bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell imaging of normal and malignant cell engraftment into optically clear prkdc-null SCID zebrafish
Authors: Moore John C. , Tang Qin , Yordán Nora Torres , Moore Finola E. , Garcia Elaine G. , Lobbardi Riadh , Ramakrishnan Ashwin , Marvin Dieuwke L. , Anselmo Anthony , Sadreyev Ruslan I. , Langenau David M.
Published: October 2016

Cell transplantation into immunodeficient mice has revolutionized our understanding of regeneration, stem cell self-renewal, and cancer; yet models for direct imaging of engrafted cells has been limited. Here, we characterize zebrafish with mutations in recombination activating gene 2 (rag2), DNA-dependent protein kinase (prkdc), and janus kinase 3 (jak3). Histology, RNA sequencing, and single-cell transcriptional profiling of blood showed that rag2 hypomorphic mutant zebrafish lack T cells, whereas prkdc deficiency results in loss of mature T and B cells and jak3 in T and putative Natural Killer cells. Although all mutant lines engraft fluorescently labeled normal and malignant cells, only the prkdc mutant fish reproduced as homozygotes and also survived injury after cell transplantation. Engraftment into optically clear casper, prkdc-mutant zebrafish facilitated dynamic live cell imaging of muscle regeneration, repopulation of muscle stem cells within their endogenous niche, and muscle fiber fusion at single-cell resolution. Serial imaging approaches also uncovered stochasticity in fluorescently labeled leukemia regrowth after competitive cell transplantation into prkdc mutant fish, providing refined models to assess clonal dominance and progression in the zebrafish. Our experiments provide an optimized and facile transplantation model, the casper, prkdc mutant zebrafish, for efficient engraftment and direct visualization of fluorescently labeled normal and malignant cells at single-cell resolution.
Scramblase TMEM16F terminates T cell receptor signaling to restrict T cell exhaustion
Authors: Hu Yu , Kim Ji Hyung , He Kangmin , Wan Qi , Kim Jessica , Flach Melanie , Kirchhausen Tom , Vortkamp Andrea , Winau Florian
Published: October 2016

In chronic infection, T cells become hyporesponsive to antigenic stimulation to prevent immunopathology. Here, we show that TMEM16F is required to curb excessive T cell responses in chronic infection with virus. TMEM16F-deficient T cells are hyperactivated during the early phase of infection, exhibiting increased proliferation and cytokine production. Interestingly, this overactivation ultimately leads to severe T cell exhaustion and the inability of the host to control viral burden. Mechanistically, we identify TMEM16F as the dominant lipid scramblase in T lymphocytes that transports phospholipids across membranes. TMEM16F is located in late endosomes, where it facilitates the generation of multivesicular bodies for TCR degradation and signal termination. Consequently, TMEM16F deficiency results in sustained signaling and augmented T cell activation. Our results demonstrate that scramblase restricts TCR responses to avoid overactivation, ensuring a well-balanced immune response in chronic infectious disease.
Tracking the fate of antigen-specific versus cytokine-activated natural killer cells after cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Nabekura Tsukasa , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: October 2016

Natural killer (NK) cells provide important host defense and can generate long-lived memory NK cells. Here, by using novel transgenic mice carrying inducible Cre expressed under the control of Ncr1 gene, we demonstrated that two distinct long-lived NK cell subsets differentiate in a mouse model of cytomegalovirus (MCMV) infection. NK cells expressing the MCMV-specific Ly49H receptor differentiated into memory NK cells by an activating signaling through Ly49H and Ly49H− NK cells differentiated into cytokine-activated NK cells by exposure to inflammatory cytokines during infection. Interleukin-12 is indispensable for optimal generation of both antigen-specific memory NK cells and cytokine-activated NK cells. MCMV-specific memory NK cells show enhanced effector function and augmented antitumor activity in vivo as compared with cytokine-activated NK cells, whereas cytokine-activated NK cells exhibited a more robust response to IL-15 and persisted better in an MCMV-free environment. These findings reveal that NK cells are capable of differentiation into distinct long-lived subsets with different functional properties.
Quantum-mechanical twin paradox
Authors: Franson J D
Published: October 2016

In the twin paradox of special relativity, an observer that travels along an accelerated trajectory at a high velocity will experience a smaller amount of elapsed time than an observer that remains at rest. This illustrates the fact that time is relative unlike the situation in classical physics where time is absolute. In a recent paper, Bushev et al (2016 New J. Phys.

18 093050) showed that the twin paradox can also be demonstrated using a single electron that functions as a quantum-mechanical clock. The wave function of the electron can travel along two different paths simultaneously, which allows a measurement of the difference in proper times along the two trajectories using a single particle. Quantum interference effects show that time cannot be thought of as a classical parameter even when associated with a single clock or observer.
Topologically protected loop flows in high voltage AC power grids
Authors: Coletta T , Delabays R , Adagideli I , Jacquod Ph
Published: October 2016

Geographical features such as mountain ranges or big lakes and inland seas often result in large closed loops in high voltage AC power grids. Sizable circulating power flows have been recorded around such loops, which take up transmission line capacity and dissipate but do not deliver electric power. Power flows in high voltage AC transmission grids are dominantly governed by voltage angle differences between connected buses, much in the same way as Josephson currents depend on phase differences between tunnel-coupled superconductors. From this previously overlooked similarity we argue here that circulating power flows in AC power grids are analogous to supercurrents flowing in superconducting rings and in rings of Josephson junctions. We investigate how circulating power flows can be created and how they behave in the presence of ohmic dissipation. We show how changing operating conditions may generate them, how significantly more power is ohmically dissipated in their presence and how they are topologically protected, even in the presence of dissipation, so that they persist when operating conditions are returned to their original values. We identify three mechanisms for creating circulating power flows, (i) by loss of stability of the equilibrium state carrying no circulating loop flow, (ii) by tripping of a line traversing a large loop in the network and (iii) by reclosing a loop that tripped or was open earlier. Because voltages are uniquely defined, circulating power flows can take on only discrete values, much in the same way as circulation around vortices is quantized in superfluids.
Impacts of Federal Crop Insurance on Land Use and Environmental Quality
Authors: Claassen Roger , Langpap Christian , Wu JunJie
Published: October 2016

This article integrates economic and biophysical models to assess how federal crop revenue insurance programs affect land use, cropping systems, and environmental quality in the U.S. Corn Belt region. The empirical framework includes econometric models that predict land conversion and crop choices at the parcel level based on expectation and variance of crop revenues, land quality, climate conditions, and physical characteristics at each site. The predictions are then combined with site‐specific environmental production functions to determine the effect of revenue insurance on nitrate runoff and leaching, soil water and wind erosion, and carbon sequestration. Results suggest that federal crop insurance has, on average, a small effect on conversions of non‐cropland to cropland, and somewhat more significant impacts on crop choice and crop rotation. These changes in cropping systems have, on average, small impacts on agricultural pollution.
Survival, growth, and morphology of blue king crabs: effect of ocean acidification decreases with exposure time
Authors: Long William Christopher , Van Sant Scott B. , Swiney Katherine M. , Foy Robert J.
Published: October 2016

Ocean acidification is an altering marine carbonate chemistry resulting in potential effects to marine life. In this study, we determine the effects of decreased pH on the morphology, growth, and survival of juvenile blue king crab, Paralithodes platypus. Crabs were reared at three pH levels: ambient (control, pH ∼8.1), pH 7.8, and pH 7.5, for 1 year and monitored for morphological changes, survival, and growth. Exposure to seawater at pH 7.8 had no effect on morphology or mortality and had only a minor effect on growth compared with the ambient treatment. However, exposure to seawater at pH 7.5 substantially increased mortality and decreased growth compared with the ambient treatment. The best fit model of mortality rate at pH 7.5 showed an initially high mortality rate, which dropped to become comparable to the mortality rate in the other treatments. This suggests phenotypic variability or plasticity in juveniles and may indicate acclimation by blue king crab to ocean acidification. As such, blue king crab may have scope for evolutionary adaptation in response to gradually changing pH levels. However, effects on other life-history stages, sub-lethal effects, carryover or transgenerational effects, and interactions with other stressors, such as increased temperature, still need to be investigated.
Suzaku and Chandra observations of CIZA J1700.8−3144, a cluster of galaxies in the Zone of Avoidance
Authors: Mori Hideyuki , Maeda Yoshitomo , Ueda Yoshihiro , Nakazawa Kazuhiro , Tawara Yuzuru
Published: October 2016

We present the Chandra and Suzaku observations of 1RXS J170047.8−314442, located towards the Galactic bulge, to reveal a wide-band (0.3–10 keV) X-ray morphology and spectrum of this source. With the Chandra observation, no point source was found at the position of 1RXS J170047.8−314442. Instead, we revealed the presence of diffuse X-ray emission, via the wide-band X-ray image obtained from the Suzaku XIS. Although the X-ray emission had a nearly circular shape with a spatial extent of ∼3${^{\prime}_{.}}$5, the surface brightness profile was not axisymmetric; a bright spot-like emission was found at ∼ 1΄ away in the northwestern direction from the center. The radial profile of the surface brightness, except for this spot-like emission, was reproduced with a single β-model; β and the core radius were found to be 1.02 and 1${^{\prime}_{.}}$51, respectively. The X-ray spectrum of the diffuse emission showed an emission line at ∼6 keV, indicating an origin of a thermal plasma. The spectrum was well explained with an absorbed, optically-thin thermal plasma model with a temperature of 6.2 keV and a redshift parameter of z = 0.14 ± 0.01. Hence, the X-ray emission was considered to arise from the hot gas associated with a cluster of galaxies. Our spectroscopic result confirmed the optical identification of 1RXS J170047.8−314442 by Kocevski et al. (2007, ApJ, 662, 224): CIZA J1700.8−3144, a member of the cluster catalogue in the Zone of Avoidance. The estimated bolometric X-ray luminosity of 5.9 × 1044 erg s−1 was among the lowest with this temperature, suggesting that this cluster is far from relaxed.
Molecular Mapping of Stem Rust Resistance Loci Effective Against the Ug99 Race Group of the Stem Rust Pathogen and Validation of a Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Marker Linked to Stem Rust Resistance Gene Sr28
Authors: Babiker E. M. , Gordon T. C. , Chao S. , Rouse M. N. , Wanyera R. , Acevedo M. , Brown-Guedira G. , Bonman J. M.
Published: October 2016

Wheat landrace PI 177906 has seedling resistance to stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici races TTKSK, TTKST, and BCCBC and field resistance to the Ug99 race group. Parents, 140 recombinant inbred lines, and 138 double haploid (DH) lines were evaluated for seedling resistance to races TTKSK and BCCBC. Parents and the DH population were evaluated for field resistance to Ug99 in Kenya. The 90K wheat single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping platform was used to genotype the parents and populations. Goodness-of-fit tests indicated that two dominant genes in PI 177906 conditioned seedling resistance to TTKSK. Two major loci for seedling resistance were consistently mapped to the chromosome arms 2BL and 6DS. The BCCBC resistance was mapped to the same location on 2BL as the TTKSK resistance. Using field data from the three seasons, two major QTL were consistently detected at the same regions on 2BL and 6DS. Based on the mapping result, race specificity, and the infection type observed in PI 177906, the TTKSK resistance on 2BL is likely due to Sr28. One SNP marker (KASP_IWB1208) was found to be predictive for the presence of the TTKSK resistance locus on 2BL and Sr28.
Primary Cutaneous Mammary Analog Secretory Carcinoma With ETV6-NTRK3 Translocation
Authors: Amin Sapna M. , Beattie Adam , Ling Xia , Jennings Lawrence J. , Guitart Joan
Published: October 2016

Mammary analog secretory carcinoma (MASC) is a recently described tumor of the salivary glands named for its morphological and molecular similarity to secretory carcinoma of the breast. Many primary carcinomas arising from the adnexal glands also share similar morphology to those arising from the breast. Brandt et al first described primary cutaneous MASC in 2009 and since then only 2 other cases have been reported. Herein, we describe a long-standing mass on the arm of an otherwise healthy 40-year-old female. Histologic examination revealed a circumscribed but unencapsulated, nodular tumor composed of bland epithelial cells arranged in solid and microcystic growth patterns. The cells showed vacuolated cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei with vesicular chromatin. Intraluminal homogenous eosinophilic secretions were present. Mitotic figures were not identified. The tumor cells stained positive for CK8/18, CK7, and S100 but were negative for other markers performed, including estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, HER2/neu, paired box 8 (PAX8), and thyroid transcription factor 1 (TTF1). As the patient clinically had no other masses or known carcinomas, a diagnosis of primary cutaneous MASC was rendered. The ETV6-NTRK3 fusion transcript was subsequently detected by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction amplification, further supporting the diagnosis. We present this case to review the histologic features of MASC and highlight the importance of recognizing this lesion not only as a possible cutaneous metastasis but also as a primary cutaneous tumor.
SAFETY OF INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT (OZURDEX)
Authors: Malclès Ariane , Dot Corinne , Voirin Nicolas , Vié Anne-Laure , Agard Émilie , Bellocq David , Denis Philippe , Kodjikian Laurent
Published: October 2016

Purpose:

To analyze the incidence, risk factors, and time course of intraocular pressure elevation after intravitreal dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex).

Methods:

The medical charts of 421 consecutive eyes (361 patients) receiving one or more Ozurdex implant between October 2010 and February 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Ocular hypertension was defined as intraocular pressure of at least 25 mmHg or an increase of at least 10 mmHg from baseline. The main indications for treatment were retinal vein occlusion (34%), diabetic macular edema (30%), postsurgical macular edema (17%), uveitis (14%), and other etiologies (5%).

Results:

Among 1,000 intravitreal injections, ocular hypertension was recorded for 28.5% of injected eyes over a mean follow-up period of 16.8 months (3–55). Intraocular pressure-lowering medication was required for 31% of eyes. Only three eyes with preexisting glaucoma required filtering surgery to manage postinjection intraocular pressure elevation. Early retreatment between the third and fourth month does not increase the risk of intraocular pressure elevation. Younger age, male sex, Type 1 diabetes, preexisting glaucoma treated with dual or triple therapy, and a history of retinal vein occlusion or uveitis were significant risk factors for ocular hypertension after dexamethasone implant injection (P< 0.05 for all the above).

Conclusion:

Episodes of ocular hypertension after Ozurdex implant were generally transient and successfully managed with topical treatment. An analysis of the risk factors may help to determine the risk–benefit ratio for individual patients treated with dexamethasone implants.
Working principle and application of magnetic separation for biomedical diagnostic at high- and low-field gradients
Authors: Leong Sim Siong , Yeap Swee Pin , Lim JitKang
Published: October 2016

Magnetic separation is a versatile technique used in sample preparation for diagnostic purpose. For such application, an external magnetic field is applied to drive the separation of target entity (e.g. bacteria, viruses, parasites and cancer cells) from a complex raw sample in order to ease the subsequent task(s) for disease diagnosis. This separation process not only can be achieved via the utilization of high magnetic field gradient, but also, in most cases, low magnetic field gradient with magnitude less than 100 T m
−1
is equally feasible. It is the aim of this review paper to summarize the usage of both high gradient magnetic separation and low gradient magnetic separation (LGMS) techniques in this area of research. It is noteworthy that effectiveness of the magnetic separation process not only determines the outcome of a diagnosis but also directly influences its accuracy as well as sensing time involved. Therefore, understanding the factors that simultaneously influence the efficiency of both magnetic separation process and target detection is necessary. Moreover, for LGMS, there are several important considerations that should be taken into account in order to ensure its successful implementation. Hence, this review paper aims to provide an overview to relate all this crucial information by linking the magnetic separation theory to biomedical diagnostic applications.
Impact of biopolymer matrices on relaxometric properties of contrast agents
Authors: Ponsiglione Alfonso Maria , Russo Maria , Netti Paolo Antonio , Torino Enza
Published: October 2016

Properties of water molecules at the interface between contrast agents (CAs) for magnetic resonance imaging and macromolecules could have a valuable impact on the effectiveness of metal chelates. Recent studies, indeed, demonstrated that polymer architectures could influence CAs' relaxivity by modifying the correlation times of the metal chelate. However, an understanding of the physico-chemical properties of polymer/CA systems is necessary to improve the efficiency of clinically used CAs, still exhibiting low relaxivity. In this context, we investigate the impact of hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels on the relaxometric properties of Gd-DTPA, a clinically used CA, to understand better the determining role of the water, which is crucial for both the relaxation enhancement and the polymer conformation. To this aim, water self-diffusion coefficients, thermodynamic interactions and relaxometric properties of HA/Gd-DTPA solutions are studied through time-domain NMR relaxometry and isothermal titration calorimetry. We observed that the presence of Gd-DTPA could alter the polymer conformation and the behaviour of water molecules at the HA/Gd-DTPA interface, thus modulating the relaxivity of the system. In conclusion, the tunability of hydrogel structures could be exploited to improve magnetic properties of metal chelates, inspiring the development of new CAs as well as metallopolymer complexes with applications as sensors and memory devices.
Sexual dimorphism in gene expression and regulatory networks across human tissues
Authors: Chen Cho-Yi , Lopes-Ramos Camila , Kuijjer Marieke L. , Paulson Joseph N. , Sonawane Abhijeet R. , Fagny Maud , Platig John , Glass Kimberly , Quackenbush John , DeMeo Dawn L.
Published: October 2016

Sexual dimorphism manifests in many diseases and may drive sex-specific therapeutic responses. To understand the molecular basis of sexual dimorphism, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of gene expression and regulatory network modeling in 31 tissues using 8716 human transcriptomes from GTEx. We observed sexually dimorphic patterns of gene expression involving as many as 60% of autosomal genes, depending on the tissue. Interestingly, sex hormone receptors do not exhibit sexually dimorphic expression in most tissues; however, differential network targeting by hormone receptors and other transcription factors (TFs) captures their downstream sexually dimorphic gene expression. Furthermore, differential network wiring was found extensively in several tissues, particularly in brain, in which not all regions exhibit strong differential expression. This systems-based analysis provides a new perspective on the drivers of sexual dimorphism, one in which a repertoire of TFs plays important roles in sex-specific rewiring of gene regulatory networks.

Highlights

Sexual dimorphism manifests in both gene expression and gene regulatory networks

Substantial sexual dimorphism in regulatory networks was found in several tissues

Many differentially regulated genes are not differentially expressed

Sex hormone receptors do not exhibit sexually dimorphic expression in most tissues
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray studies of β-1,4-galactanase from Aspergillus aculeatus
Authors: Ryttersgaard C. , Poulsen J.-C. N. , Christgau S. , Sandal T. , Dalbøge H. , Larsen S.
Published: October 2016

Recombinant β-1,4-galactanase from Aspergillus aculeatus has been crystallized and characterized by X-ray diffraction. Crystals were obtained in hanging drops by vapour-diffusion under the conditions 30% PEG 400, 0.2 M CaCl2 and 0.1 M Na HEPES buffered to pH 7.5. The crystals diffract to 2.3 Å resolution and belong to one of the orthorhombic space groups I222 or I212121. The unit-cell dimensions are a = 60.42, b = 88.94 and c = 129.08 Å. With one molecule in the asymmetric unit, the corresponding solvent content is ∼48%.
Ethyl 4-(9H-carbazol-9-yl)benzoate: fivefold superstructure with ten crystallographically independent molecules refined from a twinned crystal
Authors: Lifshits Liubov M. , Singh Varun , Zeller Matthias , Klosterman Jeremy K.
Published: October 2016

The photophysical properties of organic fluorophores are sensitive to the local sterics of the surrounding environment. Restriction of torsional motion in aggregates and crystals can give rise to enhanced emissive behavior.N-Aryl-substituted carbazoles serve an essential role as ubiquitous host matrices for organic light-emitting diodes, due to their large band gaps and high triplet energies, and so studies connecting photophysical behaviors with detailed crystallographic structural information are important. To elucidate the structural changes involved in the excited-state charge-transfer processes ofN-aryl-substituted carbazoles with ester withdrawing groups, ethyl 4-(9H-carbazol-9-yl) benzoate, C21H17NO2, was synthesized. The compound crystallizes with ten independent molecules in the asymmetric unit that pack together through moderate C—H...π interactions between carbazole units (2.5–2.9 Å) and π-stacks of benzoate groups (3.8–3.9 Å) between neighboring molecules. Four of the ten independent molecules show disorder by rotation of the ethyl carboxylate groups, with major occupancy rates between 0.931 (3) and 0.840 (3). The attached benzoate groups are also disordered, with identical occupancies, to compensate for the altered steric profile of the misaligned ethyl ester groups. For two molecules, the disorder extends to the entire carbazole units as well. Torsion angles between the nonplanar carbazole and benzoate groups range from θ = 44.8 to 57.2°, while those between the benzoate planes and the carboxylate COO atoms vary from α = 6.4 to 15.7°. The crystal is twinned by pseudomerohedry. The superstructure can be reduced to a hypothetical averaged parent structure in the space groupPbcnwithZ′ = 1, displaying fourfold disorder. Variable-temperature data collection shows that there is no phase transition between the disordered supercell and the hypothetical parent structure; supercell reflections persist up to 350 K. We propose that the disorder and variation in torsion angles result from frustrated close-packing and necessitate a unit cell with a highZ′ number.
Crystal structure of catena-poly[[(N,N-diethyl-3-mesitylsulfonyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-carboxamide-κN
1)silver(I)]-μ-nitrato-κ3
O,O′:O]
Authors: Park Hyunjin , Kwon Eunjin , Yoon Il , Kim Jineun
Published: October 2016

The reaction of silver nitrate and cafenstrole (N,N-diethyl-3-mesitylsulfonyl-1H-1,2,4-triazole-1-carboxamide), a triazole herbicide, leads to the title coordination polymer, [Ag(NO3)(C16H22N4O3S)]
n
, whose asymmetric unit comprises one cafenstrole ligand molecule, one AgI atom and one nitrate ion. The AgI atom, with a distorted trigonal–pyramidal environment, is coordinated by one nitrogen atom of a triazole ring, two oxygen atoms of a nitrate ion and one oxygen atom of a neighboring nitrate ion. The coordination bonds between silver and oxygen atoms give rise to a one-dimensional (1D) coordination polymer structure along [001]. The dihedral angle between the planes of the triazole and benzene rings is 87.13 (11)°. In the crystal, the coordination polymer is stabilized by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions, resulting in a three-dimensional architecture.
How non-consumption goals (elicited by competitive setting or social risk) and self-confidence influence the importance of trivial attributes in product evaluation
Authors: Xiao Na
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This research aims to provide new empirical evidence, showing that trivial attributes can exert a significant impact on product evaluation when they help to fulfill non-consumption goals (goal that goes beyond functional benefits).

Design/methodology/approach

The research presents two experimental studies that investigate the role of trivial product attributes in various non-consumption contexts.

Findings

Trivial attributes can have a significant impact on product evaluation when they help to fulfill non-consumption goals. First, in the non-competitive versus competitive choice settings, a trivial attribute becomes more important when it helps to make a choice (i.e. a non-consumption goal). Second, in the low versus high social risk settings, a trivial attribute becomes more important when it helps to reduce a social risk (i.e. a non-consumption goal). In addition, self-confidence is a moderator, which regulates consumers’ ability to rely on trivial attributes in making product choices.

Research limitations/implications

The social risk manipulations (high vs low) were operationalized by manipulating the impression motive related to social risk. The more important a goal is, the more risk consumers feel in decision making (Lazarus, 1991). Therefore, risk is a proxy of the goal strength or goal relevance. Future research is needed to examine goal strength’s sole influence on the perception of the trivial attribute.

Practical implications

From managerial perspective, trivial attributes can help companies to improve their sales. For example, a way to increase an attribute’s importance is to put the product in a competitive setting. Increasing a social risk further increases the influence of trivial attributes. When less confident consumers perceive the social risk is high, they prefer a brand with a trivial attribute. For consumers, the findings also suggest that consumers should not be tempted to consider trivial attributes in their purchase decisions. Reconsidering attributes and increasing self-confidence could help maintain focus on non-trivial attributes.

Originality/value

The study makes several contributions to theory and practice. This is the first study to systematically propose a framework of how trivial attributes’ role in product evaluation and choice change based on goals. The paper clarifies confusions about the definitions of trivial attributes and reconciles contradictory findings in literature. A trivial attribute can be instrumental in evaluation and choice when it helps to achieve a non-consumption goal. It is also the first study to introduce social risks into trivial attributes research in choices. The findings provide empirical evidence that social risks and self-confidence together drive consumers to prefer for trivial attribute.
A comprehensive insight into the Six Sigma DMAIC toolbox
Authors: Uluskan Meryem
Published: October 2016

Purpose

As opposed to general literature reviews, by narrowing down the context only around the resources related to Six Sigma tools, this study aims to offer a strong discussion about Six Sigma toolbox which has a vital role in the success of Six Sigma.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a comprehensive literature research, the most used tools; classification of tools; flow of tools with respect to define, measure, analyze, improve and control (DMAIC) steps; tools as critical success factors and reasons of ineffective use of tools are reviewed. To stay focused and not to diverge from the research aim, 60 articles which are suitable to the context and flow of the discussion are selected during the construction of the study.

Findings

The study provides a detailed and integrated review of Six Sigma articles about tools. The most used tools are listed from different perspectives and resources, and the role of these tools has been discussed. After a broad review, a more practical and combined classification of Six Sigma tools is proposed. Next, the issue of using which tools during which steps of DMAIC is systematically addressed. Finally, emergence of tools as a critical success factor and the gaps in the literature related to tools of Six Sigma are pointed out.

Practical implications

Addressing important statistics and the facts related to the tools of Six Sigma helps new practitioners in particular to build a strategic filter to select the most proper tools throughout their projects.

Originality/value

This study is unique in investigating only Six Sigma toolbox and providing a literature review on this subject.
A systematic literature review of Lean Six Sigma in different industries
Authors: Raja Sreedharan V. , Raju R.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review Lean Six Sigma (LSS) literature and report different definitions, demographics, methodologies and industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper highlights various definitions by different researchers and practitioners. A total of 235 research papers has been reviewed for the LSS theme, research methodology adopted, type of industry, author profile, country of research and year of publication.

Findings

From the review, four significant LSS classifications were identified that deal with the spread of LSS in different industries followed by observation for classification.

Practical implications

LSS is a strategy for success, but it did not examine its presence in various Industries. From this paper, readers can understand the quantum of its spread before implementing LSS. For academicians, it will be a comprehensive list of papers for research.

Originality/value

This paper reviews 235 research papers for their year, author profile, research methodology and type of industry. Various characteristics of LSS definitions and their theme are also reviewed.
Leveraging new knowledge with relational capabilities
Authors: Martins Jorge Tiago , Canhoto Rosa
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to identify and conceptualize a set of relational capabilities that school libraries in the Alentejo region of Portugal develop for acquiring new knowledge that exists externally in the wider community.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research design operationalized via case studies was followed for the empirical analysis. Empirical findings are based on the analysis of the 84 narrative reports submitted by school libraries as part of a national performance evaluation exercise that took place between 2010 and 2012. Data analysis followed the techniques of inductive data categorization, within case-analysis, and cross-case analysis.

Findings

The exploration of the relational capabilities that school libraries in the Alentejo region of Portugal develop for acquiring new knowledge that exists externally in the community resulted in the identification of relationships that school libraries in the region have established to acquire new knowledge: connecting with and supporting organizations committed to civic engagement; facilitating discussions about challenging issues through strategic partnerships; convening community conversations to identify shared concerns and solutions; and embracing local culture to foster endogenous development.

Originality/value

The ability to seek and recognize the value of new and external knowledge, assimilate it and apply it to organizational ends has been traditionally linked to the concept of absorptive capacity. While absorptive capacity literature in business settings is prolific, literature that focuses on school libraries’ ability to identify and explore external knowledge and applying it to improve their performance is scarce. Focusing on the specific context of the Alentejo region of Portugal as an archetypical rural area, this paper identifies how knowledge existing externally in the community is absorbed by rural school libraries through specific relational capabilities that reflect school libraries’ community orientation and engagement in participatory processes that develop social resilience.
Use of electronic journal resources by postgraduate students at the University of Dar es Salaam
Authors: Katabalwa Anajoyce Samuel
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the use of electronic journal resource at the University of Dar es Salaam. The study involved the postgraduate students in the School of Education at the University of Dar es Salaam.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of questionnaires for postgraduate students and interview for the reference librarians was used, whereby 100 postgraduate students and six reference librarians were involved in the study. SPSS and content analysis were used to analyse the data.

Findings

Major findings of the study reveal that majority of the students reported using electronic journal resources for various purposes including working on the assignments, research proposal writing, literature review, research report writing, current awareness, leisure and for extra exploration of ongoing scientific debates through peer-reviewed papers. The challenges encountered in the use of electronic journal resources include power outage, inadequate bandwidth, slow download speed, inability to access the resources from home, lack of training, lack of awareness, limited access to computers and difficulty in searching. Finally, the recommendations for improving the use of electronic journal resources are provided.

Originality/value

This is the first time an effort has been made to assess the use of electronic journal resources by postgraduate students in the School of Education at the University of Dar es Salaam. The study could be used to assess the postgraduate students’ need for electronic resources at the University of Dar es Salaam and other users in higher learning institutions.
Embracing the future while storing the past: the Joint Library Facility story
Authors: vanDuinkerken Wyoma , Romano Joanne
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the Joint Library Facility services and how Medical Science Libraries have embraced the Resource in Common model to save service copies for their patron’s use while allowing libraries to reclaim critically needed space and develop library services that better meet the needs of their patrons.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a description of the Joint Library Facility and its targeted users. It will discuss how this unique library storage facility shares ownership of its material with other libraries to reduce duplication of low-use print items on library shelves.

Findings

Although electronic materials are more popular with library patrons, there is still scholarly value in keeping low-use print materials as service copies.

Originality/value

This paper is a case study of a unique library storage facility that shares ownership of its material with other libraries. Its findings will help other libraries plan and implement their own shared print repository.
Revised guideline for the diagnosis and treatment of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis in Japan
Authors: Munetsugu Takichi , Fujimoto Tomoko , Oshima Yuichiro , Sano Kenji , Murota Hiroyuki , Satoh Takahiro , Iwase Satoshi , Asahina Masato , Nakazato Yoshihiko , Yokozeki Hiroo
Published: October 2016

Acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis (AIGA) is characterized by an acquired impairment in total body sweating despite exposure to heat or exercise. Severe cases may result in heatstroke. Most cases of AIGA have been reported in Asia, especially in Japan. However, there is limited information on the epidemiology of this condition, and no diagnostic criteria or appropriate treatment options have been established. This guideline was developed to fill this gap. It contains information on the etiology, diagnosis, evaluation of disease severity and evidence‐based recommendations for the treatment of AIGA. Appropriate treatment according to disease severity may relieve the clinical manifestations and emotional distress experienced by patients with AIGA.
Habitat and taxon as driving forces of carbohydrate catabolism in marine heterotrophic bacteria: example of the model algae‐associated bacterium Zobellia galactanivorans DsijT
Authors: Barbeyron Tristan , Thomas François , Barbe Valérie , Teeling Hanno , Schenowitz Chantal , Dossat Carole , Goesmann Alexander , Leblanc Catherine , Oliver Glöckner Frank , Czjzek Mirjam , Amann Rudolf , Michel Gurvan
Published: October 2016

The marine flavobacterium Zobellia galactanivorans DsijT was isolated from a red alga and by now constitutes a model for studying algal polysaccharide bioconversions. We present an in‐depth analysis of its complete genome and link it to physiological traits. Z. galactanivorans exhibited the highest gene numbers for glycoside hydrolases, polysaccharide lyases and carbohydrate esterases and the second highest sulfatase gene number in a comparison to 125 other marine heterotrophic bacteria (MHB) genomes. Its genome contains 50 polysaccharide utilization loci, 22 of which contain sulfatase genes. Catabolic profiling confirmed a pronounced capacity for using algal polysaccharides and degradation of most polysaccharides could be linked to dedicated genes. Physiological and biochemical tests revealed that Z. galactanivorans stores and recycles glycogen, despite loss of several classic glycogen‐related genes. Similar gene losses were observed in most Flavobacteriia, suggesting presence of an atypical glycogen metabolism in this class. Z. galactanivorans features numerous adaptive traits for algae‐associated life, such as consumption of seaweed exudates, iodine metabolism and methylotrophy, indicating that this bacterium is well equipped to form profitable, stable interactions with macroalgae. Finally, using statistical and clustering analyses of the MHB genomes we show that their carbohydrate catabolism correlates with both taxonomy and habitat.
Same Considerations, Different Decisions: Motivations for Split‐ticket Voting among Swedish Feminist Initiative Supporters
Authors: Blombäck Sofie , de Fine Licht Jenny
Published: October 2016

This article explores why supporters of small, non‐established parties choose to vote for different parties in the elections to the European Parliament (EP) and elections to the national parliament. It uses individual‐level data with open‐ended questions from an online survey on supporters of Feminist Initiative (Fi) – a comparatively small and new Swedish feminist party – to map voters’ own motivations for split‐ticket voting in the 2014 elections. Contrary to expectations based on second‐order election theory, it is found that voters ticket‐split in both directions: there are those voting for Fi in the EP election but not in the national election, and those voting for Fi in the national election but not in the EP election. These voters take the same types of considerations into account but nevertheless end up making opposite voting decisions. Voters clearly distinguish between the two levels – for example, by prioritizing different issues.
Various Approaches to the Aggregation of Economic Productivity Indices
Authors: Balk Bert M.
Published: October 2016

This paper discusses the aggregation of economic productivity indices, in particular Caves, Christensen and Diewert and Moorsteen–Bjurek indices. As part of the theory, some proposals developed in a number of recent papers (co‐) authored by Valentin Zelenyuk are put into context. Alternatives are offered which at the same time show that meaningful aggregation is not so simple.
Biased dispersal ofMetrioptera bicolor, a wing dimorphic bush‐cricket
Authors: Heidinger Ina Monika Margret , Hein Silke , Feldhaar Heike , Poethke Hans‐Joachim
Published: October 2016

In the highly fragmented landscape of central Europe, dispersal is of particular importance as it determines the long‐term survival of animal populations. Dispersal not only secures the recolonization of patches where populations went extinct, it may also rescue small populations and thus prevent local extinction events. As dispersal involves different individual fitness costs, the decision to disperse should not be random but context‐dependent and often will be biased toward a certain group of individuals (e.g., sex‐ and wing morph‐biased dispersal). Although biased dispersal has far‐reaching consequences for animal populations, immediate studies of sex‐ and wing morph‐biased dispersal in orthopterans are very rare. Here, we used a combined approach of morphological and genetic analyses to investigate biased dispersal ofMetrioptera bicolor, a wing dimorphic bush‐cricket. Our results clearly show wing morph‐biased dispersal for both sexes ofM. bicolor. In addition, we found sex‐biased dispersal for macropterous individuals, but not for micropters. Both, morphological and genetic data, favor macropterous males as dispersal unit of this bush‐cricket species. To get an idea of the flight ability ofM. bicolor, we compared our morphological data with that ofLocusta migratoriaandSchistocerca gregaria, which are very good flyers. Based on our morphological data, we suggest a good flight ability for macropters ofM. bicolor, although flying individuals of this species are seldom observed.
Skill Shortages in Regional New South Wales: The Case of the Riverina
Authors: Sharma Kishor , Oczkowski Edward , Hicks John
Published: October 2016

Using a survey based method, this paper investigates skill shortages in the Riverina. About 48 per cent of businesses have reported that they have unfilled vacancies. The shortage of qualified applicants, lack of sufficient experience and lack of technical ability are the main causes proffered by regional business for skill shortages. These findings point the importance of investing in quality infrastructure, offering tax incentives and channelling investment into the TAFE and University sector to address regional skill shortages in both short‐ and long‐run.
The Effects of Out‐of‐Regime Guidance on Auditor Judgments About Appropriate Application of Accounting Standards
Authors: Scott Asay H. , Brown Tim , Nelson Mark W. , Jeffrey Wilks T.
Published: October 2016

Accountants making judgments with respect to a particular set of standards are increasingly aware of standards from other reporting regimes that offer additional or conflicting guidance. In fact, IFRS encourages reliance on out‐of‐regime standards when IFRS lacks guidance. This paper reports the results of two experiments which provide evidence that auditors in such circumstances are vulnerable to contrast effects, whereby reporting judgments under IFRS are systematically influenced away from the accounting treatment supported by standards from another regime (U.S. GAAP). Contrast effects are observed (i) when out‐of‐regime standards are considered before making a reporting judgment under IFRS, and (ii) when out‐of‐regime standards are applied as local GAAP for a subsidiary of a foreign parent that reports under IFRS. We also find that contrast effects are reduced when auditors believe IFRS lacks guidance. These results have implications for financial statement preparers and auditors in the current incomplete‐convergence environment.
“Reflexivity Is Kicking Our Asses”: Tensions in Foregrounding Photographs in a Multimodal Ethnographic Analysis of Participation
Authors: Chaffee Rachel , Lynn Luehmann April , Henderson Joseph
Published: October 2016

Bringing multimodal and ethnographic approaches together, this paper seeks to identify key considerations, limitations, and implications of using photographs as primary data. We offer a concrete example of an approach that capitalizes on a systematic look at how different modes work together to foreground unique aspects of participation, while intentionally and explicitly maintaining ethnographic sensitivities. Key contributions include what it means to “trust” photographs as data and use them for their strengths in evidence‐careful ways.
Ripples and Breaks: Reflecting on Learning Ecologies in Career and Technical Education
Authors: Jocson Korina M.
Published: October 2016

In this paper, the author reflects on a year‐long ethnography to point out contextual factors situated in career and technical education (CTE) and specifically how a CTE teacher and a university researcher shaped learning opportunities to support students’ interests in the arts, technology, and multimedia communications. The discussion arched by a metaphor of ripples and breaks suggests the value of seeing dynamic forms of mobility and learning ecologies within classrooms and other educational settings.
Clinical and genetic heterogeneity in Slovenian patients with BEST disease
Authors: Glavač Damjan , Jarc‐Vidmar Martina , Vrabec Katarina , Ravnik‐Glavač Metka , Fakin Ana , Hawlina Marko
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To determine the spectrum of BEST1 mutations and to study the phenotype in Slovenian families with Best vitelliform macular dystrophy (BVMD) to identify genotype–phenotype correlations.

Methods

Twenty patients from five families underwent the ophthalmological examination including electrooculogram (EOG; N = 17), fundus autofluorescence imaging (N = 16) and optical coherence tomography (N = 14). Mutational screening was performed by direct DNA sequencing of the BEST1 gene.

Results

Mutation c.43G>C (p.Gly15Arg) was detected in three patients from family M presenting with different clinical stages of Best disease. Mutation c.313G>C (p.Arg105Gly) was found in families K, ST, S, B and was associated with incomplete clinical penetrance and variable retinal changes, including extramacular and multifocal lesions. In three patients from family K, an atypical form of BVMD was observed; there were additional peripheral lesions outside of the vascular arcades in addition to the typical macular lesions. Multiple alterations between the vitelliruptive and pseudohypopyon stages over a period of 11 years were seen in one patient.

Conclusion

Two previously unreported disease‐associated variants in the BEST1 gene (p.Gly15Arg and p.Arg105Gly) were found in Slovenian patients with Best disease. Our data expand the mutation spectrum of the BEST1 gene and further support the broad phenotypic variability observed clinically and with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and AF imaging.