bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulated Plant Images Improve Maize Leaf Counting Accuracy
Authors: Miao Chenyong , Hoban Thomas P. , Pages Alejandro , Xu Zheng , Rodene Eric , Ubbens Jordan , Stavness Ian , Yang Jinliang , Schnable James C.
Published: July 2019

Automatically scoring plant traits using a combination of imaging and deep learning holds promise to accelerate data collection, scientific inquiry, and breeding progress. However, applications of this approach are currently held back by the availability of large and suitably annotated training datasets. Early training datasets targeted arabidopsis or tobacco. The morphology of these plants quite different from that of grass species like maize. Two sets of maize training data, one real-world and one synthetic were generated and annotated for late vegetative stage maize plants using leaf count as a model trait. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) trained on entirely synthetic data provided predictive power for scoring leaf number in real-world images. This power was less than CNNs trained with equal numbers of real-world images, however, in some cases CNNs trained with larger numbers of synthetic images outperformed CNNs trained with smaller numbers of real-world images. When real-world training images were scarce, augmenting real-world training data with synthetic data provided improved prediction accuracy. Quantifying leaf number over time can provide insight into plant growth rates and stress responses, and can help to parameterize crop growth models. The approaches and annotated training data described here may help future efforts to develop accurate leaf counting algorithms for maize.
Cortical remodelling in childhood is associated with genes enriched for neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Ball G. , Seidlitz J. , Beare R. , Seal M.L.
Published: July 2019

Cortical development during childhood and adolescence has been characterised in recent years using metrics derived from Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Changes in cortical thickness are greatest in the first two decades of life and recapitulate the genetic organisation of the cortex, highlighting the potential early impact of gene expression on differences in cortical architecture over the lifespan. It is important to further our understanding of the possible neurobiological mechanisms that underlie these changes as differences in cortical thickness may act as a potential phenotypic marker of several common neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.

In this study, we combine MRI acquired from a large typically-developing childhood population (n=768) with comprehensive human gene expression databases to test the hypothesis that disrupted mechanisms common to neurodevelopmental disorders are encoded by genes expressed early in development and nested within those associated with typical cortical remodelling in childhood.

We find that differential rates of thinning across the developing cortex are associated with spatially-varying gradients of gene expression. Genes that are expressed highly in regions of accelerated thinning are expressed predominantly in cortical neurons, involved in synaptic remodeling, and associated with common cognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders. Further, we identify subsets of genes that are highly expressed in the prenatal period and jointly associated with both developmental cortical morphology and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Nucleation of antagonistic organisms and cellular competitions on curved, inflating substrates
Authors: Lavrentovich Maxim O. , Nelson David R.
Published: July 2019

We consider the dynamics of spatially-distributed, diffusing populations of organisms with antagonistic interactions. These interactions are found on many length scales, ranging from kilometer-scale animal range dynamics with selection against hybrids to micron-scale interactions between poison-secreting microbial populations. We find that the dynamical line tension at the interface between antagonistic organisms suppresses survival probabilities of small clonal clusters: the line tension introduces a critical cluster size that an organism with a selective advantage must achieve before deterministically spreading through the population. We calculate the survival probability as a function of selective advantage δ and antagonistic interaction strength σ. Unlike a simple Darwinian selective advantage, the survival probability depends strongly on the spatial diffusion constant Ds of the strains when σ > 0, with suppressed survival when both species are more motile. Finally, we study the survival probability of a single mutant cell at the frontier of a growing spherical cluster of cells, such as the surface of an avascular spherical tumor. Both the inflation and curvature of the frontier significantly enhance the survival probability by changing the critical size of the nucleating cell cluster.
Lysine demethylase 7a regulates the anterior-posterior development in mouse by modulating the transcription ofHoxgene cluster
Authors: Higashijima Yoshiki , Nagai Nao , Kitazawa Taro , Kawamura Yumiko , Taguchi Akashi , Nakada Natsuko , Nangaku Masaomi , Furukawa Tetsushi , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Kurihara Hiroki , Wada Youichiro , Kanki Yasuharu
Published: July 2019

Temporal and spatial colinear expression of theHoxgenes determines the specification of positional identities during vertebrate development. Post-translational modifications of histones contribute to transcriptional regulation. Lysine demethylase 7A (Kdm7a) demethylates lysine 9 di-methylation of histone H3 (H3K9me2) and participates in the transcriptional activation of developmental genes. However, the role of Kdm7a during mouse embryonic development remains to be elucidated. Here, we show thatKdm7a−/−mouse exhibits an anterior homeotic transformation of the axial skeleton, including an increased number of presacral elements. Importantly, posteriorHoxgenes (caudally fromHox9) are specifically downregulated in theKdm7a−/−embryo, which correlates with increased levels of H3K9me2. These observations suggest that Kdm7a controls the transcription of posteriorHoxgenes, likely via its demethylating activity, and thereby regulating the murine anterior-posterior development. Such epigenetic regulatory mechanisms may be harnessed for the proper control of coordinate body patterning in vertebrates.
Activation of the Extracytoplasmic Function σ factor σPby β-lactams inBacillus thuringiensisrequires the site-2 protease RasP
Authors: Ho Theresa D. , Nauta Kelsie M. , Müh Ute , Ellermeier Craig D.
Published: July 2019

Bacteria can utilize alternative σ factors to regulate sets of genes in response to changes in the environment. The largest and most diverse group of alternative σ factors are the Extracytoplasmic Function (ECF) σ factors. σPis an ECF σ factor found inBacillus anthracis,B. cereus, andB. thuringiensis. Previous work showed σPis induced by ampicillin, a β-lactam antibiotic, and required for resistance to ampicillin. However, it was not known how activation of σPis controlled or what other antibiotics may activate σP. Here we report that activation of σPis specific to a subset of β-lactams and σPis required for resistance to these β-lactams. We demonstrate that activation of σPis controlled by the proteolytic destruction of the anti-σ factor, RsiP, and that degradation of RsiP requires multiple proteases. Upon exposure to β-lactams, the extracellular domain of RsiP is cleaved by an unknown protease, which we predict cleaves at site-1. Following cleavage by the unknown protease, the N-terminus of RsiP is further degraded by the site-2 intramembrane protease, RasP. Our data indicate that RasP cleavage of RsiP is not the rate-limiting step in σPactivation. This proteolytic cascade leads to activation of σPwhich induces resistance to β-lactams likely via increased expression of β-lactamases.

Importance

The discovery of antibiotics to treat bacterial infections has had a dramatic and positive impact on human health. However, shortly after the introduction of a new antibiotic bacteria often develop resistance. The bacterial cell envelope is essential for cell viability and is the target of many of the most commonly used antibiotics including β-lactam antibiotics. Resistance to β-lactams is often dependent upon β-lactamases. InB. cereus,B. thuringiensisand someB. anthracisstrains the expression of some β-lactamases is inducible. This inducible β-lactamase expression is controlled by activation of an alternative σ factor called σP. Here we show that β-lactam antibiotics induce σPactivation by degradation of the anti-σ factor RsiP.
A Na2CO3-responsive chitinase gene fromChinese wildryeimprove pathogen resistance and saline-alkali stress tolerance in transgenic tobacco and maize
Authors: Liu Xiang-Guo , Yu Ying , Liu Qing , Deng Suren , Jin Xue-Bo , Yin Yue-Jia , Guo Jia , Li Nan , Liu Yang , Han Si-ping , Wang Chuang , Hao Dong-Yun
Published: July 2019

Salinity and microbial pathogens are the major limiting factors for crop production. Although the manipulation of many genes could improve plant performance under either of these stresses, few genes have reported that could improve both pathogen resistance and saline-alkali stress tolerance. In this study, we identified a new chitinase geneCHITINASE 2(LcCHI2) that encodes a class II chitinase from a Chinese wildrye (Leymus Chinensis), which grows naturally on alkaline-sodic soil. Overexpression ofLcCHI2increased chitinase activity in transgenic plants. The transgenic tobacco and maize exhibited improved pathogen resistance and enhanced both neutral salt and alkaline salt stress tolerance. Overexpression ofLcCHI2reduced sodium (Na+) accumulation, malondialdehyde content and relative electrical conductivity in transgenic tobacco under salt stress. In addition, the transgenic tobacco showed diminished lesion against bacterial and fungal pathogen challenge, suggesting an improved disease resistance. Similar improved performance was also observed inLcCHI2-overexpressed maize under both pathogen and salt stresses. It is worth noting that this genetic manipulation does not impair the growth and yield of transgenic tobacco and maize under normal cultivation condition. Apparently, application ofLcCHI2provides a new train of thought for genetically engineering saline-alkali and pathogen resistant crops of both dicots and monocots.
Greater capacity to exploit warming temperatures in northern populations of European beech is partly driven by delayed leaf senescence
Authors: Gárate-Escamilla Homero , Brelsford Craig C. , Hampe Arndt , Robson T. Matthew , Benito Garzón Marta
Published: July 2019

One of the most widespread consequences of climate change is the disruption of trees’ phenological cycles. The extent to which tree phenology varies with local climate is largely genetically determined, and while a combination of temperature and photoperiodic cues are typically found to trigger bud burst (BB) in spring, it has proven harder to identify the main cues driving leaf senescence (LS) in autumn. We used 925 individual field-observations of BB and LS from six Fagus sylvatica provenances, covering the range of environmental conditions found across the species distribution, to: (i) estimate the dates of BB and LS of these provenances; (ii) assess the main drivers of LS; and (iii) predict the likely variation in the growing season length (GSL; defined by BB and LS timing) across populations under current and future climate scenarios. To this end, we first calibrated linear mixed-effects models for LS as a function of temperature, insolation and BB date. Secondly, we calculated the GSL for each provenance as the number of days between BB and LS. We found that: i) there were larger differences among provenances in the date of LS than in the date of BB; ii) the temperature through September, October and November was the main determinant of LS in beech, although covariation of temperature with daily insolation and precipitation-related variables suggests that all three variables may affect LS timing; and iii) GSL was predicted to increase in northern beech provenances and to shrink in populations from the core and the southern range under climate change. Consequently, the large differences in GSL across beech range in the present climate are likely to decrease under future climates where rising temperatures will alter the relationship between BB and LS, with northern populations increasing productivity by extending their growing season to take advantage of warmer conditions.
International lineages of Salmonella enterica serovars isolated from chicken farms, Wakiso District, Uganda
Authors: Ball Takiyah A. , Monte Daniel F. , Aidara-Kane Awa , Matheu Jorge , Ru Hongyu , Thakur Siddhartha , Ejobi Francis , Fedorka-Cray Paula J.
Published: July 2019

The growing occurrence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica in poultry has been reported with public health concern worldwide. We reported, recently, the occurrence of Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica serovars carrying clinically relevant resistance genes in dairy cattle farms in the Wakiso District, Uganda, highlighting an urgent need to monitor food-producing animal environments. Here, we present the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and sequence type of 51 Salmonella isolates recovered from 400 environmental samples from chicken farms in Uganda. Among the Salmonella isolates, 32/51 (62.7%) were resistant to at least one antimicrobial, and 10/51 (19.6%) displayed multiple drug resistance. Through PCR, five replicon plasmids were identified among all chicken Salmonella including IncFIIS 17/51 (33.3%), IncI1α 12/51 (23.5%), IncP 8/51 (15.7%), IncX1 8/51 (15.7%), and IncX2 1/51 (2.0%). In addition, we identified replicons through WGS (ColpVC and IncFIB). A significant seasonal difference between chicken sampling periods was observed (p= 0.0017). We conclude that MDR Salmonella highlights the risks posed to the animals, environment, and humans for infection. Implementing a robust integrated surveillance system in Uganda will help monitor MDR to help control infectious threats.
Prioritization of genes driving congenital phenotypes of patients with de novo genomic structural variants
Authors: Middelkamp Sjors , Vlaar Judith M. , Giltay Jacques , Korzelius Jerome , Besselink Nicolle , Boymans Sander , Janssen Roel , de la Fonteijne Lisanne , van Binsbergen Ellen , van Roosmalen Markus J. , Hochstenbach Ron , Giachino Daniela , Talkowski Michael E. , Kloosterman Wigard P. , Cuppen Edwin
Published: July 2019

Background

Genomic structural variants (SVs) can affect many genes and regulatory elements. Therefore, the molecular mechanisms driving the phenotypes of patients with multiple congenital abnormalities and/or intellectual disability carrying de novo SVs are frequently unknown.

Results

We applied a combination of systematic experimental and bioinformatic methods to improve the molecular diagnosis of 39 patients with de novo SVs and an inconclusive diagnosis after regular genetic testing. In seven of these cases (18%) whole genome sequencing analysis detected disease-relevant complexities of the SVs missed in routine microarray-based analyses. We developed a computational tool to predict effects on genes directly affected by SVs and on genes indirectly affected due to changes in chromatin organization and impact on regulatory mechanisms. By combining these functional predictions with extensive phenotype information, candidate driver genes were identified in 16/39 (41%) patients. In eight cases evidence was found for involvement of multiple candidate drivers contributing to different parts of the phenotypes. Subsequently, we applied this computational method to a collection of 382 patients with previously detected and classified de novo SVs and identified candidate driver genes in 210 cases (54%), including 32 cases whose SVs were previously not classified as pathogenic. Pathogenic positional effects were predicted in 25% of the cases with balanced SVs and in 8% of the cases with copy number variants.

Conclusions

These results show that driver gene prioritization based on integrative analysis of WGS data with phenotype association and chromatin organization datasets can improve the molecular diagnosis of patients with de novo SVs.
Low entropy map of brain oscillatory activity identifies spatially localized events: a new method for automated epilepsy focus prediction
Authors: Vila-Vidal Manel , Enríquez Carmen Pérez , Principe Alessandro , Rocamora Rodrigo , Deco Gustavo , Campo Adrià Tauste
Published: July 2019

The spatial mapping of localized events in brain activity critically depends on the correct identification of the pattern signatures associated with those events. For instance, in the context of epilepsy research, a number of different electrophysiological patterns have been associated with epileptogenic activity. Motivated by the need to define automated seizure focus detectors, we propose a novel data-driven algorithm for the spatial identification of localized events that is based on the following rationale: the distribution of emerging oscillations during confined events across all recording sites is highly non-uniform and can be mapped using a spatial entropy function. By applying this principle to EEG recording obtained from 67 distinct seizure epochs, our method successfully identified the seizure focus on a group of ten drug-resistant temporal lobe epilepsy patients (average sensitivity: 0.94, average specificity: 0.90) together with its characteristic electrophysiological pattern signature. Cross-validation of the method outputs with postresective information revealed the consistency of our findings in long follow-up seizure-free patients. Overall, our methodology provides a reliable computational procedure that might be used as in both experimental and clinical domains to identify the neural populations undergoing an emerging functional or pathological transition.

Conflict of interests

The authors declare no competing financial interests.
Cost optimization of project schedules under constrained resources and alternative production processes by mixed-integer nonlinear programming
Authors: Cajzek Rok , Klanšek Uroš
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is cost optimization of project schedules under constrained resources and alternative production processes (APPs).

Design/methodology/approach

The model contains a cost objective function, generalized precedence relationship constraints, activity duration and start time constraints, lag/lead time constraints, execution mode (EM) constraints, project duration constraints, working time unit assignment constraints and resource constraints. The mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) superstructure of discrete solutions covers time–cost–resource options related to various EMs for project activities as well as variants for production process implementation.

Findings

The proposed model provides the exact optimal output data for project management, such as network diagrams, Gantt charts, histograms and S-curves. In contrast to classic scheduling approaches, here the optimal project structure is obtained as a model-endogenous decision. The project planner is thus enabled to achieve optimization of the production process simultaneously with resource-constrained scheduling of activities in discrete time units and at a minimum total cost.

Practical implications

A set of application examples are addressed on an actual construction project to display the advantages of proposed model.

Originality/value

The unique value this paper contributes to the body of knowledge reflects through the proposed MINLP model, which is capable of performing the exact cost optimization of production process (where presence and number of activities including their mutual relations are dealt as feasible alternatives, meaning not as fixed parameters) simultaneously with the associated resource-constrained project scheduling, whereby that is achieved within a uniform procedure.
Evaluating environmental behaviour of the general public in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Jane Lu , Feng Chih-Hung
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine factors influencing environmental behaviour of the general public and to develop educational implications that will enhance effectiveness in information dissemination for environmental sustainability in Taiwan.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey using personal interviews was administered in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung metropolitan areas following stratified sampling method based on age and gender distributions of the population between the ages of 18 and 59 in Taiwan. Total valid samples were 481. Probit model was applied to examine factors influencing environmental behaviour.

Findings

Based on findings in the study, environmental knowledge, pro-environmental attitude (emphasising balance of nature), altruism and habitual behaviour positively influence environmental behaviour. Humancentric (emphasising human domination) negatively influence environmental behaviour. The following educational implications are capable to enlarge a spectrum of environmental behaviour in Taiwan: including topics of waste avoidance and reduction in chemical usage for cleaning or for insecticides in lessons/curricula; and promote general public to live a life which causes fewer burdens on the environment.

Research limitations/implications

Environmental education plays fundamental role in educating the public with concurrent environmental knowledge, in an expectation that the general public would take the information into consideration and modify behaviour in an effort to sustain the environment. Research implications of this study are: environmental behaviour is multidimensional and can be examined using a comprehensive set of statements including domains of energy conservation, mobility and transportation, waste avoidance, consumerism and recycling; and habitual behaviour is an influencing factor to explain environmental behaviour and can be examined thoroughly in future studies.

Originality/value

The study provides insights into environmental education based on examining factors influencing environmental behaviour. It advances the field by exploring environmental behaviour in five domains and revealing habitual behaviour as an influential factor. This allows educators to comprehend gaps in environmental behaviour and the needs for environmental education in Taiwan.
Why do employees respond to hospitality talent management
Authors: Murillo Enrique , King Ceridwyn
Published: July 2019

Purpose

In consideration that the purpose of talent management is to attract and nurture productive employees for the benefit of the hospitality organization, this study aims to examine why employees respond in such favorable ways. Recognizing beneficial employee behavior advances a hospitality organization through their ability to deliver an experience that aligns with the promoted brand promise, inspiration is drawn from both the strategic human resource management as well as the internal brand management literature. The power of this approach is illustrated through a survey of employees of a Latin American restaurant chain with a long-standing policy of values-based recruiting, inclusive talent management and progressive people management practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Informed by literature, employee perception of their relationship with the organization (i.e., relationship orientation) and alignment with the brand’s values (i.e., brand fit) were considered drivers of favorable employee attitudes and behavior as a result of hospitality talent management practices. These were hypothesized to positively influence employee confidence and motivation as reflected in organization-based self-esteem (OBSE) and brand motivation, which in turn drive employee brand-aligned behavior. A survey measured the variables of interest with the same employees over two time periods, matched using employees’ identification code, resulting in 199 complete surveys. The structural model was estimated using partial least squares (PLS).

Findings

Relationship orientation and brand fit were significant drivers of OBSE and brand motivation, respectively. In turn, they had a significant effect on employee brand-aligned behavior. Model estimation complied with all PLS quality criteria.

Research limitations/implications

Traditional talent management practices that tend to focus on the transactional benefits of the job/career can be strengthened by leveraging strong organizational relationships as well as engagement with the hospitality brand. In turn, employees have the confidence and motivation to exhibit brand-aligned behavior, a path to competitive advantage, which may also act as a buffer helping employees manage the stress of hospitality jobs.

Originality/value

Understanding why employees respond favorably to hospitality talent management practices, beyond simply transactional, monetary reasons, is important to designing relevant and timely initiatives that have the potential to enhance organizational performance.
The effectiveness of the housing needs and demand
Authors: Manase David , Siamuzwe Valentah
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Literature reveals that local authorities in Scotland are required under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 to undertake housing need and demand assessment. Local authorities are required to ensure that their local housing strategies are evidenced with an assessment of housing need and demand. The housing needs and demand assessment (HNDA) framework was designed to help local authorities in Scotland provide the evidence base for local strategies. Since its introduction in 2014, there is a limited literature highlighting whether or not the framework has been effective. To this end, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the HNDA framework as set in Scottish local authorities; this paper aims to highlight those factors that have been effective in the framework.

Design/methodology/approach

An evaluation to asses empirically the effectiveness of the HNDA framework in Scotland was conducted. The research involved a review of literature on the current HNDA framework in Scotland. A measure of the effectiveness of the HNDA framework was conducted via a questionnaire survey to get the practitioner’s perception from 32 Scottish local authorities. This was conducted to advance specific features that have been effective in the HNDA framework. The features were then ranked in terms of their degree of effectiveness.

Findings

The research in this paper identifies initial findings cited in literature of effective factors that impact on the effectiveness of typical projects and contextualises them in the HNDA framework in Scotland, the HNDA framework having all hallmarks of a project. Results from this study identified effectiveness factors that have a greater influence on the HNDA framework’s general effectiveness. These factors include amongst others: clearly defined and detailed scope; project monitoring and control; competent and experienced project managers; and sufficient and well-allocated resources.

Research limitations/implications

By examining the factors individually, it can be stated that overall and based on literature and survey, the HNDA framework as used in Scotland has largely been successful. The success, however, is on a case by case basis. For example, those in remote-based local authorities expressed reservations on whether some of the identified effectiveness factors in the framework were effective while those in more metropolitan or larger local authorities were more upbeat with the HNDA framework.

Originality/value

No similar study has been carried out on effectiveness factors in the HNDA framework used in Scottish local authorities. The findings in this research, therefore, contribute to the literature that seeks to understand the mechanisms of an effective HNDA in general and the HNDA framework in Scotland in particular. Overall, it contributes to the housing debate by offering a Scottish perspective. The study is a precursor to the mechanism for the housing need and demand and funding success in Scotland.
An expanded holistic model of healthy workplace practices
Authors: O'Donnell Mark , Ruth-Sahd Lisa A. , Mayfield Clifton O.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test whether supportive workspace design, cultivation of high-quality leader–member relationships and vision alignment explain incremental variance in job satisfaction, work engagement and overall life satisfaction beyond antecedents identified in an earlier model of healthy workplace practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reports the results of a survey study with a diverse sample of 214 employees.

Findings

In a series of regression analyses, the findings revealed that supportive workspace design, cultivation of high-quality leader–member relationships and vision alignment each explain incremental variance in one or more outcome variables (job satisfaction, work engagement and overall life satisfaction) beyond that of antecedents identified in an earlier model of healthy workplace practices.

Research limitations/implications

The present study identifies additional important variables to consider when conducting future research on healthy workplace practices. Future research could use longitudinal or experimental designs to further investigate the causal direction of the relationships identified in the present paper.

Practical implications

Managers can implement the practices identified in this paper to improve employees’ work engagement, job satisfaction and overall life satisfaction.

Social implications

This paper offers insights about how to improve employees’ lives, and thus, the potential impact is far-reaching and meaningful.

Originality/value

This paper empirically assesses workplace variables that were not included in tests of the prior healthy workplace practices model.
Towards developing a comprehensive model for describing the phenomenon of community engagement in social enterprises
Authors: Shahid Satar Mir
Published: July 2019

Purpose

There has been a substantial realization of the importance of community engagement (CE) for social enterprise (SE) missions. However, the emerging literature on CE in social enterprises is riddled with theoretical inconsistencies and there is universal lack of studies in this direction. For the sake of advancing the field, the purpose of this paper is to identify and analyze the elements of CE in SEs. Further, a comprehensive preliminary model is developed integrating the five fundamental dimensions of CE in SE setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on the critical analysis of the extant literature across disciplines to identify the relevant themes that can affect the CE in SEs.

Findings

The paper develops a preliminary social enterprise community engagement model (SE-CEM), which results from a broad literature analysis. The proposed model attempts to offer a comprehensive perspective outlining the institutional, organizational, individual, community and process dimensions likely to predict engagement success in SE context.

Originality/value

This paper pioneers in presenting a holistic approach to understanding the dimensions that constitute CE in SEs. The SE-CEM incorporates the determinants of CE in social entrepreneurship (S-ENT) context to direct a future research agenda. The preliminary model can further be developed and empirically tested by researchers. Moreover, practitioners can also gain benefits from the model and promote S-ENT.
The experience economy: micro trends
Authors: Yeoman Ian Seymour , McMahon-Beattie Una
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This trends paper is based upon a literature review and access to a series of databases; thus, with the help of these the purpose of this paper is to provide insight into changing consumer behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores how the experience economy will evolve and outlines the micro and sub-trends that will shape its future.

Findings

This paper identifies seven micro trends associated with the experience economy. The micro trends are: once is never enough, luxury experienced, leisure upgrade, escape from modernity to authenti-seeking, fluid identity, everyday exceptional and experience first.

Originality/value

This trends paper provides useful insights into the experience economy for researchers, practitioners, students or interested parties. Going beyond a broad interpretation, it focuses on specific micro trends in action.
A study of lifestyle fashion retailing in China
Authors: Chi Ting , Chen Yini
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper to examine how Chinese consumers’ perceived functional and symbolic values of lifestyle fashion stores (i.e. merchandise quality, price, convenience, emotional value, aesthetic value and social value) affect their shopping behaviors (i.e. repurchase intention (RI), impulse buying (IB) and time spent (TS)).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 223 eligible responses were collected via an online questionnaire survey. The psychometric properties of the proposed CPV-shopping behavior research model were examined, and the multiple regression method was applied to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings show that Chinese consumers’ RIs toward and TS in lifestyle fashion stores are determined by their perceived merchandise quality value, price value, emotional value and aesthetic value of lifestyle fashion stores. In contrast, Chinese consumers’ perceived price value and emotional value trigger their IB in the lifestyle fashion stores. The perceived values show satisfactory explanatory power for the variances of Chinese consumers’ shopping behaviors (R2=55, 50 and 49 percent for RI, IB and TS, respectively).

Originality/value

A better understanding of the Chinese consumers’ shopping behaviors toward emerging lifestyle fashion stores may assist retailers in targeting China as the soon-to-be largest consumer market.
An object-oriented approach to dual reciprocity boundary element method applied to 2D elastoplastic problems
Authors: Gomes Gilberto , Delgado Neto Alvaro Martins , Bezerra Luciano Mendes , Silva Ramon
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe further developments on a novel formulation of the boundary element method (BEM) for inelastic problems using the dual reciprocity method (DRM) but using object-oriented programming (OOP). As the BEM formulation generates a domain integral due to the inelastic stresses, the DRM is employed in a modified form using polyharmonic spline approximating functions with polynomial augmentation. These approximating functions produced accurate results in BEM applications for a range of problems tested, and have been shown to converge linearly as the order of the function increases.

Design/methodology/approach

A programming class named DRMOOP, written in C++ language and based on OOP, was developed in this research. With such programming, general matrix equations can be easily established and applied to different inelastic problems. A vector that accounts for the influence of the inelastic strains on the displacements and boundary forces is obtained.

Findings

The C++ DRMOOP class has been implemented and tested with the BEM formulation applied to classical elastoplastic problem and the results are reported at the end of the paper.

Originality/value

An object-oriented technology and the C++ DRMOOP class applied to elastoplastic problems.
Indian students’ attitude toward educational debt: scale development and validation
Authors: Kaur Jagdish , Arora Sangeeta
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop, refine and validate a multidimensional scale for measuring students’ attitude toward educational debt for higher studies in Punjab (India) and the impact of this attitude on the satisfaction of students.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses interview and survey approach. The sample comprises 417 students from four public and four private universities of Punjab (India). Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis have been used to develop and validate students’ attitude toward education loan scale (Morgado et al., 2017). Further, structural equation modeling (SEM) has been used to analyze the impact of factors of students’ attitude on their satisfaction.

Findings

The scale has been tested for both reliability and validity. Analysis has revealed six factors of students’ attitude toward educational debt, namely, economic empowerment, social empowerment, utility, procedural requirements, risk and stress. These, six independent variables and one dependent variable, i.e. students’ satisfaction, were entered into structural equation model. The structural equation model shows that procedural requirements, economic empowerment and utility have a positive, whereas stress has a negative and significant impact on the students’ satisfaction.

Practical implications

Education financing is a gigantic problem nowadays due to the high cost of self-financing courses in Punjab. To make higher education accessible to all students, education loan plays a vital role. Thus, the attitude of students is of great importance to policymakers to bring reforms in education loan scheme.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the foremost study for developing a validated tool to measure the students’ attitude toward educational debt in India.
Are hedge fund returns affected by media coverage of macroeconomic news?
Authors: Dutta Sandip , Thorson James
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Extant literature suggests that the difficulty associated with the interpretation of macroeconomic news announcements by the market in general in different economic environments, might be the reason why most studies do not find any significant relationship between real-sector macroeconomic variables and financial asset returns. This paper aims to use a different approach to measure macroeconomic news. The objective is to examine if a different measure of a macroeconomic news variable, constructed from media coverage of the same, significantly affects hedge fund returns.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a news index for unemployment, which is a real-sector variable, constructed from newspaper coverage of unemployment announcements and examine its impact on hedge fund returns.

Findings

Contrary to the other studies that examine the impact of macroeconomic news on hedge fund returns, the authors find that media coverage of unemployment news announcements significantly affects hedge fund returns.

Practical implications

Overall, this paper demonstrates that the manner in which the market interprets macroeconomic news announcements in different economic environments is probably a more relevant factor for hedge funds and is more likely to impact hedge fund returns. In conjunction with variables – constructed from media coverage of unemployment news announcements – that factor in the manner of interpretation, it is found that surprises also matter for hedge fund returns. This is an important consideration for hedge fund managers as well.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that examines the impact of media coverage of macroeconomic news announcements on hedge fund returns and finds significantly different results with real-sector macro variables.
Temperature based spindle speed controller during friction stir welding of aluminium metal matrix composites
Authors: SG Rahul , A. Sharmila
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate two control mechanisms on the two parameters, namely, spindle speed and tool pin position, while performing friction stir welding (FSW) for aluminium metal matrix composites (Al-MMC) using the concept of system identification.

Design/methodology/approach

FSW is a feasible choice for joining of Al-MMC over the fusion welding due to the formation of the narrow heat-affected zone and minimizing the formation of intermetallic compounds at weld interface. The goal in FSW is to generate enough thermal energy by friction between the workpiece and rotating tool. Heat energy is generated due to mechanical interaction because of the difference in velocity between the workpiece and rotating tool. The generated heat is proportional to the tool pin position and the spindle speed. In the present work, a Smith Predictor Control scheme and adaptive control scheme are developed during joining of Al6061/SiC/B4C Al-MMC by FSW. Adaptive controller is developed to control the tool pin position while Smith Predictor control is developed to control the spindle speed. Initially, the Al-MMC plates are prepared at five combinations of SiC and B4C reinforcements and welded at three level parameter settings followed by tensile testing. The experimental data are used in estimating the plant transfer function model using system identification. The control schemes are then developed for the estimated plant model and the same are validated using a standard PID controller. In both the control schemes, PID controller results in a sluggish response. Experimental validations are performed for the developed control schemes followed by microscopic studies of the weldments.

Findings

In both the control schemes, PID controller results in a sluggish response. Experimental validations are performed for the developed control schemes followed by microscopic studies of the weldments.

Research limitations/implications

Results from the study concluded that the developed MRAC and Smith predictor scheme effectively controlled the vibrations and spindle speed effectively.

Originality/value

It is observed that the scanning electron microscopy micrographs of the Al-MMC’s welded using developed control schemes resulted in good boding with homogenous distribution of reinforcement particles.
The Pension Trust: Fit For Purpose?
Authors: Donald M. Scott
Published: July 2019

The law of trusts plays an integral and multi‐faceted role in the regulatory scheme shaping the occupational pensions arena in Australia and the United Kingdom. It facilitates the operation of private law modalities, such as innovation and competition. However, that openness also renders members’ interests vulnerable and the lack of transparency and emaciated accountability mechanisms within trust law undermine the powerful normative force exerted by the language in which trust doctrine is so often couched. That said, the regulatory regimes buttress, and rely upon, the protections offered by trust law. The result is a compelling illustration of the nuanced way in which private law is employed in a modern regulatory state.
Gene expression during genital morphogenesis in the ground beetle Carabus maiyasanus
Authors: Nomura Shota , Fujisawa Tomochika , Sota Teiji
Published: July 2019

To investigate the developmental genetics of genital formation in the carabid beetle Carabus maiyasanus, we compared gene expression patterns among five stages using transcriptomic RNA sequencing data from abdominal segments and genitalia in the third (last) larval instar (including prepupa) and pupal stages. We identified 18 839 genes, of which 10 796 were differentially expressed among stages or between sexes. There were relatively few differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the sexes (3%). The DEGs were clustered into six groups, mainly according to stage‐specific expression patterns. Genes in clusters 1–3 showed high expression levels before pupation and low expression levels during the pupal period, whereas genes in clusters 4–6 showed high expression levels from the prepupal to the pupal stages. Genes related to the initial pupation process and differentiation of genital discs in Drosophila were involved in clusters 4 and 6 and showed low expression levels at early third instar and elevated expression levels from the early prepupal stage, suggesting that the pupation process and genital differentiation started in the prepupal stage. Clusters 4 and 5 included developmental genes related to organ size control, which may be important in the formation of internal genital structures during the pupal stage.
Pre‐medication before dental procedures: A randomized controlled study comparing intranasal dexmedetomidine with oral midazolam
Authors: Sathyamoorthy Madhankumar , Hamilton Thomas B. , Wilson Gerri , Talluri Rajesh , Fawad Lubna , Adamiak Brittany , Wallace Cayce , Borissova Irina , Heard Christopher
Published: July 2019

Background

This study aimed to determine if intranasal dexmedetomidine is a superior pre‐medication to oral midazolam in older, difficult children.

Methods

This was conducted as a prospective, single‐blind randomized control trial in a tertiary care center. Seventy‐five children, age >5 years and weight >20 kg, who needed general anesthesia for dental procedures were randomly assigned to be pre‐medicated with either oral midazolam at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg (max 15 mg) or intranasal dexmedetomidine at a dose of 2 mcg/kg (max 100 mcg). The primary outcome studied was the patients' level of sedation when separated from their parents, which was assessed using a 5‐point University of Michigan Sedation Scale. Secondary outcome studied was the level of anxiolysis assessed by the acceptance of mask induction using a 4‐point scale. All assessments were made by one research person blinded to the study drug.

Results

The two groups were similar in age, sex, weight, pre‐anesthetic behavior, time from pre‐medication to anesthesia induction, and surgical time. A significantly higher proportion of patients who received dexmedetomidine had satisfactory sedation at separation from parents (69.4% vs 40.5%, P = .03) compared to those who received midazolam. There were no significant differences in the rate of acceptance of mask induction (80.6% vs 78.4%, P = 1.00). Intranasal dexmedetomidine was tolerated well when administered using a mucosal atomizer and without any clinically significant effect on heart rate or systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions

Intranasal dexmedetomidine provides higher success rate in sedation and parental separation compared to oral midazolam, in older, difficult children.
Exposure to Parental Alcohol Use Rather Than Parental Drinking Shapes Offspring's Alcohol Expectancies
Authors: Smit Koen , Voogt Carmen , Otten Roy , Kleinjan Marloes , Kuntsche Emmanuel
Published: July 2019

Background

Alcohol expectancies (AE), that is, the anticipated effects of alcohol, start developing early in childhood and are important predictors of alcohol use years later. Whereas previous research has demonstrated that parental drinking relates to children's AE, this study aims to test whether exposure to parental alcohol use mediates the link between parental alcohol use and positive and negative AE among children (6 to 8 years) and early adolescents (12 to 15 years).

Methods

Longitudinal multi‐informant family studies were conducted in the Netherlands among children (Study 1 (2015 to 2017): N = 329; 48.9% boys; Mage = 4.6) and adolescents (Study 2 [2015 to 2018]: N = 755; 45.6% boys; Mage = 11.3). Fathers’ and mothers’ alcohol use in terms of quantity and exposure (i.e., the frequency of alcohol use in 9 family‐specific situations), and offspring's AE were collected using online questionnaires.

Results

Structural equation modeling conducted in the full sample and separately by gender revealed the following: For children, no associations were found in the full sample. However, gender‐specific results indicated that fathers’ exposure was associated with (and mediated) favorable AE. Among adolescents, fathers’ exposure was associated with (and mediated) social and coping AE (both boys and girls) and enhancement AE (only boys). Contrastingly, neither mothers’ alcohol use nor its exposure was associated with any AE. Although different associations were found by offspring's gender, strong evidence for gender differences was lacking.

Conclusions

This study indicates that, for specific expectancies, exposure to fathers’ alcohol use shapes offspring's cognitions about the effects of alcohol, rather than fathers’ alcohol use in general. Prevention efforts could focus on lowering the degree to which fathers expose their drinking, which might be more easily changeable than drinking in general.