bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Search for Candidate Drivers of Adaptation Reveals Genes Enriched for Shifts in Purifying Selection (SPurS)
Authors: Popejoy AB , Domanska DE , Thomas JH
Published: January 2020

An open question in comparative evolutionary genomics is whether or not certain loci are the primary drivers of divergence between taxonomic lineages or species groups. Alternatively, genetic drivers of species divergence may be evenly distributed across the genome. The increasing availability of genome sequences from diverse taxa has enabled the development of novel methods to address this question. Genomes of many highly diverged species may now be compared in order to tease apart genetic differences that drive adaptive or functional divergence, and genetic differences that are observed by chance and are not causally linked to traits that differ between species or lineages. In order to test the hypothesis that a particular subset of loci or genes is responsible for driving adaptive changes between mammals and non-mammals, we developed a novel comparative approach to identify sites that are highly conserved within lineages or species groups and diverge between them. Loci with a high concentration of these sites may be called Shifts in Purifying Selection (SPurS) because a change has occurred between two groups of species at some point in the past, and the shift is conserved (via purifying selection) over a long period of time. Evaluating 7484 orthologous gene copies from 76 vertebrate species, we developed an empirical distribution of SPurS across the genome between Synapsida (placental and non-placental mammals) and Sauropsida (birds, crocodilians, squamates, and turtles), and compared this distribution to the expected null distribution of SPurS using matched simulated data. We then identified a subset of genes that is enriched for SPurS, relative to the full set of genes and to their matched simulated alignments. These SPurS-enriched genes are thus likely candidate drivers of functional divergence or adaptation between the mammalian and non-mammalian species groups in our analysis. Investigators seeking to identify genetic drivers of inter-species evolution may find this method useful, and we provide a web-based software interface to facilitate its use.
Deep transfer learning for reducing health care disparities arising from biomedical data inequality
Authors: Gao Yan , Cui Yan
Published: January 2020

As artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied to biomedical research and clinical decisions, developing unbiased AI models that work equally well for all racial and ethnic groups is of crucial importance to health disparity prevention and reduction. However, the biomedical data inequality between different racial and ethnic groups is set to generate new health care disparities through data-driven, algorithm-based biomedical research and clinical decisions. Using an extensive set of machine learning experiments on cancer omics data, we found that current prevalent schemes of multiethnic machine learning are prone to generating significant model performance disparities between racial groups. We showed that these performance disparities are caused by data inequality and data distribution discrepancies between racial groups. We also found that transfer learning can improve machine learning model performance for data-disadvantaged racial groups, and thus provides a novel approach to reduce health care disparities arising from data inequality among racial groups.
An Oncometabolite Isomer Rapidly Induces A Pathophysiological Protein Modification
Authors: Bergholtz Sarah E. , Briney Chloe A. , Najera Susana S. , Perez Minervo , Linehan W. Marston , Meier Jordan L.
Published: January 2020

Metabolites regulate protein function via covalent and non-covalent interactions. However, manipulating these interactions in living cells remains a major challenge. Here we report a chemical strategy for inducing cysteine S-succination, a non-enzymatic posttranslational modification derived from the oncometabolite fumarate. Using a combination of antibody-based detection and kinetic assays we benchmark the in vitro and cellular reactivity of two novel S-succination “agonists,” maleate and 2-bromosuccinate. Cellular assays reveal maleate to be a more potent and less toxic inducer of S-succination which can activate KEAP1-NRF2 signaling in living cells. By enabling the cellular reconstitution of an oncometabolite-protein interaction with physiochemical accuracy and minimal toxicity, this study provides a methodological basis for better understanding the signaling role of metabolites in disease.
Modeling human age-associated increase in Gadd45γ expression leads to spatial recognition memory impairments in young adult mice
Authors: Brito David V.C. , Karaca Kubra Gulmez , Kupke Janina , Mudlaff Franziska , Zeuch Benjamin , Gomes Rui , Lopes Luísa V. , Oliveira Ana M.M.
Published: January 2020

Aging is associated with the progressive decay of cognitive function. Hippocampus-dependent processes, such as the formation of spatial memory, are particularly vulnerable to aging. Currently, the molecular mechanisms responsible for age-dependent cognitive decline are largely unknown. Here, we investigated the expression and function of the growth arrest DNA damage gamma (Gadd45γ) during aging and cognition. We report that Gadd45γ expression is increased in the hippocampus of aged humans and that Gadd45γ overexpression in the young adult mouse hippocampus compromises cognition. Moreover, Gadd45γ overexpression in hippocampal neurons disrupted CREB signaling and the expression of well-established activity-regulated genes. This work shows that Gadd45γ expression is tightly controlled in the hippocampus and its disruption may be a mechanism contributing to age-related cognitive impairments observed in humans.
More motivated but equally good: no effect of gamification on visual working memory performance
Authors: Mystakidou Maria , van den Berg Ronald
Published: January 2020

Gamification refers to the introduction of gaming elements such as scores and leaderboards in non-gaming contexts. While there is growing evidence that gamification has positive effects on intrinsic motivation and engagement, it is largely unknown whether these effects translate to improved cognitive performance. Here, we examine whether gamification affects performance on a visual working memory (VWM) task. In Experiment 1, we gamified a standard delayed-estimation task by introducing scores and a leveling system. On each trial, the subject’s estimation error was mapped to a score between −100 and +100 and added to their total score. Subjects started at a set size of 1 and “leveled up” to the next set size each time they had accumulated 1,500 points. Post-experiment questionnaire data confirmed that subjects who performed the gamified version of the task were more motivated than control subjects. However, we found no difference in VWM performance between these two groups, nor between below-median and above-median motivated subjects. In Experiment 2, we tested for effects of trial-by-trial manipulations of motivation on VWM performance, by varying the scoring function across trials. Three scoring functions were used, with maxima of 7, 21, and 101 points. At the beginning of each trial, the subject was informed whether the potential reward was “low”, “medium”, or “high”. Post-questionnaire data showed that subjects were more motivated on high-reward trials. However, we found no evidence for a difference in performance between the three reward levels. Our results suggest that gamification increases people’s motivation to carry out visual working memory tasks, but it does not necessarily increase their performance.
Small-scale field assessment of efficacy of the autodissemination approach against Aedes sp. in an urban area
Authors: Mohd Ngesom Ahmad Mohiddin , Othman Hidayatulfathi , Bahauddin Rawaida , Ahmad Nazni Wasi , Lim Lee Han , Lasim Asmalia Md , Liang Yanfeng , Greenhalgh David , Min Jasmine Chia Siew , Sahani Mazrura , Hod Rozita , Omar Topek
Published: January 2020

This is the first study to evaluate the efficacy of an autodissemination approach, as suggested by WHO. Therefore, the efficacy of an autodissemination approach in small-scale field trials against wildAedessp. population was evaluated in an urbanized setting, Malaysia. Lethal ovitraps enhanced with pyriproxyfen were used to controlAedessp. populations at treatment sites, with the autodissemination activity was assessed using the WHO larval bioassays. Lethal ovitraps enhanced with pyriproxyfen effectively reduced ofAedessp. population. All autodissemination stations were shown to be visited byAedessp. mosquitoes with 100% complete inhibition against eggs and larvae development. In the larvae bioassay, pupae mortality ranged from 14 to 40%. Statistically, a significant reduction ofAedessp. population in the treatment sites compared to the untreated areas. The study proved for the autodissemination of pyriproxyfen to breeding habitats by wildAedessp. This technique is highly potentially for vector control activities. Future evaluation should focus on large-scale field trials.

Author Summary

Since 2012, Dataran Automobil, Seksyen 15, Shah Alam, was declared as one of the dengue hotspot areas. Major vector control activities were conducted by government, NGOs, social communities, and local authorities, but the number still rising. We conducted a new invention of autodissemination concepts in this area by an entomological study on mosquito populations reduction and dispersal abilities of the technique. We found that the technique has proven to control mosquito populations, but the other factors such as epidemiology link still unclear and need further clarification. Our finding highlighted the effectiveness of autodissemination strategies that can be considered as one of the alternative tools in vector control programme.
Multiple retrospective analysis of survival and evaluation of cardiac death predictors in a population of dogs affected by degenerative mitral valve disease in ACVIM class C treated with different therapeutic protocols
Authors: Bagardi Mara , Locatelli Chiara , Zanaboni Annamaria , Galizzi Alberto , Malchiodi Dario , Brambilla Paola G.
Published: January 2020

Clinical records of dogs with spontaneous degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) with clinical signs related to congestive heart failure (CHF) that had been recruited during routine clinical practice, between 2001 and 2018 at the Cardiology Unit of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (University of Milan) were included in this retrospective cohort study. Baseline echocardiographic data were evaluated. Median survival times (MSTs) were calculated. Data on therapeutic treatment, ISACHC or ACVIM classes were reviewed based on the inclusion period and type of endpoint (i.e. cardiac death or death for other causes). The main goal of this data review was to retrospectively evaluate 259 clinical records of subjects belonging to ACVIM C class examined between 2001 to 2018 together with the 202 examined between 2010 to 2018. The MSTs of these subjects was 531 d (2001-2018) and 335.5 d (2010-2018), respectively. Univariate survival regression analysis for subjects included from 2010 to 2018 showed the following variables as being significantly related to cardiac death (CD): LA/Ao ratio (HR 2.754, p=0.000), E wave (HR 2.961, p=0.000), E/A ratio (HR 1.372, p=0.000), EDVI (HR 1.007, p=0.000), ESVI (HR 1.012, p=0.026), Allo(d) (HR 4.018, p=0.000) and Allo(s) (HR 2.674, p=0.049), age (HR 1.006, p=0.009) and PH severity (HR=1.309, p=0.012). Multivariate analysis, adjusted for age, showed that the only variable that determined a statistically significant difference in MST was PH severity (HR 1.334, p=0.033). The type of therapeutic treatment within this class was not significant for the MST of the subjects.
CRISPR-Cas13d induces efficient mRNA knock-down in animal embryos
Authors: Kushawah Gopal , Abugattas-Nuñez del Prado Joaquin , Martinez-Morales Juan R. , DeVore Michelle , Guelfo Javier R. , Brannan Emry O. , Wang Wei , Corbin Timothy J. , Moran Andrea M. , Alvarado Alejandro Sánchez , Málaga-Trillo Edward , Takacs Carter M. , Bazzini Ariel A. , Moreno-Mateos Miguel A.
Published: January 2020

Early embryonic development is driven exclusively by maternal gene products deposited into the oocyte. Although critical in establishing early developmental programs, maternal gene functions have remained elusive due to a paucity of techniques for their systematic disruption and assessment. CRISPR-Cas13 systems have recently been employed to induce RNA degradation in yeast, plants and mammalian cell lines. However, no systematic study of the potential of Cas13 has been carried out in an animal system. Here, we show that CRISPR-Cas13d is an effective and precise system to deplete specific mRNA transcripts in zebrafish embryos. We demonstrate that both zygotically-expressed and maternally-provided transcripts are efficiently targeted, resulting in an 80% average decrease in transcript level and the recapitulation of well-known embryonic phenotypes. Moreover, we show that this system can be used in medaka, killifish and mouse embryos. Altogether our results demonstrate that CRISPR-Cas13d is an efficient knock-down platform to interrogate gene function in animal embryos.
A phylogenetic analysis of MCTP proteins: from amino acid sequence to function
Authors: Téllez Arreola José Luis , Estrada-Mondragón Argel , Martínez Torres Ataúlfo
Published: January 2020

MCTPs (Multiple C2 domain proteins with two transmembrane regions) are evolutionarily and structurally related to other C2 proteins which play fundamental roles in exocytosis and membrane trafficking, however their specific role has been little studied. This work points out possible functional implications of MCTPs by comparing their primary amino acid sequence and functional domains. MCTP amino acid sequences were identified in non-chordates and chordates. The primary sequences grouped in three classes: MCTP, MCTP-1 and MCTP-2. MCTP is present only in non-chordates, while MCTP-1 and MCTP-2 are present in chordates. MCTP genes emerged early in metazoan evolution and are well conserved across species including humans. Genomic analysis of diverse species of representative phyla showed that the three C2 domains (C2A-C2C) and transmembrane regions (TMR) are well conserved. The C2 domains have eight β strands as well as aspartate residues known to bind calcium. Interestingly, we identified a lysine-rich cluster, also known as polybasic cluster in C2A and C2B, which is known to bind lipids in other proteins. We also describe the phylogenetic distribution of MCTPs and analyze conserved domains and their predicted secondary structure in metazoans. We highlight important motifs that have not been previously described in MCTPs C2A and C2B domains that suggest MCTPs potentially bind phospholipids. Our observations show MCTPs are proteins widely distributed in eukaryotic organisms and may play an important role in membrane fusion or exocytosis.
Benchmarking joint multi-omics dimensionality reduction approaches for cancer study
Authors: Cantini Laura , Zakeri Pooya , Hernandez Celine , Naldi Aurelien , Thieffry Denis , Remy Elisabeth , Baudot Anaïs
Published: January 2020

High-dimensional multi-omics data are now standard in biology. They can greatly enhance our understanding of biological systems when effectively integrated. To achieve this multi-omics data integration, Joint Dimensionality Reduction (jDR) methods are among the most efficient approaches. However, several jDR methods are available, urging the need for a comprehensive benchmark with practical guidelines.

We performed a systematic evaluation of nine representative jDR methods using three complementary benchmarks. First, we evaluated their performances in retrieving ground-truth sample clustering from simulated multi-omics datasets. Second, we used TCGA cancer data to assess their strengths in predicting survival, clinical annotations and known pathways/biological processes. Finally, we assessed their classification of multi-omics single-cell data.

From these in-depth comparisons, we observed that intNMF performs best in clustering, while MCIA offers a consistent and effective behavior across many contexts. The full code of this benchmark is implemented in a Jupyter notebook - multi-omics mix (momix) - to foster reproducibility, and support data producers, users and future developers.
Rationalization of the crystal structure of eudidymite Na2Be2[Si[4]6O15]·H2O in light of the extended Zintl–Klemm concept
Authors: Vegas Angel , Jenkins H. Donald Brooke
Published: January 2020

The structure of eudidymite is described in light of the extended Zintl–Klemm concept which considers that Na and Be atoms transfer their six valence electrons to the six Si atoms, converting them into Ψ-P which forms a skeleton characteristic of pentels (Group 15 elements) and is similar to that described in the compound (NH4)2Ge[6][Ge[4]6O15] when analysed in the same manner. The Si[4]skeleton is formed of bilayers that are connected through Be2O6groups which are in fact fragments of the β-BeO structure which bridge the two contiguous Si-bilayers by sharing O atoms. In this context, the Be atoms play a dual role,i.e.on the one hand converting the Si atoms into Ψ-P, on the other hand replicating fragments of its own β-BeO structure. The Be atoms partially reproduce their own structure despite it being enclosed in a more complex network such as in Na2Be2[Si[4]6O15]·H2O. Calculations of the ionic strengthIconsidering Si as Ψ-P is energetically more favourable than whenIis calculated on the basis of tetravalent Si in the silicate, justifying this new approach of developing the theory of pseudo-structure generation. This approach offers a major new development in the study of crystal structures.
The more you value, the less you practice: a study on culture and managerial discretion
Authors: Haj Youssef Moustafa Salman , Hussein Hiba Maher , Awada Hoda
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine cross-cultural differences in managerial discretion and the extent to which variations and interaction of cultural practices and values affect the degree of freedom in decision making that is accorded to executives. This paper offers a holistic approach to investigating culture in addition to acknowledging its paradoxical nature.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a panel of prominent management consultants to rate discretion across 18 countries, the authors further develop the national-level construct of managerial discretion by empirically investigating the influence of cultural practices and values on CEOs’ discretion.

Findings

The study reveals that cultural values moderate the relationship between cultural practices and managerial discretion for three cultural dimensions: individualism, uncertainty tolerance and power distance (PD). By adopting the logic of marginal utility, the authors also show that the more a society values individualism, uncertainty tolerance and PD, the weaker the effect of their practices on managerial discretion.

Originality/value

Few research has attempted to assess both cultural values and practices in relation to managerial discretion. By showing the mechanism in which culture affects the level of managerial discretion, the authors offer new theoretical insights and practical implications, overall contributing to the field of cross-cultural and strategic management. Finally, this will offer CEO’s a new perspective of leveraging culture as a tool, enhancing their decision-making capabilities in the aim of improving organizational performance.
SME network relationships and competitive strategies in the agri-food sector
Authors: Camanzi Luca , Giua Carlo
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the main factors influencing agri-food small and medium enterprises (SMEs) participation in business networks and to evaluate the impacts of these factors on network structure and the ensuing competitive strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is articulated in four main steps. First, a critical literature review is conducted concerning the main approaches to firm competitive advantage and the role of stakeholder relationships. Then, three research questions are formulated and discussed in the light of two case studies describing the implementation of an innovative contractual solution in Italy (i.e. business network contracts). Finally, based on these findings, a set of more general “propositions” are stated and included in a provisional conceptual model that schematically depicts an integrated vision of the antecedents and mechanisms influencing SMEs business network structure and competitive strategy.

Findings

The study results pointed out the opportunity to adopt an integrated approach, combining resource-based view and stakeholder causal scope approaches. The provisional conceptual model proposed illustrates the role of both external and internal resources and relational constructs to shaping network structure and competitive strategy.

Originality/value

The study’s contribution is twofold. First, the empirical study shed light on opportunities and limits of two business networks with different backgrounds, approaches and outcomes towards value creation. Second, the conceptual framework proposed advances our understanding and knowledge of the factors and mechanisms influencing SMEs business network structure and competitive strategy.
Value of supply chain resilience: roles of culture, flexibility, and integration
Authors: Chunsheng Li , Wong Christina W.Y. , Yang Ching-Chiao , Shang Kuo-Chung , Lirn Taih-cherng
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Building supply chain (SC) resilience is crucial for business continuity given the ever-changing environmental conditions. Based on the resource orchestration and organizational culture theories, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the business value of SC resilience with the consideration of the roles of internal integration (II) and external integration (EI), risk management culture (RMC) and SC flexibility (SCF).

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates how RMC, SCF and intra and interorganizational integration affect the performance of SC resilience. It collects primary and secondary data from 194 manufacturing firms listed in the Taiwan Stock Exchange and Taipei Exchange.

Findings

Results validate the authors’ hypothesis that RMC, SCF and II improve the financial performance of firms through SC resilience efforts.

Research limitations/implications

This study uses firms from Taiwan manufacturing industry, which might introduce country and industry bias.

Practical implications

This study helps managers improve the financial performance of their SC resilience efforts by developing RMC, SCF, II and IE across functions and partner firms.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by empirically testing the relationship between SC resilience and financial performance, and how the relationship is moderated by RMC, SCF, II and EI based on the theories of organizational culture and resource orchestration.
Study on friction behavior of SiC-B4C composite ceramics after annealing
Authors: Zhang Wei , Yamashita Seiji , Kumazawa Takeshi , Ozeki Fumihito , Hyuga Hideki , Kita Hideki
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the friction behavior of SiC-B4C composite ceramics treated by annealing in air sliding against SiC balls.

Design/methodology/approach

The dry sliding tests were performed with a ball-on-disk tribometer in ambient air condition. Analysis of friction coefficient, phase compositions of the surfaces, morphologies of worn surfaces of disks and wear scars of balls and surface profiles of wear tracks for disks were carried out using Raman spectroscope, microscope and surface profilometer.

Findings

The results show that a self-lubricating layer with the main composition of H3BO3 was successfully fabricated on the surface of SiC-B4C composite ceramics by the annealing treatment in air. When the mass fraction of SiC is more than that of B4C, SiC-B4C composite ceramics show higher friction coefficients, the values of which are 0.38 for 80 Wt.%SiC-20 Wt.%B4C and 0.72 for 60 Wt.%SiC-40 Wt.%B4C, respectively. SiC-B4C composite ceramics show lower friction coefficients when the mass fraction of B4C is more than that of SiC. The low friction coefficients of 40 Wt.%SiC-60 Wt.% B4C composite ceramics (0.16) and 20 Wt.%SiC-80 Wt.% B4C composite ceramics (0.20) are attributed to the formation of a sufficient amount of H3BO3 layer, rather than the layer of silicon oxides.

Originality/value

This study will help to understand the friction behavior of SiC-B4C composite ceramics with different ratios of SiC to B4C treated by annealing in air.
Parental role models and entrepreneurial intentions in Colombia
Authors: Moreno-Gómez Jorge , Gómez-Araujo Eduardo , Castillo-De Andreis Rafael
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of parental role model in gender entrepreneurial intentions. The authors distinguish between paternal and maternal role models and investigate how their influence on students’ decision to become self-employed is moderated by gender.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a logit model on a sample of 3.703 university students from Colombia Global University Entrepreneurial Spirit Students Survey 2016.

Findings

As pointed out by results, the findings show not only that the presence of parental role model increases entrepreneurial intentions but also that the effect of this influence is moderated by gender.

Research limitations/implications

First, data limitations do not allow us to analyze the ways in which the parent self-employed role model contributes to increasing entrepreneurial intentions. Second, the effects of specific characteristics of father and mother role model, such as education, age, culture and experience in the sector, are not taken into account to assess the link with entrepreneurial intentions.

Originality/value

This study offers a new insight relating parental role model and their impact to increase entrepreneurial intentions among universities student. The findings of this paper offer relevant information to universities policymaker to design of university strategies that promote entrepreneurial activity in Colombia.
Tough but not terrific: value destruction in men’s health
Authors: McGraw Jacquie , Russell-Bennett Rebekah , White Katherine M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of masculine identity in generating value destruction and diminished well-being in a preventative health service.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used five focus groups with 39 Australian men aged between 50 and 74 years. Men’s participation in the National Bowel Cancer Screening Program informed the sample frame. In total, 12 Jungian male archetypes were used to identify different masculine identities.

Findings

Thematic analysis of the data revealed three themes of masculinity that explain why men destroy value by avoiding the use of a preventative health services including: rejection of the service reduces consumer disempowerment and emasculation, active rejection of resources creates positive agency and suppressing negative self-conscious emotions protects the self.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the single context of bowel cancer screening. Future research could investigate value destruction in other preventative health contexts such as testicular cancer screening, sexual health screening and drug abuse.

Practical implications

Practical implications include fostering consumer empowerment when accessing services, developing consumer resources to create positive agency and boosting positive self-conscious emotions by promoting positive social norms.

Originality/value

This research is the first known study to explore how value is destroyed in men’s preventative health using the perspective of gender identity. This research also is the first to explore value destruction as an emotion regulation strategy.
Audit committee characteristics and tax aggressiveness
Authors: Deslandes Manon , Fortin Anne , Landry Suzanne
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the relationship between a company’s use of aggressive tax planning and several audit committee members’ characteristics, namely, independence, expertise, diligence and gender diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is an empirical research using archival data from 289 Canadian listed companies for the 2011-2015 period.

Findings

The authors find that measures of expertise and diligence are significantly related to tax aggressiveness. Financial expertise and tenure on the audit committee play an important role in constraining tax aggressiveness, as does having a larger audit committee.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation – and an area for future research – is that the effects of the audit committee members’ relationships with managers of the firms were not investigated.

Practical implications

Knowledge of audit committee characteristics may send a signal to shareholders, investors and tax agencies regarding the company’s potential risk with respect to aggressive tax planning. The analysis provides useful insights for board governance committees when determining the profile of persons to nominate for board positions and committees. In discussing tax-risk management, the study may heighten audit committee members’ awareness of their role in this respect.

Originality/value

This study’s results indicate that even in a setting where incentives for firms to be tax-aggressive is low compared to high-tax rate countries, there is variability in firms’ tax aggressiveness. This situation allows us to find audit committee characteristics that are effective in decreasing tax aggressiveness.
Hygrothermoelastic response of a finite solid circular cylinder
Authors: Lamba Navneet Kumar , Deshmukh K.C.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

In this paper, a solid circular cylinder of finite length occupying the space 0⩽r⩽1, 0⩽z⩽his considered. The purpose of this paper is to adopt a linear hygrothermal effect to analyze the unsteady state responses in a finite long solid cylinder subjected to axisymmetric hygrothermal loadingT=TRandC=CRat the surface. The analytical solution of temperature, moisture and thermal stresses is obtained by using the integral transform technique. The coupling and uncoupling effects of temperature, moisture and thermal stresses are discussed for a graphite fiber-reinforced epoxy matrix composite material (T300/5208). The numerical results of transient response hygrothermoelastic field are presented graphically.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present problem, hygrothermoelastic response of a finite solid circular cylinder has been investigated by integral transform technique consisting of Laplace transform, Hankel transform and Fourier-cosine transform. The problem is investigated subjected to prescribed sources. Numerical algorithm has been developed for numerical computation.

Findings

The analytical solution of temperature, moisture and thermal stresses is obtained by using the integral transform technique. The coupling and uncoupling effects of temperature, moisture and thermal stresses are discussed for a graphite fiber-reinforced epoxy matrix composite material (T300/5208). The numerical results of transient response hygrothermoelastic field are presented graphically.

Research limitations/implications

The work presented here is mostly hypothetical in nature and totally mathematical.

Practical implications

It may be useful for composite materials, composite laminated plates in hygrothermal environment. Also it is having the applications in hygrothermal field where porous media exposed to heat and moisture. The problem investigated will be beneficial for the researcher working in the field thermoelastic diffusion and hygrothermoelastic materials.

Originality/value

Till date, the other authors did the research work on hygrothermal effect of an infinitely long cylinder without thickness. In this paper, the authors consider finite solid cylinder with finite length and discuss the hygrothermal effect within a small range. Second, the material properties are both homogenous and isotropic and are independent of both temperature and moisture.
Optimization of digital radiography for large metallic additively manufactured components
Authors: Stoner Brant Edward , Jones Griffin T. , Joshi Sanjay , Martukanitz Rich
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The continued improvement of additive manufacturing (AM) processing has led to increased part complexity and scale. Processes such as electron beam directed energy deposition (DED) are able to produce metal AM parts several meters in scale. These structures pose a challenge for current inspection techniques because of their large size and thickness. Typically, X-ray computed tomography is used to inspect AM components, but low source energies and small inspection volumes restrict the size of components that can be inspected. This paper aims to develop digital radiography (DR) as a method for inspecting multi-meter-sized AM components and a tool that optimizes the DR inspection process.

Design/methodology/approach

This tool, SMART DR, provides optimal orientations and the probability of detection for flaw sizes of interest. This information enables design changes to be made prior to manufacturing that improve the inspectabitity of the component and areas of interest.

Findings

Validation of SMART DR was performed using a 40-mm-thick stainless-steel blade produced by laser-based DED. An optimal orientation was automatically determined to allow radiographic inspection of a thickness of 40 mm with a 70% probability of detecting 0.5 mm diameter flaws. Radiography of the blade using the optimal orientation defined by SMART DR resulted in 0.5-mm diameter pores being detected and indicated good agreement between SMART DR’s predictions and the physical results.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the need for non-destructive inspection techniques specifically developed for AM components.
Finite element analysis of CFRP-externally strengthened reinforced concrete beams subjected to three-point bending
Authors: Barour Sabiha , Zergua Abdesselam , Bouziadi Farid , Abed Jasim Waleed
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a non-linear finite element model predicting the response of externally strengthened beams under a three-point flexure test.

Design/methodology/approach

The ANSYS software is used for modeling. SOILD65, LINK180, SHELL181 and SOLID185 elements are used, respectively, to model concrete, steel reinforcement, polymer and steel plate support. A parametric study was carried out. The effects of compressive strength, Young’s modulus, layers number and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer thickness on beam behavior are analyzed. A comparative study between the non-linear finite element and analytical models, including the ACI 440.2 R-08 model, and experimental data is also carried out.

Findings

A comparative study of the non-linear finite element results with analytical models, including the ACI 440.2 R-08 model and experimental data for different parameters, shows that the strengthened beams possessed better resistance to cracks. In general, the finite element model’s results are in good agreement with the experimental test data.

Practical implications

This model will predict the strengthened beams behavior and can describe the beams physical conditions, yielding the results that can be interpreted in the structural study context without using a laboratory testing.

Originality/value

On the basis of the results, a good match is found between the model results and experimental data at all stages of loading the tested samples. Crack models obtained in the non-linear finite element model in the beams are also presented. The submitted finite element model can be used to predict the behavior of the reinforced concrete beam. Also, the comparative study between an analytical model proposed by of current code of ACI 440.2 R-08 and finite element analysis is investigated.
Optimization of machining parameters using WASPAS and MOORA
Authors: Pathapalli Venkateshwar Reddy , Basam Veerabhadra Reddy , Gudimetta Suresh Kumar , Koppula Madhava Reddy
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Nowadays, the applications of metal matrix composites are tremendously increasing in engineering fields. Consequently, the demand for precise machining of composites has also grown enormously. The purpose of this paper is to reduce production cost and simultaneously improve desired product quality through optimal parameter setting using WASPAS and MOORA.

Design/methodology/approach

Metal matrix composites were fabricated using stir casting process, with aluminum 6063 as matrix and titanium carbide as reinforcement. Fabricated composite samples were machined on medium duty lathe using cemented carbide tool. All the experiments were carried out based on Box–Behnken design. Comparison of multi objective optimization based on ratio analysis and weighted aggregated sum product assessment in optimizing four parameters, namely, “cutting speed,” “feed rate,” “depth of cut” and “reinforcement weight percent of composite samples”; evaluating their influence on material removal rate, cutting force and surface roughness were carried out.

Findings

The output achieved by both MOORA and WASPAS are in similar MCDM) techniques in the selection of machining parameters.

Practical implications

The results obtained in the present paper will be helpful for decision makers in manufacturing industries, who work in metal cutting area, to select the suitable levels for the parameters by implementing the MCDM techniques.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper is making an attempt to select better MCDM technique based on the comparison of results obtained for the individual technique.
Inhibitory effect of gallic acid on voltage‐gated Na+ channels in rat cardiomyocytes
Authors: Du Ya‐ya , Zou Li , Wang Xiu‐xiu , Dai Le‐yao , Ling Xin‐nan , Xu Zheng‐xin
Published: January 2020

Gallic acid (GA) has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. To study its cardiac electrophysiological effects, voltage‐gated Na+ channel currents (INa) were recorded in rat cardiomyocytes using whole‐cell patch clamp techniques. Moreover, the effects of GA on aconitine‐induced arrhythmias were assessed using electrocardiograms in vivo. We found that the current–voltage characteristic curve (I‐V curve) of INa significantly shifted in the presence of 1, 3, and 10 μmol/L of GA. The peak sodium current density (INa‐Peak) was reduced from −84.02 ± 5.68 pA/pF to −65.78 ± 3.96 pA/pF with 1 μmol/L, −54.45 ± 5.18 pA/pF with 3 μmol/L, and −44.20 ± 4.35 pA/pF with 10 μmol/L, respectively. GA shifted the steady‐state activation curve of INa and recovery curve to the right and the steady‐state inactivation curve to the left. The observed inhibitory effect was comparable to that of amiodarone. GA pre‐treatment significantly prolonged the onset of fatal ventricular fibrillation. Our results indicated that GA inhibited INa in rat ventricular myocytes and aconitine‐induced arrhythmias in vivo. These results suggest the potential of GA for development as a novel anti‐arrhythmic therapeutic.
Different paradigms of evidence and knowledge: Recognising, honouring, and celebrating Indigenous ways of knowing and being
Authors: Althaus Catherine
Published: January 2020

Debates over evidence‐informed policymaking are predominantly structured from a western paradigm of ontology and epistemology. Other ways of being and knowing are neither privileged by the policy space nor the discipline, certainly not in the same way or to the same degree. This is changing, however, in the face of cultural recognition and with diversity and inclusion agendas and within the contexts of post‐truth politics and the questioning of expertise. This article explores the contribution of Indigenous ways of knowing and being as providing valid, alternative forms of evidence that ought to inform the policymaking process. Australian experience suggests that Indigenous evidence and knowledge offers unique, substantive insights that are offered as ‘gifts’ to inform policy and public administration communities. This contribution is unrecognised and unincorporated into public administration at Australia and the world's peril given that Indigenous approaches offer new exciting ways forward for engagement, sustainability, and policy innovation. It should not be co‐opted or presumed. Indigenous peoples need to be given self‐determination avenues to decide what they wish to share or not, why, and how.
Walking patterns of Trichogramma chilonis and Trichogrammatoidea bactrae upon vegetable leaf surfaces
Authors: Wang Desen , He Xiaofang , Zhao Chengyin , He Yurong , Lu Lihua , Luo Yongli , Qiu Hualong
Published: January 2020

Trichogramma chilonis Ishii (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) and Trichogrammatoidea bactrae Nagaraja (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) are egg parasitoids of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). We observed and recorded the walking patterns of T. chilonis and T. bactrae females on leaves of Raphanus sativus L., Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. et Coss., Brassica campestris L. ssp. chinensis var. utilis Tsen et Lee, and Brassica oleracea L. Our analysis indicated that Trichogramma females spent more time and moved more slowly on R. sativus leaf surface, compared with the other vegetable leaf surfaces. In addition, Trichogramma females were more likely to walk in straight line on B. oleracea leaf surfaces than R. sativus, B. juncea, and B. campestris leaf surface. Compared to T. bactrae females, T. chilonis females spent significantly less time on the leaf surface, and the walking path of T. chilonis was less affected by leaf surface characters (e.g., trichomes, wrinkle, and waxes). During the period of residence on the leaf surface, parasitoid females spent more than 87.8% of their time moving. This study demonstrates that vegetable leaf surface can influence Trichogramma's walking pattern while they are foraging for hosts.
Biotype and status of insecticide resistance of whitefly Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) in Alhassa oasis, Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia.
Authors: Hajjar M. Jamal , Almarzouk Ibrahim , Alhudaib Khalid
Published: January 2020

The tobacco whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is one of the major insects infesting vegetable plants. This pest is well known in Alhassa oasis, Saudi Arabia; which is historically agricultural land cultivated with date palm trees and different vegetables. A molecular key based on the sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase gene CO1 was used for the identification of strains of the tobacco whitefly Bemisia tabaci collected from farms located in four areas of the Alhassa oasis; Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western. Only one biotype (B‐biotype) of B. tabaci was reported in the oasis. Resistance of B. tabaci was tested against eight insecticides, the results showed moderate to low levels of resistance to the tested insecticides. However, the resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides was low and established at 1.3 fold to both Imidacloprid and Acetamiprid. In addition, medium levels of resistance were detected to the insect growth regulator Pyriproxyfen (30 fold), and the pyrethroid Deltamethrin (30 fold), Bifenthrin (24 fold) and Cypermethrin (13 fold). A medium level of resistance was also detected to the carbamate insecticide Carbosulfan and was 40 fold of the laboratory strains. A low level of resistance to the organophosphorus insecticide was detected to Phenthoate (11 fold). However, these results reflect that the farmers were less dependent on the use of insecticides to control B. tabaci in the oasis and they may be implementing other environmentally sound techniques to keep the pest below the damage threshold.
Comparison and Evaluation of Gridded Precipitation Datasets in a Kansas Agricultural Watershed Using SWAT
Authors: Muche Muluken E. , Sinnathamby Sumathy , Parmar Rajbir , Knightes Christopher D. , Johnston John M. , Wolfe Kurt , Purucker S. Thomas , Cyterski Michael J. , Smith Deron
Published: January 2020

Gridded precipitation datasets are becoming a convenient substitute for gauge measurements in hydrological modeling; however, these data have not been fully evaluated across a range of conditions. We compared four gridded datasets (Daily Surface Weather and Climatological Summaries [DAYMET], North American Land Data Assimilation System [NLDAS], Global Land Data Assimilation System [GLDAS], and Parameter‐elevation Regressions on Independent Slopes Model [PRISM]) as precipitation data sources and evaluated how they affected hydrologic model performance when compared with a gauged dataset, Global Historical Climatology Network‐Daily (GHCN‐D). Analyses were performed for the Delaware Watershed at Perry Lake in eastern Kansas. Precipitation indices for DAYMET and PRISM precipitation closely matched GHCN‐D, whereas NLDAS and GLDAS showed weaker correlations. We also used these precipitation data as input to the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model that confirmed similar trends in streamflow simulation. For stations with complete data, GHCN‐D based SWAT‐simulated streamflow variability better than gridded precipitation data. During low flow periods we found PRISM performed better, whereas both DAYMET and NLDAS performed better in high flow years. Our results demonstrate that combining gridded precipitation sources with gauge‐based measurements can improve hydrologic model performance, especially for extreme events.
Overcoming resistance by ALK compound mutation (I1171S + G1269A) after sequential treatment of multiple ALK inhibitors in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Takahashi Ken , Seto Yosuke , Okada Koutaroh , Uematsu Shinya , Uchibori Ken , Tsukahara Mika , Oh‐hara Tomoko , Fujita Naoya , Yanagitani Noriko , Nishio Makoto , Okubo Kenichi , Katayama Ryohei
Published: January 2020

Background

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion genes are found in 3%–5% of non‐small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs). ALK inhibitors show a very high response rate to ALK‐positive NSCLCs. However, the emergence of acquired resistance is inevitable. In this study, we investigated the drugs for overcoming resistance especially compound mutations after sequential treatment with crizotinib, alectinib, and lorlatinib.

Method

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing were performed on a liver biopsy tissue obtained from a clinical case. Ba/F3 cells in which mutant EML4‐ALK were overexpressed were prepared, and cell viability assay and immunoblotting were performed to check the sensitivity of five independent ALK inhibitors.

Results

I1171S + G1269A double mutation was identified by NGS and Sanger sequencing on a liver biopsy tissue from a patient who relapsed on lorlatinib treatment. Ceritinib and brigatinib—but not other ALK inhibitors—were active against the compound mutations in the cell line model.

Conclusions

With the sequential ALK inhibitors treatment, cancer cells accumulate new mutations in addition to mutations acquired previously. The identified compound mutation (I1171S + G1269A) was found to be sensitive to ceritinib and brigatinib, and indeed the patient's tumor partially responded to ceritinib.

Key points

ALK compound mutation was found in a clinical sample that was resistant to lorlatinib after sequential ALK‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment.

Ceritinib and brigatinib are potential overcoming drugs against ALK I1171S + G1269A double mutation.