bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of integrated collaborative technologies to form a collaborative culture in construction projects
Authors: Kapogiannis Georgios , Sherratt Fred
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Research has shown that the lack of forming team collaboration works as a barrier in the use of collaborative technologies such as Building Information Modelling. So, there is a need to investigate whether and how integrated collaborative technologies have an impact on team collaboration between stakeholders, including clients, in the planning, design and construction stages. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to investigate this interrelationship, researchers used a survey methodology involving gathering both quantitative and qualitative data, and used regression analysis to assess the strength of impact of integrated collaborative technologies on team collaboration. For the qualitative data researchers used content analysis.

Findings

Findings show that integrated collaborative technologies impact on team collaboration by assisting the development of a collaborative culture throughout a project. This collaborative culture is deployed due to access to information by stakeholders from anywhere at any time. In this culture environment, stakeholders can share and access knowledge and awareness about the project and thus gain common ground and understanding about the project brief. In addition, integrated collaborative technologies give stakeholders the capacity to control the project process, to enhance the interaction and networking project processes as well as to pre-identify and promptly respond to project errors and uncertainties.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is to contribute in the identification and impact of collaboration culture in the architecture, engineering and construction sector.
Scholarly communication through institutional repositories: proposing a practical model
Authors: Nemati-Anaraki Leila , Tavassoli-Farahi Mina
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Recognizing that the nature of research and scholarly communication is changing rapidly, an institutional repository (IR) is a tool for collecting, storing, accessing and disseminating scholarly communication within and without the institutions. The primary reason for establishing an IR is to increase the visibility of the institution’s research output by making it an open access with regard to copyright issues. This paper aims to propose a conceptualmodel for scholarly communication through IRs to provide an opportunity to integrate and facilitate knowledge sharing so as to enrich knowledge content and enhance global access.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proceeds in three phases. In the first phase, the published literature on IRs and scholarly communication has been reviewed critically considering their empirical applications. Next, based on the understanding gained from the previous stage, a conceptual model for scholarly communication through IRs has been proposed. In the third phase, the proposed model has been developed and finalized toward its maturity.

Findings

Based on the literature, the authors have developed a conceptual model for understanding the factors that characterize not only the design but also the development of IRs practically. An IR appears theoretically sound, but it is a difficult task in practice because of some complexities. This paper attempts to set a theoretical model for IRs as a foundation to address the gap in the current literature for researchers, experts and librarians who create, maintain and use IRs, though it does not claim to be comprehensive.

Originality/value

A few attempts have been made to investigate scholarly communication through IRs, but this is the one of its first kind that provides a theoretical model for it. It serves as a useful starting point for those interested in knowledge management and IRs.
Exploring engagement with non-fiction collections: sociological perspectives
Authors: Knudson Sarah
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to build on limited understandings of how readers engage with non-fiction. Drawing from prior research and three recent case studies involving non-fiction reading, this paper considers heterogeneity in modes of reading and the central role of libraries in fostering non-fiction reading cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

Findings from three recent case studies of non-fiction reading about relationship advice; developmental disorders; and financial planning, based on qualitative interviews, participant observation and survey data, are used to assess and expand understandings of non-fiction reading and collections.

Findings

There is considerable heterogeneity in modes of non-fiction reading, and readers often appropriate non-fiction texts for purposes unintended by the authors. Both physical and online libraries function as sites where non-fiction reading can be used by a broad range of demographic groups to participate in individual or group-based resistance to structural and cultural sources of power and inequality.

Practical implications

This paper provides insight into the role and value of non-fiction collections.

Social implications

Findings speak to the value of robust funding for print and online non-fiction collections in communities and schools.

Originality/value

This paper offers new empirical and theoretical insight into how non-fiction collections are used by a range of demographic groups in community and school contexts. Sociological theories are introduced to highlight the role of non-fiction collections in facilitating social change at individual and group levels.
Doing well and doing good
Authors: Glaveli Niki , Geormas Konstantinos
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen and expand our understanding on how strategic/market orientation (SO/MO) and a cohesive/shared social vision affect performance in the social enterprise (SE) context.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted in Greek SEs. Stepwise and simple regression analyses were applied in order to test the hypothesized relationships among the study variables. Additionally, Baron and Kenny’s (1986) recommendation for exploring mediating effects was followed.

Findings

The results indicate the crucial role of customer orientation dimension of SO/MO in enhancing commercial effectiveness and subsequently profitability, whilst a cohesive/shared vision was found to have positive direct associations with the social effectiveness and profitability elements of SEs performance. Moreover, the findings provide some indications for the mutually reinforcing relationship between the social and commercial aspects of SEs functioning.

Originality/value

The current paper contributes to the ongoing quest to understand the strategic management element of SEs and the challenge they face in managing rival logics. Also, it addresses the gap related to the type (mainly qualitative) and geographical concentration of SE research.
Identifying and understanding entrepreneurial decision-making logics in entrepreneurship education
Authors: Ilonen Sanna , Heinonen Jarna , Stenholm Pekka
Published: January 2018

Purpose

It is unclear how nascent entrepreneurs make decisions during the venture creation process. The purpose of this paper is to investigate decision-making logics and their transformation over time among student entrepreneurs who aim to create new business ventures in the higher education setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the mixed methods approach through the use of survey and observation data. The longitudinal survey data comprise three surveys collected via an internet-aided tool. The constructs of causation and effectuation are measured using previously tested scales (Chandler et al., 2011). Non-participant observation data were collected during the course, focussing on the venture creation processes of four different start-ups, and were analysed thematically.

Findings

The findings show three transformation patterns – doubts in how to proceed, unwillingness to proceed, and unsatisfactory team dynamics – that led individuals towards a coping decision-making logic in which no causation or effectuation is emphasised. The findings illustrate that, despite this stage of decision-making logic, the learning process continues: Even if no new business venture is launched, entrepreneurship education can still generate learning outcomes that improve students’ understanding of entrepreneurship as well as understanding of themselves as entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study brings the theories of causation and effectuation into the teaching of entrepreneurship. Of particular value to scholars is the fact that the study generates new understanding of the decision-making logics during new venture creation. Accordingly, this study sheds new light on the transformation and complementarity of the decision-making logic of an individual as new ventures emerge in an educational context reflecting the real-life start-up context.
Can less be more? Mentoring functions, learning goal orientation, and novice entrepreneurs’ self-efficacy
Authors: St-Jean Etienne , Radu-Lefebvre Miruna , Mathieu Cynthia
Published: January 2018

Purpose

One of the main goals of entrepreneurial mentoring programs is to strengthen the mentees’ self-efficacy. However, the conditions in which entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) is developed through mentoring are not yet fully explored. The purpose of this paper is to test the combined effects of mentee’s learning goal orientation (LGO) and perceived similarity with the mentor and demonstrates the role of these two variables in mentoring relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study is based on a sample of 360 novice Canadian entrepreneurs who completed an online questionnaire. The authors used a cross-sectional analysis as research design.

Findings

Findings indicate that the development of ESE is optimal when mentees present low levels of LGO and perceive high similarities between their mentor and themselves. Mentees with high LGO decreased their level of ESE with more in-depth mentoring received.

Research limitations/implications

This study investigated a formal mentoring program with volunteer (unpaid) mentors. Generalization to informal mentoring relationships needs to be tested.

Practical implications

The study shows that, in order to effectively develop self-efficacy in a mentoring situation, LGO should be taken into account. Mentors can be trained to modify mentees’ LGO to increase their impact on this mindset and mentees’ ESE.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study that demonstrates the effects of mentoring on ESE and reveals a triple moderating effect of LGO and perceived similarity in mentoring relationships.
Teacher perceptions of empowerment and promotion during reforms
Authors: Avidov-Ungar Orit , Arviv-Elyashiv Rinat
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the relationship between teachers’ professional role, their sense of empowerment, and their attitudes toward managerial promotion (career development) following the implementation of educational forms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in Israel in 2015 and included 663 teachers, 250 elementary school teachers and 413 middle or high school teachers. A questionnaire and statistical analyses (ANOVA, multivariate analysis, and correlations) examined the attitudes of teachers in one of four professional roles toward managerial promotion (their desire for future promotion and sense of organizational fairness). This was compared with their sense of empowerment (comprising feeling respected, professional growth, influence, autonomy, self-efficacy, and decision making), while controlling for their demographic and professional backgrounds.

Findings

Four-fifths of teachers were interested in pursuing managerial promotion and they perceived the promotion process as moderately fair. The greater teachers’ sense of empowerment, the greater their desire for future promotion and their belief in the fairness of the promotional process. Teachers currently holding a leadership position expressed the strongest sense of empowerment.

Practical implications

The study presents a multivariate model to predict teachers’ attitudes to managerial promotion on the basis of their professional role and sense of empowerment. The findings have implications for educational policy-making, particularly where there is a national focus on increasing school autonomy.

Originality/value

The findings will contribute to local and international research on teacher empowerment and career development.
Efficacy of MBA: on the role of network effects in influencing the selection of elective courses
Authors: Roy Vivek , Parsad Chandan
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the importance of social network effects in influencing the elective (courses) selection among masters of business administration (MBA) students and its role in influencing the efficacy of MBA. As such, given the enormous time and investment required for students to pursue an MBA and the role of electives in forming the student’s knowledge base, it is important to consider the decision process of students while selecting elective courses as they pursue their degree.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores the relevance of network characteristics in the elective selection phenomena through questionnaires administered personally to 50 MBA students from a premier b-school in India. Thereby, it seeks to link the implications with MBA efficacy.

Findings

In the sample, the authors found that social network connections in terms of homophily and heterophily (similar and dissimilar others) had the strongest association with elective course decisions. Further, the role of tie strength (the level of intensity of the social relationship between two individuals) in governing the phenomena was not confirmed.

Practical implications

The authors discuss the linkage of elective selection phenomena with the efficacy of MBA. Specifically, the authors focus on a possible risk where network influences may prompt a student to select electives by surpassing his or her academic interests and thereby may hamper the efficacy. The authors also outline implications from the perspective of students, professors, and administrators.

Originality/value

The study is among the initial studies to present preliminary evidence on the efficacy of MBA from the perspective of elective selection phenomena and the role of social network effects.
Accessible search and the role of metadata
Authors: Beyene Wondwossen Mulualem , Godwin Thomas
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Some of the usability and accessibility problems of search interfaces emanate from poorly organized search results, where different types of metadata are employed. Metadata is important to make well-informed selection of resources. However, putting too much of it on search interfaces could be counterproductive. Therefore, studies suggest that metadata-related decisions need to be informed by user requirements. The purpose of this paper is to explore library metadata from usability and accessibility perspectives. It identifies search-related problems users with print disability face and explores how metadata-related decisions could be tailored to improve their experience in resource discovery and access.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was posted online for two months. It targeted people with print disability who are using the audiobook app Lydhør. It was finally possible to gather responses from 113 respondents. Two open-ended questions dealing with search and metadata issues were selected for qualitative analysis.

Findings

Most respondents mentioned the Lydhør’s intolerance to spelling errors as a problem. Some suggested the use of faceted metadata, such as genres, for exploratory search to offset frustration caused by spelling errors. Most respondents indicated the importance of summaries to be shown among search results, implying their significance for lookup searches. There have been few demands related to accessibility metadata.

Originality/value

This study could be a valuable input for inclusive/universal design of library search interfaces.
The influence of social identity on rural consumers’ intent to shop locally
Authors: Addis Rachel A. , Grünhagen Marko
Published: January 2018

Rural consumers’ in- and out-shopping intention has been a research topic for many years. This study investigates the relationship between social identity and rural consumersʼ intent to shop within their local community, along with a number of moderating demographic variables. Using a sample of respondents from the Midwest, this study found a significant and positive relationship between rural consumers who socially identify with people in their local community and their intent to inshop. The influence of several demographic moderators is also explored, and implications for practice and future re-search are discussed.
Small business owner satisfaction with financial performance: A longitudinal study
Authors: Gibson Shanan Gwaltney , McDowell William C. , Harris Michael L.
Published: January 2018

This exploratory study examines the financial performance satisfaction of small business owners at two time periods: (1) nearing the end of the Great Recession and (2) three years into economic recovery. In addition to considering small business owners in general, special attention has been paid to women and minority owners. Using independent samples t-tests, results indicate that business owners are more satisfied with their financial performance in 2012 than they were in 2009. However, results were not consistent for all subgroups of the population; differences exist between men and women owners and between Caucasian and minority owners. Whereas men mirrored the results for all business owners, women did not report increased satisfaction in any of the five areas of financial performance examined. Caucasian owners reported increases in four of the five areas of financial health and minority owners saw an increase in only three. The study also provides practical implications and areas for future research.
Fish consumption associated with reduction of fish allergy
Authors: Mejrhit Najlae , Azdad Ouarda , El Kabbaoui Mohamed , Chda Alae , Tazi Abdelali , Bencheikh Rachid , Aarab Lotfi
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the differences in the self-reported allergies to food, especially fish and shellfish, between children and adults, and to study the association between fish consumption and self-reported fish and shellfish allergy (FSA) according to age.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on a survey conducted between April 2014 and December 2016 where children and adults were recruited from the general population of the Fez-Meknes region. The total studied population was 4,046 people.

Findings

The results show that the self-reported food allergy (FA) of the general population was more frequent among children (28.2 per cent) than adults (16.8 per cent), in which eggs, fish/shellfish, milk and cereals were the most common food cited. With regard to the self-reported FSA, the authors found a prevalence of 9.5 per cent in both children and adults, whereas fish species allergies were more frequent among adults than children. The most common clinical manifestations observed in this population were cutaneous reactions. The study of the association between fish consumption and FSA shows that people who consumed fish had a lower rate of FSA, especially in adults (p< 0.001).

Originality/value

The self-reported FA of the general population was more pronounced in children than adults. Regarding the self-reported FSA, the authors have shown a prevalence of 9.5 per cent in both children and adults, indicating an important sensitivity of their population to fish and shellfish. The authors have shown that consumption of fish was associated significantly with a lower rate of FSA, especially in adults.
Arabinoxylans from rice bran and wheat immunomodulatory potentials: a review article
Authors: Fadel Abdulmannan , Plunkett Andrew , Li Weili , Ranneh Yazan , Tessu Gyamfi Vivian Elewosi , Salmon Yasser , Nyaranga Rosemarie Roma , Ashworth Jason
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to discuss recent research on arabinoxylans from rice bran and wheat byproducts and their immunomodulatory potentials. Also, a potential receptor for arabinoxylans is proposed in relation to arabinoxylans structure.

Design/methodology/approach

This review summarises recent publications on arabinoxylans from rice bran and wheat, classification of arabinoxylans, a brief background on their method of extraction and their immunomodulatory potentials as they induce pro-inflammatory response in vitro, in vivo and in humans. The mechanism of action in which arabinoxylans modulate the immune activity is yet to be discovered, However, the authors have proposed a potential receptor for arabinoxylans in relation to arabinoxylans structure and molecular weight.

Findings

The effects of arabinoxylans from rice bran and wheat on the immune response was found to cause a pro-inflammatory response in vitro, in vivo and in humans. Also, the immune response depends on arabinoxylans structure, the degree of branching and origin.

Originality/value

This review paper focuses on the effects of arabinoxylans from rice bran and wheat on immunomodulatory potentials in vitro, in vivo and in humans. A new mechanism of action has been proposed based on the literature and via linking between arabinoxylans and lipopolysaccharide structure, molecular weight and suggested proposed receptor, which might be activated via both of them.
Application of e-booking system in enhancing Malaysian property developers’ competitive advantage
Authors: Yap Jeffrey Boon Hui , Chua Khai Ling
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Property websites have been widely used to simplify the complicated conventional booking system nowadays. However, the services provided by the property websites are limited to information searching and registration. The uptake of the e-booking system in the property industry is still sluggish. The purpose of this paper is to examine the potential of the e-booking system as the blue ocean in enhancing property developers’ competitive advantage, and also investigates the benefits and key features of the e-booking system in the Malaysian property industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed method of questionnaire and interviews is used to investigate the acuities of potential purchasers on the concept and potential of the e-booking system in the Malaysian property industry.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that the perception towards the application of the e-booking system is positive. The benefits and prominent features are identified. There are no significant differences in perceptions among the three generation cohorts comprising of Generation Y, Generation X, and Baby Boomers.

Research limitations/implications

The sampling of this study is limited to the Klang Valley area only with the respondents mainly from Selangor and Kuala Lumpur. The small sample size may restrict the generalisation of the findings to represent the whole population of Malaysia.

Practical implications

These findings provide insights and guidelines for property developers in developing a strategic plan to introduce the e-booking system which can lead to a more efficient way of property purchasing process and praiseworthy users’ experience.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that seeks to explore the potential of the online property transactions as a blue ocean strategy that will enhance property developers’ competitive advantage. As such, the key features identified in this study will be used in designing the e-booking system in the real estate market.
The portrayal of Australian women in property publications
Authors: Antoniades Hera , Warren Clive M.J.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to undertake an analysis of the visual portrayal of women published in a professional journal within the built environment and to establish whether or not there is gender stereotyping through these published images.

Design/methodology/approach

A prominent property professional industry journal was selected for the research analysis. This journal was selected because of the national coverage within Australia and high prominence within the property industry. The analysis focused on a total of 166 pictures in the 2015 issues. The coding identified the publication year, issue number and page number of each photograph analysed and total number of pictures on each page. After this information was tabulated, each photograph was analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Findings

The research identified that given the opportunity to be photographed ad hoc, women tend to take the dominant stance and yet when the pictures were posed, the women showed a tendency to adopt a submissive stance. Male images were 13.39 per cent in the dominance category indicating a higher score in comparison to females at 3.45 per cent.

Practical implications

Whilst it is generally accepted that there are more males in the built environment, the reality leans towards the notion that with less woman on property boards and management roles, it will be difficult to portray women in positions of authority and to balance the gender portrayal. In summary, the marginalisation of women is evident, and marketing media can be highly influential and unintentionally promote gender inequity with image portrayal.

Originality/value

This research provides a valuable insight on how women are portrayed in the property profession. The property industry and the professional bodies can provide an influential role to promote gender equality.
Natural products to control biofilm on painted surfaces
Authors: Bogdan Sofia , Deya Cecilia , Micheloni Oscar , Bellotti Natalia , Romagnoli Roberto
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to study five vegetables extracts as possible additives to control bacterial growth on indoor waterborne paints. The extracts were obtained from the weeds Raphanus sativus, Rapistrum rugosum, Sinapis arvensis, Nicotiana longiflora and Dipsacus fullonum, used in traditional medicine as antimicrobial compounds.

Design/methodology/approach

Weeds extracts were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and UV–Vis spectrophotometry. Their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was also determined. Afterward, selected extracts were incorporated in waterborne paint formulations. The paints’ antimicrobial activity was assessed against S. aureus, monitoring biofilm formation by environmental scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

As a general rule, results showed that tested paints were efficient in inhibiting biofilm formation, especially that formulated with Nicotiana longiflora.

Practical implications

The tested paints can be used to protect walls from microbial colonization, which shortened coatings’ useful life by discoloration and/or degradation. Concomitantly, indoor microbial colonization by aerosols could be also diminished. This is especially important in places that should have high standards of environmental hygiene, as in the food industry, health-care and sanitary centers.

Originality/value

The main value of this research was to study the antimicrobial activity of weeds extracts and to incorporate them in waterborne paints to diminish bacterial biofilm formation. This biofilm discolors and degrades the paint, and causes health problems. The use of natural compounds in coatings is increasing because of the convenience of using renewable sources, such as natural antimicrobials, in paint formulations.
Evaluation of the anticorrosive performance of epoxy coatings containing new core/shell pigments
Authors: Ahmed Nivin M. , Abd El-Gawad Walaa M. , Souaya Eglal M.R.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Core-shell is structured particles having several chemical compositions. The advantage of these particles arise from their specific design, to be used in decreasing costs by using inexpensive material (natural ore or waste material) as carrier for thin shell of active material. This study aims to prepare ferrites/silica core-shell pigments and compare their inhibition efficiency to original ferrites. These pigments have shells of different ferrites that comprise 10-15 per cent of the prepared pigments on silica fume. Silica fume which is the core is a byproduct in the ferro–silicon industry; this core comprises 85-90 per cent of the prepared pigments.

Design/methodology/approach

The prepared core-shell pigments were characterized using transmission electron microscopy analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis and sequential wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence. These pigments were integrated in epoxy-based paint formulations, and the physical, mechanical and corrosion properties of dry films were examined. The corrosion properties were studied by using immersion test in 3.5 per cent NaCl for 28 days.

Findings

This study showed that these new eco-friendly and inexpensive pigments are similar to ferrites in their inhibition performance, i.e. they exhibited high corrosion prevention.

Research limitations/implications

Domestic waste materials were reused in paints and only simple modification was used, and then, their effectiveness showed similar performance to that of the original pigments.

Originality/value

Ferrite and ferrite/silica pigments are environmentally friendly pigments that can replace other hazardous pigments (e.g. chromates) with almost the same quality in their performance; also, they can be used in industries other than paints (e.g. paper, rubber and plastics composites).
An investigation into waterborne intumescent coating with different fillers for steel application
Authors: Md Nasir K. , Ramli Sulong N.H. , Johan M.R. , Afifi A.M.
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the modification and/or improvement of intumescent coating system by incorporating waterborne resin with an appropriate combination of flame-retardant additives and four different fillers, namely, TiO2, Al(OH)3, Mg(OH)2 and CaCO3.

Design/methodology/approach

Coating mixtures are characterized using the Bunsen burner, thermogravimetric analysis, limiting oxygen index, scanning electron microscope, static immersion bath, Fourier transform infrared and adhesion tester.

Findings

Results show that the combination of coating with CaCO3 filler significantly improved fire protection performance because of its thick char layer and the equilibrium temperature being 264°C. Char layer showed a uniform dense foam structure on micrograph and this formulation had adhesion strength of 2.13 MPa, which indicates effectiveness of the interface adhesion on substrate. Conversely, the combination of coating with Al(OH)3 exhibited highest oxygen index of 35 per cent, which resulted in excellent flammability resistance.

Research limitations/implications

This paper discusses only the effect of mineral fillers on properties of intumescent coatings.

Practical implications

In the modern design of building infrastructure, fire safety is significant for the protection of human life and assets. The application of intumescent coating in buildings is currently practiced because of its effect on material flammability during a fire.

Originality/value

The analysis method to evaluate the performance of water-borne resin with different fillers is formulated, and it could be applied in all kinds of coatings and mixtures to be used as an effective fire protection system for steel constructions.
The Effect of Real Gas Approximations on S-CO2 Compressor Design
Authors: Lee Jekyoung , Kuk Cho Seong , Lee Jeong Ik
Published: January 2018

From the efforts of many researchers and engineers related to the S-CO2 Brayton cycle technology development, the S-CO2 Brayton cycle is now considered as one of the key power technologies for the future. Since the S-CO2 Brayton cycle has advantages in economics due to high efficiency and compactness of the system, various industries have been trying to develop baseline technology on the design and analysis of the S-CO2 Brayton cycle components. According to the previous researches on the S-CO2 Brayton cycle component technology, the treatment of a thermodynamic property near the critical point of CO2 is one of the main concerns since conventional design and analysis methodologies cannot be used for the near critical point region. Among many thermodynamic properties, the stagnation to static condition conversion process is important since the flow in a compressor is at high flow velocity. In this paper, the impact of various stagnation to static conversion methods on the S-CO2 compressor design near the critical point will be evaluated. From the evaluation, the limitation of a certain stagnation to static conversion method will be discussed to provide a guideline for the future S-CO2 compressor designers.
Does Wrist Laxity Influence Three-Dimensional Carpal Bone Motion?
Authors: Best Gordon M. , Zec Michelle L. , Pichora David R. , Kamal Robin N. , Rainbow Michael J.
Published: January 2018

Previous two-dimensional (2D) studies have shown that there is a spectrum of carpal mechanics that varies between row-type motion and column-type motion as a function of wrist laxity. More recent three-dimensional (3D) studies have suggested instead that carpal bone motion is consistent across individuals. The purpose of this study was to use 3D methods to determine whether carpal kinematics differ between stiffer wrists and wrists with higher laxity. Wrist laxity was quantified using a goniometer in ten subjects by measuring passive wrist flexion–extension (FE) range of motion (ROM). In vivo kinematics of subjects' scaphoid and lunate with respect to the radius were computed from computed tomography (CT) volume images in wrist radial and ulnar deviation positions. Scaphoid and lunate motion was defined as “column-type” if the bones flexed and extended during wrist radial–ulnar deviation (RUD), and “row-type” if the bones radial–ulnar deviated during wrist RUD. We found that through wrist RUD, the scaphoid primarily flexed and extended, but the scaphoids of subjects with decreased laxity had a larger component of RUD (R2 = 0.48, P < 0.05). We also determined that the posture of the scaphoid in the neutral wrist position predicts wrist radial deviation (RD) ROM (R2 = 0.46, P < 0.05). These results suggest that ligament laxity plays a role in affecting carpal bone motion of the proximal row throughout radial and ulnar deviation motions; however, other factors such as bone position may also affect motion. By developing a better understanding of normal carpal kinematics and how they are affected, this will help physicians provide patient-specific approaches to different wrist pathologies.
Cost-Effective Alternatives to Conventional Charpy Tests for Measuring the Impact Toughness of Very-High-Toughness Steels
Authors: Lucon Enrico
Published: January 2018

For modern plate steels exhibiting high toughness and ductility, the conventional Charpy test is ostensibly stretched beyond its limits of applicability. Impact tests yield absorbed energy values in excess of 300–400 J, which are associated with limited material fracture and mostly derive from plastic deformation of the specimen (bending), friction, and vibrations of the swinging hammer. It would be therefore very desirable to measure the actual fracture toughness of very-high-toughness steels by means of an alternative specimen and/or methodology, entailing just a moderate increase of cost and test complexity with respect to Charpy testing. The investigation presented here was aimed at establishing a reasonable, yet cost-effective test procedure utilizing Charpy-type specimens for measuring the dynamic toughness of high-toughness steels, such as line pipe steels. Promising results have been obtained from notches cut by electrical-discharge machining (EDM) using a thin wire of 0.1 mm diameter, as compared to specimens where an actual crack was generated and propagated by fatigue at the root of the machined notch.
A model for acoustic vaporization dynamics of a bubble/droplet system encapsulated within a hyperelastic shell
Authors: Lacour Thomas , Guédra Matthieu , Valier-Brasier Tony , Coulouvrat François
Published: January 2018

Nanodroplets have great, promising medical applications such as contrast imaging, embolotherapy, or targeted drug delivery. Their functions can be mechanically activated by means of focused ultrasound inducing a phase change of the inner liquid known as the acoustic droplet vaporization (ADV) process. In this context, a four-phases (vapor + liquid + shell + surrounding environment) model of ADV is proposed. Attention is especially devoted to the mechanical properties of the encapsulating shell, incorporating the well-known strain-softening behavior of Mooney-Rivlin material adapted to very large deformations of soft, nearly incompressible materials. Various responses to ultrasound excitation are illustrated, depending on linear and nonlinear mechanical shell properties and acoustical excitation parameters. Different classes of ADV outcomes are exhibited, and a relevant threshold ensuring complete vaporization of the inner liquid layer is defined. The dependence of this threshold with acoustical, geometrical, and mechanical parameters is also provided.
Impact of loudspeaker nonlinear distortion on personal sound zones
Authors: Ma Xiaohui , Hegarty Patrick J. , Pedersen Jan Abildgaard , Larsen Jakob Juul
Published: January 2018

Personal sound zone systems aim at creating multiple listening zones within a shared space with minimum interference between zones, but the performance is often poorer than simulations predict and effects of nonlinear distortion are sometimes audible. This paper assesses the impact of nonlinear distortion on sound zones through simulations and measurements performed under anechoic conditions. Two sound zones, one bright and one dark, are created with acoustic contrast control using two loudspeaker arrays driven at 250 Hz. Nonlinear distortion is modelled using second or third order nonlinearities. Simulations show that nonlinear distortion degrades the acoustic contrast, which is confirmed by experimental measurements. The harmonic distortion is audible in the dark zone. Frequency resolved measurements reveal that harmonic distortion contributes to contrast loss, but nonlinear effects on the fundamental component are the main cause. Nonlinear distortion can be controlled through regularization of the loudspeaker control effort. Simulations and experiments show an optimum regularization range where contrast is optimized by balancing linear performance and nonlinear distortion.
Neisseria cinerea with High Ceftriaxone MIC Is a Source of Ceftriaxone and Cefixime Resistance-Mediating
penA
Sequences in Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Igawa Gene , Yamagishi Yuka , Lee Ken-Ichi , Dorin Misato , Shimuta Ken , Suematsu Hiroyuki , Nakayama Shu-Ichi , Mikamo Hiroshige , Unemo Magnus , Ohnishi Makoto
Published: January 2018

Mosaic
penA
alleles have caused most of the cephalosporin resistance in
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
, but their evolution is mostly unknown. The
penA
gene from
Neisseria cinerea
strain AM1601 (ceftriaxone MIC, 1.0 μg/ml) caused ceftriaxone resistance (MIC, 1 μg/ml) in a ceftriaxone-susceptible gonococcal strain. The 3′-terminal half of AM1601
penA
was almost identical to that of the ceftriaxone-resistant gonococcal GU140106 and FC428 strains.
N. cinerea
can serve as a reservoir of ceftriaxone resistance-mediating
penA
sequences that can be transferred to gonococci.
Production of 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid by an Aerobic Growth-Arrested Bioprocess Using Metabolically Engineered Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Kitade Yukihiro , Hashimoto Ryoma , Suda Masako , Hiraga Kazumi , Inui Masayuki
Published: January 2018

Corynebacterium glutamicum
was metabolically engineered to produce 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), a valuable aromatic compound used as a raw material for the production of liquid crystal polymers and paraben.
C. glutamicum
was found to have a higher tolerance to 4-HBA toxicity than previously reported hosts used for the production of genetically engineered 4-HBA. To obtain higher titers of 4-HBA, we employed a stepwise overexpression of all seven target genes in the shikimate pathway in
C. glutamicum
. Specifically, multiple chromosomal integrations of a mutated
aroG
gene from
Escherichia coli
, encoding a 3-deoxy-
d
-arabinoheptulosonic acid 7-phosphate (DAHP) synthase, and wild-type
aroCKB
from
C. glutamicum
, encoding chorismate synthase, shikimate kinase, and 3-dehydroquinate synthase, were effective in increasing product titers. The last step of the 4-HBA biosynthesis pathway was recreated in
C. glutamicum
by expressing a highly 4-HBA-resistant chorismate pyruvate-lyase (UbiC) from the intestinal bacterium
Providencia rustigianii
. To enhance the yield of 4-HBA, we reduced the formation of by-products, such as 1,3-dihydroxyacetone and pyruvate, by deleting
hdpA
, a gene coding for a haloacid dehalogenase superfamily phosphatase, and
pyk
, a gene coding for a pyruvate kinase, from the bacterial chromosome. The maximum concentration of 4-HBA produced by the resultant strain was 36.6 g/liter, with a yield of 41% (mol/mol) glucose after incubation for 24 h in minimal medium in an aerobic growth-arrested bioprocess using a jar fermentor. To our knowledge, this is the highest concentration of 4-HBA produced by a metabolically engineered microorganism ever reported.

IMPORTANCE
Since aromatic compound 4-HBA has been chemically produced from petroleum-derived phenol for a long time, eco-friendly bioproduction of 4-HBA from biomass resources is desired in order to address environmental issues. In microbial chemical production, product toxicity often causes problems, but we confirmed that wild-type
C. glutamicum
has high tolerance to the target 4-HBA. A growth-arrested bioprocess using this microorganism has been successfully used for the production of various compounds, such as biofuels, organic acids, and amino acids. However, no production method has been applied for aromatic compounds to date. In this study, we screened for a novel final reaction enzyme possessing characteristics superior to those in previously employed microbial 4-HBA production. We demonstrated that the use of the highly 4-HBA-resistant UbiC from the intestinal bacterium
P. rustigianii
is very effective in increasing 4-HBA production.
Characterization and Protective Efficacy of Type III Secretion Proteins as a Broadly Protective Subunit Vaccine against Salmonella enterica Serotypes
Authors: Martinez-Becerra Francisco J. , Kumar Prashant , Vishwakarma Vikalp , Kim Jae Hyun , Arizmendi Olivia , Middaugh C. Russell , Picking William D. , Picking Wendy L.
Published: January 2018

Nontyphoidal
Salmonella enterica
serotypes (NTS) are the leading cause of hospitalization and death due to foodborne illnesses. NTS are the costliest of the foodborne pathogens and cause ∼$4 billion annually in health care costs. In Africa, new invasive NTS are the leading cause of bacteremia, especially in HIV-positive children and adults. Current vaccines against
S. enterica
are not broadly protective and most are directed at the typhoid-causing serotypes, not the NTS. All
S. enterica
strains require two type III secretion systems (T3SS) for virulence. The T3SS needle tip protein and the first translocator are localized to the T3SS needle tip and are required for pathogenesis of
S. enterica
. Collectively they are 95 to 98% conserved at the amino acid sequence level among all
S. enterica
strains. The
Salmonella
pathogenicity island 1 or 2 tip and first translocator proteins were genetically fused to produce the S1 and S2 fusion proteins, respectively, as potential vaccine candidates. S1 and S2 were then characterized using spectroscopic techniques to understand their structural and biophysical properties. Formulated at the proper pH, S1, S2, or S1 plus S2 (S1S2), admixed with adjuvant, was used to immunize mice followed by a lethal challenge with
S. enterica
serotype Typhimurium or
S. enterica
serotype Enteritidis. The S1S2 formulation provided the highest protective efficacy, thus demonstrating that an S1S2 subunit vaccine can provide broad, serotype-independent protection, possibly against all
S. enterica
serotypes. Such a finding would be transformative in improving human health.
Staphylococcus aureus Colonization Induces Strain-Specific Suppression of Interleukin-17
Authors: Reiss-Mandel Aylana , Rubin Carmit , Zayoud Morad , Rahav Galia , Regev-Yochay Gili
Published: January 2018

Staphylococcus aureus
is a pathogen that causes significant morbidity and mortality. Nasal carriage is a major source of transmission and of endogenous infection. Persistent carriage is detected in ∼30% of healthy individuals. While Th17 cells have been shown to play a role in
S. aureus
infection and clearance, the immune response to carriage is not well understood. Here, we evaluate the Th17 response and its potential inhibitors during
S. aureus
carriage. We recruited 25 volunteers, of whom 11 were persistent carriers. Volunteers' peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated with either their endogenous strain (a strain isolated from that carrier) or exogenous ones (strains not carried by that volunteer). Changes in Th17 cell frequency and numbers, interleukin-17 (IL-17) mRNA expression, and IL-17 protein abundance were measured by fluorescence-activated cell sorting, real-time PCR, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Similarly, responses of IL-17 suppressors (regulatory T cells [FOXP3], IL-10, IL-27, and IL-19) were measured. Th17 and IL-17 levels in response to stimulation with endogenous strains were significantly lower than those in response to stimulation with exogenous ones. Of the suppressive cytokines tested, only IL-19 exhibited a stronger response to endogenous than to exogenous strains. Addition of recombinant IL-19 to exogenous-strain-stimulated PBMCs caused decreased IL-17 expression, whereas addition of IL-19 antibodies to endogenous-strain-stimulated cells resulted in an increased IL-17 response. Together, our results suggest that
S. aureus
carriage induced a tolerogenic response to a carried strain that could be reproduced through the addition of recombinant IL-19 or prevented by the addition of IL-19 antibodies. This differential immune response may play a role in the determination of
S. aureus
carriage patterns.