bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical Methodology for the Analysis of Repeated Duration Data in Behavioral Studies
Authors: Letué Frédérique , Martinez Marie-José , Samson Adeline , Vilain Anne , Vilain Coriandre
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Repeated duration data are frequently used in behavioral studies. Classical linear or log-linear mixed models are often inadequate to analyze such data, because they usually consist of nonnegative and skew-distributed variables. Therefore, we recommend use of a statistical methodology specific to duration data.

Method

We propose a methodology based on Cox mixed models and written under the R language. This semiparametric model is indeed flexible enough to fit duration data. To compare log-linear and Cox mixed models in terms of goodness-of-fit on real data sets, we also provide a procedure based on simulations and quantile–quantile plots.

Results

We present two examples from a data set of speech and gesture interactions, which illustrate the limitations of linear and log-linear mixed models, as compared to Cox models. The linear models are not validated on our data, whereas Cox models are. Moreover, in the second example, the Cox model exhibits a significant effect that the linear model does not.

Conclusions

We provide methods to select the best-fitting models for repeated duration data and to compare statistical methodologies. In this study, we show that Cox models are best suited to the analysis of our data set.
Microwave filters based on novel dielectric split‐ring resonators with high unloaded quality factors
Authors: Noori Ahmed S. , Shang Xiaobang , Guo Cheng , Jackson Timothy J. , Smith Paul A. , Lancaster Michael J.
Published: February 2018

Here, the authors present a new type of split‐ring resonator (SRR) constructed from high dielectric constant material. Compared to conventional metal SRRs, such resonators have significantly higher unloaded quality factor (Qu). A new class of microwave filter is presented using the dielectric SRR. Two examples of different filter configurations are investigated, and the measured results show excellent performance. Good agreement between measurements and simulations has been achieved.
Electrophilic Metal Homoenolates and Their Application in the Synthesis of Cyclopropylamines
Authors: Rousseaux Sophie , Mills L.
Published: February 2018

Since their discovery, metal homoenolates have been widely explored as carbon-based nucleophiles for the β-functionalization of carbonyl derivatives. Only recently has it been reported that metal ­homoenolates can react as carbonyl electrophiles. In this context, we have recently discovered that cyclopropylamines can be prepared from cyclopropanols via zinc homoenolate intermediates. This Synpacts ­article will present an overview of the reactivity of homoenolates and our strategy to employ these intermediates for the synthesis of cyclopropylamines. Key mechanistic observations and their influence on reaction optimization will also be discussed.

1 Introduction

2 Homoenolates as Nucleophiles—Selected Reactivity

3 Homoenolates as Electrophilic Reagents

4 Conclusion
Mobile Geriatrische Rehabilitation – ein alltagsorientiertes
Behandlungskonzept
Authors: Warnach Martin
Published: February 2018

Effektive Rehabilitation Eine innovative Form der Rehabilitation, die Mobile Geriatrische Rehabilitation
(MoGeRe) weitet sich mit neuen Standorten aus. Das war lange nicht so, obwohl schon vor gut zehn Jahren die
„Rahmenempfehlungen für die Mobile Geriatrische Rehabilitation“ verabschiedet wurden 1 und der Gesetzgeber vor fünf Jahren die Mobile Rehabilitation als Regelversorgung anerkannt hat
2. Die Krankenkassen hatten erhebliche Vorbehalte, sie sahen neue Kosten
auf sich zukommen. Mittlerweile beginnt sich aber durchzusetzen: Die Mobile Geriatrische Rehabilitation ist
eine am Alltag älterer und pflegebedürftiger Menschen orientierte, effektive Form der Rehabilitation.
Smart Home & Living-Technologien in Bauvorhaben im Sozial- und
Gesundheitswesen
Authors: Cupok Uta , Pfister Verena , Steiner Barbara
Published: February 2018

Vernetzung IT-gestützte Vernetzung von Pflegenden, Beratern, Architekten und Handwerkern ermöglicht den
fachübergreifenden Einsatz von Smart Home & Living-Technologien in sozialen Einrichtungen, wie z. B. in
Pflegeheimen oder im Betreuten Wohnen. Der Einsatz orientiert sich an individuellen Bedarfen von
unterstützungs- und pflegebedürftigen Personen im stationären und ambulanten Wohnsetting.
Frakturen der Wirbelkörper, der Oberschenkel und des Beckenrings
Authors: Maier Klaus-Jürgen , Knobe Matthias
Published: February 2018

Fallbeispiele Welche Diagnostik bei Frakturen der Wirbelkörper, der Oberschenkel und des Beckenrings zum
Einsatz kommt, um eine Indikation zu stellen und wie die Patienten am besten therapiert werden können,
schildern unsere Autoren anhand von Praxisbeispielen.
Indikationsqualität. Konzeption und professionsethische Implikationen
Authors: Dörries Andrea
Published: February 2018

Ziel der Studie In letzter Zeit wird – auch bedingt durch gesetzliche Vorgaben - zunehmend eine gute „Indikationsqualität“ eingefordert. Ziel des Beitrags ist es, zur Klärung der Debatte über die „Indikationsqualität“ beizutragen, indem die Indikationsstellung als ärztliche Tätigkeit genauer in den Blick genommen und nach einem dieser Tätigkeit angemessenem Qualitätsverständnis gefragt wird.

Methodik Es wird zunächst gezeigt, inwiefern die Indikationsstellung integraler Bestandteil des übergeordneten therapeutischen Entscheidungsprozesses ist, in den neben medizinischer Evidenz auch normative Elemente einfließen (Arbeitsschritt 1). In einem zweiten Teil werden 2 unterschiedliche Qualitätsverständnisse kontrastiert (Arbeitsschritt 2): eine extern messbare, standardisierbare Qualität (Q-Qualität) und eine an professionsethischen Werten und Prinzipien orientierte Qualität (T-Qualität).

Ergebnisse Für die Qualitätssicherung der „Indikationsqualität“ wird die Beachtung beider Qualitätsverständnisse begründet dargestellt. Für die Q-Qualität sind quantitative Methoden mit Indikatoren geeignet, für die T-Qualität eignen sich qualitativ-diskursive Verfahren besser.

Schlussfolgerungen Es wird vorgeschlagen, unter „Indikationsqualität“ die Qualität des gesamten therapeutischen Entscheidungsprozesses inkl. der Indikationsstellung zu verstehen. Die Indikationsstellung selbst sollte an professionsspezifische und nicht andere kontextuelle oder „private“ ethische Grundlagen gebunden sein. Die rechtlichen und gesellschaftlichen Rahmenbedingungen sollten positive Anreize für beide Qualitätsverständnisse setzen.
Does an Immigrant Background Affect the Indication, Incidence or Outcome of Emergency Cesarean Section? Results of the Prospective Data Collection of 111 Births
Authors: David Matthias , Scherer Katrin , Henrich Wolfgang , Breckenkamp Jürgen
Published: February 2018

Objectives Does the incidence and/or indication(s) for emergency cesarean section differ if the pregnant woman has an immigrant background (IB)? Does a lack of language proficiency (communication problems) and a low acculturation level result in a longer decision-to-delivery interval (D-D interval)? Are neonates born to women with IB by emergency cesarean section in a poorer condition post delivery?

Patient cohorts and method Standardized interviews were carried out before or immediately after delivery in three Berlin obstetric hospitals. Questions were asked about the sociodemographic background and care aspects as well as about immigration and level of acculturation. Collected data were linked to information obtained from the expectant motherʼs antenatal records and to care data and perinatal data routinely recorded by the hospitals. Data was analyzed using regression models which adjusted for age, parity, and socio-economic status.

Results The total patient population consisted of 7100 women (rate of response: 89.6%); of these women, 111 required emergency cesarean section (50 women without IB, 61 immigrant women). Risk factors such as late first antenatal check-up, gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced hypertension, fetal macrosomia, smoking, and weight gain were similar in both patient cohorts. The incidence of and indications for emergency cesarean section and the D-D interval were similar for both groups. Limited German language proficiency and low levels of acculturation among immigrant women did not prolong the D-D interval. There were no statistically relevant differences between immigrant and non-immigrant cohorts with regard to adverse neonatal conditions (5-minute Apgar score ≤ 7, umbilical cord arterial pH < 7.00) or with regard to immediate transfer of the neonate to a pediatric clinic following emergency cesarean section.

Conclusion The factor “immigrant background” did not affect the indication or obstetric outcome following emergency cesarean section.
Trauma nach Flucht: NADA-Akupunktur und Qigong
Authors: Friedrichs Elisabeth
Published: February 2018

Seit dem Sommer 2015 sind Hunderttausende Menschen auf ihrer Flucht aus Bürgerkrieg, Hoffnungslosigkeit, Aussichtslosigkeit nach Europa gekommen. Die meisten sind traumatisiert. Schnelle therapeutische Lösungen sind nicht sichtbar. Hier können niederschwellige Angebote eine erste Anlaufstelle sein. Erfahrungen aus Augsburg und Stuttgart zeigen beispielhaft, dass einfache Konzepte, wie die NADA-Akupunktur oder Qigong-Übungen in der Gruppe, Menschen in schwierigen Lebenssituationen ein wenig auffangen können.
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone-Stimulated Human Adipocytes Express Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin
Authors: Ma Loretta , Gagnon AnneMarie , Landry Anne , Le Timothea , Xiao Fengxia , Sun Cathy , Lochnan Heather , Burger Dylan , Sorisky Alexander
Published: February 2018

When recombinant human (rh) thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is administered to thyroid cancer survivors, an acute extra-thyroidal effect raises pro-inflammatory cytokines and activates platelets. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is a cytokine recently implicated in platelet activation. Our aim was to measure platelet microparticle levels after rhTSH stimulation in vivo, and to investigate TSLP expression in TSH-stimulated human adipocytes in culture. Blood samples for total and platelet microparticle analysis were obtained from thyroid cancer survivors before (day 1) and after rhTSH administration (day 5). Adipocytes, differentiated from stromal preadipocytes isolated from adipose tissue from surgical patients, were stimulated with TSH. TSLP mRNA expression, protein expression, and protein release into the adipocyte medium were measured. The level of platelet microparticles in thyroid cancer patients rose 5-fold after rhTSH stimulation. TSH upregulated TSLP mRNA expression in adipocytes in culture through a pathway that was inhibited by 66% by H89, a protein kinase A inhibitor. TSLP protein expression rose in response to TSH, and TSH-stimulated TSLP release into the medium was completely blocked by dexamethasone. In conclusion, TSLP is a novel TSH-responsive adipokine. Future studies will be needed to address the potential role of adipocyte-derived TSLP and whether it is linked to TSH-dependent platelet activation.
Geometrically enhanced sensor surfaces for the selective capture of cell-like particles in a laminar flow field
Authors: Scherag Frank D. , Brandstetter Thomas , Rühe Jürgen
Published: February 2018

Medical wires inserted into the blood stream of patients offer an attractive perspective to capture rare cells such as circulating tumor cells in vivo. A major challenge in such systems is to achieve an efficient interaction of the desired cells with the sensing surface and avoid those cells that simply flow by the wire without any contact while floating in a laminar flow field at some small distance to the sensor surface. We describe a new strategy to increase the interaction of cells or cell-like particles to such wire-shaped sensor surfaces both from an experimental and a theoretical point of view. For model experiments, we use cell-like particles that are flowing past the profile wire in a blood-like liquid stream. In the fluid dynamics simulations, this sensor is inserted into small capillaries. The influence of geometry and orientation of the wire with respect to the surrounding capillary onto the capture behavior is studied. Parameters, such as wire diameter, profile shape, wire torsion, and orientation of it with respect to the liquid stream, induce in some cases quite strong crossflows. These crossflows enhance the contact probability compared to a straight line wire of the same length by factors of up to about 80. A general model connecting the wire geometry with the crossflow intensity and the particle capture behavior is developed. Particle capture experiments demonstrate that the identified geometric factors can improve the capture of cell-like particles in laminar fluid flows and enhance the performance of such cell sensors.
A semantic challenge to non-realist cognitivism
Authors: Copp David
Published: February 2018

Recently, some philosophers have attempted to escape familiar challenges to orthodox nonnaturalist normative realism by abandoning the robust metaphysical commitments of the orthodox view. One such view is the ‘Non-Metaphysical Non-Naturalism’ or ‘Non-Realist Cognitivism’ proposed by Derek Parfit and a few others. The trouble is that, as it stands, Non-Realist Cognitivism seems unable to provide a substantive non-trivial account of the meaning and truth conditions of moral claims. The paper considers various strategies one might use to address the challenge. There is a rich field of views that are cognitivist and non-realist. But the paper is skeptical of the prospects of Non-Realist Cognitivism.
Glassy carbon MEMS for novel origami-styled 3D integrated
intracortical and epicortical neural probes
Authors: Goshi Noah , Castagnola Elisa , Vomero Maria , Gueli Calogero , Cea Claudia , Zucchini Elena , Bjanes David , Maggiolini Emma , Moritz Chet , Kassegne Sam , Ricci Davide , Fadiga Luciano
Published: February 2018

We report on a novel technology for microfabricating 3D origami-styled micro
electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) structures with glassy carbon (GC) features
and a supporting polymer substrate. GC MEMS devices that open to form 3D
microstructures are microfabricated from GC patterns that are made through
pyrolysis of polymer precursors on high-temperature resisting substrates like
silicon or quartz and then transferring the patterned devices to a flexible
substrate like polyimide followed by deposition of an insulation layer. The
devices on flexible substrate are then folded into 3D form in an
origami-fashion.

These 3D MEMS devices have tunable mechanical properties that are achieved by
selectively varying the thickness of the polymeric substrate and insulation
layers at any desired location. This technology opens new possibilities by
enabling microfabrication of a variety of 3D GC MEMS structures suited to
applications ranging from biochemical sensing to implantable microelectrode
arrays. As a demonstration of the technology, a neural signal recording
microelectrode array platform that integrates both surface (cortical) and depth
(intracortical) GC microelectrodes onto a single flexible thin-film device is
introduced.

When the device is unfurled, a pre-shaped shank of polyimide automatically comes
off the substrate and forms the penetrating part of the device in a 3D fashion.
With the advantage of being highly reproducible and batch-fabricated, the device
introduced here allows for simultaneous recording of electrophysiological
signals from both the brain surface (electrocorticography—ECoG) and depth
(single neuron). Our device, therefore, has the potential to elucidate the roles
of underlying neurons on the different components of
µECoG signals. For in vivo validation of
the design capabilities, the recording sites are coated with a
poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)—polystyrene sulfonate—carbon
nanotube composite, to improve the electrical conductivity of the electrodes and
consequently the quality of the recorded signals. Results show that both
µECoG and intracortical arrays were able to acquire
neural signals with high-sensitivity that increased with depth, thereby
verifying the device functionality.
Microbial control of the carbon cycle in the ocean
Authors: Wang Ling
Published: February 2018

The oceans cover 71% of the area of our planet and serve as a major repository for anthropogenic CO2. The amount of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the ocean is comparable to the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. If all this DOC were to be respired, it would double the CO2 level in the atmosphere and result in catastrophic consequences. Over the past few decades, scientists have increasingly begun to understand the vital role that microbes play in the cycling of carbon in the ocean. Concepts such as the Microbial Loop (ML) and the Microbial Carbon Pump (MCP) have been proposed to describe the mechanisms by which microbes contribute to carbon flux and storage in the ocean, and the impact that this has on climate change.

Recently, National Science Review held a forum focusing on microbially-mediated carbon cycling in the ocean and gathered renowned scientists to discuss the key questions and challenges in this field. Professor Nianzhi Jiao of Xiamen University hosted the panel discussion.
Wen Tong: 5G will be the neural network of the physical world
Authors: Zhao Weijie
Published: February 2018

Smart phones, video, computer games, social platforms and mobile payments have dramatically changed our daily lives in the past 10 years. Behind the rise of the internet industry, fourth-generation (4G) network technology played an instrumental role. According to the plans of major communications companies and the global standardization organization 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), the next generation of wireless network technology (5G) will start to be commercially used before 2020. What will be the technological improvements in performance of 5G comparing with 4G? Would 5G be similarly transformative? In a recent interview with NSR, Huawei's Chief 5G scientist, Wen Tong, talked about these topics, as well as about the transformation of China's communications industry from a technology follower in the eras of 3G and 4G to one of the leading forces behind 5G.
Challenging the standard model by high-precision comparisons of the fundamental properties of protons and antiprotons
Authors: Ulmer S. , Mooser A. , Nagahama H. , Sellner S. , Smorra C.
Published: February 2018

The BASE collaboration investigates the fundamental properties of protons and antiprotons, such as charge-to-mass ratios and magnetic moments, using advanced cryogenic Penning trap systems. In recent years, we performed the most precise measurement of the magnetic moments of both the proton and the antiproton, and conducted the most precise comparison of the proton-to-antiproton charge-to-mass ratio. In addition, we have set the most stringent constraint on directly measured antiproton lifetime, based on a unique reservoir trap technique. Our matter/antimatter comparison experiments provide stringent tests of the fundamental charge–parity–time invariance, which is one of the fundamental symmetries of the standard model of particle physics. This article reviews the recent achievements of BASE and gives an outlook to our physics programme in the ELENA era.

This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue ‘Antiproton physics in the ELENA era’.
Ripple-Mapping for the Detection of Long Duration Action Potential Areas in Patients with Brugada Syndrome
Authors: Providencia Rui , Cavaco Diogo , Carmo Pedro , Pisani Cristiano , Costa Francisco Moscoso , Faustino Mariana , Morgado Francisco , Lambiase Pier D , Scanavacca Mauricio , Adragao Pedro
Published: February 2018

Purpose

Catheter ablation has been recently utilised in patients with Brugada syndrome to prevent ventricular arrhythmias. We hypothesized whether a mapping algorithm “Ripple-mapping” would be able to rapidly identify the areas of long-duration multicomponent electrograms which constitute the targets for ablation for an automated strategy.

Methods

Ripple-Mapping analysis was performed in all patients undergoing catheter ablation of Brugada syndrome in 2 centers. The activity propagation pattern determined by Ripple-Mapping was assessed, and areas of long duration potentials identified by visual inspection. The area of interest with long-duration potentials was correlated with the location of the ablation lesions.

Results

Detection of long duration potentials was possible in all four patients in this analysis. Points marking the ablation area in 2 patients were a perfect match to abnormal areas identified by Ripple-mapping. However, in 2 patients Ripple-mapping identified additional sites of long duration potentials which were not ablated. Acute and mid-term normalization of the ECG pattern was observed in three patients, and all these were free from arrhythmia relapse during a 10.3±3.2 months follow-up. In one patient, who had no ECG normalization and had arrhythmia relapse, the ablated area corresponded to <25% of the Ripple-map region of interest.

Conclusions

This study shows the potential use of Ripple-mapping for identifying areas of long duration multicomponent electrograms in patients with Brugada syndrome and recurrent ventricular arrhythmias. This technique enables the rapid definition of an area of interest which should then be validated by the operator before performing ablation with an end-point of ECG normalisation.
Non-histone human chromatin protein, PC4 is critical for genomic integrity and negatively regulates autophagy
Authors: Sikder Sweta , Kumari Sujata , Mustafi Pallabi , Ramdas Nisha , Padhi Swatishree , Saha Arka , Banerjee Birendranath , Manjithaya Ravi , Kundu Tapas K.
Published: February 2018

Multifunctional human transcriptional positive co-activator 4 (PC4) is a bonafide non-histone component of the chromatin and plays a pivotal role in the process of chromatin compaction and functional genome organization. Knockdown of PC4 expression leads to a drastic open conformation of the chromatin and thereby altered nuclear architecture, defects in chromosome segregation and changed epigenetic landscape. Interestingly, these defects do not induce cellular death but result in enhanced cellular proliferation possibly through enhanced autophagic activity. PC4 depletion confers significant resistance to gamma irradiation. Exposure to gamma irradiation further induced autophagy in these cells. Inhibition of autophagy by small molecule inhibitors as well as by silencing of a critical autophagy gene drastically reduces the survivability PC4 knockdown cells. On the contrary, complementation with wild type PC4 could reverse this phenomenon, confirming the process of autophagy as the key mechanism for radiation resistance in absence of PC4. These data connect the unexplored role of chromatin architecture in regulating autophagy during a stress condition such as radiation.
Phylogenetic factorization of mammalian viruses complements trait-based analyses and guides surveillance efforts
Authors: Washburne Alex D. , Crowley Daniel E. , Becker Daniel J. , Olival Kevin J. , Taylor Matthew , Munster Vincent J. , Plowright Raina K.
Published: February 2018

Predicting which novel microorganisms may spill over from animals to humans has become a major priority in infectious disease biology. However, there are few tools to help assess the zoonotic potential of the enormous number of potential pathogens, the majority of which are undiscovered or unclassified and may be unlikely to infect or cause disease in humans. We adapt a new biological machine learning technique - phylofactorization - to partition viruses into clades based on their non-human host range and whether or not there exist evidence they have infected humans. Our cladistic analyses identify clades of viruses with common within-clade patterns - unusually high or low propensity for spillover. Phylofactorization by spillover yields many clades of viruses containing few to no representatives that have spilled over to humans, including the families Papillomaviridae and Herpesviridae, and the genus Parvovirus. Removal of these non-zoonotic clades from previous trait-based analyses changed the relative significance of traits determining spillover due to strong associations of traits with non-zoonotic clades. Phylofactorization by host breadth yielded clades with unusually high host breadth, including the family Togaviridae. We identify putative life-history traits differentiating clades’ host breadth and propensities for zoonosis, and discuss how these results can prioritize sequencing-based surveillance of emerging infectious diseases.
Non-antibiotic antimicrobial triclosan induces multiple antibiotic resistance through genetic mutation
Authors: Lu Ji , Jin Min , Nguyen Son Hoang , Mao Likai , Li Jie , Coin Lachlan J. M. , Yuan Zhiguo , Guo Jianhua
Published: February 2018

Antibiotic resistance poses a major threat to public health. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics are generally recognised as the key factors contributing to antibiotic resistance. However, whether non-antibiotic, anti-microbial (NAAM) chemicals can directly induce antibiotic resistance is unclear. We aim to investigate whether the exposure to a NAAM chemical triclosan (TCS) has an impact on inducing antibiotic resistance on Escherichia coli. Here, we report that at a concentration of 0.2 mg/L TCS induces multi-drug resistance in wild-type Escherichia coli after 30-day TCS exposure. The oxidative stress induced by TCS caused genetic mutations in genes such as fabI, frdD, marR, acrR and soxR, and subsequent up-regulation of the transcription of genes encoding beta-lactamase and multi-drug efflux pump, together with down-regulation of genes related to membrane permeability. The findings advance our understanding of the potential role of NAAM chemicals in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in microbes, and highlights the need for controlling biocide applications.
Population Replacement in Early Neolithic Britain
Authors: Brace Selina , Diekmann Yoan , Booth Thomas J. , Faltyskova Zuzana , Rohland Nadin , Mallick Swapan , Ferry Matthew , Michel Megan , Oppenheimer Jonas , Broomandkhoshbacht Nasreen , Stewardson Kristin , Walsh Susan , Kayser Manfred , Schulting Rick , Craig Oliver E. , Sheridan Alison , Pearson Mike Parker , Stringer Chris , Reich David , Thomas Mark G. , Barnes Ian
Published: February 2018

The roles of migration, admixture and acculturation in the European transition to farming have been debated for over 100 years. Genome-wide ancient DNA studies indicate predominantly Anatolian ancestry for continental Neolithic farmers, but also variable admixture with local Mesolithic hunter-gatherers1–9. Neolithic cultures first appear in Britain c. 6000 years ago (kBP), a millennium after they appear in adjacent areas of northwestern continental Europe. However, the pattern and process of the British Neolithic transition remains unclear10–15. We assembled genome-wide data from six Mesolithic and 67 Neolithic individuals found in Britain, dating from 10.5-4.5 kBP, a dataset that includes 22 newly reported individuals and the first genomic data from British Mesolithic hunter-gatherers. Our analyses reveals persistent genetic affinities between Mesolithic British and Western European hunter-gatherers over a period spanning Britain’s separation from continental Europe. We find overwhelming support for agriculture being introduced by incoming continental farmers, with small and geographically structured levels of additional hunter-gatherer introgression. We find genetic affinity between British and Iberian Neolithic populations indicating that British Neolithic people derived much of their ancestry from Anatolian farmers who originally followed the Mediterranean route of dispersal and likely entered Britain from northwestern mainland Europe.
A molecular rack and pinion actuates a cell-surface adhesin and enables bacterial gliding motility
Authors: Shrivastava Abhishek , Berg Howard C.
Published: February 2018

The mechanism for bacterial gliding is not understood. The gliding bacteriumFlavobacterium johnsoniaeis known to have an adhesin, SprB, that moves along the cell surface on a spiral track. When cells are sheared by passage of a suspension through thin tubing, they stop gliding but can be tethered by addition of an anti-SprB antibody. Tethered cells spin about 3 Hz. We labeled the Type 9 secretion system (T9SS) with a yellow-fluorescent-protein (YFP) fusion of GldL. When labeled cells were tethered, a yellow fluorescent spot was found near the rotation axis, which shows that the motor that drives the rotation localizes with the T9SS. The spiral track was labeled by following the motion of Cy3 attached to SprB via an antibody. The distance between the rotation axis and the track was determined by a measurement involving both labels, YFP and Cy3, yielding 90 nm. If a rotary motor spins a pinion of radius 90 nm 3 Hz, a spot on its periphery will move 1.5 μm/s, the speed at which cells glide. We suggest that the pinion drives a flexible tread that carries SprB along a track fixed to the cell surface. Cells glide when such an adhesin adheres to the solid substratum.
Proactive transparency and outward accountability of frontline public bureaucracies
Authors: Alom Md Morshed
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a model that demonstrates how some organizational factors are linked to the proactive transparency behavior and outward accountability orientation of frontline public bureaucracies.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is developed on the basis of literature review.

Findings

It is shown in the model that some dimensions of organizational culture are linked to the “value for proactive transparency,” which, in turn, is linked to the “proactive transparency behavior” of frontline public bureaucracies. The proactive transparency behavior is also influenced by organizational structure and organizational endowment. Finally, the proactive transparency behavior determines “outward accountability” orientation.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the understanding of the frontline public bureaucracy’s transparency behavior and outward accountability orientation from the perspective of organizational factors such as culture, structure, and endowment.
Deriving managerial implications through SERVQUAL gap elasticity in UAE banking
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Sujit K.S. , Charles Vincent
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose the microeconomics concept of elasticity to estimate the SERVQUAL gap elasticity to derive important insights for service providers to develop the right strategies to bridge the overall gap in service.

Design/methodology/approach

The dimensions of SERVQUAL adopted from Parasuramanet al.(1988) and Kumaret al.(2009) are first verified for their unidimensionality using structural equation modeling and reliability in the context of United Arab Emirates banking industry. Furthermore, the technique of dominance analysis is used to derive the relative importance of dimensions for different groups of banks. Finally, the stepwise log-linear regression models are used to estimate the gap elasticity to measure the responsiveness of the overall SERVQUAL gap to a change in customers’ perception on different dimension.

Findings

The results reveal that the dimension which is prioritized as the most important dimension need not to be the one to be targeted under the resource constraint to react faster to the changes of customers’ banking behavior.

Originality/value

This is probably the first attempt to examine the service quality through gap elasticity. This method is especially useful when the traditional approach to measure relative importance of critical factors fails to clearly discriminate between two or more dimensions, which, in turn, may lead to failure in decision making to choose the right strategies to bridge the overall gap in the service.
The development of hydraulic oils for the new fuel-efficient hydraulic hybrid vehicles with ANP method
Authors: Tang Gongbin , Chen Yifan , Xiao Feng , Zhang Shanshan , Huang Fuchuan
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to use this method to explore a new approach and possible technical optimal design for lubricant formulation.

Design/methodology/approach

The component of the developed oil was determined based on the physical and chemical properties of the base oil and the tribological properties. The analytic hierarchy process (ANP) method and SuperDecisions software were used for hydraulic oil modeling and calculation while taking performance index, work circumstance and economy into consideration.

Findings

The hydraulic oil formulation can be optimized using the ANP method, where the technical performance, economy and working circumstances of the hydraulic oils were taken into consideration in the evaluation system. The experiment analyzed and scored and screened the hydraulic oil formula in an objective and comprehensive manner.

Originality/value

The experiments showed that the newly developed hydraulic oils could meet the performance requirements for new energy vehicles equipped with hybrid hydraulic engines.
International marketing strategies of emerging market firms
Authors: Boso Nathaniel , Debrah Yaw A. , Amankwah-Amoah Joseph
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: to publish scholarly works that extend knowledge on the drivers, consequences and boundary conditions of international marketing strategies employed by emerging market firms of all sizes and types; and to advance a narrative for future research on emerging market firms’ international marketing activities.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this agenda, the authors invited scholars to submit quality manuscripts to the special issue. Manuscripts that addressed the special issue theme from varied theoretical perspectives and methodological approaches were invited.

Findings

Out of 70 manuscripts reviewed, 7 are eventually accepted for inclusion in this special issue. The papers touched on interesting research topics bothering on international marketing practices of emerging market firms using blend of interesting theoretical perspectives and variety of methods. Key theoretical perspectives used include resource-based theory, internationalization theory, institutional theory and corporate visual identity theory. The authors employed unique sets of methods including literature review, surveys, panel data, and process-based qualitative and case-study enquiries. The authors used some of the most advanced analytical techniques to analyze their data.

Originality/value

This introduction to the special issue provides a review of the extant literature on the international marketing strategy of emerging market firms, focusing on summarizing key empirical contributions on the topic over the last three decades. Subsequently, the authors discuss how each paper included in this special issue helps advance the agenda to develop scholarly knowledge on emerging market firms’ international marketing strategy.
Thermodynamics and London office property cycles
Authors: Szweizer Moshe
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend the studies of commercial property cycles by providing a cross-field approach to property markets modelling.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach allows for the incorporation of market shocks into the property cycle model as fundamental building blocks; assessment of overall market absorption generated through cyclic activity; and timing estimation of major market events. An ideal model is first constructed, which relies on an observation that a property cycle consists of four distinctive phases. These are described formally through appropriate formulae. Subsequently, it is observed that an analogous cyclic behaviour is described in physics as the Otto cycle. The formulae derived in physics for the Otto cycle are now redefined so to be applicable to the property market.

Findings

The model has been applied to the London office market, both to the historic and the current data sets. This allowed for the comparison of model predicted absorption and vacancies with the historic records, providing for assessment of the model accuracy. The model predicted that absorption was also compared with historic space supply allowing for estimation of oversupply and resultant vacancies. London office submarkets were analysed and compared to each other, allowing for estimation of their relative attractiveness as perceived by tenants and developers.

Practical implications

The model may be used to estimate cycle generated absorption; therefore, over and under supply of space due to developers’ activity may be assessed. It is also possible to use the model to assess the timing of future market peaks and troughs.

Originality/value

This is the first research directly applying the methodology developed in physics to commercial property cycles.
Disclosure of the Laffer economic effect in property valuations to fair value
Authors: Liapis Konstantinos J. , Politis Evangelos D.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of income and property taxes on property assets through the application of fair value accounting and deferred income tax standards.

Design/methodology/approach

This approach is based on the whole life costing model that accounts for the initial expenses, operation and maintenance costs, future revenues, and residual value.

Findings

Formulating a step-by-step accounting procedure based on fair valuation and temporary differences in taxation, this paper shows the existence of the Laffer curve and thus elucidates the economic effect of the taxes and fully discloses the asset’s fair value. The optimal taxation rate is lower when a property tax and an income tax are both present, as the the marginal gain from both taxes is constantly decreasing, due to the changes in the fair value of the asset, and even has a negative effect in the case of the income tax.

Practical implications

Accounting techniques, which combine market-based assumptions, financial valuation techniques based on discounted fair value models, and standard International Financial Reporting Standards disclosures, prove to be an unbiased proxy for the optimal taxation rate.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates a practical tool for policy makers who are trying to define macroeconomic policies on property taxation. Moreover, this approach can be used as an evaluation model for individual investors who wish to measure the future prospects from a property investment under taxation uncertainties.
A trial engagement? Innovative free and other service trials
Authors: Bednall David H.B. , Oppewal Harmen , Laochumnanvanit Krongjit , Nguyen Cuc
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to discover how consumers process an innovative set of systematically varied service trial offers and how this affects their learning and interaction as precursors to customer engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses experiments that manipulate pricing, type of service and delivery method. A repeated-measures design was used with a sample of 396 participants.

Findings

Free (as opposed to cost or full price) service trials were more likely to be accepted, with perceived truthfulness of the trial offer and perceived obligation mediating the relationship. Credence service trials generate higher levels of perceived obligation than experience service trial offers, while personal services are more likely to lead to trial adoption.

Research limitations/implications

The research can be extended to well-recognized brands and further mixed service contexts.

Practical implications

Trial offers of new services are best targeted at buyers who are in the likely buyer group. The trial offer may accelerate time to purchase and relieve perceived risks. The trials of credence services need further signals of quality in the trial itself for consumers to adopt the full service. With personal service trials, skeptical consumers need assurance as to what will happen after the trial experience. Free trials may actually devalue a service, threatening engagement.

Originality/value

Uniquely, service trial offers are systematically manipulated using experience versus credence and personal versus impersonal trials to determine their effect on acceptance of the trial offer and the full service. Additionally, the study compares free, cost price and full price trial offers.
Corporate characteristics and leverage: evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Rouf Md. Abdur
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the influence of various corporate characteristics such as total assets (TA), total sales (TSE), return on assets (ROA), return on sales (ROS), liquidity and age on leverage of the listed non-financial companies in the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE).

Design/methodology/approach

A non-probability sampling technique has been used in this study, and the leverage of 106 companies listed in the DSE has been examined for the time period 2011-2015. Multiple regression models are used to estimate the influence of corporate characteristics on leverage and leverage is measured by the debt ratio, that is, total liabilities divided by total assets (TA).

Findings

The results obtained from the regression models show that TA, ROA and age are negatively and significantly related to the leverage of companies.

Research limitations/implications

Considering only non-financial companies as the sample is a limitation. Hence, the results may not extend across all listed companies in Bangladesh. The study explores only six corporate characteristics variables; other factors influencing the leverage of the firm such as the number of foreign shareholders, ownership structure and auditors’ opinion could be explored in further studies.

Originality/value

The finding of this study contributes to the regulators and enforcement agencies such as Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of Bangladesh (ICMAB), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the DSE. It will enable the regulatory agencies to aim at greater compliance with the local and international standards and also enforce penalties for non-compliance.
CeO2/TiO2 core/shell nanoparticles as quantitative gas sensor at room temperature
Authors: Samadi Susan , Asadi Cordshooli Ghasem , Yousefi Mohammad , Kalateh Khadijeh , Zakaria SeyedAmirabbas
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce constructed CeO2/TiO2 core/shell nanoparticle as sensitive substance organic compounds.

Design/methodology/approach

The CeO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by hydrothermal treatment. Then CeO2/TiO2 core/shell was fabricated by sol–gel method preparation of TiO2 in the presence of ceria nanoparticles and applied as the sensitive material to make a sensor.

Findings

Formation of the nanoparticles was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The synthesized sensor exhibited not only good sensitivity to volatile organic compounds at room temperature but also logarithm of sensitivity versus concentrations was linear.

Research limitations/implications

The sensor shows acceptable sensitivity to volatile organic compound at room temperature.

Practical implications

Experimental data revealed satisfactory reproducibility and short response and recovery times.

Originality/value

A radical mechanism for gas sensor reaction in two pathways was considered and activation energies were calculated by density functional theory (DFT) method to describe different sensitivities of tested volatile gases. The experimental results were consistent with the calculations.
Secured data aggregation in wireless sensor networks
Authors: D. Sathya , P. Ganesh Kumar
Published: February 2018

Purpose

This study aims to provide a secured data aggregation with reduced energy consumption in WSN. Data aggregation is the process of reducing communication overhead in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Presently, securing data aggregation is an important research issue in WSNs due to two facts: sensor nodes deployed in the sensitive and open environment are easily targeted by adversaries, and the leakage of aggregated data causes damage in the networks, and these data cannot be retrieved in a short span of time. Most of the traditional cryptographic algorithms provide security for data aggregation, but they do not reduce energy consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

Nowadays, the homomorphic cryptosystem is used widely to provide security with low energy consumption, as the aggregation is performed on the ciphertext without decryption at the cluster head. In the present paper, the Paillier additive homomorphic cryptosystem and Bonehet al.’s aggregate signature method are used to encrypt and to verify aggregate data at the base station.

Findings

The combination of the two algorithms reduces computation time and energy consumption when compared with the state-of-the-art techniques.

Practical implications

The secured data aggregation is useful in health-related applications, military applications, etc.

Originality/value

The new combination of encryption and signature methods provides confidentiality and integrity. In addition, it consumes less computation time and energy consumption than existing methods.
Fall prevention for people with learning disabilities: key points and recommendations for practitioners and researchers
Authors: Finlayson Janet
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a narrative review of what is currently known about the high rates of falls, and fall injuries, which are experienced by people with learning disabilities (LDs) throughout their lives.

Design/methodology/approach

Narrative review. Current evidence is summarised as key points and recommendations for practitioners and researchers.

Findings

People with LDs experience similar rates of falls as older adults in the wider population, but throughout their lives, or at an earlier age.

Originality/value

Key points and recommendations are summarised for practitioners and researchers to promote fall prevention strategies and interventions for people with LDs.