capability” and “internationalization behavior”. The results also showed that by reviewing the global weights of the 20 KSFs of IMD, “service as competitive advantage”, “market potential” and “risk taking” have the highest rankings.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that firm expansion into international markets typically depends on a successful international strategy. Hence, to enhance their global market competitiveness, Taiwan bulk shipping firms should focus their efforts on planning international market entry strategy and prioritizing shipping services with high-potential target markets.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the study results can provide both theoretical basis and empirical evidence, indicating the relative weights and priorities of KSFs of IMD for the Taiwan bulk shipping industry. From the managerial perspective, the analytical results can help managers focus on main factors and identify the best policy to improve their IMD practice and performance.
Resource availability, international acquisition experience, and cross-border M&A target search
Authors: Zakaria Rimi , Fernandez Whitney Douglas , Schneper William D.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explain how factors relating to resource availability affect managerial risk-taking with regard to the geographic and institutional proximity of cross-border merger and acquisition (M&A) targets. The paper further considers the impact of organizational learning by testing the moderating effect of the acquiring firms’ prior international M&A experience.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses linear regression with robust standard errors to account for dependence among clustered observations at the firm level. The authors used country and industry fixed-effects specifications to account for unobserved heterogeneity.

Findings

The results suggest that when internal and external resources are more abundant, firms pursue cross-border M&As that are more geographically and institutionally distant. The findings further indicate that a firm’s prior international M&A experience positively moderates the aforementioned relationships..

Research limitations/implications

Extending the behavioral theory of the firm beyond organizational slack resources, the results highlight the importance of taking a multi-level, open-systems perspective of the strategic impact of resource availability. The authors’ theory and findings also provide a more nuanced view of the critical role organizational learning plays in the relationship between resource availability and organizational outcomes.

Originality/value

This is the first study to the authors’ knowledge that develops and tests a theoretical model exploring the impact of both internal (organizational slack) and external (environmental munificence at both the industry and home-country levels) resource availability, as well as prior organizational experience on an important multinational business practice.
Industry 4.0, global value chains and international business
Authors: Strange Roger , Zucchella Antonella
Published: August 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an assessment of how the widespread adoption of new digital technologies (i.e. the Internet of things, big data and analytics, robotic systems and additive manufacturing) might affect the location and organisation of activities within global value chains (GVCs).

Design/methodology/approach

The approach in this paper is to review various sources about the potential adoption and impact of the new digital technologies (commonly known collectively as Industry 4.0), to contrast these technologies with existing technologies, and to consider how the new technologies might lead to new configurations involving suppliers, firms and customers.

Findings

The authors report that the new digital technologies have considerable potential to disrupt how and where activities are located and organised within GVCs), and who captures the value-added within those chains. They also report that Industry 4.0 is still in its infancy, but that its effects are already having an impact upon the nature of competition and corporate strategies in many industries.

Social/implications

In particular, the authors draw attention to the potential cyber-risks and implications for the privacy of individuals, and hence, the need for regulation.

Originality/value

This is the first published paper to consider the likely separate and joint impacts of the new digital technologies on the practice and theory of international business.
ELR+ chemokine‐mediated neutrophil recruitment is involved in 2,4,6‐trinitrochlorobenzene‐induced contact hypersensitivity
Authors: Sakai Hiroyasu , Yabe Saori , Sato Ken , Kai Yuki , Sato Fumiaki , Yumoto Tetsuro , Inoue Yuka , Narita Minoru , Matsumoto Kenjiro , Kato Shinichi , Chiba Yoshihiko
Published: August 2017

Contact dermatitis is a form of delayed‐type hypersensitivity characterized by localized thickening, papules, redness and vesicles of the skin. A model of contact dermatitis involving repeated challenge of a hapten is adapted to assess dermatitis as characterized by skin thickening. Recently, it was reported that neutrophils have crucial roles in contact hypersensitivity. We thus examined the involvement of CXC chemokines bearing the glutamic acid–leucine–arginine (ELR) motif (“ELR+ chemokines”) and neutrophils in the ear swelling induced by 2,4,6‐trinitrochlorobenzene (TNCB) challenges in the present study. Mice were sensitized by application of TNCB on their abdominal skin. They were then challenged thrice with TNCB to the ear. The CXCR2 antagonist SB225002 (9 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered before each TNCB challenge. Gene expressions and protein levels of the ELR+ chemokines CXCL1, 2 and 5 was increased markedly in mouse ear after the final TNCB challenge. In addition, we indicated that gene expression of CXCL1 was enhanced in the epidermis and dermis upon TNCB challenge. Expression of the CXCL2 gene was enhanced in the epidermis, and that of the CXCL5 gene was enhanced in the dermis. The swelling induced by TNCB challenges was significantly attenuated by SB225002. Furthermore, the increases in myeloperoxidase activity, and expression of myeloperoxidase and neutrophil elastase induced by TNCB challenge in mouse ear were inhibited by SB225002. These data suggest that ear swelling resulting from TNCB challenges might be concerned by upregulated ELR+ chemokine‐induced neutrophil recruitment.
Quality indicators in the care of older persons in the emergency department: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: Burkett Ellen , Martin‐Khan Melinda G , Gray Leonard C
Published: August 2017

Objective

A systematic review of the literature was undertaken to assess the methodological quality of existing quality indicators (QIs) for the emergency department (ED) care of older persons.

Methods

MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and grey literature were searched. Articles were included if they addressed ED care of persons aged ≥65 years and defined a QI amenable to influence by ED providers. The methodological quality of QIs was assessed using relevant items from the Appraisal of Indicators through Research and Evaluation and the QUALIFY tools.

Results

Sixty‐one articles were included in the review, with identification of 50 QIs meeting predefined inclusion criteria. Thirty‐six of fifty ED QIs for older persons were process indicators. The appraisal instruments’ total ratings ranged from 39 to 67%, with only 18 QIs scoring 50% or more for all five domains.

Conclusion

There is a need for a balanced, methodologically robust set of QIs for care of older persons in the ED.
The mid‐point transverse process to pleura (MTP) block: a new end‐point for thoracic paravertebral block
Authors: Costache I. , de Neumann L. , Ramnanan C. J. , Goodwin S. L. , Pawa A. , Abdallah F. W. , McCartney C. J. L.
Published: August 2017

Current descriptions of thoracic paravertebral block techniques require the needle tip to be anterior to the superior costotransverse ligament. We hypothesised that an injection point midway between the posterior border of the transverse process and the pleura would result in spread to the paravertebral space. We completed bilateral injections of 5 ml methylene blue 0.2% midway between the posterior border of the transverse process and the pleura at T2, T4, T6, T8 and T10 in three unembalmed cadavers. The presence of methylene blue dye at the nerve root in the paravertebral space, the corresponding intercostal nerve and sympathetic chain at the level of injection, and at additional levels, was examined. We identified the superior costotransverse ligament, pleural displacement and spread to the erector spinae plane. We describe two case reports using this technique in patients. Our cadaver results and clinical cases demonstrate that, with the exception of cadaver 1, an injection point midway between the posterior border of the transverse process and pleura consistently achieved spread of dye at least to the paravertebral space at the level of injection, and frequently to adjacent levels. This may be a plausible explanation for the landmark technique's inability to reliably achieve a multilevel block. We describe a new ultrasound‐guided technique for a single level paravertebral block.
Mechanomyography‐Based Wearable Monitor of Quasi‐Isometric Muscle Fatigue for Motor Neural Prostheses
Authors: Krueger Eddy , Popović‐Maneski Lana , Nohama Percy
Published: August 2017

A motor neural prosthesis based on surface functional electrical stimulation (sFES) can restore functional movement (e.g., standing, walking) in patients with a spinal cord injury (SCI). sFES generates muscle contractions in antigravity muscles and allows balance‐assisted standing. This induced standing has several benefits, such as improved cardiovascular function, decreased incidence of urinary infections, reduced joint contractures, and muscle atrophy. The duration of sFES assisted standing is limited due to the quick onset of muscle fatigue. Currently, there is no method available to reliably estimate real‐time muscle fatigue during sFES. Simply monitoring the M‐wave changes is not suitable due to the high signal disturbances that arise during multi‐channel electrical stimulation. Mechanomyography (MMG) is immune to electrical stimulation artifacts and can be used to detect subtle vibrations on the surface of the skin related to activation of the underlying muscle's motor units (MU). The aim of this study was to develop a method for detecting muscle fatigue brought on by sFES. The method was tested in three different heads of the quadriceps muscle in SCI patients during electrically elicited quasi‐isometric contraction. Six spinal cord–injured male volunteers, with no voluntary control of the quadriceps muscle participated in the study. Electrical bursts of voltage‐controlled monophasic square pulses at frequencies of 1 kHz (50% duty cycle) at 50 Hz (15% duty cycle) were used to generate thigh muscle contractions that controlled the knee joint in the sagittal plane. The pulse amplitudes were set to position the knee joint at a 5° angle from the horizontal plane and when the knee angle dropped to 20° (e.g., the quadriceps were unable to hold the lower leg in the desired position), the test was terminated. Two data segments lasting 10 s each, at the beginning and end of each test, were analyzed. The muscle contraction was assessed by MMG sensors positioned on the rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, and vastus medialis muscles. Data segments were decomposed into 11 frequency bands using a Cauchy wavelet transform. In the initial time interval (non‐fatigued muscle), the power peak was concentrated in the 11.31 Hz frequency band. In the final interval (muscle fatigued) this peak shifted to lower frequencies (2 and 6 Hz frequency bands). The decreased frequency was most prominent during the last 4 s of the recordings. It was shown that MMG could be used as a real‐time indicator of muscle fatigue during FES‐induced isometric contraction of quadriceps; hence, MMG could be used in closed‐loop control as a fatigue detector. Subsequent studies for non‐isometric contractions could possibly lead to prediction of muscle fatigue before contractile failure during functional use of the muscle.
Hydrolysed ovalbumin offers more effective preventive and therapeutic protection against egg allergy than the intact protein
Authors: Lozano‐Ojalvo D. , Pérez‐Rodríguez L. , Pablos‐Tanarro A. , Molina E. , López‐Fandiño R.
Published: August 2017

Background

The application of specific immunotherapy to stimulate oral tolerance towards food allergens is hampered by the high frequency of adverse side‐effects and the excessive duration of the treatments.

Objective

In this work, a hydrolysate of ovalbumin with pepsin (OP), selected for its low IgE reactivity and Th2‐stimulating capacity, was assayed for its ability to prevent and treat allergy to egg white (EW).

Methods

As a first step, the safety of OP, in terms of the absence of sensitizing and eliciting potential, was evaluated in BALB/c mice. Then, its suitability for prophylactic and therapeutic applications was compared with that of the intact allergen, paying attention to the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the control of the allergic process. To this aim, IgE, IgG1, IgG2a and IgA levels, allergic reactions, expression of genes related to Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg responses, dendritic and T cell populations were assessed in intestinal tissues and spleens of EW‐allergic mice, either untreated or treated with intact ovalbumin (OVA) or OP.

Results

The hydrolysate of OVA with pepsin was hypoallergenic, lacked sensitizing potential and offered preventive and therapeutic protection against allergy to EW through the induction of Treg cells and the up‐regulation of TGF‐β, IL‐10, IL‐17, Foxp3 and RORγt in intestinal tissues. This restrained the expression of GATA3 and the differentiation of Th2 cells, leading to low cytokine responses following ex vivo spleen cell stimulation. As compared with intact OVA, OP was more effective against sensitization. In addition, in the therapeutic setting, OP provided quicker desensitization that lasted for at least 3 weeks after discontinuation of the therapy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

This study provides evidence for the superior role of hydrolysed, as compared to intact allergens, in the prevention of allergy development and in the promotion of long‐term desensitization, as well as of intermolecular tolerance.