bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information technology is an enabling factor affecting supply chain performance in Indian SMEs
Authors: Tripathy Sushanta , Aich Satyabrata , Chakraborty Anurup , Lee Gyu M.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify the success factors for supply chain in Indian small- and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and establish a causal relationship among them. In the present scenario, the SMEs are under huge pressure to achieve the supply chain competitive advantage and to improve operation and logistic effectiveness and, at the same time, remain tractable to the demand uncertainty and volatility in the market. To enhance the performance of supply chain in SMEs, the managers need to identify the internal as well as the external factors that affect the supply chain performance of SMEs in India. They need to understand the causal relationship of these factors.

Design/methodology/approach

– There may be a number of factors that are critical for achieving acceptable supply chain performance, and these factors have been identified by principal component analysis (PCA). In all, 29 factors have been identified by using PCA and the dominating 29 factors are categorized into 6 constructs, and finally, the structural equation modelling (SEM) methodology using the AMOS 4.0 program has been adopted as the primary methodology for this paper to assess the causal relationship among six constructs.

Findings

– In this paper, the authors analyzed the structural relations among information technology (IT), logistic effectiveness, operational effectiveness, customer relationship, supplier relationship and SCM competitive advantage. Results indicate that IT holds the key to achieve the SCM competitive advantage in SCM practices of SMEs in India.

Research limitations/implications

– The proposed models for enabling factors are tested in firms with a limited numbers of factors in highly competitive environment. More factors may be incorporated, which will help for a clear understanding and establishing the causal relationship among the various enabling factors.

Practical implications

– Although managers of Indian SMEs are aware of various enabling factors, a systematic approach is required for identifying enabling factors, and as these factors may have complex interrelation between them for analyzing supply chain performance in SMEs, it is essential that such an approach is in place. The paper presented here will help the SMEs managers in identifying the areas in which they need to focus their attention to improve SCM practices. A structural equation modelling is developed to show the complex relationship between the factors that affect the performance. In addition to that, the proposed structural equation model acts as a good guideline to improve the performance of the supply chain in India.

Originality/value

– The paper provides a structural equation model to develop a map of the causal relationships and magnitude among identified enabling factors.
Selecting Six Sigma projects: MCDM or DEA?
Authors: Yousefi Ali , Hadi-Vencheh Abdollah
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Nowadays, most of the organizations have focused through the world on Six Sigma to reduce the costs, improve the productivity and enhance concerned individuals’ satisfaction, especially customers’ satisfaction. Annually, these organizations define and execute thousands of Six Sigma projects which involve a great deal of investments. But are all of these projects successful and do the organizations benefit from the above advantages? How can we reduce the risk of failure in Six Sigma projects? The first step to reduce the risk of failure in Six Sigma projects is selecting optimal ones which have the most profits and the least expected risks.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this paper, the effective criteria are recognized and defined in selecting Six Sigma projects. Then, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to rank the results. Then, a real example is resolved by two important techniques in decision-making process, that is the AHP and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), as well as data envelopment analysis (DEA). The results from the above three methods are compared.

Findings

– The results of this paper show that by using fewer criteria, the results from AHP and TOPSIS are very similar. Also, the results from these techniques vary from DEA’s ones in many aspects. So regarding the different results and the importance of criteria in selecting the Six Sigma projects, multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques are more reliable in comparison with DEA, because decision-maker’s point of view is more effective in MCDM techniques.

Originality/value

– The paper, using a real case study, provides important new tools to enhance decision quality in Six Sigma project selection.
Modeling the factors and their inter-dependencies for investment decision in Indian mobile service sector
Authors: Bhadani Abhay Kumar , Shankar Ravi , Rao D. Vijay
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors influencing investment decisions in mobile services for profitablity and to become a global leader in mobile services sector.

Design/methodology/approach

– A two-stage methodology is followed. In the first stage, factors are identified from literature, and are validated with telecommunication domain experts using the t-test. In the second stage, interpretive structural modeling (ISM) is used to understand the complex interrelationships among various factors. Further, MICMAC analysis is performed to analyze the indirect relationships and their effect on different factors by stabilizing the rank based on driving and dependence power. Based on MICMAC analysis, four clusters are identified to aid the policy- and decision-makers.

Findings

– The major contribution of this research is imposing directions and dominance of various factors to make informed decision-making for investment in mobile services to meet the upcoming demand for mobile services in Indian telecommunication sector.

Research limitations/implications

– The applicability of these research findings is limited to emerging telecommunication market.

Practical implications

– This paper forms the basis for identifying various factors that act as the driving force for the Indian telecommunication operators to pay special attention toward mobile services, with telecommunication data analytics and developing context-aware services. This paper will aid policy-makers in the government, managers in telecommunication companies and other stakeholders such as content providers, channel partners and application developers to take a lead role in developing appropriate mobile services to meet local needs of Indian users. It will help in developing strategies to collaborate and motivate other stakeholders, including device manufacturers to understand and work collaboratively to become world leader in mobile services.

Originality/value

– This paper provides a framework for understanding the various factors that encourage telecommunication companies to establish and invest in mobile services and setup a separate vertical in their organization with a focus on mobile services to meet the future demands of Indian market. Appropriate utilization of telecommunication data analytics, personalization of services, customization in local languages and support for convergent services would encourage adoption of mobile services.
Integrating knowledge management (KM) strategies and processes to enhance organizational creativity and performance
Authors: Shahzad Khuram , Bajwa Sami Ullah , Siddiqi Ahmed Faisal Imtiaz , Ahmid Farhan , Raza Sultani Ali
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This study aims to identify if an integration between knowledge strategy and knowledge management (KM) processes leads to organizational creativity and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Quantitative strategy and cross-sectional survey method were used to collect data. In all, 219 randomly selected respondents from 173 listed companies provided feedback through self-administered questionnaire. Factor analysis and multiple regression techniques were used to test multiple hypotheses.

Findings

– Results revealed the significant positive impact of system-oriented KM systems strategy on KM process capabilities, creativity and organizational performance. No significant impact has been found of human-oriented KM strategy on different KM processes and organizational performance. However, it interestingly has a significant negative relationship with organizational creativity. KM processes have significant impact on organizational creativity and performance. Organizational creativity has also been identified as having a strong significant impact on organizational performance.

Originality/value

– This paper fills the knowledge gap by undertaking a study which has not been conducted before.
Development of fuzzy two-stage DEA model for competitive advantage based on RBV and strategic agility as a dynamic capability
Authors: Hemmati Maryam , Feiz Davood , Jalilvand Mohammad Reza , Kholghi Iman
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to develop a framework for competitive advantage by systematic quantitative methodology based on resource-based view and dynamic capability theory. Strategic agility was used as a dynamic capability.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from a survey aimed at manufacturing companies from five manufacturing industry in Semnan, Iran. A total of 102 questionnaires were received from 13 companies using convenience sampling. Fuzzy two-stage data envelopment analysis model (DEA) was used to analyse the data collected.

Findings

– The results indicate that there is close internal relationship among firm resources, strategic agility and competitive advantage, and their inherent relationship makes constant returns to scale (CRS) scores closer to 1. In most of the companies, the second process which transforms strategic agility to competitive advantage is the main cause for unsatisfactory performance in gaining competitive advantage.

Originality/value

– The innovation of this paper is in its model and method. There is no research has been ever done on the relationship among firm resources, strategic agility and competitive advantage. Moreover, to obtain a competitive advantage structure, DEA technique was adopted which is a new approach in this area.
CABS: a conceptual model for context-aware B2B sales applications
Authors: Rogers Beth , Clark Lillian
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to propose a conceptual model that will guide development of mobile applications to support value-added business-to-business (B2B) sales activities.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper reviews the concepts of context-aware applications and context-marketing, then examines B2B selling and the creation of value, utilizing Terho’s model of value-based selling, and presenting the potential role of context-aware B2B selling in creating value. Terho’s model is then combined with a taxonomy of context modeling to produce step-by-step a conceptual model for developing context-aware B2B sales applications (CABS).

Findings

– By mapping the context-aware application development taxonomy against each stage of Terho’s “value-based selling” model, the CABS model is proposed. This model provides a platform for the B2B salesforce, their customers and information technology (IT) staff to work together in developing requirements and prototypes for mobile B2B context-aware applications.

Research limitations/implications

– The CABS model would require empirical testing to assess its viability and suitability. This would initially be done via focus groups in targeted sales organizations.

Practical implications

– The CABS model could utilized by sales staff and their customers to develop requirements for mobile context-aware applications to support B2B activity. In addition, the CABS model could be utilized in joint application design processes to enable sales and IT staff to work together in developing prototype mobile applications.

Originality/value

– While context-aware applications are beginning to transform business-to-sale (B2C) sales activities, it is clear that B2B sales could also benefit from these types of applications, but little progress has been made in understanding or developing their potential. The CABS model enables B2B sales staff and their customers to recognize these benefits and facilitate working with IT staff in defining requirements and developing prototypes.
How do you solve a problem like Lucinda?
Authors: Wilson-Mah Rebecca
Published: March 2016

Synopsis

A room attendant in a small hotel with approximately 63 employees undermines her supervisors and disregards authority in deliberate defiance of company policies, rules, regulations and procedures. Disrespect is shown in several behaviours that include interfering with the work of other employees, spreading rumours, gossiping to other room attendants and complaining about unfair treatment.

Research methodology

This case was field researched and the company and individuals are disguised.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is suitable for third- or fourth-year undergraduate students. Within human resource management it is suited for use in a course or series of classes on employee relations or performance management. The case could also be used for an organizational behaviour course to explore conflict and struggle in organizations and the range of passive and active resistance practices that occur. In this particular case the context of women and minorities working in low-skilled roles could be examined.

Theoretical bases

In advance of this case students should have a background in performance management theory and practice, disciplinary systems and practice and the behaviours associated with workplace resistance, insubordination and misconduct.
Restaurant operations at the Rose Capital Inn: a case study exercise
Authors: Gopalakrishna-Remani Venugopal , Cater III John James , Massey Jerry James
Published: March 2016

Synopsis

This case study exercise highlights the importance of food supplier selection and forecasting to minimize food cost and maximize profit for a hotel restaurant. The importance of data analytics in supplier selection is emphasized. The case exercise provides students with a more comprehensive understanding of spoilage and the calculation of food cost percentage, which should save the hotel restaurant under study significant dollars, help the environment, and strengthen the operation. The events described in this case are based on real world experiences.

Research methodology

This research uses a data driven problem-solving approach to accurately forecast food requirements and minimize spoilage.

Relevant courses and levels

Because of its focus on restaurant operations, the case exercise is appropriate for senior-level undergraduate courses or graduate courses in Operations Management, Restaurant Food and Beverage Management, Hotel Management, and Data Analytics.
Comparison of migration‐based location and detection methods for microseismic events
Authors: Trojanowski Jacek , Eisner Leo
Published: March 2016

Microseismic monitoring in the oil and gas industry commonly uses migration‐based methods to locate very weak microseismic events. The objective of this study is to compare the most popular migration‐based methods on a synthetic dataset that simulates a strike‐slip source mechanism event with a low signal‐to‐noise ratio recorded by surface receivers (vertical components). The results show the significance of accounting for the known source mechanism in the event detection and location procedures. For detection and location without such a correction, the ability to detect weak events is reduced. We show both numerically and theoretically that neglecting the source mechanism by using only absolute values of the amplitudes reduces noise suppression during stacking and, consequently, limits the possibility to retrieve weak microseismic events. On the other hand, even a simple correction to the data polarization used with otherwise ineffective methods can significantly improve detections and locations. A simple stacking of the data with a polarization correction provided clear event detection and location, but even better results were obtained for those data combined with methods that are based on semblance and cross‐correlation.
Export Restrictions and Smooth Transition Cointegration: Export Quotas for Wheat in Ukraine
Authors: Götz Linde , Qiu Feng , Gervais Jean‐Philippe , Glauben Thomas
Published: March 2016

We extend previous modelling approaches to identify domestic price effects of export controls. We allow for smooth transition between free‐trade price transmission regimes and those under export restricting regimes, using a smooth transition cointegration (STC) approach, rather than the more common assumption that regime changes are abrupt. Our approach has the advantage that the switch in the price transmission regime may be induced not only by an actual but also by an expected policy change. Results confirm the gradual nature of the transition between the regimes, which reflect trader heterogeneity and wheat storage decisions. We find that theSTCapproach outperforms alternative model approaches in terms of both regime classification and goodness of fit, when explaining Ukrainian domestic wheat prices under export controls. In particular, application of the Markov‐switching error correction model (MSECM) to the same data generates results which do not reflect any identifiable economic reality (in contrast to Götzet al.,).
Point of care testing for group A streptococci in patients presenting with pharyngitis will improve appropriate antibiotic prescription
Authors: Orda Ulrich , Mitra Biswadev , Orda Sabine , Fitzgerald Mark , Gunnarsson Ronny , Rofe Geoff , Dargan Anna
Published: March 2016

Objective

History, clinical examination and throat culture may be inadequate to rule in or out the presence of group A streptococci (GAS) infection in patients with sore throat in a remote location. We correlated the diagnostic accuracy for guiding antibiotic prescription of clinical decision and physiological scoring systems to a rapid diagnostic point of care (POC) test result in paediatric patients presenting with sore throat.

Methods

Prospective diagnostic accuracy study conducted between 30 June 2014 and 27 February 2015 in a remote Australian ED using a convenience sample. Among paediatric patients presenting with sore throat, the Centor criteria and clinical decision were documented. Simultaneously, patients without sore throat or respiratory tract infection were tested to determine the number of carriers. A throat swab on all patients was tested using a POC test (Alere TestPack +Plus Strep A with on board control), considered as reference standard to detect GAS infection.

Results

A total of 101 patients with sore throat were tested with 26 (25.7%) positive for GAS. One hundred and forty‐seven patients without sore throat were tested with one positive POC test result (specificity 99%; 95% CI 96–100). Positive predictive value for clinician decision‐making for a positive GAS swab (bacterial infection) was 29% (95% CI 17–43), negative predictive value 78% (95% CI 63–88). Area under ROC for the Centor score was 0.70 (95% CI 0.58–0.81).

Conclusion

Clinician judgement and Centor score are inadequate tools for clinical decision‐making for children presenting with sore throat. Adjunctive POC testing provides sufficient accuracy to guide antibiotic prescription on first presentation.
Pathological gambling: a review of the neurobiological evidence relevant for its classification as an addictive disorder
Authors: Fauth‐Bühler Mira , Mann Karl , Potenza Marc N.
Published: March 2016

In light of the upcoming eleventh edition of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD‐11), the question arises as to the most appropriate classification of ‘Pathological Gambling’ (‘PG’). Some academic opinion favors leaving PG in the ‘Impulse Control Disorder’ (‘ICD’) category, as in ICD‐10, whereas others argue that new data especially from the neurobiological area favor allocating it to the category of ‘Substance‐related and Addictive Disorders’ (‘SADs’), following the decision in the fifth revision of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The current review examines important findings in relation to PG, with the aim of enabling a well‐informed decision to be made with respect to the classification of PG as a SAD or ICD in ICD‐11. Particular attention is given to cognitive deficits and underlying neurobiological mechanisms that play a role in SADs and ICDs. These processes are impulsivity, compulsivity, reward/punishment processing and decision‐making. In summary, the strongest arguments for subsuming PG under a larger SAD category relate to the existence of similar diagnostic characteristics; the high co‐morbidity rates between the disorders; their common core features including reward‐related aspects (positive reinforcement: behaviors are pleasurable at the beginning which is not the case for ICDs); the findings that the same brain structures are involved in PG and SADs, including the ventral striatum. Research on compulsivity suggests a relationship with PG and SAD, particularly in later stages of the disorders. Although research is limited for ICDs, current data do not support continuing to classify PG as an ICD.
The Inconsistent City, Participatory Planning, and the Part of No Part in Recife, Brazil
Authors: de Vries Pieter
Published: March 2016

This article engages with the trajectory of urban participation in Recife, Brazil, from its start as a governance system aimed at ensuring the right of the poor to the city, to the introduction by the Workers’ Party of participatory budgeting. I argue that participation is used by the state in order to include populations within governmental structures while the poor struggle for the right to belong to the city. Drawing on Alain Badiou's ontology of multiplicity I contend that the urban situation is grounded in inconsistency, as manifested in the existence of a category of people who “sit at the edge of the void”, that neither is included nor belongs. I conclude that the popular mobilizations in Recife in the 1980s constituted a true emancipatory event that exposed the divisions of the city, the existence of a fundamental wrong, and that proclaimed the right of the excluded to the city.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE NETWORKS UNDER GLOBAL TREATY STABILITY
Authors: May Daniel E.
Published: March 2016

The stability of international trade networks has been investigated using the pairwise stability concept. This concept is suitable to study the formation of bilateral agreements. However, it cannot be used to determine the stability of global trade agreements. This article proposes an alternative stability concept that can be adopted to determine the stability of global agreements such as the Doha agreement. This concept is named in this paper Global Treaty Stability.
The MECP2 variant c.925C>T (p.Arg309Trp) causes intellectual disability in both males and females without classic features of Rett syndrome
Authors: Schönewolf‐Greulich B. , Tejada M.‐I. , Stephens K. , Hadzsiev K. , Gauthier J. , Brøndum‐Nielsen K. , Pfundt R. , Ravn K. , Maortua H. , Gener B. , Martínez‐Bouzas C. , Piton A. , Rouleau G. , Clayton‐Smith J. , Kleefstra T. , Bisgaard A.‐M. , Tümer Z.
Published: March 2016

Missense MECP2 variants can have various phenotypic effects ranging from a normal phenotype to typical Rett syndrome (RTT). In females, the phenotype can also be influenced by the X‐inactivation pattern. In this study, we present detailed clinical descriptions of six patients with a rare base‐pair substitution affecting Arg309 at the C‐terminal end of the transcriptional repression domain (TRD). All patients have intellectual disability and present with some RTT features, but they do not fulfill the clinical criteria for typical or atypical RTT. Most of the patients also have mild facial dysmorphism. Intriguingly, the mother of an affected male patient is an asymptomatic carrier of this variant. It is therefore likely that the p.(Arg309Trp) variation does not necessarily lead to male lethality, and it results in a wide range of clinical features in females, probably influenced by different X‐inactivation patterns in target tissues.
Evaluation of movement quality: a new tool for children with hyperkinetic movement disorders
Authors: Wright Elizabeth
Published: March 2016

This commentary is on the original article by Tustin et al. on pages 822–828 of this issue.
Factor analysis of two versions of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance scale
Authors: Pilotto Luciane M. , Scalco Giovana P. C. , Abegg Claides , Celeste Roger K.
Published: March 2016

The aim of this study was to explore the factorial structure and agreement of two scoring versions of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP) scale, and to compare the fit of the originally proposed factorial structure, as opposed to an alternative model. Exploratory factor analyses (EFA) were conducted to explore the dimensional structure of the OIDP on a convenience sample of 200 adults (S1). Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were performed on a random sample of 720 adults (S2). The Cronbach's alpha coefficients for the total and frequency versions of the OIDP scale were, respectively, 0.81 and 0.70 for S1, and 0.82 and 0.79 for S2, with a quadratic Kappa κ = 0.83 (95% CI: 0.75–0.89) in S1 and κ = 0.92 (95% CI: 0.89–0.94) in S2. Exploratory factor analyses showed one factor for the total version and three factors (non‐interpretable) for the frequency version. Confirmatory factor analyses showed that the frequency version for the one‐factor model (Model 1) had the best fit [Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) = 0.04; Comparative Fit Index (CFI) = 0.98; Tucker–Lewis index (TLI) = 0.97, χ2 P‐value < 0.01]. The one‐factor model was not significantly different from the original three‐factor model. These findings suggest that the scale captures only one overall quality of life dimension, and that the frequency version was the most parsimonious model of the OIDP scale.
Relationship between plasma bilirubin level and oxidative stress markers in HIV‐infected patients on atazanavir‐ vs. efavirenz‐based antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Estrada V , Monge S , Gómez‐Garre MD , Sobrino P , Masiá M , Berenguer J , Portilla J , Viladés C , Martínez E , Blanco JR ,   CoRIS and the HIV Biobank integrated in the Spanish AIDS Research Network
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Chronic oxidative stress (OS) may play a role in cardiovascular disease in HIV‐infected patients, and increased bilirubin levels may have a beneficial role in counteracting OS. Atazanavir (ATV) inhibits UDP‐glucuronosyl‐transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1), thus increasing unconjugated bilirubin levels. We aimed to compare changes in OS markers in patients on ATV/ritonavir (ATV/r)‐ vs. efavirenz (EFV)‐based first‐line antiretroviral therapy (ART).

Methods

A multicentre, prospective cohort study of HIV‐infected patients who started first‐line ART with either ATV/r or EFV was conducted. Lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) were measured for 145 patients in samples obtained at baseline and after at least 9 months of ART during which the initial regimen was maintained and the patient was virologically suppressed. The change in OS markers was modelled using multiple linear regressions adjusting for baseline values and confounders.

Results

After adjustment for baseline variables, patients on ATV/r had a significantly greater decrease in Lp‐PLA2 [estimated difference −16.3; 95% confidence interval (CI) −31.4, −1.25; P = 0.03] and a significantly smaller increase in OxLDL (estimated difference −21.8; 95% CI −38.0, −5.6; P < 0.01) relative to those on EFV, whereas changes in MPO were not significantly different (estimated difference 1.2; 95% CI −14.3, 16.7; P = 0.88). Adjusted changes in bilirubin were significantly greater for the ATV/r group than for the EFV group (estimated difference 1.33 mg/dL; 95% CI 1.03, 1.52 mg/dL; P < 0.01). Changes in bilirubin and changes in OS markers were significantly correlated.

Conclusions

When compared with EFV, ATV/r‐based therapy was associated with lower levels of oxidative stress biomarkers, which was in part attributable to increased bilirubin levels.
Effects of exogenous 24‐epibrassinolide to control grey mould and maintain postharvest quality of table grapes
Authors: Liu Qing , Xi Zhumei , Gao Jiangman , Meng Ying , Lin Sun , Zhang Zhenwen
Published: March 2016

The potential of various concentrations of 24‐epibrassinolide (EBR) treatments on the control of grey mould in artificial Botrytis cinerea inoculation test and on the maintenance of postharvest quality of table grapes without inoculation in cold storage were researched. In the cold storage, clusters of grapes with exogenous EBR application (EBR1, 0.1 mg L−1 EBR; EBR2, 0.4 mg L−1 EBR; EBR3, 0.8 mg L−1 EBR) were stored at 0 ± 1 °C. Fruits’ quality attributes including berry firmness, weight loss, berry drop, decay berry percentages, total sugar and titratable acidity were measured at 15, 30 and 60 days. The results showed that EBR treatments exhibited a higher berry firmness and a lower percentage of weight loss, berry drop and decay berry. In the artificial inoculation trial, single berries were immersed in EBR1, EBR2 and EBR3, then inoculated by spraying with a B. cinerea spore suspension and stored at 25 ± 2 °C and 95% relative humidity. Disease severity (DS), lipid peroxidation and defence‐related enzymes of these berries were analysed every 2 days. EBR‐treated berries resulted in an increase in activities of defence‐related enzymes including superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase compared with control berries inoculated by B. cinerea. Simultaneously, significant decreases in DS and production of superoxide anion radical and malondialdehyde were observed. These results suggested that exogenous application of EBR could play a protective role in controlling the grey mould of postharvest grapes and maintaining the postharvest quality during cold storage.
l‐histidine improves water retention of heat‐induced gel of chicken breast myofibrillar proteins in low ionic strength solution
Authors: Chen Xing , Li Yong , Zhou Ruiyun , Liu Zhaiming , Lu Fengzhi , Lin Huang , Xu Xinglian , Zhou Guanghong
Published: March 2016

The effects of 5 mm l‐histidine (l‐His) on water‐binding capacity, gel strength, thermal gelling properties of chicken breast myofibrillar proteins (MPs) in 1 mm NaCl or 0.6 m NaCl solutions (pH 7.0) were investigated. l‐His could significantly increase the solubility and thermal gelling ability of MPs in 1 mm NaCl. l‐His at 1 mm NaCl shortened the water relaxation time and decreased the water mobility of MPs gel. l‐His promoted the formation of MPs gel structure with small pores and thin strands at 1 mm NaCl. These resulted in the enhanced water retention and weak gel strength of MPs in low ionic strength solution. The water‐binding capacity of MPs gels formed in 1 mm NaCl containing 5 mm l‐His was equivalent to that with 0.6 m NaCl. The information could offer certain theoretical foundation to apply l‐His as sodium salt substitute for developing low‐salt meat gelling product with high yield.
Modulation of antigen processing by haem‐oxygenase 1. Implications on inflammation and tolerance
Authors: Riquelme Sebastián A. , Carreño Leandro J. , Espinoza Janyra A. , Mackern‐Oberti Juan Pablo , Alvarez‐Lobos Manuel M. , Riedel Claudia A. , Bueno Susan M. , Kalergis Alexis M.
Published: March 2016

Haem‐oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) is an enzyme responsible for the degradation of haem that can suppress inflammation, through the production of carbon monoxide (CO). It has been shown in several experimental models that genetic and pharmacological induction of HO‐1, as well as non‐toxic administration of CO, can reduce inflammatory diseases, such as endotoxic shock, type 1 diabetes and graft rejection. Recently, it was shown that the HO‐1/CO system can alter the function of antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) and reduce T‐cell priming, which can be beneficial during immune‐driven inflammatory diseases. The molecular mechanisms by which the HO‐1 and CO reduce both APC‐ and T‐cell‐driven immunity are just beginning to be elucidated. In this article we discuss recent findings related to the immune regulatory capacity of HO‐1 and CO at the level of recognition of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns and T‐cell priming by APCs. Finally, we propose a possible regulatory role for HO‐1 and CO over the recently described mitochondria‐dependent immunity. These concepts could contribute to the design of new therapeutic tools for inflammation‐based diseases.
A vision of KIR variation at super resolution
Authors: Hammond John A , Carrington Mary , Khakoo Salim I
Published: March 2016

The Ninth Killer Cell Immunoglobulin‐Like Receptor (KIR) Workshop was held in Winchester, UK late in the summer of 2015. The extraordinary diversity of KIR and its functional consequences were key themes throughout the meeting. Novel sequencing technologies and new bioinformatics techniques continue to increase our understanding of the genetic diversity and evolution of the KIR; while a deeper understanding of KIR functions, including their specificity for MHC and its peptide ligands, are generating more refined models of their role in disease. Limited to 100 delegates from around the world, this intimate workshop facilitated vigorous discussion, generating new ideas for research in this ever‐expanding field.
Counter‐Credit‐Risk Yield Spreads: A Puzzle in China's Corporate Bond Market
Authors: Luo Jian , Ye Xiaoxia , Hu May
Published: March 2016

In this paper, using China's risk‐free and corporate zero yields together with aggregate credit risk measures and various control variables from 2006 to 2013, we document a puzzle of counter‐credit‐risk corporate yield spreads. We interpret this puzzle as a symptom of the immaturity of China's credit bond market, which reveals a distorted pricing mechanism latent in the fundamental of this market. We also find interesting results about relationships between corporate yield spreads and interest rates and risk premia and the stock index, and these results are somewhat attributed to this puzzle.
The Effect of Regulations on Pension Risk Shifting: Evidence from the US and Europe
Authors: Guan Yanling , Lui Daphne
Published: March 2016

This paper provides evidence that pension regulations can incentivize or curb risk shifting in the investment of defined benefit plan assets. We document that in the US, where the pension insurance premium charged by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation is largely flat, financially distressed firms with severely underfunded plans shift pension investment risk. We further find that risk shifting is mitigated in the UK after the implementation of risk‐adjusted pension insurance premiums, and in the Netherlands where full pension funding is mandatory. Overall the results in this paper lend support to the view that structural flaws in the US statutory pension insurance scheme incentivize high‐risk sponsors to gamble their pension assets when distress terminations of their plans become foreseeable.
Does Maximizing Information at the Cut Score Always Maximize Classification Accuracy and Consistency?
Authors: Wyse Adam E. , Babcock Ben
Published: March 2016

A common suggestion made in the psychometric literature for fixed‐length classification tests is that one should design tests so that they have maximum information at the cut score. Designing tests in this way is believed to maximize the classification accuracy and consistency of the assessment. This article uses simulated examples to illustrate that one can obtain higher classification accuracy and consistency by designing tests that have maximum test information at locations other than at the cut score. We show that the location where one should maximize the test information is dependent on the length of the test, the mean of the ability distribution in comparison to the cut score, and, to a lesser degree, whether or not one wants to optimize classification accuracy or consistency. Analyses also suggested that the differences in classification performance between designing tests optimally versus maximizing information at the cut score tended to be greatest when tests were short and the mean of ability distribution was further away from the cut score. Larger differences were also found in the simulated examples that used the 3PL model compared to the examples that used the Rasch model.
Primary male development of two sequentially hermaphroditic groupers, Epinephelus akaara and Epinephelus awoara (Perciformes: Epinephelidae)
Authors: Liu M. , Wang Y.‐Y. , Shan X.‐J. , Kang B. , Ding S.‐X.
Published: March 2016

Gonad ontogeny of the Hong Kong grouper Epinephelus akaara (a bi‐directional sex changer) and the yellow grouper Epinephelus awoara (a protogynous hermaphrodite) was examined for the first time from post‐larval phase until first sexual maturation, by histology. Approximately 20 specimens of each species were collected randomly every 2–7 weeks from rearing tanks with natural sea water and temperature between June 2013 and June 2014. The paired gonadal primordia (GP) were observed at 6 weeks after hatching (wah) for both species; however, gonia were first observed in GP at 16 wah for E. akaara and at 8 wah for E. awoara. The timings for the appearance of primary‐growth stage oocytes (O1) and the completion of ovarian lumen (OL) varied; both at 27 wah for E. akaara, and at 18 and 23 wah for E. awoara respectively. A bisexual‐phase gonad with an OL, O1 and scattered spermatogenic cysts (SC) was observed at 27–29 wah for both E. akaara and E. awoara. Sexual differentiation was subsequently observed from the bisexual‐phase gonad at 34 wah for E. akaara, and 41 wah for E. awoara, with the appearance of cortical‐alveolus stage oocytes (O2) for developing female and the proliferation of SC for developing primary male (i.e. from juvenile directly). Ovaries of mature females contained the vitellogenic stage oocytes (O3) and scattered SC; testes of mature primary males had sperm in sperm sinuses within the gonadal wall and remained O1. Minimum age of first sexual maturation for both female and primary male of E. akaara was at 41 wah; minimum total length (LT) of female (143 mm) was larger than that of primary male (137 mm LT). Minimum age and size of first sexual maturation for female of E. awoara (47 wah and 149 mm LT, respectively) were larger than those of E. akaara. Developing primary males of E. awoara were found at 41–58 wah, however, mature males were not observed, indicating inconsistency in first sexual maturation for E. awoara. This study provided strong evidences of primary male pathway in E. akaara and E. awoara; the latter is confirmed to be diandric.
Gestural praxis in young adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities
Authors: Pinto S. , Chong Y. , García R. , Almeida A. , Perea M. V. , Ladera V.
Published: March 2016

Background

Praxis functioning in the population with intellectual disabilities (ID) has been poorly studied. The goal of this research was to look for a starting point to study the praxic functioning in young adults with mild to moderate ID.

Method

Thirty young adults with ID and 30 young adults without ID, between the ages of 18 and 35 years, participated in this study. All participants completed tests that assessed gestural praxis.

Results

It was possible to observe similar praxis behaviour in the group with ID in almost all domains studied, albeit showing statistical values lower than those of the group without ID.

Discussions

Despite the high number of errors committed, the sample of participants with ID was able to reach the goal of praxic tasks performed; such errors may be associated with a deficit in the development of various brain functions and not only with praxis functioning, mainly related to a lower yield in terms of planning, monitoring and correcting intentional movement.
Altered mRNP granule dynamics in FTLD pathogenesis
Authors: Bowden Hilary A. , Dormann Dorothee
Published: March 2016

In neurons, RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) play a key role in post‐transcriptional gene regulation, for example alternative splicing, mRNA localization in neurites and local translation upon synaptic stimulation. There is increasing evidence that defective or mislocalized RBPs – and consequently altered mRNA processing – lead to neuronal dysfunction and cause neurodegeneration, including frontotemporal lobar degeneration and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Cytosolic RBP aggregates containing TAR DNA‐binding protein of 43 kDa (TDP‐43) or fused in sarcoma (FUS) are a common hallmark of both disorders. There is mounting evidence that translationally silent mRNP granules, such as stress granules or transport granules, play an important role in the formation of these RBP aggregates. These granules are thought to be ‘catalytic convertors’ of RBP aggregation by providing a high local concentration of RBPs. As recently shown in vitro, RBPs that contain a so‐called low‐complexity domain start to ‘solidify’ and eventually aggregate at high protein concentrations. The same may happen in mRNP granules in vivo, leading to ‘solidified’ granules that lose their dynamic properties and ability to fulfill their physiological functions. This may result in a disturbed stress response, altered mRNA transport and local translation, and formation of pathological TDP‐43 or FUS aggregates, all of which may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration. Here, we discuss the general functional properties of these mRNP granules, how their dynamics may be disrupted in frontotemporal lobar degeneration/amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, for example by loss or gain of function of TDP‐43 and FUS, and how this may contribute to the development of RBP aggregates and neurotoxicity.

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In this review, we discuss how dynamic mRNP granules, such as stress granules or neuronal transport granules, may be converted into pathological aggregates containing misfolded RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs), such as TDP‐43 and FUS. Abnormal interactions between low‐complexity domains in RBPs may cause dynamic mRNP granules to solidify and become dysfunctional. This may result in a disturbed stress response, altered mRNA transport and local translation, as well as RBP aggregation, all of which may contribute to neuronal dysfunction and neurodegeneration.

This article is part of the Frontotemporal Dementia special issue.
Exocytosis in non‐neuronal cells
Authors: Thorn Peter , Zorec Robert , Rettig Jens , Keating Damien J.
Published: March 2016

Exocytosis is the process by which stored neurotransmitters and hormones are released via the fusion of secretory vesicles with the plasma membrane. It is a dynamic, rapid and spatially restricted process involving multiple steps including vesicle trafficking, tethering, docking, priming and fusion. For many years great steps have been undertaken in our understanding of how exocytosis occurs in different cell types, with significant focus being placed on synaptic release and neurotransmission. However, this process of exocytosis is an essential component of cell signalling throughout the body and underpins a diverse array of essential physiological pathways. Many similarities exist between different cell types with regard to key aspects of the exocytosis pathway, such as the need for Ca2+ to trigger it or the involvement of members of the N‐ethyl maleimide‐sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor protein families. However, it is also equally clear that non‐neuronal cells have acquired highly specialized mechanisms to control the release of their own unique chemical messengers. This review will focus on several important non‐neuronal cell types and discuss what we know about the mechanisms they use to control exocytosis and how their specialized output is relevant to the physiological role of each individual cell type. These include enteroendocrine cells, pancreatic β cells, astrocytes, lactotrophs and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

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Non‐neuronal cells have acquired highly specialized mechanisms to control the release of unique chemical messengers, such as polarised fusion of insulin granules in pancreatic β cells targeted towards the vasculature (top). This review discusses mechanisms used in several important non‐neuronal cell types to control exocytosis, and the relevance of intermediate vesicle fusion pore states (bottom) and their specialized output to the physiological role of each cell type. These include enteroendocrine cells, pancreatic β cells, astrocytes, lactotrophs and cytotoxic T lymphocytes.

This article is part of a mini review series on Chromaffin cells (ISCCB Meeting, 2015).
Cranial biomechanics, bite force and function of the endocranial sinuses in Diprotodon optatum, the largest known marsupial
Authors: Sharp Alana C. , Rich Thomas H.
Published: March 2016

The giant extinct marsupial Diprotodon optatum has unusual skull morphology for an animal of its size, consisting of very thin bone and large cranial sinuses that occupy most of the internal cranial space. The function of these sinuses is unknown as there are no living marsupial analogues. The finite element method was applied to identify areas of high and low stress, and estimate the bite force of Diprotodon to test hypotheses on the function of the extensive cranial sinuses. Detailed three‐dimensional models of the cranium, mandible and jaw adductor muscles were produced. In addition, manipulations to the Diprotodon cranial model were performed to investigate changes in skull and sinus structure, including a model with no sinuses (sinuses ‘filled’ with bone) and a model with a midsagittal crest. Results indicate that the cranial sinuses in Diprotodon significantly lighten the skull while still providing structural support, a high bite force and low stress, indicating the cranium may have been able to withstand higher loads than those generated during feeding. Data from this study support the hypothesis that pneumatisation is driven by biomechanical loads and occurs in areas of low stress. The presence of sinuses is likely to be a byproduct of the separation of the outer surface of the skull from the braincase due to the demands of soft tissue including the brain and the large jaw adductor musculature, especially the temporalis. In very large species, such as Diprotodon, this separation is more pronounced, resulting in extensive cranial sinuses due to a relatively small brain compared with the size of the skull.