bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Swit_4259, an acetoacetate decarboxylase-like enzyme from Sphingomonas wittichii RW1
Authors: Mydy Lisa S. , Mashhadi Zahra , Knight T. William , Fenske Tyler , Hagemann Trevor , Hoppe Robert W. , Han Lanlan , Miller Todd R. , Schwabacher Alan W. , Silvaggi Nicholas R.
Published: November 2017

The Gram-negative bacterium Sphingomonas wittichii RW1 is notable for its ability to metabolize a variety of aromatic hydrocarbons. Not surprisingly, the S. wittichii genome contains a number of putative aromatic hydrocarbon-degrading gene clusters. One of these includes an enzyme of unknown function, Swit_4259, which belongs to the acetoacetate decarboxylase-like superfamily (ADCSF). Here, it is reported that Swit_4259 is a small (28.8 kDa) tetrameric ADCSF enzyme that, unlike the prototypical members of the superfamily, does not have acetoacetate decarboxylase activity. Structural characterization shows that the tertiary structure of Swit_4259 is nearly identical to that of the true decarboxylases, but there are important differences in the fine structure of the Swit_4259 active site that lead to a divergence in function. In addition, it is shown that while it is a poor substrate, Swit_4259 can catalyze the hydration of 2-oxo-hex-3-enedioate to yield 2-oxo-4-hydroxyhexanedioate. It is also demonstrated that Swit_4259 has pyruvate aldolase-dehydratase activity, a feature that is common to all of the family V ADCSF enzymes studied to date. The enzymatic activity, together with the genomic context, suggests that Swit_4259 may be a hydratase with a role in the metabolism of an as-yet-unknown hydrocarbon. These data have implications for engineering bioremediation pathways to degrade specific pollutants, as well as structure–function relationships within the ADCSF in general.
Fast approach to calculate the ballastless track impedance
Authors: Zhang Hanhua , Li Jun , Zou Jun , Wang Zhixin , Yang Jin
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The track impedance is one of the most important parameters in designing the track circuit which is widely used in the railway signal control system to detect the presence of a train. This paper aims to calculate the ballastless track impedance by taking account of the influence of reinforcement bars.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a two-step decomposition approach to calculate the ballastless track impedance. The basic idea is evaluating the track impedance without the reinforcement bars by using two-dimensional (2D) finite element method (FEM), and the incremental impedance, because of the reinforcement bar, is calculated by the partial element equivalent circuit (PEEC) method.

Findings

The numerical examples show that the proposed approach can guarantee the accuracy and largely reduce the computing time, at least 20 times, compared with the direct three-dimensional (3D) FEM method.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides a fast approach to calculate the ballastless track impedance. However, compared with the 3D FEM method, the results are less accurate because of the approximation and assumption adopted in the method. A future study should pay more attention to improve accuracy of the model.

Originality/value

A fast approach is proposed to calculate the ballastless track impedance taking account of the influence of the reinforcement bars. The computing time can be largely reduced by using the method. With the proposed approach, the influence of insulation of the reinforcement bars on track impedance can be analyzed.
Transient simulation of helical coil electromagnetic launchers
Authors: Yang Dong , Liu Zhenxiang , Shu Ting , Yang Lijia , Ouyang Jianming , Zhi Shen
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Helical coil electromagnetic launchers (HEMLs) using motion-induced commutation strategy solve the problem of synchronization control perfectly. HEMLs can meet the requirements of multiple applications such as the electromagnetic catapult, electromagnetic mortar and high-velocity coilgun. The trade-off between the velocity and efficiency is an important basis for these different applications. To optimize such objectives before actual design, the purpose of this paper is to focus on the efficient and flexible calculation model and algorithm. A novel structure of HEML is proposed after the transient simulation by this algorithm, which can improve the energy conversion efficiency and suppress the muzzle arc without affecting the velocity too much.

Design/methodology/approach

The equivalent circuit model of the launcher is established and the governing equations are derived. A combination of the four-stage Runge–Kutta method and the trapezoidal quadrature formula are used to solve the governing equations.

Findings

With smaller number of turns in the coils of HEML, the velocity is larger and the efficiency is lower. The non-uniform HEML is an effective option to improve the energy conversion efficiency and to suppress the muzzle arc with almost the same muzzle velocity as the conventional HEML.

Originality/value

The paper presents a common model and a flexible fast numerical method which can be used in multi-objective optimization of HEMLs such as the genetic algorithm. A new structure of the non-uniform HEML is proposed to improve the energy conversion efficiency and to suppress the muzzle arc of the launcher.
Analysis on iron loss of switched reluctance motor under PWM mode
Authors: Yan Wenju , Chen Hao , Chen Lei , Wang Kai
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to establish a modified variable coefficient calculation model to analyse the control parameter effect on the iron loss of switched reluctance motor under pulse width modulation (PWM) mode.

Design/methodology/approach

The finite element model is solved to get the flux density by python language. Due to non-sinusoidal flux density feature and the effect of PWM excitation, the Fourier transform is applied in consideration of harmonic components. To improve the accuracy of iron loss computation, the effect of minor loops is considered by using the rain-flow counting method.

Findings

When the speed fluctuates around the set speed and the fluctuations are relatively small, it is useful to reduce the iron loss with smaller duty ratio and turn-on angle or greater duty ratio and smaller turn-off angle. The iron loss is less affected by chopping frequency, while the iron loss increases obviously with higher conduction angles. The iron loss under non-energy-returnable-voltage-chop mode is greater than energy-returnable-voltage-chop mode.

Originality/value

The modified variable coefficient MIEM5 iron loss model is proposed to improve the accuracy of iron loss calculation. Then the control parameters such as duty ratio, chopping frequency, turn on angle and turn off angle are analysed under PWM mode.
Analytical method for the prediction of natural frequencies of switched reluctance motor based on electromechanical analogy method
Authors: Tan Chao , Wang Honghua , Chen Ling
Published: November 2017

Purpose

An improved analytical method for calculating the natural frequencies of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) stator is proposed in this paper. The method is different from traditional analytical methods, which only consider the influence of mass of the stator poles and windings on the natural frequencies of the SRM stator. This paper aims to consider the influence of stiffness and mass of the stator poles and windings simultaneously and reasonably.

Design/methodology/approach

An innovated analytical method based on the electromechanical analogy method is presented. In the proposed analytical formulae for calculating the natural frequencies, the influence of the windings on natural frequencies is considered by using the springs to simulate the flexible connection between the stator core and windings, and the stator poles are treated as both additional mass and additional equivalent stiffness. Both three-dimensional (3D) finite-element analysis (FEA) and experimental modal analysis results validate the improved method.

Findings

The influence of the mass and stiffness of stator winding is considered by using the springs to simulate the flexible connection between the stator core and windings, and the stator poles are treated as both additional mass and additional equivalent stiffness. The traditional analytical method only considers the influence of mass. Therefore, the calculation results are comparatively lower than 3D FEA results and may lead to a large error. The 3D FEA and experimental modal analysis confirm that the proposed method has good precision for low-order natural frequency calculation of SRMs.

Originality/value

An improved analytical method for calculating the natural frequencies of an SRM stator is proposed. Unlike the traditional analytical method, the proposed method can consider the influence of stiffness and mass of the stator poles and windings. This method is valuable for designers to predict the natural frequencies accurately.
Empirical relation for broken bar determination in SCIM
Authors: Sinha Ashish Kumar , Das Sukanta , Chatterjee Tarun Kumar
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Condition monitoring of squirrel cage induction motors (SCIMs) is indispensible for achieving fault-free working environment. As broken rotor bars (BRBs) are one of the more frequent faults in a SCIM especially where direct-on-line starting is indispensible, as in underground mines, a priori knowledge of fault severity in terms of the number of BRBs assists in effective fault monitoring. In this regard, this paper aims to propose a unique empirical relation to facilitate the determination of number of BRB.

Design/methodology/approach

Fast Fourier transform is used to obtain fault sideband amplitudes under varying number of BRBs and load torque for 5.5 kW, 7.5 kW, 10 kW, three-phase, 415 V, 50 Hz SCIMs in MATLAB/Simulink. The nature of variation is decided by an appropriate curve fitting technique for comprehending a unique empirical relation. The proposed empirical relation is validated by bootstrapping and z-test. Furthermore, hardware validation is done using 1 kW laboratory prototype with Labview interface.

Findings

The analytical study reveals the dependence of lower and upper sideband amplitudes on the number of BRBs, load torque and machine rating. Therefore, fault severity in terms of number of BRBs is accurately calculated using the proposed empirical relation if load torque, machine rating and amplitudes of lower and upper sidebands are known.

Originality/value

The unique empirical relation proposed in the present work provides accurate knowledge of fault severity in terms of the number of BRBs. This facilitates maintenance scheduling which shall reduce effective downtime and improve production.
Steady state and dynamic performance of self-excited induction generator using FACTS controller and teaching learning-based optimization algorithm
Authors: Elkholy Mahmoud M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The paper aims to present an application of teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO) algorithm and static Var compensator (SVC) to improve the steady state and dynamic performance of self-excited induction generators (SEIG).

Design/methodology/approach

The TLBO algorithm is applied to generate the optimal capacitance to maintain rated voltage with different types of prime mover. For a constant speed prime mover, the TLBO algorithm attains the optimal capacitance to have rated load voltage at different loading conditions. In the case of variable speed prime mover, the TLBO methodology is used to obtain the optimal capacitance and prime mover speed to have rated load voltage and frequency. The SVC of fixed capacitor and controlled reactor is used to have a fine tune in capacitance value and control the reactive power. The parameters of SVC are obtained using the TLBO algorithm.

Findings

The whole system of three-phase induction generator and SVC are established under MatLab/Simulink environment. The performance of the SEIG is demonstrated on two different ratings (i.e. 7.5 kW and 1.5 kW) using the TLBO algorithm and SVC. An experimental setup is built-up using a 1.5 kW three-phase induction machine to confirm the theoretical analysis. The TLBO results are matched with other meta heuristic optimization techniques.

Originality/value

The paper presents an application of the meta-heuristic algorithms and SVC to analysis the steady state and dynamic performance of SEIG with optimal performance.
You have to be prepared to drink
Authors: Davies Emma L. , Law Cara , Hennelly Sarah E.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Many existing interventions to reduce excessive drinking in university students attempt to target individual cognitions, which ignore the wider contextual features that drive excessive drinking and mark this as an important aspect of university life. The purpose of this paper is to explore students’ views about preventing excessive drinking at university, specifically by using frameworks that take into both account individual and social influences.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 23 young adults aged 20-30 (12 females; M age=22.91; SD=2.57; 18 students, five recent graduates) took part in semi-structured interviews to explore their views about drinking and measures to reduce excessive consumption. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings

There were three themes identified in the analysis. These themes were named “the role of alcohol in student life”, drinking transitions’, and “prevention challenges” and each had related sub-themes.

Practical implications

Targeting students before they commence their course and highlighting aspects of university life that do not involve alcohol may help to reduce the pressure often felt to drink in social situations. Providing novel, credible alternative socialising options that do not involve alcohol should be explored to determine their acceptability, and their potential to reduce excessive drinking.

Originality/value

Few studies explore what students themselves think about reducing alcohol consumption and most interventions focus on changing individual cognitions rather than features of the social environment. This study highlights that changing social practices related to drinking in combination with targeting individuals may be more fruitful avenue to reduce excessive alcohol consumption.
Parents’ mobile technology adoption influences on elementary children’s use
Authors: Eutsler Lauren
Published: November 2017

Purpose

With a high rate of mobile technology ownership in the home, it is unknown how parents’ behavioral intention influences mobile technology adoption and children’s informal use to support reading. The purpose of this paper is to identify 120 parents’ intentions to adopt mobile technology and gather in-depth perceptions about mobile technology adoption with a smaller subset of 13 parents.

Design/methodology/approach

The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology adoption model and the ecological systems theory help explain the interconnections of the child’s home and school on mobile technology intentions and use behavior. A mixed-method explanatory research design obtained behavioral intention scores from a parent survey and individual interviews explained intention scores and depth of perceptions.

Findings

Parents’ behavioral intention scores show, on average, parents agree with using mobile technology to help their child read in the home. Behavioral intention concerns are influenced by children’s individual experience with technology: reluctant users prioritize media-safe education; indifferent users perceive technology as entertainment and desire a balance of text mediums; eager users are influenced socially and recognize interactive and individual affordances when reading with technology.

Research limitations/implications

Knowing that parents’ behavioral intentions vary based on their individual concerns, transparency between parents and teachers about parents’ concerns and children’s mobile technology use in the home can strengthen children’s mobile learning opportunities between home and school.

Originality/value

Data were collected from 46 classrooms between two K-5 elementary schools in the southeastern USA, which offers a unique glimpse into technology adoption behavior in two different communities.
Environmental issues: managing product switching intentions among Indonesian consumers
Authors: Burhanudin Burhanudin , Ferguson David
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors that make Indonesian consumers differ in their intentions to switch to products that are more eco-friendly than their current products.

Design/methodology/approach

Consumers’ experiences with their current product and evaluation of its more eco-friendly alternative were simulated; the effects on intention to switch to the better product were then investigated.

Findings

This study found that the differences in intentions to switch are attributable to loss aversion and focusing illusion. When consumers follow the principle of loss aversion (exaggeration of greater loss than gain), they are more likely to switch to leave unattractive product (i.e. a product that they perceive as contributing to environmental degradation) than when they do not. Also, when consumers experience focusing illusion concerning the environment (determining happiness based on environmental conditions), they are more likely to switch to make their lives happier than when they do not.

Practical implications

In managing consumer intention to switch, companies should effectively communicate how their products save the environment. This communication could make their customers less likely to give up their current products to live happier lives. Similarly, companies could encourage target customers to switch to their products by arguing that giving up their current products would help them live happier lives.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence that perceived budget constraints may not inhibit consumers from switching to more eco-friendly products to live happier lives.
The role of teachers’ emotional intelligence in enhancing student achievement
Authors: Alam Abdullah , Ahmad Mushtaq
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims at finding the impact of teachers’ emotional intelligence on student achievement.

Design/methodology/approach

For a sample of 224 public school teachers, regression analysis has been conducted to find the impact of emotional intelligence on student achievement through the mediation of teacher commitment and school culture.

Findings

The study results indicate that the relationship between emotional intelligence and student achievement is mediated by school culture.

Originality/value

Previous studies on emotional intelligence and student achievement have focused on emotional intelligence of the principals only. Literature on the impact of teachers’ emotional intelligence on student achievement is scarce. The current study adds to this strand of literature by exploring the impact of teachers’ emotional intelligence in enhancing student achievement.
Assessing online strategies aimed at enhancing campus safety
Authors: Hayes Brittany E. , O’Neal Eryn Nicole , Meeker Katherine A. , Steele Sarah A. , Brady Patrick Q. , Bills Matthew A.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate technological strategies (i.e. online training and university safety system) used at one southeastern four-year university to enhance campus safety. This paper investigates if an online training influenced rape myth acceptance (RMA) and if participation in the university safety system was associated with perceptions of campus safety.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from college students were collected via a survey that was distributed through the school’s e-mail system. The survey asked respondents about their perceptions of safety, experiences on campus, attitudes, and utilization of campus resources. In total, 1,583 students participated in the survey. Analyses were limited to 889 respondents not missing data.

Findings

RMA did not differ between those who completed the online training and those who did not complete the training. Regarding perceptions of campus safety, respondents who opted to receive emergency notifications were not significantly different from those who did not receive the notifications. Respondents who had the safety application felt safer on campus compared to those who did not have the application. Respondents who participated in the training, received notifications, and had the application felt safer on campus.

Originality/value

This study highlights the potential utility of the safety application as well as the limited effect of the online education program on RMA.
Contesting sexual violence policies in higher education: the case of Rhodes University
Authors: Macleod Catriona Ida , Böhmke Werner , Mavuso Jabulile , Barker Kim , Chiweshe Malvern
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In April 2016, students at Rhodes University brought the institution to a standstill as they protested the University’s sexual violence policies and procedures, as well as the “rape culture” that pervades social structures. In response, a Sexual Violence Task Team (SVTT) was formed in an open, participatory, and transparent process. Members of the University community were invited to comment on drafts of the SVTT document. The purpose of this paper is to outline the contestations – arising from both the establishment of the task team and the inputs from University members to drafts of the document – that surfaced concerning managing sexual violence on campuses and sexual offences policies.

Design/methodology/approach

These contestations are outlined in the form of a case study of Rhodes University.

Findings

The case study of Rhodes University draws attention to two rifts: fissures between student and management; and the role of universities in prosecuting alleged rapists.

Originality/value

In light of increased concern about sexual violence on campuses, the rifts highlighted require careful attention in considering sexual violence on university campuses. In addition, the process engaged in by the SVTT may provide a road map for participatory processes for other such task teams.
Preventing malfeasance in low corruption environments: twenty public administration responses
Authors: Graycar Adam , Masters Adam B.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Corruption undermines good governance. Strategies for preventing malfeasance in low-corruption environments require a different approach to that applied in high-corruption environments. This paper aims to ask if criminological theories and practice contribute to the study and prevention of corruption in public organizations? Do crime prevention techniques help us in preventing corruption?

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data demonstrate that the overwhelming majority of public officials in rich countries demonstrate high levels of integrity; yet, significant sums are invested in anti-corruption agencies and prevention strategies. This paper reports on recent work with an anti-corruption agency, which forced us to re-think how to deliver an anti-corruption agenda in a low-corruption environment. The authors build on their research of public sector corruption in rich countries to develop a set of 20 situational corruption prevention measures for public administrators.

Findings

The result, with lessons from crime prevention, is a prevention tool to support continued good governance in low-corruption environments. Figure 1 is a template that readers can apply in their own environments. Figure 2 is the authors’ attempt to populate this template based on the research reported here.

Originality/value

The matrix of situational corruption prevention techniques provides two original approaches. First, it recasts the language of crime prevention into a non-confrontational approach to avoid alienating honest public officials. Second, the matrix incorporates common public sector functions to guide the development of context specific corruption prevention techniques.
Report on the debate regarding EU cash payment limitations
Authors: Passas Nikos
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Response to suggestion that EU-wide cash payment limits would assist in the control of terrorism finance and money laundering.

Design/methodology/approach

Desk review and interviews

Findings

The inception impact assessment (IIA) is ill-conceived, not grounded on firm empirical evidence and harmful to both crime control and the legitimate interests and rights of the EU citizens. The action under discussion is presented as a measure against terrorism finance, serious crime and tax evasion. The problem is that these criminal acts correspond to very different methods, volumes, perpetrators, causes and control challenges. Cash payment limitations (CPLs) are nowhere near a panacea that can address all of them and cannot make any of them go away magically. Even when each of these crime challenges are considered on their own, the empirical linkage of CPLs to effective controls is not there. The evidence from EU countries with CPLs in place shows higher levels of informal economy, corruption, tax evasion and terrorism risks than those without. There is substantial evidence of non-cash, very serious and organized crime, while the amounts needed and used by terrorists in Europe are usually very small in cash transactions, way below the thresholds under consideration. In fact, determined offenders will shift to other methods and become more sophisticated, posing new problems to controllers. Displacement and incentives for better-organized crime may well be the main products of such measures.

Originality/value

It counters the argument that the cash payment limits can help reduce serious crime, while pointing to several adverse consequences on legitimate interests and human rights.
Kleptocracy in Nigeria
Authors: Das Vasudev
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to sonographically explore kleptocracy in Nigeria’s nascent democracy and evaluate how democracy can mitigate kleptocratic behavior amongst Nigerian political elite for a positive social change using sonic therapeutic intervention lens.

Design/methodology/approach

The author inductively generated data through document analysis in this qualitative study.

Findings

The results of the study showed that kleptocracy has been an age-long politico-financial crime in Nigeria. The author proffered sonic therapeutic intervention to simultaneously enhance democratic values and mitigate kleptocracy among the Nigerian leaders.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the study stemmed from the fact that it cannot be generalized.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the study stemmed from the fact that any leader can take advantage of the research findings and apply the recommendations to themselves for personal transformation without incurring any costs.

Social implications

The social implication of the study is rooted in the fact that if the Nigerian leadership implement the recommendation(s) of the study, there will be a positive social change in the country inasmuch as financial crime will be mitigated.

Originality/value

The originality of the study stemmed from the fact that this inquiry filled the gap in financial crime literature and there was no such study ever conducted in the discipline.
Pyramids, Ponzis and fraud prevention: lessons from a case study
Authors: Bosley Stacie , Knorr Maggie
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to empirically identify factors that increase consumer vulnerability to pyramid scheme fraud and compares/contrasts dynamics and implications of pyramid and Ponzi fraud.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical techniques, including multiple regression, are used to analyze participant data (with over half a million individuals) from a now-defunct US-based pyramid scheme, Fortune Hi-Tech Marketing.

Findings

Findings suggest that this pyramid scheme flourished in counties with identifiable affinity groups: religious communities, Hispanic populations and certain age cohorts (e.g. recently retired). Recruitment success varied significantly between geographic regions, with the highest levels of recruitment in the South. While prior research finds a possible positive relationship between education and Ponzi participation, this is not the case in the pyramid scheme studied. Furthermore, while Ponzi schemes might be pro-cyclical, collapsing during contractions when participants seek to extract their money, this pyramid scheme exhibited counter-cyclical behavior.

Practical implications

State and federal regulators, as well as consumer protection advocates, should learn from analysis of past pyramid scheme cases. Such analysis informs allocation of scarce resources and supports the case for targeted, active education. Clarifying differences between Ponzi and pyramid fraud helps to support clear and effective intervention.

Originality/value

This is the first research to analyze national participant-level data from a pyramid scheme to inform future action. While it confirms some past findings, such as the connection to affinity fraud, it adds to collective knowledge on pyramid schemes and the differences between pyramid and Ponzi fraud.
Tax malfeasance of high net-worth individuals in Malaysia: tax audited cases
Authors: Che Rosli Rasyidah , Ming Ling Lai , Embi Roslani
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the profiles of high net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who were caught for tax malfeasance during a tax audit and to examine factors that influence tax malfeasance among HNWIs in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examined 235 HNWIs who were involved in tax malfeasance after audited by the Inland Revenue Board Malaysia from year 2009 to 2013. A research model was developed to examine the influence of four independent variables which are tax rate, level of income, source of income and taxation performed by tax professionals on tax malfeasance.

Findings

Multiple regression was used to test the proposed research model. The findings show that source of income and taxation performed by tax professionals influence tax malfeasance among HNWIs in Malaysia. This study also uncovers no significant relationship between tax rate and level of income with tax malfeasance of HNWIs.

Originality/value

This study could be the first in Malaysia that has used actual audited data in examining tax malfeasance among HNWIs. This study provides important insights not only to the Malaysian tax authorities but also to tax authorities and tax researchers in other parts of the world, given the fact that tax malfeasance of HNWIs is a prevalent and universal problem.
The cost of not wanting to know – the professions, money laundering and organised crime
Authors: Murray Kenneth
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to advocate the development and re-emphasis of “epistemic virtue” in relevant professional ethical codes so that attention is re-focussed on the responsibility of relevant professionals to close windows of opportunity for financial wrongdoing and money laundering that are left open through the widespread practice of “wilful blindness”.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is an exploration of the duty to know or find out in the accountancy profession via discussion and illustration of how failures in this field contributed to the financial crash; a relation of these failures to “seek the truth” to the concept of “epistemic virtue”; and a discussion of how a lack of epistemic virtue is a necessary condition for the successful practice of money laundering.

Findings

This paper considers the case for establishing a new framework for recalibrating the professional ethic model so that the primacy of outward looking attitudes to knowledge is re-established at the heart of professional ethics.

Research limitations/implications

The paper advocates the adoption of specific training on outward looking epistemic values in all financially related professional bodies.

Practical implications

Review of ethical standards in the professions is required to ensure epistemic virtues are given due weight and prominence within them.

Social implications

The accumulation of criminal capital under legitimate guises by serious organised crime requires poses an ongoing threat to the integrity of economic markets. A key step to improving defences against this threat is the elevation of epistemic virtue in the professions.

Originality/value

To raise awareness and prominence of epistemic virtue as a necessary component of professional integrity.
Do white-collar offenders find prison more punitive than property offenders
Authors: May David C. , Payne Brian K.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to use exchange rate theory to compare how white-collar offenders and property offenders rank the severity of various correctional sanctions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use survey data from 160 inmates incarcerated for white-collar and property crimes in a Midwestern state to compare how white-collar inmates differed from property inmates in ranking the goals of prison and the punitiveness of prison as compared to other alternatives.

Findings

White-collar offenders were no different than property offenders in terms of their assessment of the punitiveness of prison compared to the punitiveness of the four sanctions under consideration here. White-collar offenders were significantly more likely than property offenders to believe that the goal of prison is to rehabilitate rather than deter individuals from further crime.

Research limitations/implications

Because the authors defined white-collar offenders by their crime of incarceration, they may have captured offenders who are not truly white-collar offenders. Focusing on offenders who were in prison did not allow them to fully examine whether similarities between white-collar and property offenders can be attributed to adjustment to prison or some other variable.

Practical implications

Alternative sanctions may be useful in punishing white-collar offenders in a less expensive manner than prison. Results suggest white-collar offenders may be more amenable to rehabilitation than property offenders and may not experience prison much differently than other types of offenders.

Originality value

This research is important because it is the first of its kind to compare white-collar offenders’ views about the punitiveness of prison and the goals of incarceration with those of property offenders.
Plant community evenness responds to spatial plant–soil feedback heterogeneity primarily through the diversity of soil conditioning
Authors: Wubs E. R. Jasper , Bezemer T. Martijn
Published: November 2017

Plant–soil feedback (PSF) has been identified as a key driver of local plant diversity and evenness in competitive communities. However, while it has been shown that spatial PSF heterogeneity can alter plant performance and competitive interactions, there is no proof of principle that spatial PSF heterogeneity enhances community diversity.

Using a grassland model system, we separated two aspects of spatial heterogeneity: the number of species conditioning the soil and spatial distribution of the PSFs.

Our data show that PSFs promoted a higher plant evenness when the soil was conditioned by multiple species (mixed‐conditioned) than when the soil was conditioned by a single species (mono‐conditioned). On mono‐conditioned soils, heterospecifics typically outperformed the focal species. In addition, there was a trend for increasing community evenness from uniform, via fine‐grained to coarse‐grained mixed‐conditioned soils, but this was not significant.

On mixed‐conditioned soils, performance of all competing species was intermediate to the best and the worst mono‐conditioned soils, leading to higher community evenness.

Our data demonstrate that PSFs play a role in promoting plant evenness. Across mono‐conditioned soils, PSF led to altered competitive hierarchies. However, on soils conditioned by multiple species, competitive ability among species was more similar and this led to higher plant evenness. The spatial distribution of the heterogeneity, on the other hand, did not significantly affect plant evenness. Our data therefore show that community evenness was more strongly related to the number of plant species that conditioned the soil than the spatial distribution of the PSF heterogeneity. Future studies need to investigate the importance of PSFs in the field across plant life stages and multiple generations.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Effects of Different Pretreatments to Fresh Fruit on Chemical and Thermal Characteristics of Crude Palm Oil
Authors: Tang Minmin , Xia Qiuyu , Holland Brendan J. , Wang Hui , Zhang Yufeng , Li Rui , Cao Hongxing
Published: November 2017

This study selected 5 methods, including boiling, hot air drying, high‐pressurized steam, freezing, and microwave radiation to pretreat fresh oil palm fruit before solvent extraction of the oil. Using fresh fruit as a control, the pretreatment methods were compared for the effects on the activity of the 2 main enzymes in the fruit and some physicochemical properties of the crude palm oil. The results indicated, although all the 5 pretreatments could inactivate lipase and peroxidase in the treated flesh significantly (P < 0.05), the high‐pressurized steam was the most effective. There were also differences in the unsaturated fatty acid contents of the 6 oils. The crude oil from frozen fruit contained significantly more vitamin E (37829.33 ppm) than previously reported. Microwave radiation was shown to significantly decrease the free fatty acid content and the peroxide value, while increasing the oxidative stability index. Thermal behaviors of the oils were significantly different to each other with the exception a few parameters (P < 0.05).
Sensory and Flavor Characteristics of Tomato Juice from Garden Gem and Roma Tomatoes with Comparison to Commercial Tomato Juice
Authors: Zhu Yaozhou , Sims Charles A. , Klee Harry J. , Sarnoski Paul J.
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to characterize the flavor of a premium Florida tomato variety that has significant potential for producing a high quality processed juice product. A high‐quality Florida plum tomato variety (Garden Gem), and a typical grocery‐store plum tomato variety (Roma) were thermally processed into tomato juices without any additives. The 2 pilot products and a popular commercially available tomato juice (low sodium with sugar and flavor added) were compared using sensory evaluation and instrumental analysis. Flavor compounds in these products were identified using dynamic headspace purge and trap‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (PT‐GC‐MS) by MS library match and retention index and were semi‐quantitated using internal standards. Color, uniformity, overall liking, tomato flavor, sweetness and texture were rated using a hedonic scale. Analysis of variance, correlation and principal component analysis were used to analyze both sensory and flavor data.

Among the 3 products, Garden Gem juice was rated significantly (P < 0.05) higher for overall liking, tomato flavor, and sweetness by the 119 consumer panelists in both seasons. Garden Gem juice was found to contain higher levels of 3 sweet/fruity related aroma compounds: 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐one, linalool, and β‐ionone. The commercial tomato juice contained a high level of the Maillard reaction‐related notes furfural, dimethyl sulfide, and the least amount of green‐related notes (hexanal, E‐2‐hexenal and Z‐2‐heptenal). The flavor profile of the Roma tomato juice was similar to Garden Gem juice except it contained substantially lower amounts of hexanal and 2‐isobutylthiazole. The compound β‐ionone (fruity note) was not detected in either the commercial or Roma juice.

Practical Application

This proof of concept study demonstrates that high flavor quality tomatoes can be used to create better tasting processed tomato products. The study also demonstrates how sensory preference can confer a potential market advantage over existing commercial products. The Garden Gem variety has potential to add desirable flavor attributes to processed tomato products. This research may also provide insights for product developers to which flavor volatiles best reflect sensory observations for different aspects of tomato flavor.
Syncope Prognosis Based on Emergency Department Diagnosis: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Toarta Cristian , Mukarram Muhammad , Arcot Kirtana , Kim Soo‐Min , Gaudet Sarah , Sivilotti Marco L. A. , Rowe Brian H. , Thiruganasambandamoorthy Venkatesh
Published: November 2017

Objective

Relatively little is known about outcomes after disposition among syncope patients assigned various diagnostic categories during emergency department (ED) evaluation. We sought to measure the outcomes among these groups within 30 days of the initialEDvisit.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled adult syncope patients at sixEDs and excluded patients with presyncope, persistent mental status changes, intoxication, seizure, and major trauma. Patient characteristics,EDmanagement, diagnostic impression (presumed vasovagal, orthostatic, cardiac, or other/unknown) at the end of theEDvisit, and physicians’ confidence in assigning the etiology were collected. Serious outcomes at 30 days included death, arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, structural heart disease, pulmonary embolism, and hemorrhage.

Results

A total of 5,010 patients (mean ± SDage = 53.4 ± 23.0 years; 54.8% females) were enrolled; 3.5% suffered serious outcomes—deaths (0.3%), arrhythmias (1.8%), nonarrhythmic cardiac (0.5%), and noncardiac (0.9%) including pulmonary embolism (0.2%). The cause of syncope was presumed as vasovagal among 53.3% and cardiac in 5.4% of patients. The proportion of patients withEDinvestigations (p < 0.001) and short‐term serious outcomes (p < 0.01) increased in each diagnostic category in the following order: presumed vasovagal, orthostatic hypotension, other/unknown cause, and cardiac. No deaths occurred in patients with presumed vasovagal syncope. A higher proportion of all serious outcomes occurred among patients suspected of cardiac syncope in theED(p < 0.01). Confidence was highest among physicians for a presumed vasovagal syncope diagnosis and lowest when the cause was other/unknown.

Conclusion

Short‐term serious outcomes strongly correlated with the etiology assigned in theEDvisit. The importance of the physician's clinical judgment should be further studied to determine if it should become incorporated in risk‐stratification tools for prognostication and safe management ofEDsyncope patients.
Either at left or right, both high and low frequency rTMS of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex decreases cue induced craving for methamphetamine
Authors: Liu Qingming , Shen Ying , Cao Xinyu , Li Yongqiang , Chen Yijiang , Yang Wei , Yuan Ti‐Fei
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives

The study is to investigate if left or right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is important in modulating the craving to drug related cues.

Methods

The present investigation examined different combinations between left/right and high/low frequency rTMS on cue induced craving to methamphetamine, with active sham rTMS on P3 region on a total of 50 subjects.

Results

The results showed that either at left or right side, both high and low frequency rTMS are effective in decreasing the cue induced craving to methamphetamine.

Discussion and Conclusions

In conclusion, bilateral frontal hemispheres are effective in modulating the cue induced craving to methamphetamine with rTMS.

Scientific Significance

TMS targeting prefrontal cortex is effective for craving modulation; however the mechanism is more than potentiation or depression of single brain region. (Am J Addict 2017;26:776–779)
Effect of Polymorphisms on the Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics and Safety of Sertraline in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Saiz‐Rodríguez Miriam , Belmonte Carmen , Román Manuel , Ochoa Dolores , Koller Dora , Talegón María , Ovejero‐Benito María C. , López‐Rodríguez Rosario , Cabaleiro Teresa , Abad‐Santos Francisco
Published: November 2017

Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor widely metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes. Besides, it is a P‐glycoprotein substrate. Moreover, serotonin transporters and serotonin receptors are involved in its efficacy and safety. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of polymorphisms of metabolizing enzymes, transporters and receptors on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and tolerability of sertraline in healthy volunteers. Forty‐six healthy volunteers (24 men and 22 women) receiving a 100‐mg single oral dose of sertraline were genotyped for 17 genetic variants of CYP enzymes (CYP2B6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6), ATP‐binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1), solute carrier family 6 member 4 (SLC6A4), 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A) and 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 2C (HTR2C) genes. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters were similar in men and women. Polymorphisms in CYP2C19 and CYP2B6 genes influenced sertraline pharmacokinetics, with a greater effect of CYP2C19. Individuals carrying defective alleles for CYP2C19 and CYP2B6 showed higher area under the curve (AUC) and half‐life (T1/2). Moreover, CYP2C19*17 was related to a decreased AUC and T1/2. No significant effect was found for polymorphisms in CYP2C9, CYP2D6 and ABCB1 on sertraline pharmacokinetics. Sertraline had a small heart rate‐lowering effect, directly related to maximum concentration (Cmax) and the presence of ABCB1 minor alleles. Sertraline had no significant effect on blood pressure and QTc. There was a tendency to present more adverse drug reactions in women and individuals with higher AUC of sertraline, such as CYP2C19 intermediate metabolizers and CYP2B6 G516T T/T individuals.
Photodynamic therapy and nuclear imaging activities of zinc phthalocyanine‐integrated TiO2 nanoparticles in breast and cervical tumors
Authors: Yurt Fatma , Ocakoglu Kasim , Ince Mine , Colak Suleyman Gokhan , Er Ozge , Soylu Hale Melis , Gunduz Cumhur , Biray Avci Cıgır , Caliskan Kurt Cansu
Published: November 2017

In recent years, phthalocyanines (Pcs) have been widely used as photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy applications. Because of their strong absorptions in the near‐infrared region (640–700 nm). The integration of phthalocyanine derivatives to a nanoparticle is expected to be efficient way to improve the activity of the photosensitizer on the targeted tissue. It is known that the integrated molecules not only show better accumulation on tumor tissue but also reduce toxicity in healthy tissues. In this study, the ZnPc molecule was synthesized and integrated to the TiO2 nanoparticle, to investigate the potential of PDT and its cytotoxicity. Additionally, ZnPc and ZnPc‐TiO2 molecules were labeled with 131I and it was aimed to put forth the nuclear imaging/therapy potentials of 131I labeled ZnPc/ZnPc‐TiO2 by determining in vitro uptakes in mouse mammary carcinoma (EMT6), human cervical adenocarcinoma (HeLa). In result of our study, it was observed that the radiolabeling yields of the synthesized ZnPc and ZnPc‐TiO2 with 131I were quite high. In vitro uptake studies shown that 131I‐ZnPc‐TiO2 could be a potential agent for nuclear imaging/treatment of breast and cervical cancers. According to PDT results, ZnPc‐TiO2 might have as to be a potential PDT agent in the treatment of cervical tumor. ZnPc and ZnPc‐TiO2 might be used as theranostic agents.