bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dizygotic monochorionic canine fetuses with blood chimaerism and suspected freemartinism
Authors: Joonè Carolynne J. , De Cramer Kurt G. M. , Nöthling Johan O.
Published: August 2015

Two full-term canine fetuses were found to share a placenta during Caesarean section. The fetuses were of discordant gender, with apparently normal male and female external genitalia. Genetic analysis of whole-blood samples obtained from each fetus revealed identical DNA profiles, with more than two alleles detected at six loci. Subsequent genetic analysis of myocardial tissue samples revealed dissimilar DNA profiles, with at most two alleles detected per locus. Superimposition of the tissue-derived profiles matched that derived from the blood samples exactly, except for two loci failing to amplify, and hence demonstrated blood chimaerism. Dissection of the abdomen of the male fetus revealed delayed descent of the testes towards the inguinal canals. Macroscopically, the gonads, uterus and vagina were not identifiable on dissection of the female fetus, although vestigial ovarian tissue and a vagina were detected microscopically. The hypoplastic internal reproductive tract of the female fetus was suggestive of freemartinism and is believed to be the first report of this condition in the canine.
Combinatorial effects of epidermal growth factor, fibroblast growth factor 2 and insulin-like growth factor 1 on trophoblast cell proliferation and embryogenesis in cattle
Authors: Xie Ming , McCoski Sarah R. , Johnson Sally E. , Rhoads Michelle L. , Ealy Alan D.
Published: August 2015

Uterine secretions are crucial for conceptus development in mammals. This is especially important for species that undergo extended preimplantation development, like cattle and other ungulates. The present study examined cooperative interactions for epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF1) on the proliferation of the bovine trophoblast cell line CT1 and bovine embryo development. Proliferation of CT1 cells increased after supplementation of the culture medium with 10 ng mL–1 EGF, 10 ng mL–1 FGF2 or 50 ng mL–1 IGF1, as well as with any combination of two factors. Greater increases in CT1 cell proliferation were detected when the growth medium was supplemented with all three factors. Supplementing the culture medium with individual or multiple factors during bovine embryo culture resulted in several positive outcomes, including increased blastocyst development, expansion, and hatching to varying degrees depending on the particular factor or combination of factors. Supplementation of the culture medium with all three factors increased embryonic trophoblast cell numbers on Day 8, as well as hatching rates and blastocyst diameter on Day 12 after fertilisation. Western blot analyses and the use of pharmacological inhibitors suggest that EGF and IGF1 affect CT1 proliferation by activating mitogen-activated protein kinase 3/1, whereas FGF2 activates AKT. In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicate that there are cooperative interactions among EGF, FGF2 and IGF1 that enhance trophoblast cell development during early embryogenesis.
Provirophages in the Bigelowiella genome bear testimony to past encounters with giant viruses
Authors: Blanc Guillaume , Gallot-Lavallée Lucie , Maumus Florian
Published: August 2015

Significance

Virophages are viruses that hijack the replication machinery of giant viruses for their own replication. Virophages negatively impact giant virus replication and improve the survival chances of eukaryotic cells infected by giant viruses. In this study, we identified segments of the
Bigelowiella natans
genome that originate from virophages and giant viruses, revealing genomic footprints of battles between these viral entities that occurred in this unicellular alga. Interestingly, genes of virophage origin are transcribed, suggesting that they are functional. We hypothesize that virophage integration may be beneficial to both the virophage and
B. natans
by increasing the chances for the virophage to coinfect the cell with a giant virus prey and by defending the host cell against fatal giant virus infections.
Oligoribonuclease is the primary degradative enzyme for pGpG in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
that is required for cyclic-di-GMP turnover
Authors: Orr Mona W. , Donaldson Gregory P. , Severin Geoffrey B. , Wang Jingxin , Sintim Herman O. , Waters Christopher M. , Lee Vincent T.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Cyclic-di-GMP (c-di-GMP) is a ubiquitous bacterial second messenger that regulates complex behaviors such as biofilm formation. These behaviors are changed by altering the intracellular concentration of c-di-GMP. Degradation of c-di-GMP occurs by a two-step process in which one set of phosphodiesterases (PDE-As) linearize the molecule into 5ʹ-phosphoguanylyl-(3ʹ,5ʹ)-guanosine (pGpG), followed by hydrolysis by unidentified phosphodiesterases (PDE-Bs) into two GMPs. High levels of pGpG inhibit PDE-As, and thus PDE-B activity is important in maintaining c-di-GMP homeostasis. However, the identity of the PDE-B(s) remained unknown. Using a high-throughput binding screen, we identify oligoribonuclease (Orn) as a putative PDE-B. We demonstrate that Orn is the primary source of PDE-B activity in
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
. Identification of Orn as the primary PDE-B completes the c-di-GMP signaling pathway.
Relationship between different push‐off variables and start performance in experienced swimmers
Authors: García‐Ramos Amador , Feriche Belén , de la Fuente Blanca , Argüelles‐Cienfuegos Javier , Strojnik Vojko , Strumbelj Boro , Štirn Igor
Published: August 2015

The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between different variables measured with a force plate during the swimming start push‐off phase and start performance presented by times to 5, 10 and 15 m. Twenty‐one women from the Slovenian national swimming team performed two different swim starts (freestyle and undulatory) on a portable force plate to a distance further than 15 m. Correlations between push‐off variables and times to 5, 10 and 15 m were quantified through Pearson's product‐moment correlation coefficient (r). The variables that significantly correlated (p < .05) to all times measured in the two starts performed were: average horizontal acceleration (freestyle: r = −0.58 to −0.71; and undulatory: r = −0.55 to −0.66), horizontal take‐off velocity (freestyle: r = −0.56 to −0.69; and undulatory: r = −0.53 to −0.67) and resultant take‐off velocity (freestyle: r = −0.53 to −0.65; and undulatory: r = −0.52 to −0.61). None of the variables derived from the vertical force were correlated to swimming start performance (p > .05). Based on the results of this study, we can conclude that horizontal take‐off velocity and average horizontal acceleration (calculated as the average horizontal force divided by swimmer's body mass) are the variables most related to swimming start performance in experienced swimmers, and therefore could be the preferred measures to monitor swimmers’ efficiency during the push‐off phase.
Mast cells get all touchy-feely
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: August 2015

“Allergy” cells embrace dendritic cells to transfer antigens.
How functional programming mattered
Authors: Hu Zhenjiang , Hughes John , Wang Meng
Published: August 2015

In 1989 when functional programming was still considered a niche topic, Hughes wrote a visionary paper arguing convincingly ‘why functional programming matters’. More than two decades have passed. Has functional programming really mattered? Our answer is a resounding ‘Yes!’. Functional programming is now at the forefront of a new generation of programming technologies, and enjoying increasing popularity and influence. In this paper, we review the impact of functional programming, focusing on how it has changed the way we may construct programs, the way we may verify programs, and fundamentally the way we may think about programs.
Statistical energy analysis of nonlinear vibrating systems
Authors: Spelman G. M. , Langley R. S.
Published: August 2015

Nonlinearities in practical systems can arise in contacts between components, possibly from friction or impacts. However, it is also known that quadratic and cubic nonlinearity can occur in the stiffness of structural elements undergoing large amplitude vibration, without the need for local contacts. Nonlinearity due purely to large amplitude vibration can then result in significant energy being found in frequency bands other than those being driven by external forces. To analyse this phenomenon, a method is developed here in which the response of the structure in the frequency domain is divided into frequency bands, and the energy flow between the frequency bands is calculated. The frequency bands are assigned an energy variable to describe the mean response and the nonlinear coupling between bands is described in terms of weighted summations of the convolutions of linear modal transfer functions. This represents a nonlinear extension to an established linear theory known as statistical energy analysis (SEA). The nonlinear extension to SEA theory is presented for the case of a plate structure with quadratic and cubic nonlinearity.
Bayesian and Markov chain Monte Carlo methods for identifying nonlinear systems in the presence of uncertainty
Authors: Green P. L. , Worden K.
Published: August 2015

In this paper, the authors outline the general principles behind an approach to Bayesian system identification and highlight the benefits of adopting a Bayesian framework when attempting to identify models of nonlinear dynamical systems in the presence of uncertainty. It is then described how, through a summary of some key algorithms, many of the potential difficulties associated with a Bayesian approach can be overcome through the use of Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. The paper concludes with a case study, where an MCMC algorithm is used to facilitate the Bayesian system identification of a nonlinear dynamical system from experimentally observed acceleration time histories.
Numerical continuation and bifurcation analysis in aircraft design: an industrial perspective
Authors: Sharma Sanjiv , Coetzee Etienne B. , Lowenberg Mark H. , Neild Simon A. , Krauskopf Bernd
Published: August 2015

Bifurcation analysis is a powerful method for studying the steady-state nonlinear dynamics of systems. Software tools exist for the numerical continuation of steady-state solutions as parameters of the system are varied. These tools make it possible to generate ‘maps of solutions’ in an efficient way that provide valuable insight into the overall dynamic behaviour of a system and potentially to influence the design process. While this approach has been employed in the military aircraft control community to understand the effectiveness of controllers, the use of bifurcation analysis in the wider aircraft industry is yet limited. This paper reports progress on how bifurcation analysis can play a role as part of the design process for passenger aircraft.
Cap-domain closure enables diverse substrate recognition by the C2-type haloacid dehalogenase-like sugar phosphatasePlasmodium falciparumHAD1
Authors: Park Jooyoung , Guggisberg Ann M. , Odom Audrey R. , Tolia Niraj H.
Published: August 2015

Haloacid dehalogenases (HADs) are a large enzyme superfamily of more than 500 000 members with roles in numerous metabolic pathways.Plasmodium falciparumHAD1 (PfHAD1) is a sugar phosphatase that regulates the methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathway for isoprenoid synthesis in malaria parasites. However, the structural determinants for diverse substrate recognition by HADs are unknown. Here, crystal structures were determined of PfHAD1 in complex with three sugar phosphates selected from a panel of diverse substrates that it utilizes. Cap-open and cap-closed conformations are observed, with cap closure facilitating substrate binding and ordering. These structural changes define the role of cap movement within the major subcategory of C2 HAD enzymes. The structures of an HAD bound to multiple substrates identifies binding and specificity-determining residues that define the structural basis for substrate recognition and catalysis within the HAD superfamily. While the substrate-binding region of the cap domain is flexible in the open conformations, this region becomes ordered and makes direct interactions with the substrate in the closed conformations. These studies further inform the structural and biochemical basis for catalysis within a large superfamily of HAD enzymes with diverse functions.
Structure of the 34 kDa F-actin-bundling protein ABP34 fromDictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Kim Min-Kyu , Kim Ji-Hye , Kim Ji-Sun , Kang Sa-Ouk
Published: August 2015

The crystal structure of the 34 kDa F-actin-bundling protein ABP34 fromDictyostelium discoideumwas solved by Ca2+/S-SAD phasing and refined at 1.89 Å resolution. ABP34 is a calcium-regulated actin-binding protein that cross-links actin filaments into bundles. Itsin vitroF-actin-binding and F-actin-bundling activities were confirmed by a co-sedimentation assay and transmission electron microscopy. The co-localization of ABP34 with actin in cells was also verified. ABP34 adopts a two-domain structure with an EF-hand-containing N-domain and an actin-binding C-domain, but has no reported overall structural homologues. The EF-hand is occupied by a calcium ion with a pentagonal bipyramidal coordination as in the canonical EF-hand. The C-domain structure resembles a three-helical bundle and superposes well onto the rod-shaped helical structures of some cytoskeletal proteins. Residues 216–244 in the C-domain form part of the strongest actin-binding sites (193–254) and exhibit a conserved sequence with the actin-binding region of α-actinin and ABP120. Furthermore, the second helical region of the C-domain is kinked by a proline break, offering a convex surface towards the solvent area which is implicated in actin binding. The F-actin-binding model suggests that ABP34 binds to the side of the actin filament and residues 216–244 fit into a pocket between actin subdomains −1 and −2 through hydrophobic interactions. These studies provide insights into the calcium coordination in the EF-hand and F-actin-binding site in the C-domain of ABP34, which are associated through interdomain interactions.
Structural insights into conformational switching in the copper metalloregulator CsoR fromStreptomyces lividans
Authors: Porto Tatiana V. , Hough Michael A. , Worrall Jonathan A. R.
Published: August 2015

Copper-sensitive operon repressors (CsoRs) act to sense cuprous ions and bind them with a high affinity under copper stress in many bacteria. The binding of copper(I) leads to a conformational change in their homotetramer structure, causing disassembly of the operator DNA–CsoR complex and evoking a transcriptional response. Atomic-level structural insight into the conformational switching mechanism between the apo and metal-bound states is lacking. Here, a new X-ray crystal structure of the CsoR fromStreptomyces lividansis reported and compared with a previously reportedS. lividansCsoR X-ray structure crystallized under different conditions. Based on evidence from this new X-ray structure, it is revealed that the conformational switching between states centres on a concertina effect at the C-terminal end of each α2 helix in the homotetramer. This drives the Cys104 side chain, a copper(I)-ligating residue, into a position enabling copper(I) coordination and as a result disrupts the α2-helix geometry, leading to a compacting and twisting of the homotetramer structure. Strikingly, the conformational switching induces a redistribution of electrostatic surface potential on the tetrameric DNA-binding face, which in the copper(I)-bound state would no longer favour interaction with the mode of operator DNA binding.
Structures of the methyltransferase component ofDesulfitobacterium hafnienseDCB-2O-demethylase shed light on methyltetrahydrofolate formation
Authors: Sjuts Hanno , Dunstan Mark S. , Fisher Karl , Leys David
Published: August 2015

O-Demethylation by acetogenic or organohalide-respiring bacteria leads to the formation of methyltetrahydrofolate from aromatic methyl ethers.O-Demethylases, which are cobalamin-dependent, three-component enzyme systems, catalyse methyl-group transfers from aromatic methyl ethers to tetrahydrofolateviamethylcobalamin intermediates. In this study, crystal structures of the tetrahydrofolate-binding methyltransferase module from aDesulfitobacterium hafnienseDCB-2O-demethylase were determined both in complex with tetrahydrofolate and the product methyltetrahydrofolate. While these structures are similar to previously determined methyltransferase structures, the position of key active-site residues is subtly altered. A strictly conserved Asn is displaced to establish a putative proton-transfer network between the substrate N5 and solvent. It is proposed that this supports the efficient catalysis of methyltetrahydrofolate formation, which is necessary for efficientO-demethylation.
Crystallographic studies of two variants ofPseudomonas aeruginosaIMPDH with impaired allosteric regulation
Authors: Labesse Gilles , Alexandre Thomas , Gelin Muriel , Haouz Ahmed , Munier-Lehmann Hélène
Published: August 2015

Inosine-5′-monophosphate dehydrogenases (IMPDHs), which are the rate-limiting enzymes in guanosine-nucleotide biosynthesis, are important therapeutic targets. Despite in-depth functional and structural characterizations of various IMPDHs, the role of the Bateman domain containing two CBS motifs remains controversial. Their involvement in the allosteric regulation ofPseudomonas aeruginosaIMPDH by Mg-ATP has recently been reported. To better understand the function of IMPDH and the importance of the CBS motifs, the structure of a variant devoid of these modules (ΔCBS) was solved at high resolution in the apo form and in complex with IMP. In addition, a single amino-acid substitution variant, D199N, was also structurally characterized: the mutation corresponds to the autosomal dominant mutant D226N of human IMPDH1, which is responsible for the onset of the retinopathy adRP10. These new structures shed light onto the possible mechanism of regulation of the IMPDH enzymatic activity. In particular, three conserved loops seem to be key players in this regulation as they connect the tetramer–tetramer interface with the active site and show significant modification upon substrate binding.
The catalytic mechanism and unique low pH optimum ofCaldicellulosiruptor besciifamily 3 pectate lyase
Authors: Alahuhta Markus , Taylor Larry E. , Brunecky Roman , Sammond Deanne W. , Michener William , Adams Michael W. W. , Himmel Michael E. , Bomble Yannick J. , Lunin Vladimir
Published: August 2015

The unique active site of theCaldicellulosiruptor besciifamily 3 pectate lyase (PL3) enzyme has been thoroughly characterized using a series of point mutations, X-ray crystallography, pKacalculations and biochemical assays. The X-ray structures of seven PL3 active-site mutants, five of them in complex with intact trigalacturonic acid, were solved and characterized structurally, biochemically and computationally. The results confirmed that Lys108 is the catalytic base, but there is no clear candidate for the catalytic acid. However, the reaction mechanism can also be explained by an antiperiplanartrans-elimination reaction, in which Lys108 abstracts a proton from the C5 atom without the help of simultaneous proton donation by an acidic residue. An acidified water molecule completes theantiβ-elimination reaction by protonating the O4 atom of the substrate. Both the C5 hydrogen and C4 hydroxyl groups of the substrate must be orientated in axial configurations, as for galacturonic acid, for this to be possible. The wild-typeC. besciiPL3 displays a pH optimum that is lower than that ofBacillus subtilisPL1 according to activity measurements, indicating thatC. besciiPL3 has acquired a lower pH optimum by utilizing lysine instead of arginine as the catalytic base, as well as by lowering the pKaof the catalytic base in a unique active-site environment.
Structure of RizA, anL-amino-acid ligase fromBacillus subtilis
Authors: Kagawa Wataru , Arai Toshinobu , Ishikura Shun , Kino Kuniki , Kurumizaka Hitoshi
Published: August 2015

RizA is an L-amino-acid ligase fromBacillus subtilisthat participates in the biosynthesis of rhizocticin, an oligopeptide antibiotic. The substrate-free form of RizA has been crystallized and the structure was solved at 2.8 Å resolution. The amino-acid-binding site appears to be capable of accommodating multiple amino acids, consistent with previous biochemical studies.
X-ray crystallographic studies of the middle part of the human synaptonemal complex protein 1 coiled-coil domain
Authors: Park Hyun Ho
Published: August 2015

The synaptonemal complex is a meiosis-specific complex structure formed at the synapse of homologous chromosomes to hold them together during meiosis. Synaptonemal complex protein 1 (SYCP1) is one of the components of the syneptonemal complex. In this study, the short form of the coiled-coil domain of SYCP1 was overexpressed inEscherichia coliwith an engineered C-terminal His tag. The short form of the coiled-coil domain of SYCP1 was then purified to homogeneity and crystallized at 293 K. X-ray diffraction data were collected to a resolution of 3.0 Å from a crystal belonging to space groupI4, with unit-cell parametersa= 41.95,b= 41.95,c= 318.78 Å. The asymmetric unit was estimated to contain two molecules.
Structure of the N-terminal dimerization domain of CEACAM7
Authors: Bonsor Daniel A. , Beckett Dorothy , Sundberg Eric J.
Published: August 2015

CEACAM7 is a human cellular adhesion protein that is expressed on the surface of colon and rectum epithelial cells and is downregulated in colorectal cancers. It achieves cell adhesion through dimerization of the N-terminal IgV domain. The crystal structure of the N-terminal dimerization domain of CEACAM has been determined at 1.47 Å resolution. The overall fold of CEACAM7 is similar to those of CEACAM1 and CEACAM5; however, there are differences, the most notable of which is an insertion that causes theC′′ strand to buckle, leading to the creation of a hydrogen bond in the dimerization interface. TheKdimerizationfor CEACAM7 determined by sedimentation equilibrium is tenfold tighter than that measured for CEACAM5. These findings suggest that the dimerization affinities of CEACAMs are modulatedviasequence variation in the dimerization surface.
Structure of the SPRY domain of the human RNA helicase DDX1, a putative interaction platform within a DEAD-box protein
Authors: Kellner Julian N. , Meinhart Anton
Published: August 2015

The human RNA helicase DDX1 in the DEAD-box family plays an important role in RNA processing and has been associated with HIV-1 replication and tumour progression. Whereas previously described DEAD-box proteins have a structurally conserved core, DDX1 shows a unique structural feature: a large SPRY-domain insertion in its RecA-like consensus fold. SPRY domains are known to function as protein–protein interaction platforms. Here, the crystal structure of the SPRY domain of human DDX1 (hDSPRY) is reported at 2.0 Å resolution. The structure reveals two layers of concave, antiparallel β-sheets that stack onto each other and a third β-sheet beneath the β-sandwich. A comparison with SPRY-domain structures from other eukaryotic proteins showed that the general β-sandwich fold is conserved; however, differences were detected in the loop regions, which were identified in other SPRY domains to be essential for interaction with cognate partners. In contrast, in hDSPRY these loop regions are not strictly conserved across species. Interestingly, though, a conserved patch of positive surface charge is found that may replace the connecting loops as a protein–protein interaction surface. The data presented here comprise the first structural information on DDX1 and provide insights into the unique domain architecture of this DEAD-box protein. By providing the structure of a putative interaction domain of DDX1, this work will serve as a basis for further studies of the interaction network within the hetero-oligomeric complexes of DDX1 and of its recruitment to the HIV-1 Rev protein as a viral replication factor.
Crystal structure of 10-benzyl-9-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3,3,6,6-tetramethyl-3,4,6,7,9,10-hexahydroacridine-1,8(2H,5H)-dione
Authors: Sureshbabu N. , Sughanya V.
Published: August 2015

In the acridinedione moiety of the title compound, C32H37NO4, the central dihydropyridine ring adopts a flattened-boat conformation, with the N atom and the methine C atom displaced from the mean plane of the other four atoms by 0.0513 (14) and 0.1828 (18) Å, respectively. The two cyclohexenone rings adopt envelope conformations, with the tetrasubsituted C atoms as the flap atoms. The 3,4-dimethoxybenzene and benzyl rings are almost normal to the dihydropyridine mean plane, with dihedral angles of 89.47 (9) and 82.90 (11)°, respectively. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaa pair of C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers, which are, in turn, linked by C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming slabs lying parallel to (001).
Crystal structure of 1-[(2,3-dihydro-1H-naphtho[1,2-e][1,3]oxazin-2-yl)methyl]naphthalen-2-ol: a possible candidate for new polynaphthoxazine materials
Authors: Rivera Augusto , Rojas Jicli José , Ríos-Motta Jaime , Bolte Michael
Published: August 2015

In the title compound, C23H19NO2, an oxazine Mannich base derivative, the oxazine ring has a half-chair conformation. The 2-hydroxynaphthalen-1-yl substituent is placed in an axial position. There is an intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond, forming anS(6) graph-set motif. In the crystal, molecules are connected by a pair of C—H...π interactions into an inversion dimer, which is reinforced by another pair of weak C—H...π interactions. The dimers are linked by a π–π interaction [centroid-centroid distance = 3.6268 (17) Å], consolidating a column along theaaxis. Furthermore, the columns interact with each other by a weak C—H...π interaction, generating a three-dimensional network.
Crystal structure of (μ-N-allylthiourea-κ2S:S)bis[μ-bis(diphenylphosphanyl)methane-κ2P:P′]bis[bromidocopper(I)] acetonitrile disolvate
Authors: Hemman Mareeya , Pakawatchai Chaveng , Boonmak Jaursup , Youngme Sujittra , Saithong Saowanit
Published: August 2015

The reaction of cuprous bromide with a mixture of 1,1-bis(diphenylphosphanyl)methane (dppm: C25H22P2) andN-allylthiourea (ATU: C4H8N2S) in acetonitrile yielded the title solvated dinuclear complex, [Cu2Br2(C4H8N2S)(C25H22P2)2]·2C2H3N or [Cu2Br2(ATU)(dppm)2]·2CH3CN. Both Cu+ions adopt distorted tetrahedral geometries, being coordinated by one terminal Br atom, one μ2-S atom of the bridging ATU ligand and two P atoms of the bridging dppm ligands. Within the complex, intramolecular C—H...S, C—H...π, N—H...Br and π–π stacking interactions are observed. In the crystal, the components are linked by N—H...Br and C—H...N hydrogen bonds and weak π–π stacking interactions, generating chains propagating in the [100] direction.
Crystal structure of hexaaquanickel(II) bis{2-[(5,6-dihydroxy-3-sulfonatoquinolin-1-ium-7-yl)oxy]acetate} dihydrate
Authors: Le Thi Hong Hai , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Vinh , Tran Thi Da , Nguyen Bich Ngan , Van Meervelt Luc
Published: August 2015

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, [Ni(H2O)6](C11H8NO8S)2·2H2O, features a half-hexaaquanickel(II) complex cation with the NiIIion on an inversion center, one deprotonated 5,6-dihydroxy-3-sulfoquinolin-7-yloxyacetic acid (QOH) molecule appearing in its zwitterionic form and one lattice water molecule. The sulfonate group is disordered over two positions with occupancy factors of 0.655 (5) and 0.345 (5). The hexaaquanickel(II) cation interacts through hydrogen bonding with eightQOHmolecules and two water molecules. The six-membered rings of quinoline show π–π stacking [centroid-to-centroid distances of 3.679 (2) Å and 3.714 (2) Å].
Governance of algorithms: options and limitations
Authors: Saurwein Florian , Just Natascha , Latzer Michael
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of governance choice in the area of algorithmic selection. Algorithms on the Internet shape our daily lives and realities. They select information, automatically assign relevance to them and keep people from drowning in an information flood. The benefits of algorithms are accompanied by risks and governance challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on empirical case analyses and a review of the literature, the paper chooses a risk-based governance approach. It identifies and categorizes applications of algorithmic selection and attendant risks. Then, it explores the range of institutional governance options and discusses applied and proposed governance measures for algorithmic selection and the limitations of governance options.

Findings

– Analyses reveal that there are no one-size-fits-all solutions for the governance of algorithms. Attention has to shift to multi-dimensional solutions and combinations of governance measures that mutually enable and complement each other. Limited knowledge about the developments of markets, risks and the effects of governance interventions hampers the choice of an adequate governance mix. Uncertainties call for risk and technology assessment to strengthen the foundations for evidence-based governance.

Originality/value

– The paper furthers the understanding of governance choice in the area of algorithmic selection with a structured synopsis on rationales, options and limitations for the governance of algorithms. It provides a functional typology of applications of algorithmic selection, a comprehensive overview of the risks of algorithmic selection and a systematic discussion of governance options and its limitations.
Sketching the outline of a ghost: the fair balance between copyright and fundamental rights in intermediary third party liability
Authors: Angelopoulos Christina
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to analyse the concept of a fair balance between conflicting fundamental rights in the context of intermediary liability for third party copyright infringement.

Design/methodology/approach

– European Legal Method.

Findings

– Fair balance is the appropriate conflict resolution mechanism in cases of fundamental rights clashes. Balancing is in essence a call for rational judicial deliberation. In intermediary liability, balancing excludes the imposition of filtering obligations on intermediaries for the purpose of copyright enforcement, but allows blocking.

Originality/value

– An in-depth look at a complicated, vague and underdeveloped area of law with significant practical effect.
The public’s interest in intermediaries
Authors: Mansell Robin
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine recent developments in European policy debates concerned with whether governments should intervene in the digital intermediary marketplace to protect the public’s interest.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper discusses the public’s interest in the evolution of the digital intermediary marketplace, considers the economics and policy literature on the case for policy intervention in the market dynamics of digital platforms and examines the extent to which policy makers in Europe are catching up with changes in the market for digital platform services.

Findings

– It is argued that policy-makers need to broaden the evidence base upon which they consider whether policy intervention is needed beyond economic analysis. This is essential to ensure that the European digital intermediary marketplace develops in line with economic, social and cultural goals.

Research limitations/implications

– The case is made for measures to ensure continuous and integrated monitoring of developments in the digital marketplace based on economic indicators and evidence on the diversity of media content.

Practical implications

– Suggestions are made about the need for innovations in the way policy makers develop the required evidence base for their decisions.

Social implications

– The paper draws attention to the need for proactive policy making based on a consideration of economic, social and cultural goals to ensure that digital intermediaries are held accountable.

Originality/value

– The paper provides a multidisciplinary perspective on the dynamics of the digital intermediary ecology and assesses the extent to which the European digital market strategy provides an integrated initiative that is likely to be implemented.
Correctional interventions for women offenders: a rapid evidence assessment
Authors: Stewart Lynn , Gobeil Renée
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– A Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) determined the effectiveness of correctional programmes for women offenders and examined features of programmes providing the strongest outcomes. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Electronic databases and web sites were reviewed to identify literature focused on interventions with female offenders published since 2006, the end point of the last REA conducted in the area. The following retention criteria were applied: participants were over age 18; sample included women and results are reported separately for women; study included an appropriate comparison group; study included recidivism as an outcome measure. Studies’ methodological design quality was assessed using the Maryland Scientific Methods Scale.

Findings

– In total, one meta-analysis and 22 studies reflecting 17 unique samples, published from 2006 to December 2014, were identified. Overall, the best evidence suggests that the following programmes and approaches have an evidence base: first, substance abuse treatment, in particular in-custody or hierarchical therapeutic community programmes; second, gender-responsive programmes that emphasize existing strengths and competencies, as well as skills acquisition; and third, following in-custody programme treatment with participation in community follow-up sessions. There is also promising evidence for the use of community opioid maintenance among heroin addicted women.

Originality/value

– This review demonstrated that since 2006 the number of high-quality research studies assessing women’s correctional outcomes has grown considerably. The results provide guidance to programme designers and administrators on programmes for women offenders likely to be effective in promoting public safety goals and offender reintegration.
“Sharia on a Plate?” A critical discourse analysis of halal food in two Norwegian newspapers
Authors: Thomas Paul , Selimovic Amina
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This study aims to explore how two Norwegian national online newspapers,DagbladetandAftenposten, have framed halal food in the past 6 years (2008-2014), a period conflating with a rise in Muslim demographics in Norway.

Design/methodology/approach

– A mixed-methods approach is used. Employing among others a Hallidayan transitivity analysis and other approaches from critical discourse analysis (CDA), clausal semantic structures, collocations and nominalizations were explored with a view toward fleshing out ideological significance. Particular attention was given to the neologism – “covert-Islamization” – popularized by the populist right-wing Progress Party.

Findings

– The findings reveal thatDagbladetrefracts halal food through a discourse of crime and other dubious frames tapping into topoi of Islamophobia. Halal is, in this manner, transformed into a synecdoche for deviance. This is contrasted withAftenposten’smore “halal-friendly” gaze which inter alia is attributed to greater access for Muslim contributors (over 40 per cent), with nearly all authorship penned in the aftermath of the Breivik massacre of July 22, 2011.

Research limitations/implications

– As a comparative research that explores two newspapers – albeit with substantial national circulation – there are obvious limitations. Future research could explore the contents ofVerdens Gang, the biggest newspaper in Norway, and perhaps incorporate iconic semiotic content.

Social implications

– The prevalent media discourse on halal in Norway casts a shadow over a fundamental aspect of the identity construction of Norwegians who adhere to Islam, thus highlighting issues of belonging and citizenry in the “new” Norway. National discourses of identity and belonging impact upon the Muslim consumer’s perception of self and ethnicity, and how these perceptions are negotiated in the interstices of a skewed media coverage of halal certainly serves to undermine this self-perception.

Originality/value

– Several recent studies have broached the subject of the manifold representations of Muslims and Islam in the media using a CDA, but there is a dearth in studies with a specific focus on halal food. This study contributes to the lacuna in the literature in an area of growing importance, not just as a socio-political and religious phenomenon, but a lucrative commercial project in a Scandinavian context.
Is there a market for Istihalah food product in Indonesia?
Authors: Aris Aadam T. , Zzaman Wahidu , Yang Tajul A. , Harivaindaran K.V.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This study aims to investigate the awareness of Muslim students regarding Istihalah in their daily life. The study was carried out to investigate attitude and awareness towards Istihalah among Muslim students in Universiti Pertanian Bogor (UPB), Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

– In total, 456 students were randomly selected from the university. A self-administered questionnaire was handed out to consenting students focusing on attitude and awareness towards Istihalah and eagerness to learn more about Istihalah.

Findings

– Results showed that Muslim students lacked information about Istihalah. From the total number of students 86.18 per cent agreed that information and knowledge of Istihalah is scarce. 40.1 per cent believed that Ulamas (Muslim scholars) are a very important source of knowledge regarding Istihalah, and 87.50 per cent are willing to learn more about Istihalah.

Research limitations/implications

– The respondents in this study were Muslim students in UPB, Indonesia. The results of this study are only applicable to the specific community. Thus, extrapolation of the results to represent society at large is not possible. The study merely attempts to investigate the prevalence of the concept among students of the university.

Originality/value

– This study is formed as a novel study to explore the attitude and awareness towards Istihalah among Muslim students in UPB, Indonesia. Students being representatives of the educated society are important links in creating awareness of the concept of Istihalah at large. This pilot study is the second of its kind, and prior study of Istihalah with regards to community awareness is limited to just one other performed by the same team.
LMX as a negative predictor of presenteeism climate
Authors: Ferreira Aristides I , Martinez Luis F. , Cooper Cary , Gui Diana M.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Some underlying mechanisms regarding presenteeism still remain unclear, namely, the construct of “presenteeism climate” and the importance of “leadership” Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) for presenteeism. In order to shed some light into this phenomenon, the purpose of this paper is to develop and apply a new scale of presenteeism climate.

Design/methodology/approach

– In Study 1, the authors identified a pool of items from the literature and, in Study 2 (n=147) the authors tested 26 items that were pilot studied with exploratory factor analysis. In Study 3 (n=293) the authors tested a three-factor model – extra-time valuation, supervision distrust and co-workers competitiveness – with confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

– Results showed that LMX has a negative correlation with presenteeism climate. Study 3 also showed that this structure remained invariant with additional samples from employees working in hospitals from Ecuador (n=90) and China (n=237). Finally, the authors included suggestions for future studies to overcome the limitations of this research.

Practical implications

– This study has implications for managers and academics, as it emphasizes the importance of favorable behaviors between leaders and employees in order to decrease presenteeism and its adverse consequences.

Originality/value

– The main contribution consists of identifying dimensions of presenteeism climate and developing measures. Additionally, the authors contribute to the literature on leadership by studying the influence of LMX on presenteeism climate.
Workplace design
Authors: Karanika-Murray Maria , Michaelides George
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Although both job design and its broader context are likely to drive motivation, little is known about the specific workplace characteristics that are important for motivation. The purpose of this paper is to present the Workplace Characteristics Model, which describes the workplace characteristics that can foster motivation, and the corresponding multilevel Workplace Design Questionnaire.

Design/methodology/approach

– The model is configured as nine workplace attributes describing climate for motivation at two levels, psychological and organizational. The multilevel multi-time questionnaire was validated with data from 4,287 individuals and 212 workplaces and with integrated regulation as the criterion outcome.

Findings

– Multilevel factor analysis and regression indicated good internal reliability, construct validity, and stability over time, and excellent concurrent and predictive validity of the questionnaire.

Practical implications

– The model could help to optimize job and workplace design by contextualizing motivation. The questionnaire offers advancement over single-level climate measures as it is validated simultaneously at two levels. Further research can focus on overcoming the low response rate typical for online surveys, on need fulfillment as the mediating variable, and on the joint influence of job and workplace characteristics on organizational behavior.

Originality/value

– This work responds to calls to incorporate context in research into organizational behavior and job design. An understanding of the workplace is a first step in this direction. This questionnaire is the first to be validated at multiple levels of analysis. Ultimately, workplace design could support job design and the development of inherently motivating workplaces.
Young workers’ perception of brand image: main and moderating effects
Authors: Myrden Susan E. , Kelloway Kevin
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between an employer’s brand image (i.e. symbolic and functional attributes) and job seekers’ attraction to the firm among a sample of young workers.

Design/methodology/approach

– Job seekers completed a questionnaire regarding their knowledge of a particular firm, their perceived image of that firm, and their attraction toward that firm in terms of future employment. Moderated regression analyses were used to test the hypotheses of interest.

Findings

– Consistent with previous findings, both functional and symbolic attributes of the brand image were related to job seekers’ attraction to the firm. In contrast to previous research, work experience moderated the effect of symbolic, but not functional, attributes such that these effects became stronger with more experience. Symbolic and functional attributes also interacted to predict job seekers’ attraction to the firm.

Research limitations/implications

– The study is based on cross-sectional self-report data, which limits causal inference.

Practical implications

– Results suggest that young workers are particularly influenced by symbolic attributes of the organizations’ brand image.

Originality/value

– This paper compares the role of symbolic and functional attributes in predicting young workers’ attraction to the firm. Young workers are more influenced by symbolic attributes and these influences are stronger when individuals gain in work experience and when they perceive higher functional attributes.
Biological Flora of the British Isles: Ophrys sphegodes
Authors: Jacquemyn Hans , Hutchings Michael J.
Published: August 2015

This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Ophrys sphegodes Mill. that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characteristics, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.

Native to Britain, O. sphegodes used to be more widely distributed throughout south‐eastern England, but is now mainly restricted to the counties of Dorset, East Sussex and Kent. It is widespread throughout the western parts of central and southern Europe, and is common in Spain, France and Italy. Further east, it occurs in Bulgaria and Greece, including most of the Mediterranean islands, and extends into southern Russia, Turkey and northern Iran.

Ophrys sphegodes grows on calcareous, nutrient‐poor substrates and rarely under any shade. It is most common in ancient, heavily grazed grassland on chalk and Jurassic limestone, but it also occurs in disturbed habitats, horizontally oriented rock floors in limestone quarries, on old limestone quarry spoil heaps, and in lightly trampled calcareous grasslands on maritime cliffs.

Ophrys sphegodes multiplies predominantly by sexual reproduction. Vegetative multiplication occasionally occurs through survival or splitting of the old tuber. In the UK, the species is almost exclusively pollinated by males of the solitary bee Andrena nigroaenea. Male bees are attracted by complex floral bouquets emitted by the flowers that strongly resemble pheromones produced by female A. nigroaenea. Fruit production is generally low, and in most populations, <15% of the flowers produce capsules.

Ophrys sphegodes is reproductively isolated from other species in the genus by strong pre‐mating barriers, most notably temporal (differences in flowering time) and floral (different pollinators) isolation. In particular, differences in floral odour appear to underlie floral isolation. Nonetheless, several hybrids involving O. sphegodes have been described in Britain and elsewhere in Europe.

The range of O. sphegodes in Britain declined dramatically in the twentieth century, leading to its extinction in twelve vice‐counties. Losses were mainly due to ploughing of grassland and changes in fertilizer and grazing regimes. Its range has increased somewhat in recent years. However, increases in spring temperature due to climate warming may seriously threaten the species in Britain by disrupting the close relationship between O. sphegodes flowering time and the phenology of flight of its prime pollinator, leading to reproductive failure.