bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical solution of micropolar nanofluids with Soret, Dufor effects and multiple slip conditions
Authors: Ibrahim Wubshet , Zemedu Chaluma
Published: October 2019

The objective of this study is to explore the effects of Dufour and Soret with multiple slip conditions on 3D boundary layer flow of a micropolar nanofluid. The mathematical modeling for the flow problem has been created. Using appropriate similarity transformation and non-dimensional variable, the governing non-linear boundary value problem is reduced to a coupled high order non-linear ordinary differential equations which is numerically solved. The solutions were using method bvp4c from matlab software for different quantities of governing parameters. The influences of different parameters on skin friction coefficients

−
f
″

0

,
−
g
″

0

,

wall duo stress coefficients

−

ϕ

1

′

0

,
−

ϕ

2

′

0

the Nusselt number

−
θ
′

0

,

Sherwood number

−
s
′

0

as well as the velocities, temperature, and concentration are examined and discussed through tables and graphs. The finding results indicate the skin friction coefficients, wall duo stresses coefficients (along both x- and y-axes), the Nusselt number and the Sherwood number demonstrate decreasing behavior for an increase in slip parameters but the opposite effects are detected with the values of stretching ratio parameters. A comparison with previous studies available in the literature has been done and a very good agreement is obtained.
Multifunctional composites: a metamaterial perspective
Authors: Lincoln Reece L , Scarpa Fabrizio , Ting Valeska P , Trask Richard S
Published: October 2019

Multifunctional composites offer the ability to increase the efficiency, autonomy and lifespan of a structure by performing functions that would have been considered by designers as mutually exclusive. In the present perspective paper, a subclass of multifunctional composites is considered: metamaterials. In this perspective, a multifunctional composite is defined as ‘made of two or more materials that perform two or more functions in a manner that is constructive to the overall purpose of the structure’ where there is no differentiation between structural or non-structural functions. Equally, we define metamaterials are a class of man-made structures that display properties that are opposite to those typically found in nature. These ‘engineered’ architected materials continue to revisit and extend the boundaries of traditional materials science, opening up a wealth of new opportunities impacting on all aspects of human life. In our work, multifunctional metamaterials are delineated: electrodynamic, acoustic and mechanical. We review the current progress in these types of multifunctional metamaterials in terms of their bandwidth, fabrication techniques and applicability; noting that lattice structures offer considerable potential across all three functionalities. It culminates in the discussion of three key challenges which are seen by the authors as critical in the development of the next generation of lattice-type multifunctional metamaterials; namely, bandwidth, fabrication technique and proof of applicability. Success by the scientific community in these areas will lead to 3D multi-scale and multimedia lattice frameworks capable of influencing all three types of waves instantly; such a system would be a major technological breakthrough and will redefine our concept and understanding of multifunctional metamaterials in the next 10–20 years.
Ultrasonic Lamb wave measurement sensitivity of aligned carbon nanotube coated fiber Bragg grating
Authors: Wee Junghyun , Hackney Drew , Wells Brian , Bradford Philip D , Peters Kara
Published: October 2019

Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors are typically bonded on the surface of a structure using an adhesive to collect ultrasonic waves for damage detection in structural health monitoring applications. However, the ultrasonic wave transfer from structure to optical fiber suffers signal attenuation due to the adhesive bond layer, which has a significantly different acoustic impedance than the optical fiber. Therefore, this paper develops a systematic procedure to fabricate an aligned carbon nanotube (CNT)-wrapped FBGs for acoustic impedance matching. Specifically, we first develop an automated CNT winding system to fabricate CNT-wrapped FBGs with varying CNT layer thickness, which are bonded to an aluminum plate for ultrasonic sensitivity testing. We demonstrate that CNT wrapped FBGs do not necessarily produce an increased sensitivity as compared to a reference polyimide-coated FBG, however some outliers are observed with a significant improvement. Using a scanning electron microscopy we examine the cross-section of CNT/adhesive layers, identifying a unique CNT/adhesive bonding morphology with a stiff exterior shell and a relatively compliant inner layer. Finite element simulation validates that this two-layered bonding geometry is most likely the source of the increased FBG ultrasonic sensitivity for the outliers.
Age and Youth, Sound and Vision
Authors: Robson Catherine
Published: October 2019

This roundtable offers four diverse perspectives on Peter Jackson’s innovative and controversial World War I documentary film They Shall Not Grow Old (2018). Jackson’s film breaks the mold of the documentary genre in its manipulation and montage of the visual and audio archives held at the Imperial War Museum in London. Yet he puts his technical virtuosity and resources at the service of a very traditional interpretation of the war, focusing almost entirely on the experience of young Englishmen on the Western Front. Scholars Santanu Das, Susan R. Grayzel, Jessica Meyer, and Catherine Robson offer their reflections on both the gains and losses of Jackson’s paradoxical original use of historical documents and old-fashioned rendering of the war’s experiential elements. They consider, respectively, the experience of colonial troops, the place of women in the war, and Jackson’s creative, if controversial, interpretation of the visual and aural archive.
Grounding grounds necessity
Authors: De Rizzo Julio
Published: October 2019

Drawing from extensions of existing ideas in the logic of ground, a novel account of the grounds of necessity is presented, the core of which states that necessary truths are necessary because they stand in specific grounding connections.
Socialist vicissitudes on the right to work in France, 1848–1851
Authors: Bouchet Thomas
Published: October 2019

This article examines the different meanings given to the ‘right to work’ during the French Second Republic (1848–51). Although liberals painted all demands for this right with the same ‘socialist’ brush, denouncing them as vague and dangerously utopian, calls for this right were neither vague nor exclusively socialist. Those espousing the right to work held concrete, if differing, views about what duties it entailed and what its relation was to private property, political rights and the role of the state. This essay examines the views of socialists, non-socialist and labour associations on the right to work, examining how they changed in the course of the Revolution of 1848. As faith waned in the state’s willingness and ability to secure it, so, too, did preoccupations with the right to work, which gave way increasingly to associationalism. The right would not become constitutional until the Fourth Republic.
A Phylogenomic Approach to Clarifying the Relationship of Mesodinium within the Ciliophora: A Case Study in the Complexity of Mixed-Species Transcriptome Analyses
Authors: Lasek-Nesselquist Erica , Johnson Matthew D
Published: October 2019

Recent high-throughput sequencing endeavors have yielded multigene/protein phylogenies that confidently resolve several inter- and intra-class relationships within the phylum Ciliophora. We leverage the massive sequencing efforts from the Marine Microbial Eukaryote Transcriptome Sequencing Project, other SRA submissions, and available genome data with our own sequencing efforts to determine the phylogenetic position of Mesodinium and to generate the most taxonomically rich phylogenomic ciliate tree to date. Regardless of the data mining strategy, the multiprotein data set, or the molecular models of evolution employed, we consistently recovered the same well-supported relationships among ciliate classes, confirming many of the higher-level relationships previously identified. Mesodinium always formed a monophyletic group with members of the Litostomatea, with mixotrophic species of Mesodinium—M. rubrum, M. major, and M. chamaeleon—being more closely related to each other than to the heterotrophic member, M. pulex. The well-supported position of Mesodinium as sister to other litostomes contrasts with previous molecular analyses including those from phylogenomic studies that exploited the same transcriptomic databases. These topological discrepancies illustrate the need for caution when mining mixed-species transcriptomes and indicate that identifying ciliate sequences among prey contamination—particularly for Mesodinium species where expression from stolen prey nuclei appears to dominate—requires thorough and iterative vetting with phylogenies that incorporate sequences from a large outgroup of prey.
Love, Lies, and Money: Financial Infidelity in Romantic Relationships
Authors: Garbinsky Emily N , Gladstone Joe J , Nikolova Hristina , Olson Jenny G
Published: October 2019

Romantic relationships are built on trust, but partners are not always honest about their financial behavior—they may hide spending, debt, and savings from one another. This article introduces the construct of financial infidelity, defined as “engaging in any financial behavior expected to be disapproved of by one’s romantic partner and intentionally failing to disclose this behavior to them.” We develop and validate the Financial Infidelity Scale (FI-Scale) to measure individual variation in consumers' financial infidelity proneness. In 10 lab studies, one field study, and analyses of real bank account data collected in partnership with a couples’ money-management mobile application, we demonstrate that the FI-Scale has strong psychometric properties, is distinct from conceptually related scales, and predicts actual financial infidelity among married consumers. Importantly, the FI-Scale predicts a broad range of consumption-related behaviors (e.g., spending despite anticipated spousal disapproval, preferences for discreet payment methods and unmarked packaging, concealing bank account information). Our work is the first to introduce, define, and measure financial infidelity reliably and succinctly and examine its antecedents and consequences.
Comparison of salvage surgery for recurrent or residual head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Maruo Takashi , Zenda Sadamoto , Shinozaki Takeshi , Tomioka Toshifumi , Okano Wataru , Sakuraba Minoru , Tahara Makoto , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: October 2019

Objective

Concomitant chemoradiation therapy is a standard treatment for head and neck cancer. Thus, salvage surgery has become a necessary treatment. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of salvage surgery by each site of the head and neck, especially the oropharynx, hypopharynx and larynx.

Methods

This was a retrospective, single-institute study. The primary endpoint was overall survival. Secondary endpoints were disease-free survival, the locoregional control rate after salvage surgery, the indication rate for salvage surgery, the reasons for contraindications to salvage surgery, the post-operative complication rate and the predictors of survival.

Results

Three-year overall survival after salvage surgery was 58.8% in the salvage surgery group and 8.59% in the other treatment group (P < 0.0001). Regarding overall survival and disease-free survival after salvage surgery, there was no difference among sites. Regarding locoregional control rate among sites, there was no significant difference. The oropharyngeal cancer group had the lowest rate of salvage primary resection. Surgical margin and local and regional recurrence or residual disease were predictors on univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusions

Salvage surgery is effective for recurrent or residual cases after concomitant chemoradiation therapy. For oropharyngeal cancer, local control is important, and for oropharyngeal cancer and hypopharyngeal cancer, distant metastasis is important.
The SAMI Galaxy Survey: The contribution of different kinematic classes to the stellar mass function of nearby galaxies
Authors: Guo Kexin , Cortese Luca , Obreschkow Danail , Catinella Barbara , van de Sande Jesse , Croom Scott M , Brough Sarah , Sweet Sarah , Bryant Julia J , Medling Anne , Bland-Hawthorn Joss , Owers Matt , Richards Samuel N
Published: October 2019

We use the complete Sydney-AAO Multi-object Integral field spectrograph (SAMI) Galaxy Survey to determine the contribution of slow rotators, as well as different types of fast rotators, to the stellar mass function of galaxies in the local Universe. We use stellar kinematics not only to discriminate between fast and slow rotators, but also to distinguish between dynamically cold systems (i.e., consistent with intrinsic axis ratios<0.3) and systems including a prominent dispersion-supported bulge. We show that fast rotators account for more than $80\%$ of the stellar mass budget of nearby galaxies, confirming that their number density overwhelms that of slow rotators at almost all masses from 109 to 1011.5M⊙. Most importantly, dynamically cold disks contribute to at least $25\%$ of the stellar mass budget of the local Universe, significantly higher than what is estimated from visual morphology alone. For stellar masses up to 1010.5M⊙, this class makes up $>=30\%$ of the galaxy population in each stellar mass bin. The fact that many galaxies that are visually classified as having two-components have stellar spin consistent with dynamically cold disks suggests that the inner component is either rotationally-dominated (e.g., bar, pseudo-bulge) or has little effect on the global stellar kinematics of galaxies.
Driving classical Wolf-Rayet winds: A Γ- and Z-dependent mass-loss
Authors: Sander Andreas A C , Vink J S , Hamann W-R
Published: October 2019

Classical Wolf-Rayet (WR) stars are at a crucial evolutionary stage for constraining the fates of massive stars. The feedback of these hot, hydrogen-depleted stars dominates their surrounding by tremendous injections of ionizing radiation and kinetic energy. The strength of a WR wind decides the eventual mass of its remnant, likely a massive black hole. However, despite their major influence and importance for gravitational wave detection statistics, WR winds are particularly poorly understood. In this paper, we introduce the first set of hydrodynamically consistent stellar atmosphere models for classical WR stars of both the carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) sequence, i.e. WC and WN stars, as a function of stellar luminosity-to-mass ratio (or Eddington Gamma), and metallicity. We demonstrate the inapplicability of the CAK wind theory for classical WR stars and confirm earlier findings that their winds are launched at the (hot) iron (Fe) opacity peak. For log Z/Z⊙ > −2, Fe is also the main accelerator throughout the wind. Contrasting previous claims of a sharp lower mass-loss limit for WR stars, we obtain a smooth transition to optically thin winds. Furthermore, we find a strong dependence of the mass-loss rates on Eddington Γ, both at solar and sub-solar metallicity. Increases in WC carbon and oxygen abundances turn out to slightly reduce the predicted mass-loss rates. Calculations at subsolar metallicities indicate that below the metallicity of the SMC, WR mass-loss rates decrease much faster than previously assumed, potentially allowing for high black hole masses even in the local universe.
Aldehyde and Volatile Organic Compound Yields in Commercial Cigarette Mainstream Smoke Are Mutually Related and Depend on the Sugar and Humectant Content in Tobacco
Authors: Pennings Jeroen L A , Cremers Johannes W J M , Becker Mark J A , Klerx Walther N M , Talhout Reinskje
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco control recognizes the need for tobacco product regulation. In line with that, the WHO Study Group on Tobacco Product Regulation (TobReg) proposed to regulate nine toxicants in mainstream cigarette smoke, including aldehydes, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and carbon monoxide (CO). We analyzed their relations in 50 commercially available cigarette brands, using two different smoking regimes, and their dependence on sugar and humectant concentrations in tobacco filler.

Methods

We measured sugar and humectant in tobacco filler and aldehydes, VOCs, and tar, nicotine, and CO (TNCO) in mainstream smoke. The general statistics, correlations between emission yields, and correlations between contents and emissions yields were determined for these data.

Results

For aldehydes, several significant correlations were found with precursor ingredients in unburnt tobacco when smoked with the Intense regime, most prominently for formaldehyde with sucrose, glucose, total sugars, and glycerol. For VOCs, 2,5-dimethylfuran significantly correlates with several sugars under both International Standards Organization (ISO) and Intense smoking conditions. A correlation network visualization shows connectivity between a sugar cluster, an ISO cluster, and an Intense cluster, with Intense formaldehyde as a central highest connected hub.

Conclusions

Our multivariate analysis showed several strong connections between the compounds determined. The toxicants proposed by WHO, in particular, formaldehyde, can be used to monitor yields of other toxicants under Intense conditions. Emissions of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein, and 2,5-dimethylfuran may decrease when sugar and humectants contents are lowered in tobacco filler.

Implications

Our findings suggest that the aldehydes and VOCs proposed by TobReg are a representative selection for smoke component market monitoring purposes. In particular, formaldehyde yields may be useful to monitor emissions of other toxicants under Intense conditions. Since the most and strongest correlations were observed with the Intense regime, policymakers are advised to prescribe this regime for regulatory purposes. Policymakers should also consider sugars and humectants contents as targets for future tobacco product regulations, with the additional advantage that consumer acceptance of cigarette smoke is proportional to their concentrations in the tobacco blend.
A hybrid model of Skyrme- and Brueckner-type interactions for neutron star matter
Authors: Choi Soonchul , Cheoun Myung-Ki , Kim K S , Kim Hungchong , Sagawa H
Published: October 2019

We suggest a hybrid model for neutron star matter to discuss the hyperon puzzle inherent in the 2.0 M$_{\odot}$ of the neutron star. For the nucleon–nucleon ($NN$) interaction, we employ the Skyrme–Hartree–Fock approach based on various Skyrme interaction parameter sets, and take the Brueckner–Hartree–Fock approach for the interactions related to hyperons. For the many-body interactions including hyperons, we make use of the multi-pomeron-exchange model, whose parameters have been adjusted to the data deduced from various hypernuclei properties. For clear understanding of the physics in the hybrid model, we discuss fractional functions of related particles, symmetry energies, and chemical potentials in dense matter. Finally, we investigate the equations of state and mass–radius relation of neutron stars, and show that the hybrid model can properly describe the 2.0 M$_{\odot}$ neutron star mass data with the many-body interaction employed in the hybrid model. Recent tidal deformability data from the gravitational wave observation are also compared to our calculations, especially in terms of the neutron skin of $^{208}$Pb and nuclear incompressibility.
Cross-Country Competitive Effects of Cross-Listings
Authors: Sarkissian Sergei , Wang Yan
Published: October 2019

We study competitive effects of foreign listings on U.S. stock exchanges over a 50-year period and show that U.S. rival firms respond strongly negatively (weakly positively) to foreign listings (delistings). The performance decline of U.S. firms is related to the competitive advantages that foreign firms receive from their cross-listings, such as stronger financial benefits, higher growth prospects, and better visibility, rather than market or industry valuation timing or existing market competition. This decline is especially pronounced when cross-listings come from proximate or developed markets. Our findings highlight an important role of international markets in influencing the performance of U.S. firms.

Received February 19, 2019; editorial decision September 18, 2019 by Editor Isil Erel. Authors have furnished an Internet Appendix, which is available on the Oxford University Press Web site next to the link to the final published paper online.
National Industry Trade Shocks, Local Labour Markets, and Agglomeration Spillovers
Authors: Helm Ines
Published: October 2019

Using a broad set of national industry trade shocks, I employ a novel approach to estimate agglomeration effects by exploiting within industry variation in indirect exposure to the other local industries’ (national) trade shocks across local labour markets. This variation stems from differences in local industry composition and allows to test for the existence of heterogeneous agglomeration effects across industries. I find considerable employment spillovers from other tradable industries’ trade shocks and even stronger effects within the same broad sector. Spillovers are larger for industries employing similar workers and are triggered predominantly by shocks to high-technology industries.
Root Endophytes of Coffee (Coffea arabica): Variation Across Climatic Gradients and Relationships with Functional Traits
Authors: Fulthorpe Roberta , Martin Adam R. , Isaac Marney E.
Published: October 2019

The root microbiome of Central American coffee trees was studied from four different sites experiencing different annual temperatures and precipitation levels, sampling from plots grown conventionally and under agroforestry management (with shade trees). Total community DNA was separately extracted from roots from four trees sampled from each site/management pair and analyzed using terminal restriction fragment polymorphism analysis and also next generation sequencing (Illumina) of fungal and bacterial ribosomal amplicons. Community profiles were analyzed for site and management effects and correlations to environmental parameters and tree leaf and root economic traits. Communities of both bacteria and fungi varied with site locations, but were not impacted by management system type. They also both varied strongly with environmental parameters. Fungal communities also showed significant variation that could be attributed to plant leaf and root traits. Pooled DNA samples from each site/management regime were used to generate amplicons for next generation sequencing to determine the dominant members of the coffee root microbiome at these locations. Core bacterial genera included Pantoea, Enterobacter, and Burkholderia, while fungal core communities were dominated by members of Cladosporium, Penicillium, Exidiopsis, Trechispora, and Mycena. The potential ecological function of these microbial associates is discussed.
Dazl determines primordial follicle formation through the translational regulation of Tex14
Authors: Rosario Roseanne , Crichton James H. , Stewart Hazel L. , Childs Andrew J. , Adams Ian R. , Anderson Richard A.
Published: October 2019

Deleted in azoospermia‐like (DAZL) is a germ cell RNA‐binding protein that is essential for entry and progression through meiosis. The phenotype of the Dazl knockout mouse has extensive germ cell loss because of incomplete meiosis. We have created a Dazl hypomorph model using short interfering RNA knockdown in mouse fetal ovary cultures, allowing investigation of Dazl function in germ cell maturation. Dazl hypomorph ovaries had a phenotype of impaired germ cell nest breakdown with a 66% reduction in total follicle number and an increase in the proportion of primordial follicles (PMFs), with smaller oocytes within these follicles. There was no significant early germ cell loss or meiotic delay. Immunostaining of intercellular bridge component testis‐expressed protein (Tex)14 showed ~59°/o reduction in foci number and size, without any change in Tex14 mRNA levels. TEX14 expression was also confirmed in the human fetal ovary across gestation. Using 3'UTR‐luciferase reporter assays, translational regulation of TEX14 was demonstrated to be DAZL‐dependant. Dazl is therefore essential for normal intercellular bridges within germ cell nests and their timely breakdown, with a major impact on subsequent assembly of PMFs.—Rosario, R., Crichton, J. H., Stewart, H. L., Childs, A. J., Adams, I. R., Anderson, R. A. Dazl determines primordial follicle formation through the translational regulation of Tex14. FASEB J. 33, 14221‐14233 (2019). www.fasebj.org
A survey of Fusobacterium nucleatum genes modulated by host cell infection
Authors: Cochrane Kyla , Robinson Avery V. , Holt Robert A. , Allen-Vercoe Emma
Published: October 2019

Here, we report comprehensive transcriptomic profiles from

Fusobacterium nucleatum

under conditions that mimic the first stages of bacterial infection in a highly differentiated adenocarcinoma epithelial cell line. Our transcriptomic in vitro adenocarcinoma approach allows us to measure the expression dynamics and regulation of bacterial virulence and response factors in real time, and is a novel strategy for clarifying the role of

F. nucleatum

infection in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. Our data show that: (i) infection alters metabolic and functional pathways in

F. nucleatum

, allowing the bacterium to adapt to the host-imposed milieu; (ii) infection also stimulates the expression of genes required to help induce and promote a hypoxic and inflammatory microenvironment in the host; and (iii)

F. nucleatum

invasion occurs by a haematogenous route of infection. Our study identifies novel gene targets from

F. nucleatum

that are activated during invasion and which may aid in determining how this species invades and promotes disease within the human gastrointestinal tract. These invasion-specific genes may be useful as biomarkers for CRC progression in a host and could also assist in the development of new diagnostic tools and treatments (such as vaccines or small molecule drug targets), which will be able to combat infection and inflammation in the host while circumventing the potential problem of

F. nucleatum

tolerization.
The Ontogenetic Development of Hemispheric Lateralization During Face Processing: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Pilot Study in 7- to 9-Year-old Children
Authors: Hildesheim Franziska E. , Debus Isabell , Kessler Roman , Thome Ina , Zimmermann Kristin M. , Steinsträter Olaf , Sommer Jens , Kamp-Becker Inge , Stark Rudolf , Jansen Andreas
Published: October 2019

Face processing is mediated by a distributed neural network commonly divided into a “core system” and an “extended system”. The core system consists of several, typically right-lateralized brain regions in the occipito-temporal cortex, including the occipital face area (OFA), the fusiform face area (FFA) and the posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS). It was recently proposed that the face processing network is initially bilateral and becomes right-specialized in the course of the development of reading abilities due to the competition between language-related regions in the left occipito-temporal cortex (e.g., the visual word form area) and the FFA for common neural resources.

The goal of the present pilot study was to prepare the basis for a larger follow-up study assessing the ontogenetic development of the lateralization of the face processing network. More specifically, we aimed on the one hand to establish a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) paradigm suitable for assessing activation in the core system of face processing in young children at the single subject level, and on the other hand to calculate the necessary group size for the planned follow-up study.

Twelve children aged 7-9 years, and ten adults were measured with a face localizer task that was specifically adapted for children. Our results showed that it is possible to localize the core system’s brain regions in children even at the single subject level. We further found a (albeit non-significant) trend for increased right-hemispheric lateralization of all three regions in adults compared to children, with the largest effect for the FFA (estimated effect size d=0.78, indicating medium to large effects). Using these results as basis for an informed power analysis, we estimated that an adequately powered (sensitivity 0.8) follow-up study testing developmental changes of FFA lateralization would require the inclusion of 18 children and 26 adults.
Robustness and lethality in multilayer biological molecular networks
Authors: Liu Xueming , Maiorino Enrico , Halu Arda , Loscalzo Joseph , Gao Jianxi , Sharma Amitabh
Published: October 2019

Robustness is a prominent feature of most biological systems. In a cell, the structure of the interactions between genes, proteins, and metabolites has a crucial role in maintaining the cell’s functionality and viability in presence of external perturbations and noise. Despite advances in characterizing the robustness of biological systems, most of the current efforts have been focused on studying homogeneous molecular networks in isolation, such as protein-protein or gene regulatory networks, neglecting the interactions among different molecular substrates. Here we propose a comprehensive framework for understanding how the interactions between genes, proteins and metabolites contribute to the determinants of robustness in a heterogeneous biological network. We integrate heterogeneous sources of data to construct a multilayer interaction network composed of a gene regulatory layer, and protein-protein interaction layer and a metabolic layer. We design a simulated perturbation process to characterize the contribution of each gene to the overall system’s robustness, defined as its influence over the global network. We find that highly influential genes are enriched in essential and cancer genes, confirming the central role of these genes in critical cellular processes. Further, we determine that the metabolic layer is more vulnerable to perturbations involving genes associated to metabolic diseases. By comparing the robustness of the network to multiple randomized network models, we find that the real network is comparably or more robust than expected in the random realizations. Finally, we analytically derive the expected robustness of multilayer biological networks starting from the degree distributions within or between layers. These results provide new insights into the non-trivial dynamics occurring in the cell after a genetic perturbation is applied, confirming the importance of including the coupling between different layers of interaction in models of complex biological systems.
TIGIT-Fc Promote Immune Tolerance at the Feto-maternal Interface
Authors: Fu Wenyan , Ma Zetong , Lei Changhai , Ding Min , Hu Shi
Published: October 2019

The perfect synchronization of maternal immune-endocrine mechanisms and those of the foetus is necessary for a successful pregnancy. In this report, decidual immune cells at the maternal-foetal interface were detected that expressed TIGIT (T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains), which is a co-inhibitory receptor that triggers immunological tolerance. We generated recombinant TIGIT-Fc fusion proteins by linking the extracellular domain of TIGIT and silent Fc fragments. The treatment with TIGIT-Fc of human decidual dendritic cells (dDCs) increased the production of interleukin 10 and induced the dDCs to powerfully polarize the decidual CD4+ T cells towards a classic TH2 phenotype. The administration of TIGIT-Fc to CBA/J pregnant mice at preimplantation induced CD4+ forkhead box P3+ (Foxp3+) regulatory T cells and tolerogenic dendritic cells and increased pregnancy rates in a mouse model of abortive stress. Moreover, we proposed that progesterone play a direct role in the transcriptional regulation of the TIGIT gene in decidual immune cell subsets. The results suggested the therapeutic potential of the TIGIT-Fc fusion protein in reinstating immune tolerance in failing pregnancies.
Over 50000 metagenomically assembled draft genomes for the human oral microbiome reveal new taxa
Authors: Zhu Jie , Tian Liu , Chen Peishan , Han Mo , Song Liju , Tong Xin , Lin Zhipeng , Liu Xing , Liu Chuan , Wang Xiaohan , Lin Yuxiang , Cai Kaiye , Hou Yong , Xu Xun , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Kristiansen Karsten , Xiao Liang , Zhang Tao , Jia Huijue , Jie Zhuye
Published: October 2019

The oral cavity of each person is home for hundreds of bacterial species. While taxa for oral diseases have been well studied using culture-based as well as amplicon sequencing methods, metagenomic and genomic information remain scarce compared to the fecal microbiome. Here we provide metagenomic shotgun data for 3346 oral metagenomics samples, and together with 808 published samples, assemble 56,213 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). 64% of the 3,589 species-level genome bins contained no publicly available genomes, others with only a handful. The resulting genome collection is representative of samples around the world and across physiological conditions, contained many genomes from Candidate phyla radiation (CPR) which lack monoculture, and enabled discovery of new taxa such as a family within the Acholeplasmataceae order. New biomarkers were identified for rheumatoid arthritis or colorectal cancer, which would be more convenient than fecal samples. The large number of metagenomic samples also allowed assembly of many strains from important oral taxa such asPorphyromonasandNeisseria. Predicted functions enrich in drug metabolism and small molecule synthesis. Thus, these data lay down a genomic framework for future inquiries of the human oral microbiome.
SUSTAINED DOPAMINERGIC PLATEAUS AND NORADRENERGIC DEPRESSIONS MEDIATE DISSOCIABLE ASPECTS OF EXPLOITATIVE STATES
Authors: Koralek Aaron C. , Costa Rui M.
Published: October 2019

We are constantly faced with the trade-off between exploiting actions with known outcomes and exploring alternative actions whose outcomes may be better. This balance has been hypothesized to rely on dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc)1 and noradrenergic neurons of the locus coeruleus (LC)2–3. We developed a behavioral paradigm to capture exploitative and exploratory states, and imaged calcium dynamics in genetically-identified dopaminergic SNc neurons and noradrenergic LC neurons during state transitions. During exploitative states, characterized by motivated repetition of the same action choice, we found dichotomous changes in baseline activity in SNc and LC, with SNc showing higher and LC showing lower sustained activity. These sustained neural states emerged from the accumulation of lengthened positive responses and hysteretic dynamics in SNc networks, and lengthened negative responses in LC. Sustained activity could not be explained by classical reinforcement learning parameters, and in SNc but not LC, emerged in subpopulations coding for response vigor. Manipulating the sustained activity of SNc and LC revealed that dopaminergic activity primarily mediates engagement and motivation, whereas noradrenergic activity modulates action selection. These data uncover the emergence of sustained neural states in dopaminergic and noradrenergic networks that mediate dissociable aspects of exploitative bouts.
Balancing preservation and energy efficiency in building stocks
Authors: Eriksson Petra , Milić Vlatko , Brostrom Tor
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Energy use in buildings needs to be reduced to meet political goals; however, reducing energy use can conflict with heritage preservation objectives. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate a method that combines quantitative and qualitative analyses of the potential of energy savings in an historic building stock. Specifically, this study examines how requirements of historic building preservation affect the energy saving potential on a building stock level.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the World Heritage Town of Visby, Sweden as a case study, this paper illustrates a step-by-step method as a basis for implementing energy savings techniques in an historic building stock. The method contains the following steps: categorisation of a building stock, definition of restriction levels for energy renovation scenarios and life cycle costs optimisation of energy measures in archetype buildings representing the building stock. Finally, this study analyses how different energy renovation strategies will impact heritage values and energy saving potentials for different categories of buildings.

Findings

The outcome of the study is twofold: first, the method has been tested and proven useful and second, the results from the application of the method have been used to formulate differentiated energy renovation strategies for the case study.

Originality/value

The study shows that it is possible to integrate techno-economic analysis with assessment of heritage values in a given building stock in order to facilitate a strategic discussion balancing policies and targets for energy savings with policies for the preservation of heritage values. The findings will contribute to sounder policy development and planning for historic building stocks.
Transaction credit in the unstructured crowd transaction network
Authors: Liu Zhishuo , Fang Tian , Dongxin Yao , Kou Nianci
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Current models of transaction credit in the e-commerce network face many problems, such as the one-sided measurement, low accuracy and insufficient anti-aggression solutions. This paper aims to address these problems by studying the transaction credit problem in the crowd transaction network.

Design/methodology/approach

This study divides the transaction credit into two parts, direct transaction credit and recommended transaction credit, and it proposes a model based on the crowd transaction network. The direct transaction credit comprehensively includes various factors influencing the transaction credit, including transaction evaluation, transaction time, transaction status, transaction amount and transaction times. The recommendation transaction credit introduces two types of recommendation nodes and constructs the recommendation credibility for each type. This paper also proposes a “buyer + circle of friends” method to store and update the transaction credit data.

Findings

The simulation results show that this model is superior with high accuracy and anti-aggression.

Originality/value

The direct transaction credit improves the accuracy of the transaction credit data. The recommendation transaction credit strengthens the anti-aggression of the transaction credit data. In addition, the “buyer + circle of friends” method fully uses the computing of the storage ability of the internet, and it also solves the failure problem of using a single node.
Working in prehospital emergency contexts
Authors: Oliveira Ana Cristina , Neto Félix , Teixeira Filipa , Maia Ângela
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Ambulance personnel face a diversity of stressful events that could be potentially traumatic, putting their health and well-being at risk. The purpose of this paper is to explore, from this group perspective, sources of stress, coping strategies and support measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed 14 ambulance workers of Portuguese Red Cross local structures from the north of Portugal. Data were analyzed according to thematic analysis procedures.

Findings

The authors identified three themes: operational and organizational factors, control and predictability; anticipating scenarios, focusing on procedures and dealing with reactions; and from undervalued support to support as routine. Dealing with human lives, the unpredictability of calls and working under pressure are the main sources of stress, causing, in some of them, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety and intrusive thoughts. Road accidents, situations involving children and cardiac arrest are the most distressing events. During events, they cope focusing on technical procedures, but after them they prefer to talk with colleagues and seek support from family and friends. All participants emphasize the inexistence of structured support measures.

Practical implications

It is important to develop support measures tailored to ambulance personnel’s needs, leading to enhancements of theirs work performance, health and well-being.

Originality/value

Contrarily to most of the studies that explore mostly PTSD and/or burnout, the authors explored, from the perspective of professionals, other dimensions such as sources of stress, coping strategies and support measures, adopting a qualitative approach, which has been rarely used.
The lived experience of toxic leadership in Irish higher education
Authors: Fahie Declan
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reveal the lived experience of toxic leadership for a cohort of 11 individuals who work, or have worked, in the field of higher education in Ireland. Drawing on national and international literature, as well as the testimonies of a cohort of academic and administrative staff, the study considers the impact of this negative management style on these individuals as well as upon the organisation itself.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 11 self-selected individuals (four males and seven females) were interviewed for this pilot study. Data from the semi-structured interviews were organised thematically and analysed with the support of the computer software package MAXQDA®.

Findings

The results show that the experience of toxic leadership was profound for the interviewees across a number of contexts. They reported adverse physical and psychological impacts as well as detailing the repercussions for their respective career trajectories as they endeavoured to safely navigate their often-hostile work environment. Human resources departments within their respective institutions were the focus of considerable criticism by the interviewees who highlighted, what they saw as, the inherent contradiction/tension between the perceived roles and responsibilities of such departments in addressing or resolving interpersonal work-related disputes.

Originality/value

The findings expand on the extant scholarly literature on toxic leadership in higher education and, for the first time, offer a revealing insight on this phenomenon within the Irish context.
The role of the predictive gamification to increase the sales performance: a novel business approach
Authors: Rocha Elenise Martins , Pereira Giancarlo Medeiros , Pacheco Diego Augusto de Jesus
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of predictive gamification, through a sales simulator game, as a strategy to minimize sales problems in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study was executed in a large global company that produces and markets footwear for B2B and B2C markets. The company operates in more than 18 countries and adopts the gamification to train 7,600 sellers and 10,052 professionals directly linked to the sales area. The methodology adopted followed a qualitative and exploratory approach based on an in-depth case study analysis.

Findings

Results indicated that the use of predictive gamification allowed mitigating future problems, in average, four months in advance of the arrival of the new products at the points of sale. The main findings included improvement in sales arguments, product knowledge and sales closure. The company assigns the results to the implementation of the gamification and the possibility to simulate the evaluation of the level of readiness of the sales force resources. For this, the following three primary variables emerged: adequate definition of training content, analysis of the learning process and simulation of store reality.

Research limitations/implications

The authors introduced to the sales training literature the concept of predictive gamification. The predictive gamification allows anticipating and reducing future problems before the arrival of the new products in the market, improving the argument of sales, the knowledge about the products and the ratio of sales conversion of stores.

Practical implications

First, the content design of gamification needs to be carefully projected before the simulator development, considering the target audience and its particularities. Second, the construction of evaluation activities needs to consider contexts, actions and results. Third, monitoring the paths taken by the seller in the simulator environment is requisite. Fourth, the analysis of the results of vendor responses in the simulator environment can be obtained through learning management system reports. Fifth, the development of game simulators with advanced technologies may be done with low investment.

Originality/value

The findings have implications for the field vis-à-vis three main research gaps identified in the literature discussing gamification in sales training. First, the authors identified best practices from the application of gamification in sales training. Second, they showed the sales qualification processes, which can be improved by applying gamification. Third, they presented strategies of use of gamification as an approach allied to the training of sales professionals to generate enhanced sales results.
Medical imaging as a taphonomic tool
Authors: Profico Antonio , Tafuri Mary Anne , Di Vincenzo Fabio , Ricci Francesca , Ottini Laura , Ventura Luca , Fornaciari Gino , Di Lernia Savino , Manzi Giorgio
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Medical imaging applied to archaeological human remains represents a powerful tool for the study of specimens of exceptionally fragile nature. Here, the authors report a tomographic computerized investigation on the naturally mummified human remains from the Takarkori rock shelter (Libyan Sahara), dated to the Middle Pastoral Neolithic (ca. 6100-5600 uncal BP). The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Medical radiological techniques allowed us to discriminate and isolate the tissues preserved thanks to their different electron density, driving us to detailed examinations of features of interest.

Findings

With a focus on anatomy and taphonomy, the authors infer on post-depositional phenomena in a way that could not be achieved through traditional approaches.

Originality/value

The investigation of digital data allows to acquire new sets of information with no risk for the original object. This case study is especially important considering that the human remains from Takarkori are currently not available to the scientific community due to political instability in Lybia.