bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REM Sleep and Total Sleep Time Improvement After Routine Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Active Duty Service Members With Depression
Authors: Hines Christopher E. , Mooney Scott , DeAngelo Alan , Bartocci Angelo
Published: May 2021

Objectives

The prevalence of depression and insomnia in the military are substantial. Several transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) studies have used self-report sleep data as secondary research outcomes; however, there are limited studies using the gold standard of polysomnography (PSG) to ascertain actual sleep changes. Here, we provide data from a pilot and feasibility study using PSG to measure sleep changes after repetitive TMS.

Methods

Thirty-eight active duty service members (ADSM) were consented, of which 20 completed the study. The ADSM who met study criteria where sent for an initial PSG and completed baseline self-report measures. They then completed a standard course of TMS, and self-report measures were completed every fifth session. After TMS completion, ADSM underwent final PSG.

Results

Comparison of baseline and postintervention PSG sleep parameters highlight that total rapid eye movement sleep improved after a course of TMS, regardless of improvements in depression. Total sleep time also improved, but only in the TMS responders subgroup. The Public Health Questionnaire-9 showed statistically significant improvement as did the Insomnia Severity Index and some components of the RAND Medical Outcomes Short Form 36.

Conclusion

Our small study confirms the feasibility of obtaining pre and post PSG for research purposes. We found similar results to previous studies with regard to depression improvement and self-reported sleep. Interestingly, almost all (including electroconvulsive therapy) somatic depression treatments have been shown to decrease REM, whereas our study found an increase in REM. Overall, this study helps further our understanding of TMS effects on sleep and presents new questions for potential larger follow-on studies.
On nanoparticles, paraphyly, inventions, yeasts and diarrhea
Authors: Lachance Marc-André
Published: May 2021

Citations do not always guarantee that a paper aroused interest in the citing author(s).
Maladaptive Self-Focused Attention and Default Mode Network Connectivity: A Transdiagnostic Investigation Across Social Anxiety and Body Dysmorphic Disorders
Authors: Fang Angela , Baran Bengi , Beatty Clare C. , Mosley Jennifer , Feusner Jamie D. , Phan K. Luan , Wilhelm Sabine , Manoach Dara S.
Published: May 2021

Background

Maladaptive self-focused attention (SFA) is a bias toward internal thoughts, feelings, and physical states. Despite its role as a core maintaining factor of symptoms in cognitive theories of social anxiety and body dysmorphic disorders, studies have not examined its neural basis. We hypothesized that maladaptive SFA would be associated with hyperconnectivity in the default mode network (DMN) in self-focused patients with these disorders.

Methods

Thirty patients and 28 healthy individuals were eligible and scanned. Eligibility was determined by scoring greater than 1SD or below 1SD of the Public Self-Consciousness Scale normative mean, respectively, for each group. Fifteen patients had primary social anxiety disorder and 15 had primary body dysmorphic disorder. Seed-to-voxel functional connectivity was computed using a DMN posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) seed.

Results

Patients (regardless of diagnosis) showed reduced functional connectivity of the PCC with several brain regions, including the bilateral superior parietal lobule (SPL), bilateral insula, cingulate cortex, and postcentral gyrus, compared to controls. PCC-SPL connectivity was inversely correlated with maladaptive SFA in patients but was not associated with social anxiety or body dysmorphic symptom severity, depression severity, or rumination. There was no evidence of increased functional connectivity within the DMN in patients compared to controls.

Conclusions

As the SPL is part of the dorsal attention network, which is typically activated during tasks requiring externally-oriented attention, abnormal PCC-SPL connectivity in patients may reflect difficulty shifting between internal versus external attention, and may represent a transdiagnostic neural marker of maladaptive SFA that could be targeted in interventions.

Clinical Trials Registration

ClinicalTrials.govIdentifier:NCT02808702https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02808702
Vaccine-Hesitant Parents’ Considerations Regarding Covid-19 Vaccination of Adolescents
Authors: Atad Erga , Netzer Itamar , Peleg Orr , Landsman Keren , Dalyot Keren , Reuven Shanny Edan , Baram-Tsabari Ayelet
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Israel led a rapid vaccine rollout against COVID-19, leading to a local remission of the epidemic and rolling back of most public health measures. Further vaccination of 12-15-year-olds may be hindered by public perceptions of the necessity and safety of vaccination.

Methods

we examined the considerations of vaccine hesitant parents (VHPs) regarding vaccination of children against COVID-19. The responses of 456 parents were surveyed and analyzed before FDA authorization of vaccination of children.

Results

parents who were vaccinated against COVID-19 were more likely to intend to vaccinate their children (r=-0.466, p<0.01). Low accessibility of vaccination may be a dissuading factor for VHPs more inclined to vaccinate. Vaccine efficacy and gaining a “Green Pass” were positively associated with an intention to vaccinate and statistically significant. VHPs inclined not to vaccinate indicated short development time and possible long term effects as dissuading factors.

Discussion

vaccine promotion should be tailored for VHP’s positive and negative considerations for higher uptake.
Dispersed Sleep Microstates and Associated Structural Changes in GBA1 Mouse: Relevance to Rapid Eye Movement Behavior Disorder
Authors: Gelegen Cigdem , Cash Diana , Ilic Katarina , Sander Millie , Kim Eugene , Simmons Camilla , Bernanos Michel , Lama Joana , Randall Karen , Brown Jonathan T. , Kalanj-Bognar Svjetlana , Cooke Samuel , Chaudhuri K Ray , Ballard Clive , Francis Paul , Rosenzweig Ivana
Published: May 2021

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behaviour disorder (RBD) is a rare parasomnia that may predict the later occurrence of alpha-synucleinopathies. Variants in the gene encoding for the lysosomal enzyme glucocerebrosidase, GBA, strongly increase the risk of RBD. In a GBA1-mouse model recently shown to mimic prodromal stages of α-synucleinopathy, we now demonstrate striking REM and NREM sleep abnormalities accompanied by distinct structural changes in the more widespread sleep neurocircuitry.
An introduction to predictive distribution modelling for conservation to encourage novel perspectives
Authors: MacPherson M.P. , Burgio K.R. , DeSaix M.G. , Freeman B.G. , Herbert J. , Herman R. , Jirinec V. , Shonfield J. , Slager D.L. , van Rees C.B. , Jankowski J.E.
Published: May 2021

An introduction to predictive distribution modelling for conservation to encourage novel perspectives.The rapid pace and potentially irreversible consequences of global change create an urgent need to predict the spatial responses of biota for conservation to better inform the prioritization and management of terrestrial habitats and prevent future extinctions. Here, we provide an accessible entry point to the field to guide near-future work building predictive species distribution models (SDMs) by synthesizing a technical framework for the proactive conservation of avian biodiversity. Our framework offers a useful approach to navigate the challenges surrounding the large spatio-temporal resolution of datasets and datasets that favor hypothesis testing at broad spatio-temporal scales and coarse resolutions, which can affect our ability to assess the validity of current predicted distributions. We explain how to improve the accuracy of predictive models by determining the extent to which: 1) dispersal limitation impacts the rate of range shifts, 2) taxa are rare at their range limits, and 3) land use and climate change interact. Finally, we offer approaches to filling knowledge gaps by creatively leveraging existing methods and data sources.

Una introducción a la modelización predictiva de la distribución para la conservación con el fin de fomentar nuevas perspectivas. El rápido ritmo y las consecuencias potencialmente irreversibles del cambio global crean una necesidad urgente de predecir las respuestas espaciales de la biota para la conservación, con el fin de informar mejor la priorización y gestión de los hábitats terrestres y prevenir futuras extinciones. Aquí proporcionamos un punto de entrada accesible al campo para guiar el trabajo del futuro próximo en la construcción de modelos predictivos de distribución de especies (SDM), sintetizando un marco técnico para la conservación proactiva de la biodiversidad aviar. Nuestro marco ofrece un enfoque útil para navegar por los retos que rodean a la gran resolución espacio-temporal de los conjuntos de datos y a los conjuntos de datos que favorecen la comprobación de hipótesis a escalas espacio-temporales amplias y resoluciones gruesas, lo que puede afectar a nuestra capacidad para evaluar la validez de las distribuciones predichas actuales. Explicamos cómo mejorar la precisión de los modelos predictivos determinando hasta qué punto 1) la limitación de la dispersión influye en el ritmo de los cambios de área de distribución, 2) los taxones son raros en los límites de su área de distribución, y 3) el uso del suelo y el cambio climático interactúan. Por último, proponemos enfoques para colmar las lagunas de conocimiento aprovechando de forma creativa los métodos y fuentes de datos existentes.
Optimal dimensionality selection for independent component analysis of transcriptomic data
Authors: McConn John Luke , Lamoureux Cameron R. , Poudel Saugat , Palsson Bernhard O. , Sastry Anand V.
Published: May 2021

Independent Component Analysis (ICA) is an unsupervised machine learning algorithm that separates a set of mixed signals into a set of statistically independent source signals. Applied to high-quality gene expression datasets, ICA effectively reveals the source signals of the transcriptome as groups of co-regulated genes and their corresponding activities across diverse growth conditions. Two major variables that affect the output of ICA are the diversity and scope of the underlying data, and the user-defined number of independent components, or dimensionality, to compute. Availability of high-quality transcriptomic datasets has grown exponentially as high-throughput technologies have advanced; however, optimal dimensionality selection remains an open question. Here, we introduce a new method, called OptICA, for effectively finding the optimal dimensionality that consistently maximizes the number of biologically relevant components revealed while minimizing the potential for over-decomposition. We show that OptICA outperforms two previously proposed methods for selecting the number of independent components across four transcriptomic databases of varying sizes. OptICA avoids both over-decomposition and under-decomposition of transcriptomic datasets resulting in the best representation of the organism’s underlying transcriptional regulatory network.
Automatic Consistency Assurance for Literature-based Gene Ontology Annotation
Authors: Chen Jiyu , Geard Nicholas , Zobel Justin , Verspoor Karin
Published: May 2021

Background

Literature-based gene ontology (GO) annotation is a process where expert curators use uniform expressions to describe gene functions reported in research papers, creating computable representations of information about biological systems. Manual assurance of consistency between GO annotations and the associated evidence texts identified by expert curators is reliable but time-consuming, and is infeasible in the context of rapidly growing biological literature. A key challenge is maintaining consistency of existing GO annotations as new studies are published and the GO vocabulary is updated.

Method

In this work, we introduce a formalisation of biological database annotation inconsistencies, identifying four distinct types of inconsistency. We propose a novel and efficient method using state-of-the-art text mining models to automatically distinguish between consistent GO annotation and the different types of inconsistent GO annotation. We evaluate this method using a synthetic dataset generated by directed manipulation of instances in an existing corpus, BC4GO.

Results and Conclusion

Two models built using our method for distinct annotation consistency identification tasks achieved high precision and were robust to updates in the GO vocabulary. We provide detailed error analysis for demonstrating that the method achieves high precision on more confident predictions. Our approach demonstrates clear value for human-in-the-loop curation scenarios.

Data availability

The synthetic dataset, and the code for generating it are available at https://github.com/jiyuc/BioConsistency.
The type 3 secretion system requires actin polymerization to open translocon pores
Authors: Russo Brian C. , Duncan-Lowey Jeffrey K. , Chen Poyin , Goldberg Marcia B.
Published: May 2021

Many bacterial pathogens require a type 3 secretion system (T3SS) to establish a niche. Host contact activates bacterial T3SS assembly of a translocon pore in the host plasma membrane. Following pore formation, the T3SS docks onto the translocon pore. Docking establishes a continuous passage that enables the translocation of virulence proteins, effectors, into the host cytosol. Here we investigate the contribution of actin polymerization to T3SS-mediated translocation. Using the T3SS model organism Shigella flexneri, we show that actin polymerization is required for assembling the translocon pore in an open conformation, thereby enabling effector translocation. Opening of the pore channel is associated with a conformational change to the pore, which is dependent upon actin polymerization and a coiled-coil domain in the pore protein IpaC. An IpaC mutant is identified that shows actin polymerization-dependent pore opening is distinct from the previously described actin polymerization-dependent ruffles that are required for bacterial internalization. Moreover, actin polymerization is not required for other pore functions, including docking or pore protein insertion into the plasma membrane. Thus, activation of the T3SS is a multilayered process in which host signals are sensed by the translocon pore leading to the activation of effector translocation.

Significance Statement

The type 3 secretion system (T3SS) is required for the virulence of a variety of bacteria that infect humans. The T3SS forms in the host cell membrane a pore that is the conduit for delivering virulence proteins into the cell. Here, we demonstrate that actin polymerization is necessary to convert pores into an open conformation that is competent for virulence protein delivery. We find that activation of type 3 secretion proceeds in a multistep process whereby bacteria dock onto the translocon pore and then activate secretion and delivery of virulence proteins.
Complex and long-range linkage disequilibrium and its relationship with QTL for Marek’s Disease resistance in chicken populations
Authors: Lipkin Ehud , Fulton Janet E. , Smith Jacqueline , Burt David W. , Soller Morris
Published: May 2021

Chicken long-range linkage disequilibrium (LRLD) and LD blocks, and their relationship with previously described Marek’s Disease (MD) quantitative trait loci regions (QTLRs), were studied in an F6 population from a full-sib advanced intercross line (FSAIL), and in eight commercial pure layer lines. Genome wide LRLD was studied in the F6 population by random samples of non-syntenic and syntenic marker pairs genotyped by Affymetrix HD 600K SNP array. To illustrate the relationship with QTLRs, LRLD and LD blocks in and between the MD QTLRs were studied by all possible marker pairs of all array markers in the QTLRs, using the same F6 QTLR genotypes and genotypes of the QTLR elements’ markers in the eight lines used in the MD mapping study. LRLD was defined as r2 ≥ 0.7 over a distance ≥ 1 Mb, and 1.5% of all syntenic marker pairs were classified as LRLD. Complex fragmented and interdigitated LD blocks were found, over distances ranging from a few hundred to a few million bases. Vast high, long-range, and complex LD was found between two of the MD QTLRs. Cross QTLRs STRING networks and gene interactions suggested possible origins of this exceptional QTLRs’ LD. Thus, causative mutations can be located at a much larger distance from a significant marker than previously appreciated. LRLD range and LD block complexity may be used to identify mapping errors, and should be accounted for while interpreting genetic mapping studies. All sites with high LD with a significant marker should be considered as candidate for the causative mutation.
EEG and behavioral correlates of attentional processing while walking and navigating naturalistic environments
Authors: Liebherr Magnus , Corcoran Andrew W. , Alday Phillip M. , Coussens Scott , Bellan Valeria , Howlett Caitlin A. , Immink Maarten A. , Kohler Mark , Schlesewsky Matthias , Bornkessel-Schlesewsky Ina
Published: May 2021

The capacity to regulate one’s attention in accordance with fluctuating task demands and environmental contexts is an essential feature of adaptive behavior. Although the electrophysiological correlates of attentional processing have been extensively studied in the laboratory, relatively little is known about the way they unfold under more variable, ecologically-valid conditions. Accordingly, this study employed a ‘real-world’ EEG design to investigate how attentional processing varies under increasing cognitive, motor, and environmental demands. Forty-four participants were exposed to an auditory oddball task while (1) sitting in a quiet room inside the lab, (2) walking around a sports field, and (3) wayfinding across a university campus. In each condition, participants were instructed to either count or ignore oddball stimuli. While behavioral performance was similar across the lab and field conditions, oddball count accuracy was significantly reduced in the campus condition. Moreover, event-related potential components (mismatch negativity and P3) elicited in both ‘real-world’ settings differed significantly from those obtained under laboratory conditions. These findings demonstrate the impact of environmental factors on attentional processing during simultaneously-performed motor and cognitive tasks, highlighting the value of incorporating dynamic and unpredictable contexts within naturalistic designs.
Longitudinal dynamics of clonal hematopoiesis identifies gene-specific fitness effects
Authors: Robertson Neil A. , Latorre-Crespo Eric , Terradas-Terradas Maria , Purcell Alison C. , Livesey Benjamin J , Marsh Joseph A. , Murphy Lee , Fawkes Angie , MacGillivray Louise , Copland Mhairi , Marioni Riccardo E. , Harris Sarah E. , Cox Simon R. , Deary Ian J. , Schumacher Linus J. , Kirschner Kristina , Chandra Tamir
Published: May 2021

The prevalence of clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) in healthy individuals increases rapidly from age 60 onwards and has been associated with increased risk for malignancy, heart disease and ischemic stroke. CHIP is driven by somatic mutations in stem cells that are also drivers of myeloid malignancies. Since mutations in stem cells often drive leukaemia, we hypothesised that stem cell fitness substantially contributes to transformation from CHIP to leukaemia. Stem cell fitness is defined as the proliferative advantage over cells carrying no or only neutral mutations. It is currently unknown whether mutations in different CHIP genes lead to distinct fitness advantages that could form the basis for patient stratification. We set out to quantify the fitness effects of CHIP drivers over a 12 year timespan in older age, using longitudinal error-corrected sequencing data. We developed a new method based on drift-induced fluctuation (DIF) filtering to extract fitness effects from longitudinal data, and thus quantify the growth potential of variants within each individual. Our approach discriminates naturally drifting populations of cells and faster growing clones, while taking into account individual mutational context. We show that gene-specific fitness differences can outweigh inter-individual variation and therefore could form the basis for personalised clinical management.
AURKB/Ipl1 restarts replication forks to recover from replication stress
Authors: Moran Erin , Pfister Katherine , Sathyan Kizhakke Mattada , Vignero Brianne , Burke Daniel J. , Stukenberg P. Todd
Published: May 2021

Aurora kinase B (AURKB in human, Ipl1 inS. cerevisiae) is a master regulator of mitosis and its dysregulation has been implicated in chromosome instability. AURKB accumulates in the nucleus in S-phase and is regulated by CHK1 but has not been implicated in in the DNA Damage Response (DDR). Here we show that AURKB has a conserved role to recover from replication stress and restart replication forks. Active AURKB is localized to replication forks after a prolonged arrest. CHK1 phosphorylation of AURKB induces activating phosphorylation of PLK1 and both Aurora and Plk1 are required to deactivate the DDR. Clinical trials with AURKB inhibitors are designed to target established roles for AURKB in mitosis. Our data suggest combinations of AURKB inhibitors and DNA damaging agents could be of therapeutic importance.
Tissue homeostasis and adaptation to immune challenge resolved by fibroblast network mechanics
Authors: Horsnell Harry L. , Tetley Robert J. , De Belly Henry , Makris Spyridon , Millward Lindsey J. , Benjamin Agnesska C. , de Winde Charlotte M , Paluch Ewa K. , Mao Yanlan , Acton Sophie E.
Published: May 2021

Emergent physical properties of tissues are not readily understood by reductionist studies of their constituent cells. Here, we show molecular signals controlling cellular physical properties, collectively determining tissue mechanics of lymph nodes, an immunologically-relevant, adult mammalian tissue. Lymph nodes paradoxically maintain robust tissue architecture in homeostasis yet are continually poised for extensive tissue expansion upon immune challenge. We find that following immune challenge, cytoskeletal mechanics of a cellular meshwork of fibroblasts determine tissue tension independently of extracellular matrix scaffolds. We determine that CLEC-2/podoplanin signalling regulates the cell surface mechanics of fibroblasts, permitting cell elongation and interdigitation through expedited access to plasma membrane reservoirs. Increased tissue tension through the stromal meshwork gates the initiation of fibroblast proliferation, restoring homeostatic cellular ratios and tissue structure through expansion.
Molecular Systems Predict Equilibrium Distributions of Phenotype Diversity Available for Selection
Authors: Valderrama-Gómez Miguel A. , Savageau Michael A.
Published: May 2021

Two long standing challenges in theoretical population genetics and evolution are predicting the distribution of phenotype diversity generated by mutation and available for selection and determining the interaction of mutation, selection, and drift to characterize evolutionary equilibria and dynamics. More fundamental for enabling such predictions is the current inability to causally link population genetic parameters, selection and mutation, to the underlying molecular parameters, kinetic and thermodynamic. Such predictions would also have implications for understanding cryptic genetic variation and the role of phenotypic robustness.

Here we provide a new theoretical framework for addressing these challenges. It is built on Systems Design Space methods that relate system phenotypes to genetically-determined parameters and environmentally-determined variables. These methods, based on the foundation of biochemical kinetics and the deconstruction of complex systems into rigorously defined biochemical phenotypes, provide several innovations that automate (1) enumeration of the phenotypic repertoire without knowledge of kinetic parameter values, (2) representation of phenotypic regions and their relationships in a System Design Space, and (3) prediction of values for kinetic parameters, concentrations, fluxes and global tolerances for each phenotype.

We now show that these methods also automate prediction of phenotype-specific mutation rate constants and equilibrium distributions of phenotype diversity in populations undergoing steady-state exponential growth. We introduce this theoretical framework in the context of a case study involving a small molecular system, a primordial circadian clock, compare and contrast this framework with other approaches in theoretical population genetics, and discuss experimental challenges for testing predictions.
Distinct threat and valence signals in rat nucleus accumbens core
Authors: Ray Madelyn H. , Moaddab Mahsa , McDannald Michael A.
Published: May 2021

Appropriate responding to threat and reward is essential to survival. The nucleus accumbens core (NAcc) is known to support and organize reward behavior. More recently our laboratory has shown the NAcc is necessary to discriminate cues for threat and safety. To directly reveal NAcc threat responding, we recorded single-unit activity from 7 female rats undergoing Pavlovian fear discrimination. Rats fully discriminated cues for danger, uncertainty, and safety. Demonstrating direct threat responding, most NAcc neurons showed greatest firing changes to danger and uncertainty. Heterogeneity in cue and reward firing led to the detection of multiple, functional populations. One NAcc population specifically decreased firing to threat (danger and uncertainty). A separate population bi-directionally signaled valence through firing decreases to negative valence events (danger and uncertainty) and opposing firing increases to positive valence events (reward and safety onset). The findings point to the NAcc as a neural source of threat information and a more general valence hub.
Unbiased screen of human transcriptome reveals an unexpected role of 3′UTRs in translation initiation
Authors: Yang Yun , Fan Xiaojuan , Ye Yanwen , Chen Chuyun , Ludwig Sebastian E.J. , Zhang Sirui , Lu Qianyun , Will Cindy L. , Urlaub Henning , Sun Jing , Lührmann Reinhard , Wang Zefeng
Published: May 2021

Although most eukaryotic mRNAs require a 5′-cap for translation initiation, some can also be translated through a poorly studied cap-independent pathway. Here we developed a circRNA-based system and unbiasedly identified more than 10,000 sequences in the human transcriptome that contain Cap-independent Translation Initiators (CiTIs). Surprisingly, most of the identified CiTIs are located in 3′UTRs, which mainly promote translation initiation in mRNAs bearing highly structured 5′UTR. Mechanistically, CiTI recruits several translation initiation factors including eIF3 and DHX29, which in turn unwind 5′UTR structures and facilitate ribosome scanning. Functionally, we showed that the translation of HIF1A mRNA, an endogenous DHX29 target, is antagonistically regulated by its 5′UTR structure and a new 3′-CiTI in response to hypoxia. Therefore, deletion of 3′-CiTI suppresses cell growth in hypoxia and tumor progression in vivo. Collectively, our study uncovers a new regulatory mode for translation where the 3′UTR actively participate in the translation initiation.
Individual expression of hepatitis A virus 3C protease induces ferroptosis in human cellsin vitro
Authors: Komissarov Alexey A. , Karaseva Maria A. , Roschina Marina P. , Shubin Andrey V. , Lunina Nataliya A. , Kostrov Sergey V. , Demidyuk Ilya V.
Published: May 2021

Regulated cell death (RCD) is a fundamental process common to nearly all living beings and essential for the development and tissue homeostasis in animals and humans. A wide range of molecules can induce RCD including a number of viral proteolytic enzymes. To date, numerous data indicate that picornaviral 3C proteases can induce RCD. In most reported cases, these proteases induce classical caspase-dependent apoptosis. In contrast, the human hepatitis A virus 3C protease (3Cpro) has recently been shown to cause caspase-independent cell death accompanied by previously undescribed features. Here, we describe the 3Cpro effect on human cellsin vitroand demonstrate that the enzyme induces ferroptosis which is mediated by iron ions and cause oxidative stress in the cells. This is the first demonstration that proteolytic enzyme can induce ferroptosis, the recently discovered and actively studied type of RCD.
A novel method to obtain integral parameters of the orientation distribution function of textured polycrystals from wavelength-resolved neutron transmission spectra
Authors: Vicente Alvarez Miguel Angel , Laliena Victor , Malamud Florencia , Campo Javier , Santisteban Javier
Published: May 2021

A novel method to estimate integral parameters of the orientation distribution function (ODF) in textured polycrystals from the wavelength-resolved neutron transmission is presented. It is based on the expression of the total coherent elastic cross section as a function of the Fourier coefficients of the ODF. This method is broken down in detail for obtaining Kearns factors in hexagonal crystals, and other material properties that depend on the average of second- and fourth-rank tensors. The robustness of the method against three situations was analyzed: effects of sample misalignment, of cutoff value l
max of the series expansion and of experimental standard deviation. While sample misalignment is shown not to be critical for the determination of Kearns factors and second-order-rank properties, it can be critical for fourth-rank and higher-order tensor properties. The effect of the cutoff value on the method robustness is correlated to the standard deviation of the experimental data. In order to achieve a good estimation of the Fourier coefficients, it is recommended that the experimental standard deviation be around 3–5% of the total scattering cross section of the material for the method to be stable. The method was applied for the determination of Kearns factors from transmission measurements performed at the instrument ENGIN-X (ISIS) on a Zr–2.5 Nb pressure tube along two sample directions and was shown to be able to estimate Kearns factors with an error below 5%.
Crystallographic analysis of the lattice metric (CALM) from single electron backscatter diffraction or transmission Kikuchi diffraction patterns
Authors: Nolze Gert , Tokarski Tomasz , Rychłowski Łukasz , Cios Grzegorz , Winkelmann Aimo
Published: May 2021

A new software is presented for the determination of crystal lattice parameters from the positions and widths of Kikuchi bands in a diffraction pattern. Starting with a single wide-angle Kikuchi pattern of arbitrary resolution and unknown phase, the traces of all visibly diffracting lattice planes are manually derived from four initial Kikuchi band traces via an intuitive graphical user interface. A single Kikuchi bandwidth is then used as reference to scale all reciprocal lattice point distances. Kikuchi band detection, via a filtered Funk transformation, and simultaneous display of the band intensity profile helps users to select band positions and widths. Bandwidths are calculated using the first derivative of the band profiles as excess-deficiency effects have minimal influence. From the reciprocal lattice, the metrics of possible Bravais lattice types are derived for all crystal systems. The measured lattice parameters achieve a precision of <1%, even for good quality Kikuchi diffraction patterns of 400 × 300 pixels. This band-edge detection approach has been validated on several hundred experimental diffraction patterns from phases of different symmetries and random orientations. It produces a systematic lattice parameter offset of up to ±4%, which appears to scale with the mean atomic number or the backscatter coefficient.
Crystal structure and photoreactive behaviour of N,N-diisopropyl(p-phenylphenyl)glyoxylamide
Authors: Miyamoto Hisakazu , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: May 2021

The title compound [systematic name: 2-([1,1′-biphenyl]-4-yl)-2-oxo-N,N-bis(propan-2-yl)acetamide], C20H23NO2 was synthesized and its photoreactive properties in the crystalline state and in acetonitrile solution were investigated. The compound crystallizes in the chiral space group P212121. The crystal does not react under UV light irradiation, perhaps due to the presence of the biphenyl group. However, the compound is photoreactive in acetonitrile solution to give racemic 3-(p-phenylphenyl)-3-hydroxy-N-isopropyl-4,4-dimethylazetidin-2-one.
Methyl 2-(3-chloro-2-methylanilino)pyridine-3-carboxylate
Authors: Yang Xing , Long Sihui
Published: May 2021

The title compound, C14H13ClN2O2, was obtained during an attempt to grow single crystals of 4-acetylphenyl 2-[(3-chloro-2-methylphenyl)amino]nicotinate in methanol, and was probably generated by alcoholysis. Two intramolecular hydrogen bonds are formed, one between the N—H group and the carbonyl O atom of the ester and the other between the ortho sp
2CH group of the benzene ring and the pyridine N atom. Aromatic π–π stacking [shortest centroid–centroid separation = 3.598 (2) Å] is observed in the extended structure.
Sustainable electronic human resource management systems and firm performance: an empirical study
Authors: Bag Surajit , Dhamija Pavitra , Pretorius Jan Harm Christiaan , Chowdhury Abdul Hannan , Giannakis Mihalis
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The authors aim to investigate whether ability electronic human resource management (e-HRM) practices, opportunity enhancing e-HRM practices and motivation enhancing e-HRM can possibly lead to development of sustainable e-HRM systems. Finally, the authors also examined if sustainable e-HRM systems can enhance firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was developed using dynamic capability view perspective. The study tests theoretical model and presents findings by analysing data (partial least squares structural equation modelling method) gathered from 151 South African firms.

Findings

The findings indicate that ability enhancing e-HRM practices and motivation enhancing e-HRM practices can result in development of sustainable e-HRM systems, and findings also indicate that sustainable e-HRM systems can improve firm performance.

Practical implications

Emphasis is required on ability enhancing e-HRM practices and motivation enhancing e-HRM practices to develop sustainable e-HRM systems. Once workforce understand the complete benefits of e-HRM, they will start using this system on a regular basis for activities including goal setting, and performance measurement. The development of sustainable e-HRM systems will improve firm performance especially from cost control and customer satisfaction perspective.

Originality/value

This study advances the conceptual debate in the e-HRM domain through the development and testing of theoretical model.
Financial efficiency of commercial banks listed in Egyptian stock exchange using data envelopment analysis
Authors: Kamel Mahmoud Abdelrahman , Mousa Mohamed El-Sayed , Hamdy Randa Mohamed
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study used data envelopment analysis (DEA) models to measure financial efficiency of twelve commercial banks listed in the Egyptian stock exchange (CBLSE), along with evaluating changes to the financial efficiency during the period 2017–2019.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used BCC-I, cross-efficiency, super-efficiency models, and Malmquist productivity index (MPI) to assess financial efficiency of the examined banks. The available data from both inputs and outputs were analyzed using R. studio V.I.3. 1056 software.

Findings

Out of twelve banks examined, only four banks were efficient under BCC-I model over different years of the study period; however, only one bank (CIB) appeared to be the most efficient compared to other peers in the study sample. Moreover, MPI results revealed decreased financial efficiency during the study period, due to the decreased technological innovation, except for HDB. Tobit regression results confirmed that total assets and total equity are significant factors impacted financial efficiency of CBLSE.

Practical implications

This study sheds light on the importance of evaluating financial efficiency of CBLSE to all stakeholders, to pinpoint weaknesses in banks' performance, and for evaluating financial policies and investment decisions.

Originality/value

Several studies sought to implement different models of DEA to assess banking performance in different regions of the world, but very few studies examined financial efficiency of banks. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is one of those few that addressed financial efficiency of banks in Egypt.
The Airbnb effect on areas subject to urban renewal in Valencia (Spain)
Authors: García-Amaya Alicia María , Temes-Cordovez Rafael , Simancas-Cruz Moisés , Peñarrubia-Zaragoza María Pilar
Published: May 2021

Purpose

In the past decade, urban tourism has increased worldwide as a result of the development of peer-to-peer (P2P) accommodation platforms such as Airbnb, causing a major disruption to the tourism industry and urban space. The expansion of tourist accommodation in cities has motivated many governments to act, to control its effects and reduce conflicts between tourists and residents. The purpose of this paper is to identify the attractions that have motivated the concentration of P2P accommodation and its effects in specific areas of Valencia different from the historical centre: the Russafa and El Cabanyal-Canyamelar neighbourhoods.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used includes fieldwork and spatial analysis of factors such as the housing market, tourist attractions, local businesses and urban renewal policies.

Findings

The current spatial distribution pattern of tourist housing in Valencia is the result of the convergence of various factors: the initial presence of tourists in some areas; the evolution of certain aspects of the neighbourhood due to urban renewal; the concentration of tourist and leisure activities; the effects of the legal framework

Originality/value

Many researchers have addressed the effects of rising short-term rentals (STRs) in cities, but the causes of their concentration in specific neighbourhoods different from historical centres have not yet been sufficiently investigated. This research looks in depth at the urban causes and effects of the spatial distribution of tourist housing in Valencia, to anticipate possible future concentrations of STRs in other areas and to avoid gentrification. The methodology and results could be applied to other cities. The research implies a detailed and analysis of different aspects that act simultaneously such as the housing market, the evolution of the population and changes in the business.
Analysis of Barcelona’s tourist landscape as projected in tourism promotional videos
Authors: Georgescu Paquin Alexandra , Cerdan Schwitzguébel Aurélie
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the tourist landscape as represented in Turisme de Barcelona’s YouTube tourism promotional videos, looking at the landscape’s tangible locations, symbolic and tourist assets and the protagonists in an effort to interpret its storytelling in an overtourism context.

Design/methodology/approach

The mixed methodology is based on a visual content analysis of promotional videos posted on the official Barcelona tourism YouTube channel. Quantitative data analysis about the assets and their localization was completed with a qualitative assessment of the way these assets are displayed to unveil the narrative they convey.

Findings

The results highlight that Barcelona’s projected image is mainly based on tangible heritage (especially monuments), its recognizable cityscape and its eno-gastronomic assets. This rather conventional image is geographically concentrated on the neighborhoods perceived as tourist neighborhoods.

Practical implications

This analysis provides a critical reflection of the actual strategy of destination management organizations and the storytelling they transmit. The findings can help to orientate their future actions and provide a method of analysis that can be repeated for other destinations.

Originality/value

This paper sheds new light on the use of urban landscapes in nonstatic images both as a narrative subject and as a tangible tourist space in promotional discourse.
“Let's keep this video as real as possible”: young video bloggers constructing cognitive authority through a health-related information creation process
Authors: Multas Anna-Maija , Hirvonen Noora
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study examines the information literacy practices of young video bloggers, focusing on the ways in which they construct their cognitive authority through a health-related information creation process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws upon socially oriented information literacy research and nexus analysis as its methodological framework. Data, including YouTube videos, theme interviews and video diaries, were collected with three Finnish video bloggers and qualitatively analysed using nexus analytical concepts to describe the central elements of social action.

Findings

The study shows that video bloggers employ several information practices during the information creation process, including planning, information-seeking, organization, editing and presentation of information. They construct their cognitive authority in relation to their anticipated audience by grounding it on different types of information: experience-based, embodied and scientific. Trustworthiness, emphasized with authenticity and genuineness, and competence, based on experience, expertise and second-hand information, were recognized as key components of credibility in this context.

Originality/value

This study increases the understanding of the complex ways in which young people create information on social media and influence their audiences. The study contributes to information literacy research by offering insights into the under-researched area of information creation. It is among the few studies to examine cognitive authority construction in the information creation process. The notion of authority as constructed through trustworthiness and competence and grounded on different types of information, can be taken into account in practice by information professionals and educators when planning information literacy instruction.
Remittances and food security
Authors: Subramaniam Yogeeswari , Masron Tajul Ariffin , Azman Nik Hadiyan Nik
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The continuous and rapid growth of remittances has become one of the sources of income for millions of poor families in developing countries. As such, an increase of remittance flow can have a significant impact on the ability of the household not only to get enough food but also to get nutritious foods. Therefore, this study investigates the implication of remittances on food security (FS) in 51 developing countries from 2011–2016.

Design/methodology/approach

A dynamic panel estimator is applied to examine remittances and FS nexus.

Findings

By using the dynamic panel estimator, the results indicate that the level of food supply tends to be higher in countries with a higher flow of remittances. This study justifies the need for high income as well as high middle-income countries to be more open and receptive to migration as this could indirectly the mean through which host countries can assist economic development in low-income developing countries.

Originality/value

Given the diverse measure of FS, past studies demonstrated a positive association between remittance and FS, but it may focus on only one dimension of FS. To the authors’ limited knowledge, this is not enough to know the importance of remittance in determining the overall FS status. Hence, this study wishes to extend the literature by using a more comprehensive measure of FS and more countries in the sample.
Identifying global leadership potential
Authors: Knoll Claudia , Sternad Dietmar
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This article investigates which criteria and processes are used to identify global leadership potential (GLP) in multinational corporations.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the literature at the intersection between leadership potential and global leadership is reviewed to identify a set of criteria that can be used for assessing GLP. The findings are then validated in a qualitative study against a sample of nine global corporations.

Findings

Several traits (integrity and resilience), attitudes (learning orientation, motivation to lead, change orientation, drive for results, customer orientation and a global mindset) and competencies (cognitive complexity and intercultural, interpersonal, leadership, learning, change and business competencies) are associated with GLP. The core steps in the GLP identification process are nomination, assessment and confirmation. These steps can be complemented by a preassessment phase and a subsequent talent dialogue.

Practical implications

The results of this research can inform human resource (HR) management practitioners in their endeavor to successfully identify and assess potential future global leaders.

Originality/value

Prior research has focused either on defining global leadership or on assessing leadership potential in general, without a clear focus on identifying global leaders. In this article, the two concepts of global leadership and leadership potential are combined, thus providing an integrated content and process model that indicates how global corporations select their future global leaders.
How can family firms cope with growth? Contribution to accelerationism
Authors: Denis Lucie , Beddi Hanane , Valax Marc
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Accelerationist thinking needs an organizational lens to progress. This paper explores how family firms cope with growth pressure.

Design/methodology/approach

Five case studies of French family multinationals, including semi-directive interviews conducted with senior, middle managers and operational employees showed how these allegedly “human-oriented organizations” have handled growth.

Findings

Four organizational change initiatives were undertaken: (1) the transition from a functional structure to a matrix model, (2) the formalization of a corporate value system, (3) the centralization of an information and communication system and (4) the involvement of external consultants. Further analyses suggested an empowerment-control tension. In line with previous critical work on business empowerment practices, these organizational initiatives conceal a control reinforcement. This translates into internalization of repression, among family director, manager, and operational employees, both at headquarters and subsidiaries. Thus, one is misguided if turning to family firms to escape from becoming both subject and driver of control as they are submitted to the same market pressures as others, pressure condemned by accelerationists.

Practical implications

Accelerationism thinking aims at a post-capitalist era and is a fertile ground for collective reflection, which should feedback the family organization with a brighter future. The family firm can only acknowledge this compelling phenomenon and fulfill its role of society stakeholder raised to a higher level.

Originality/value

Family businesses, themselves, roll out their own repressive mechanisms due to the market system. This paper connects two literature studies: family business growth and accelerationism thinking.