bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roq1 confers resistance to Xanthomonas,Pseudomonas syringaeandRalstonia solanacearumin tomato
Authors: Thomas Nicholas C. , Hendrich Connor G. , Gill Upinder S. , Allen Caitilyn , Hutton Samuel F. , Schultink Alex
Published: October 2019

Xanthomonasspecies,Pseudomonas syringaeandRalstonia solanacearumare bacterial plant pathogens that cause significant yield loss in many crop species. Current control methods for these pathogens are insufficient but there is significant potential for generating new disease-resistant crop varieties. Plant immune receptors encoded by nucleotide-binding, leucine-rich repeat (NLR) genes typically confer resistance to pathogens that produce a cognate elicitor, often an effector protein secreted by the pathogen to promote virulence. The diverse sequence and presence / absence variation of pathogen effector proteins within and between pathogen species usually limits the utility of a single NLR gene to protecting a plant from a single pathogen species or particular strains. The NLR protein Recognition of XopQ 1 (Roq1) was recently identified from the plantNicotiana benthamianaand mediates perception of the effector proteins XopQ and HopQ1 fromXanthomonasandP. syringaerespectively. Unlike most recognized effectors, alleles of XopQ/HopQ1 are highly conserved and present in most plant pathogenic strains ofXanthomonasandP. syringae. A homolog of XopQ/HopQ1, named RipB, is present in manyR. solanacearumstrains. We found that Roq1 also mediates perception of RipB and confers immunity toXanthomonas, P. syringae, andR. solanacearumwhen expressed in tomato. Strong resistance toXanthomonas perforanswas observed in three seasons of field trials with both natural and artificial inoculation. TheRoq1gene can therefore be used to provide safe, economical and effective control of these pathogens in tomato and other crop species and reduce or eliminate the need for traditional chemical controls.

A single immune receptor expressed in tomato confers strong resistance to three different bacterial diseases.
Targeting Lysyl oxidase-like 2 in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Espindola Milena S. , Habiel David M , Coelho Ana Lucia , Mikels-Vigdal Amanda , Hogaboam Cory M.
Published: October 2019

The composition of extracellular matrix (ECM) is altered during pathologic scarring in damaged organs including the lung. One major change in the ECM involves the cross-linking of collagen, which promotes fibroblast to myofibroblast differentiation.

Objective

We examined the role of lysyl oxidase (LOX)-like 2 in lung fibroblasts cultured from normal or IPF lung samples and in a humanized mouse model of IPF using a monoclonal antibody (Simtuzumab).

Research Design and Methods

Primary lung fibroblasts from normal donor lungs and IPF lung explants were examined for expression of LOXL2. Targeting LOXL2 with Simtuzumab on normal and IPF fibroblasts was examined both in vitro and in vivo for synthetic, functional, and profibrotic properties.

Results

LOXL2 was increased at transcript and protein level in IPF compared with normal lung samples. In a dose-dependent manner, Simtuzumab enhanced differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. Inhibition of LOXL2 also enhanced fibroblast invasion and accelerated the outgrowth of fibroblasts from dissociated human lung cell preparations. Finally, preventative or delayed delivery of Simtuzumab enhanced lung fibrosis in a humanized mouse model of pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusion

Consistent with its failure in a Phase 2 clinical trial, Simtuzumab exhibited no therapeutic efficacy in translational in vitro and in vivo assays.
Local extirpation is pervasive among populations of Galápagos endemic tomatoes
Authors: Gibson Matthew J.S. , de Lourdes Torres Maria , Moyle Leonie C.
Published: October 2019

The Galápagos Islands are home to incredible endemic biodiversity that is of high conservation interest. Two such endemic species are the Galápagos tomatoes: Solanum cheesmaniae and Solanum galapagense. Both are known from historical location records, but like many endemic plant species on the Galápagos, their current conservation status is unclear. We revisited previously documented sites of endemic species on San Cristóbal, Santa Cruz, and Isabela, and document the disappearance of >80% of these populations. In contrast, we find that two invasive relatives (Solanum pimpinellifolium and Solanum lycopersicum) are now highly abundant, and in some cases—based on morphological observations—might be hybridizing with endemics. Our findings suggest that expanding human developments and putative interspecific hybridization are among the major factors affecting the prevalence of invasives and the threatened persistence of the endemic populations.
Systematic evaluation of normalization methods for glycomics data based on performance of network inference
Authors: Benedetti Elisa , Gerstner Nathalie , Pučić-Baković Maja , Keser Toma , Reiding Karli R. , Ruhaak L. Renee , Štambuk Tamara , Selman Maurice H.J. , Rudan Igor , Polašek Ozren , Hayward Caroline , Beekman Marian , Slagboom Eline , Wuhrer Manfred , Dunlop Malcolm G , Lauc Gordan , Krumsiek Jan
Published: October 2019

Glycomics measurements, like all other high-throughput technologies, are subject to technical variation due to fluctuations in the experimental conditions. The removal of this non-biological signal from the data is referred to as normalization. Contrary to other omics data types, a systematic evaluation of normalization options for glycomics data has not been published so far. In this paper, we assess the quality of different normalization strategies for glycomics data with an innovative approach. It has been shown previously that Gaussian Graphical Models (GGMs) inferred from glycomics data are able to identify enzymatic steps in the glycan synthesis pathways in a data-driven fashion. Based on this finding, we here quantify the quality of a given normalization method according to how well a GGM inferred from the respective normalized data reconstructs known synthesis reactions in the glycosylation pathway. The method therefore exploits a biological measure of goodness. We analyzed 23 different normalization combinations applied to six large-scale glycomics cohorts across three experimental platforms (LC-ESI-MS, UHPLC-FLD and MALDI-FTICR-MS). Based on our results, we recommend normalizing glycan data using the ‘Probabilistic Quotient’ method followed by log-transformation, irrespective of the measurement platform.
Identification of epigenome-wide DNA methylation differences between carriers of APOE ε4 and APOE ε2
Authors: Walker Rosie M. , Vaher Kadi , Bermingham Mairead L. , Morris Stewart W. , Bretherick Andrew D. , Zeng Yanni , Rawlik Konrad , Amador Carmen , Campbell Archie , Haley Chris S. , Hayward Caroline , Porteous David J. , McIntosh Andrew M. , Marioni Riccardo E. , Evans Kathryn L.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

The Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 allele is the strongest genetic risk factor for late onset Alzheimer’s disease, while the ε2 allele confers protection. Previous studies report differential DNA methylation of APOE between ε4 and ε2 carriers, but associations with epigenome-wide methylation have not previously been characterised.

METHODS

Using the EPIC array, we investigated epigenome-wide differences in whole blood DNA methylation patterns between Alzheimer’s disease-free APOE ε4 (n=2469) and ε2 (n=1118) carriers from the two largest single-cohort DNA methylation samples profiled to date. Using a discovery, replication and meta-analysis study design, methylation differences were identified using epigenome-wide association analysis and differentially methylated region (DMR) approaches. Results were explored using pathway and methylation quantitative trait loci (meQTL) analyses.

RESULTS

We obtained replicated evidence for DNA methylation differences in a ~169kb region, which encompasses part of APOE and several upstream genes. Meta-analytic approaches identified DNA methylation differences outside of APOE: differentially methylated positions were identified in DHCR24, LDLR and ABCG1 (2.59 x 10−100≤P≤2.44 x 10−8) and DMRs were identified in SREBF2 and LDLR (1.63 x 10−4≤P≤3.01 x 10−2). Pathway and meQTL analyses implicated lipid-related processes and high density lipoprotein cholesterol was identified as a partial mediator of the methylation differences in ABCG1 and DHCR24.

CONCLUSIONS

APOE ε4 vs. ε2 carrier status is associated with epigenome-wide methylation differences in the blood. The loci identified are located in trans as well as cis to APOE and implicate genes involved in lipid homeostasis.
Catalysis by a rigid enzyme
Authors: Bdira F. Ben , Waudby C. A. , Volkov A. N. , Schröder S. P. , AB E. , Codée J. D. C. , Overkleeft H.S. , Aerts J. M. F. G. , van Ingen H. , Ubbink M.
Published: October 2019

Many enzymes are dynamic entities, sampling conformational states that are relevant for catalytic activity. Crystal structures of catalytic intermediates suggest, however, that not all enzymes require structural changes for activity. The single-domain enzyme xylanase fromBacillus circulans(BCX) is involved in the degradation of hemicellulose. We demonstrate that BCX in solution undergoes minimal structural changes during catalysis. NMR spectroscopy results show that the rigid protein matrix provides a frame for fast substrate binding in multiple conformations, accompanied by slow, enzyme induced substrate distortion. Therefore, we propose a model in which the rigid enzyme takes advantage of substrate flexibility to induce a conformation that facilitates catalysis.

One Sentence Summary

The rigid matrix of BCX uses substrate flexibility in Michaelis complex formation.
Growth under high light and elevated temperature affects metabolic responses and accumulation of health-promoting metabolites in kale varieties
Authors: Alegre Sara , Pascual Jesús , Trotta Andrea , Gollan Peter J. , Yang Wei , Yang Baoru , Aro Eva-Mari , Burow Meike , Kangasjärvi Saijaliisa
Published: October 2019

Plants are highly sensitive to changes in the light environment and respond to alternating light conditions by coordinated adjustments in foliar gene expression and metabolism. Here we assessed how long-term growth under high irradiance and elevated temperature, a scenario increasingly associated with the climate change, affects foliar chemical composition of Brassicaceous plants. Transcript profiling of Arabidopsis suggested up-regulation of phenylpropanoid metabolism and down-regulation of processes related to biotic stress resistance and indole glucosinolates (GSL). These observations prompted metabolite profiling of purple (Black Magic) and pale green (Half Tall) varieties of kale, an economically important crop species. Long-term acclimation to high light and elevated temperature resulted in reduced levels of 4-methoxy-indol-3-yl-methyl GSL in both kale varieties. The total levels of aliphatic GSLs increased under these conditions, although the profiles of individual GSL structures showed cultivar-dependent differences. Black Magic became rich in 4-methylsulfinylbutyl GSL and 2-phenylethyl GSL, which have health-promoting effects in human diet. Additionally, the purple pigmentation of Black Magic became intensified due to increased accumulation anthocyanins, especially derivatives of cyanidin. These findings demonstrate that the potentially stressful combination of high light and elevated temperature can have beneficial effects on the accumulation of health-promoting metabolites in leafy vegetables.
Cell based strain stiffening of a non-fibrous matrix as organizing principle for morphogenesis
Authors: Rüdiger Daniel , Kick Kerstin , Goychuk Andriy , Vollmar Angelika M. , Frey Erwin , Zahler Stefan
Published: October 2019

Endothelial tube formation on a reconstituted extracellular matrix (Matrigel) is a well-established in vitro model for studying the processes of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. However, to date, the organizing principles that underlie the morphogenesis of this network, and that shape the initial process of cell-cell finding remain elusive. Furthermore, it is unclear how in vitro results extrapolate to in vivo morphogenesis. Here, we identify a mechanism that allows cells to form networks by mechanically reorganizing and stiffening their extracellular matrix, independent of chemical guidance cues. Interestingly, we find that this cellular self-organization strongly depends on the connectivity and topology of the surrounding matrix, as well as on cell contractility and cell density. Cells rearrange the matrix, and form bridges of matrix material that are stiffer than their surroundings, thus creating a durotactic track for the initiation of cell-cell contacts. This contractility-based communication via strain stiffening and matrix rearrangement might be a general organizing principle during tissue development or regeneration.

Significance Statement

In addition to chemotactic gradients, biomechanical cues are important for guiding biological pattern formation. Self-assembly of cells has often been ascribed to reorganization of collagen fibres in the extracellular matrix. However, the basement membrane surrounding vascular cells, is per se non-fibrous. Here, we find that this difference in matrix topology can crucially influence cell behaviour and pattern formation. In a homogeneously elastic environment like the basement membrane, endothelial cells rearrange extracellular matrix proteins by contractile force, forming stiff intercellular bridges as tracks for cell-cell contacts. Our findings shine some light why there is a lot of merit in having multiple approaches to matrix elasticity (like continuum theories or dilated network approaches). Our observations might help to understand why vascular nets look different in different tissues and after rearrangement of the extracellular matrix during disease.
PyVOL: a PyMOL plugin for visualization, comparison, and volume calculation of drug-binding sites
Authors: Smith Ryan H.B. , Dar Arvin C. , Schlessinger Avner
Published: October 2019

Motivation

Binding pocket volumes are a simple yet important predictor of small molecule binding; however, generating visualizations of pocket topology and performing meaningful volume comparisons can be difficult with available tools. Current programs for accurate volume determination rely on extensive user input to define bulk solvent boundaries and to partition cavities into subpockets, increasing inter-user variability in measurements as well as time demands.

Results

We developed PyVOL, a python package with a PyMOL interface and GUI, to visualize, to characterize, and to compare binding pockets. PyVOL’s pocket identification algorithm is designed to maximize reproducibility through minimization of user-provided parameters, avoidance of grid-based methods, and automated subpocket identification. This approach permits efficient, scalable volume calculations.

Availability

PyVOL is released under the MIT License. Source code and documentation are available through github (https://github.com/schlessingerlab/pyvol/) with distribution through PyPI (bio-pyvol).

Contact

avner.schlessinger@mssm.edu, arvin.dar@mssm.edu
CDK1 couples proliferation with protein synthesis
Authors: Haneke Katharina , Schott Johanna , Lindner Doris , Hollensen Anne K. , Damgaard Christian K. , Mongis Cyril , Knop Michael , Palm Wilhelm , Ruggieri Alessia , Stoecklin Georg
Published: October 2019

Cell proliferation exerts a high demand on protein synthesis, yet the mechanisms coupling the two processes are not fully understood. A kinase and phosphatase screen for activators of translation, based on the formation of stress granules in human cells, revealed cell cycle-associated kinases as major candidates. CDK1 was identified as a positive regulator of global translation, and cell synchronization experiments showed that this is an extra-mitotic function of CDK1. Dephosphorylation of eIF2α and S6K1 signaling were found to act downstream of CDK1. Moreover, Ribo-Seq analysis uncovered that CDK1 exerts a particularly strong effect on the translation of 5’TOP mRNAs, which includes mRNAs encoding for ribosomal proteins and several translation factors. This effect requires the 5’TOP mRNA-binding protein LARP1, concurrent to our finding that LARP1 phosphorylation is strongly dependent on CDK1. Taken together, our results show that CDK1 provides a direct means to couple cell proliferation with biosynthesis of the translation machinery and the rate of protein synthesis.
The role of working memory for bridging the gap between perception and goal-directed actions: Evidence by mu and beta oscillations in sensorimotor cortex
Authors: Schneider Daniel , Rösner Marlene , Klatt Laura-Isabelle , Wascher Edmund
Published: October 2019

What mechanisms are at work when transferring a visual representation in working memory into a higher-level code for guiding future actions? We investigated the underlying attentional and motor selection processes in working memory by means of oscillatory EEG parameters. Participants stored two, three or four objects in working memory and subsequent retroactive cues indicated one or two items as task-relevant. The oscillatory response in mu (10-14 Hz) and beta (15-25 Hz) frequencies with an estimated source in sensorimotor cortex contralateral to response side was used as a correlate of motor planning. There was a stronger suppression of oscillatory power when only one item was cued. Importantly, this effect appeared although the required response could not be anticipated at this point in time. This suggests that working memory can store multiple item-specific motor plans and the selection of a stored visual item leads to an automatic updating of associated response alternatives.
Cotargeting among microRNAs in the brain
Authors: Cherone Jennifer M. , Jorgji Vjola , Burge Christopher B.
Published: October 2019

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play roles in diverse developmental and disease processes. Distinct miRNAs have hundreds to thousands of conserved mRNA binding sites but typically direct only modest repression via single sites. Cotargeting of individual mRNAs by different miRNAs could potentially achieve stronger and more complex patterns of repression. By comparing target sets of different miRNAs, we identified hundreds of pairs of miRNAs that share more mRNA targets than expected (often by twofold or more) relative to stringent controls. Genetic perturbations revealed a functional overlap in neuronal differentiation for the cotargeting pair miR-138/miR-137. Clustering of all cotargeting pairs revealed a group of nine predominantly brain-enriched miRNAs that share many targets. In reporter assays, subsets of these miRNAs together repressed gene expression by five- to 10-fold, often showing cooperative repression. Together, our results uncover an unexpected pattern in which combinations of miRNAs collaborate to robustly repress cotargets, and suggest important developmental roles for cotargeting.
Phase-space matching between bent Laue and flat Bragg crystals
Authors: Zhong Z. , Hasnah M. , Broadbent A. , Dooryhee E. , Lucas M.
Published: October 2019

Through phase-space analysis of Dumond diagrams for a flat Bragg crystal, a single bent Laue crystal and a monochromator consisting of double-bent Laue crystals, this work shows that it is possible to match the flat Bragg crystal to both the single-crystal and double-crystal Laue monochromators. The matched system has the advantage that the phase space of the bent crystal's output beam is much larger than that of the flat crystal, making the combined system stable. Here it is suggested that such a matched system can be used at synchrotron facilities to realize X-ray dark-field imaging, analyzer-based imaging and diffraction-enhanced imaging at beamlines using double-Laue monochromators.
Improved calibration of area detectors using multiple placements
Authors: Horn Caitlin , Ginell Keara M. , Von Dreele Robert B. , Yakovenko Andrey A. , Toby Brian H.
Published: October 2019

Calibration of area detectors from powder diffraction standards is widely used at synchrotron beamlines. From a single diffraction image, it is not possible to determine both the sample-to-detector distance and the wavelength, but, with images taken from multiple positions along the beam direction and where the relative displacement is known, the sample-to-detector distance and wavelength can both be determined with good precision. An example calibration using the GSAS-II software package is presented.
Crystal structures of two (5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)iron(III) complexes
Authors: Clendening Reese A. , Zeller Matthias , Ren Tong
Published: October 2019

Reported in this contribution are the synthesis and crystal structures of two new FeIII complexes of 5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane (HMC), namely, dichlorido(5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)iron(III) chloride, [FeCl2(C16H36N4)]Cl or cis-[FeCl2(rac-HMC)]Cl (1), and dichlorido(5,5,7,12,12,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane)iron(III) tetrachloridoferrate, [FeCl2(C16H36N4)][FeCl4] or trans-[FeCl2(meso-HMC)][FeCl4] (2). Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies revealed that both 1 and 2 adopt a pseudo-octahedral geometry, where the macrocycles adopt folded and planar geometries, respectively. The chloride ligands in 1 are cis to each other, while those in 2 have a trans configuration. The relevant bond angles in 1 deviate substantially from an ideal octahedral coordination geometry, with the angles between the cis substituents varying from 81.55 (5) to 107.56 (4)°, and those between the trans-ligating atoms varying from 157.76 (8) to 170.88 (3)°. In contrast, 2 adopts a less strained configuration, in which the N—Fe—N angles vary from 84.61 (8) to 95.39 (8)° and the N—Fe—Cl angles vary from 86.02 (5) to 93.98 (5)°.
Relativistic correction of atomic scattering factors for high-energy electron diffraction
Authors: Lentzen Markus
Published: October 2019

Relativistic electron diffraction depends on linear and quadratic terms in the electric potential, the latter being neglected in the frequently used relativistically corrected Schrödinger equation. The quadratic electric potential term modifies atomic scattering amplitudes in particular for large-angle scattering and backscattering. The respective correction increases with increasing scattering angle, increasing atomic number and increasing kinetic energy. Conventional tabulations for electron scattering and its large-angle extrapolations can be amended in closed form by a universal correction based on the screened Coulomb potential squared.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of (2E,2′E)-1,1′-[selenobis(4,1-phenylene)]bis[3-(4-chlorophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one]
Authors: Bouraoui Hazem , Mechehoud Youcef , Chetioui Souheyla , Touzani Rachid , Medjani Meriem , Benmilat Ahmed , Boudjada Ali
Published: October 2019

In the title compound, C30H20Cl2O2Se, the C—Se—C angle is 99.0 (2)°, with the dihedral angle between the planes of the attached benzene rings being 79.1 (3)°. The average endocyclic angles (Se—C—C) facing the Se atom are 122.1 (5) and 122.2 (5)°. The Se atom is essentially coplanar with the attached benzene rings, deviating by 0.075 (1) and 0.091 (1) Å. In the two phenylene(4-chlorophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one units, the benzene rings are inclined to each other by 44.6 (3) and 7.8 (3)°. In the crystal, the molecules stack up the a axis, forming layers parallel to the ac plane. There are no significant classical intermolecular interactions present. Hirshfeld surface analysis, two-dimensional fingerprint plots and the molecular electrostatic potential surface were used to analyse the crystal packing. The Hirshfeld surface analysis suggests that the most significant contributions to the crystal packing are by C...H/H...C contacts (17.7%).
4-Amino-5-{[cyclohexyl(methyl)amino]methyl}isophthalonitrile
Authors: Sharif Muhammad , Razzaq Rauf , Jackstell Ralf , Spannenberg Anke
Published: October 2019

The title compound, C16H20N4, was synthesized by cyanation of bromhexine. The compound crystallizes with two unique molecules in the asymmetric unit. The substituted aniline and cyclohexane rings are inclined to one another by 37.26 (6)° in one molecule and by 22.84 (7)° in the other. In the crystal packing, intra- and intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds and an intermolecular C—H...N contact were observed.
From monologic to dialogic
Authors: Kingston Kylie L. , Furneaux Craig , de Zwaan Laura , Alderman Lyn
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Informed by the critical perspective of dialogic accounting theory, the purpose of this paper is to explore the use of evaluation as a means of enhancing accountability to beneficiaries within nonprofit organisations (NPOs). As a stakeholder group frequently marginalised by traditional accounting practices, the participation of beneficiaries within a NPO’s accountability structure is presented as a means of increasing social justice.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design used case studies involving two NPOs, examining documents and conducting interviews across three stakeholder groups, within each organisation.

Findings

Findings reveal that when viewed on beneficiaries’ terms, accountability to beneficiaries, through participative evaluation, needs to consider the particular timeframe of beneficiary engagement within each organisation. This temporal element positions downwards accountability to beneficiaries within NPOs as multi-modal.

Research limitations/implications

The research poses a limit to statistical generalisability outside of the specific research context. However, the research prioritises theoretical generalisation to social forms and meanings, and as such provides insights for literature.

Practical implications

In acknowledging that beneficiaries have accountability needs dependent upon their timeframe of participation, NPOs can better target their downwards accountability structures. This research also has practical implications in its attempt to action two of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Originality/value

This paper makes a contribution to the limited research into nonprofit accountability towards beneficiaries. Dialogic accounting theory is enacted to explore how accountability can be practised on beneficiaries’ terms.
Longing for a taste of home
Authors: Brown Lorraine , Farbrother Crispin , Dazam Josephine
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose this paper is to offer an understanding of the role of food in the adjustment journey of Nigerian students in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was used, involving interviews with ten Nigerians studying in the UK.

Findings

Thematic analysis revealed that participants found the food they ate locally to be bland and fattening, and that they quickly adopted a home country diet, using ingredients bought locally or sent and brought from home to recreate Nigerian dishes. Eating Nigerian food had a positive emotional impact, and it was also a vehicle for social interaction.

Research limitations/implications

It is acknowledged that this is a small-scale preliminary study that could be extended across the UK with a more quantitative approach to get a broader picture of the eating habits of Nigerian students at British Universities. There is also an opportunity to widen it to include other African states which are neglected within the present literature. A more longitudinal study picking up migrants could also explore how adjustments have been made in their eating habits. Participants in this research equated fast food with local, English food due to their limited access to authentic local cuisine.

Practical implications

There are practical implications of this study whereby actions can be taken to help avoid the negative impacts experienced causing concerns in around mental well-being and poor health.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap in knowledge on how this important segment of the international student population adapts to a new food culture.
Strategies for inclusive and safe education using virtual reality: from the digital library perspective
Authors: Díaz-López Lourdes , Ortiz Javier Tarango , Contreras Claudia-Patricia
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to propose the development of formal (scientific content) and informal (content for science communication) educational activities in an inclusive and safe way, involving two essential elements, virtual reality (VR) and the digital library; as well as the implications for its enforcement such as educational strategies in the university setting and for the encouragement of scientific culture in society.

Design/methodology/approach

For the integration of content, a simplified conceptual model was designed first, in which universities and research centers are seen as complex systems where different subsystems, from which processes and information resources are derived, converge. To cover the model’s elements, a descriptive documentary review was developed, looking to synthesize each element’s contexts and implications.

Findings

The need to establish transdisciplinary relationships between the VR and the digital library is determined with the goal to integrate educational activities using technology, with the purpose of studying contents from the scientific point of view, as well as with the possibility of transforming them into contexts of general access for society, with the objective of social appropriation of knowledge, citizen science and social innovation. In the conclusion section, some implications in the implementation of this type of initiatives are presented.

Originality/value

The aspects that set this paper apart are: treating VR as emerging documents tending to measure their direct impact, not as isolated elements of a collection; identifying the digital library’s social influence actions through VR; and generating processes to encourage the creation of contents with a differentiated focus according to the population served.
Lessons learned from the past for a better resilience to contemporary risks
Authors: Garnier Emmanuel
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the potentialities offered by a historical approach by addressing its scientific and societal issues as well as its opportunities at the scale of different continents and cultural areas. The authors then show the major role played by traditional societies and indigenous peoples in preserving and transmitting a culture of risk which today is threatened by an unprecedented memory break resulting from the process of globalization. Finally, the authors present two concrete examples of projects aiming to use historical lessons learned to reduce the vulnerability of local communities.

Design/methodology/approach

Historical documentation provides a series of very varied archives, voluminous and geographically scattered. Several types of series will be studied. Besides the written archives, the authors shall also realize an inventory of all the elements of the cultural heritage and the memory evoking the risks and the vulnerabilities.

Findings

This study shows how forgetting past disasters has contributed to increasing the vulnerability of the modern societies and building a “society of risk.” Paradoxically, industrialization and the era of the engineer opposed “pre-modern” societies to so-called “modern” societies. In this way, ancestral knowledge and strategies have often been despised in favor of hard defense works whose limits are now being measured after the recent disasters. On the other hand, the paper promotes a different model combining both engineering and local historical/cultural knowledge in order to design a more sustainable and applicable strategy.

Originality/value

The authors show the major role played by traditional societies and indigenous peoples in preserving and transmitting a culture of risk which today is threatened by an unprecedented memory break resulting from the process of globalization.
Sociocultural research on L2 reading in L1 settings: a critical review on the past 30 years
Authors: Choi Lee Jin
Published: October 2019

Purpose

With an increasing emphasis on the reading development of L2 learners of English and a growing body of literature on L2 reading, it is now time to examine what the current research on L2 reading says about L2 learners’ reading development and to discuss what would be a desirable future for L2 reading studies. Focusing on the L2 reading of upper elementary, middle and high school students in L1 settings, this study aims to carefully, but critically, explore the major research studies published in the past three decades. In particular, it uses sociocultural and critical frameworks that view language as a social phenomenon and literacy as a constellation of socially contextualized practices to explore the issue of L2 reading.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify key findings about L2 reading, a systematic literature review of studies examining L2 reading in L1 settings was conducted. A critical examination and analysis of 91 studies on L2 reading for upper elementary students (Grades 4-12) are presented here. Based on the literature review, the major issues addressed in the previous section are revisited, and the requirements of future research on L2 reading are discussed.

Findings

Three major changes have taken place in L2 reading studies: from monolingual/L1-based research to multilingual/L2-based research; developing the socially situated model of literacy (literacies); and adopting a sociocultural and critical lens: L2 reading and L2 reading assessment. Based on the critical review of the major research studies published in the past three decades, this paper identifies the research and approach required to advance the field of L2 reading: the continua of L1 and L2 reading, macro–micro analysis of L2 reading context and diversification of L2 reading research.

Originality/value

Based on a systematic literature review, it demonstrates the current trends in L2 reading research, to examine the key findings and implications, and to identify what additional research or paradigms are required to advance the field. The literature review presented in this paper helps language educators, policy-makers and school administers at all levels in both first-and second-language contexts to better understand the rapidly increasing number of L2 English learners in L1 classroom settings.
Employment in South Asia: a new data set
Authors: Beyer Robert C.M. , Chocce Milagros , Rama Martin
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a new data set of comparable employment indicators for South Asian countries, constructed from more than 60 primary data sources from 2001 to 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The main contribution of the paper is to curate the information provided by individual respondents to censuses and surveys, in a way that is consistent across countries and over time. The usefulness of the data set is illustrated by conducting a rigorous assessment of employment characteristics, of changes in employment over time and of the short- and long-run relationships between economic growth and employment growth in South Asia.

Findings

The exercise shows that agriculture still employs the majority of the working-age population across the region and, except in Sri Lanka, more than half of the employment is self-employment or unpaid family work. The paper also shows that employment rates are generally decreasing in South Asia, and that in some countries female employment rates are falling rapidly. Seasonal growth patterns are shown to affect the composition of employment, while non-seasonal changes in short-run growth affect the overall level of employment. The paper estimates that, in the long run, one percentage point growth of gross domestic product has led on average to a 0.34 per cent increase in employment.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new employment data set for South Asia, a rigorous assessment of employment trends and changes and an analysis for relationship between economic growth and employment (both quarterly and long-run).
Impact of employee perceptions of mistreatment on organizational performance in the hotel industry
Authors: Sarwar Aisha , Muhammad Lakhi
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of injustice, discrimination and incivility on organizational performance in the hotel industry. In addition to this, the study also investigates the mediating effects of discrimination and incivility between distributive injustice, procedural injustice and organizational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted to collect the data from hotel industry employees on a structured questionnaire by using convenience sampling approach. PLS-SEM was used to analyze the useable data of 285 respondents. In addition to this, to evaluate the predictive performance of exogenous constructs newly suggested hold out sample approach in PLS-SEM was also considered.

Findings

Results indicate that incivility and procedural injustice has a negative and significant effect on organizational performance, while the impact of distributive injustice and discrimination on organizational performance was insignificant. Further, incivility was found to be a significant mediator, while mediation of discrimination was not supported between distributive injustice, procedural injustice and organizational performance.

Practical implications

Findings are important for hotel managers to adjust their strategies to improve organizational performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes in existing literature by concentrating on predictors that undermine the organizational performance. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the early studies to contribute in literature by investigating the impact of injustice perceptions on employee perceptions specifically perceived incivility and perceived discrimination on organizational performance. Further, it also investigated the mediating impact of perceived incivility and perceived discrimination between injustice perceptions and organizational performance. Such considerations have implications for researchers, students and practitioners. For researchers, this study helps to ponder on an alternative approach by considering those factors which may undermine organizational performance, instead of focusing only on those factors which enhance organizational performance. For research students, such contribution will bring a new avenue to consider further research. Managers will find help to control such factors which minimize organizational performance.
Religion and entrepreneurship in hospitality and tourism
Authors: Farmaki Anna , Altinay Levent , Christou Prokopis , Kenebayeva Ainur
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This study aims to provide a theoretical account of the nexus of religion and entrepreneurship in hospitality and tourism (H&T) by considering the influences of religion on entrepreneurial motivation, acquisition of resources for entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors synthesise research and theory on religion and entrepreneurship and apply it within H&T, taking into account the specificities of the industry. Specifically, they pooled together relevant theory and empirical research findings which they summarised to identify points of convergence and divergence, before refining the data to allow for further theoretical insights to be gained.

Findings

The authors suggest that religion may positively or negatively influence entrepreneurship; in particular, they identify various modes of religion influences, which offer insights into how religion may encourage, sustain and amplify entrepreneurship or alternatively inhibit entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

Religion offers an important yet underused lens for understanding the activities and mechanisms influencing entrepreneurship in the rapidly evolving H&T industry. This study identifies different aspects of the two multidimensional and interdisciplinary concepts of religion and entrepreneurship and offers new insights into the relationship between the two within the context of H&T.
Design and development of feminine reusable pad without pad holder
Authors: Tiku Sufiyan Derbew
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Naturally women have menstruation cycle in permanent time that is once in a month, destroying eggs and leaving the body in the form of bad blood. Girls begin their periods between the ages of 10–18. The average age is 13. Through the ages women have used different forms of menstrual protection. Women often used strips of folded old cloth (rags) to catch their menstrual blood. This old cloth is not recommended for health; in these cases, infection in the body is not friendly with the environment. By considering the above issues for women, the purpose of this paper is to design and develop a feminine reusable pad without a pad holder for economically challenged people around Ethiopian rural area where they live, well supported by the baseline survey and also with different technical tests of fabric and product in order to take care of women’s health-related issues. So a reusable pad is needed to hold off the blood, and it is necessary to change the reusable pad, at least three times a day in order to maintain proper hygiene. A proper reusable pad is made of cotton to absorb the blood, and sticker to stick the pad to the panties.

Design/methodology/approach

The reusable pad is developed with three different types of fabrics, forming three different layers of the product, such as 100 percent white knitted cotton, which is used as a top layer attached to the skin, which acts as an absorbing fluid and creates comfort to the wearer, polywadding (non-woven) fabric is used at the middle layer, which is mainly used for absorbent purposes, easily washable, and retains cotton fabric shapes from deformation, and water-repellent fabric is used as the lower layer, which acts as a resistant for the blood to prevent from seepage.

Findings

This new product is developed free from different harmful chemicals and easily available in the market, and it also has good air permeability, good water absorption, comfort, cost affordable, has the best tensile strength, high capacity to hold liquid, best water repellent, and many more features. With the help of this new product, which is aimed at the middle-/lower-middle class people, it gives a lot of benefits with respect to the cost and also takes care of women’s health with all the unique features.

Originality/value

This is the author’s original research work, which is focused on people who lived in a rural area and were economically challenged. The reusable pad is made up of three different fabrics, such as cotton, polywadding and water repellent. Each of the materials and designs to be used is of the author’s; if it is necessary you can cross-check with other works.
Volunteer motivations in the Finnish fire service
Authors: Malinen Sanna , Algera Puck , Mankkinen Teija
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper presents a large sample study of fire service volunteer motivations in Finland. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to explore the differences between initial motivations to begin volunteering vs motivations to continue volunteering; and second, to examine the differences in motivations as a function of demographic variables and geographic region of the fire brigade (rural vs urban).

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was completed by 747 fire service volunteers throughout Finland.

Findings

The initial motivations for joining the brigade differed from those that motivated volunteers to continue in their roles. Significant differences between male and female volunteers’ initial motivations, as well as differences in motivations to continue volunteering as a function of age and region, were found.

Research limitations/implications

The findings support integrating a psychological, functional perspective with contextual and situational factors when considering volunteer motivations.

Originality/value

This study suggests a comprehensive understanding of fire service volunteer motivations and informs improved recruitment and retention practices.
Optimization and evaluation of a wind, solar and fuel cell hybrid system in supplying electricity to a remote district in national grid
Authors: Alayi Reza , Kasaeian Alibakhsh , Najafi Atabak , Jamali Eskandar
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The important factors, which should be considered in the design of a hybrid system of photovoltaic and wind energy are discussed in this study. The current load demand for electricity, as well as the load profile of solar radiation and wind power of the specified region chosen in Iran, is the basis of design and optimization in this study. Hybrid optimization model for electric renewable (HOMER) software was used to simulate and optimize hybrid energy system technically and economically.

Design/methodology/approach

HOMER software was used to simulate and optimize hybrid energy system technically and economically.

Findings

The maximum radiation intensity for the study area is 7.95 kwh/m2/day for July and the maximum wind speed for the study area is 11.02 m/s for January.

Originality/value

This research is the result of the original studies.
Mediocre and harmful public sector leadership
Authors: Franken Esme , Plimmer Geoff
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Leadership matters in public contexts. It influences employee development and, in turn, the effective delivery of public services. Harmful leadership limits the fulfilment of both these requirements. Although there are many studies of public leadership, few explore aspects of poor leadership focusing on leading people, in the unique public sector context. The purpose of this paper is to explore the public sector environment as one that can enable harmful leadership, and identifies what those aspects of harmful behaviours are. In particular, it focuses on common, day-to-day forms of harmful mediocre leadership rather than more dramatic, but rarer, forms of destructive or toxic leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted over three phases. In study one (N=10) interviews using the critical incident technique identified harmful behaviours. Study two (N=10) identified perceived causal processes and outcomes of these processes. Study three was a validation check using two focus groups (n=7) and two further interviews (n=6).

Findings

Four dimensions of harmful behaviour were found: micromanagement, managing up but not down, low social and career support and reactive leadership. Several pathways to harm were found, including lessened employee confidence, motivation, collaboration, learning and development.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited by a small sample and data collected in one public sector system. But its implications are still meaningful. The research identified some ways that harmful leadership can occur, that is missed in existing studies of harmful leadership, which tend to focus on more toxic forms of harm. The role of NPM and other reforms as important shapers of current leadership behaviours are also discussed.

Practical implications

To address these behaviours further investment in leadership development, selection and performance management is recommended.

Social implications

Social implications include the hindering of effective service delivery and limited ability to deal with increasingly dynamic and complicated problem.

Originality/value

Public sector leadership studies are often rose tinted, or describe what should be. Instead, this paper describes what sometimes is, in terms of day-to-day mediocre but harmful leadership.