bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathfinder: open source software for analyzing spatial navigation search strategies
Authors: Cooke Matthew B. , O’Leary Timothy P. , Harris Phelan , Brown Richard E. , Snyder Jason S.
Published: July 2019

Spatial navigation is a universal behavior that varies depending on goals, experience and available sensory stimuli. Spatial navigational tasks are routinely used to study learning, memory and goal-directed behavior, in both animals and humans. One popular paradigm for testing spatial memory is the Morris water maze, where subjects learn the location of a hidden platform that offers escape from a pool of water. Researchers typically express learning as a function of the latency to escape, though this reveals little about the underlying navigational strategies. Recently, a number of studies have begun to classify water maze search strategies in order to clarify the precise spatial and mnemonic functions of different brain regions, and to identify which aspects of spatial memory are disrupted in disease models. However, despite their usefulness, strategy analyses have not been widely adopted due to the lack of software to automate analyses. To address this need we developed Pathfinder, an open source application for analyzing spatial navigation behaviors. In a representative dataset, we show that Pathfinder effectively characterizes the development of highly-specific spatial search strategies as male and female mice learn a standard spatial water maze. Pathfinder can read data files from commercially- and freely-available software packages, is optimized for classifying search strategies in water maze paradigms, but can also be used to analyze 2D navigation by other species, and in other tasks, as long as timestamped xy coordinates are available. Pathfinder is simple to use, can automatically determine pool and platform geometry, generates heat maps, analyzes navigation with respect to multiple goal locations, and can be updated to accommodate future developments in spatial behavioral analyses. Given these features, Pathfinder may be a useful tool for studying how navigational strategies are regulated by the environment, depend on specific neural circuits, and are altered by pathology.
Single-cell gene regulatory network analysis reveals new melanoma cell states and transition trajectories during phenotype switching
Authors: Wouters Jasper , Kalender-Atak Zeynep , Minnoye Liesbeth , Spanier Katina I. , De Waegeneer Maxime , González-Blas Carmen Bravo , Mauduit David , Davie Kristofer , Hulselmans Gert , Najem Ahmad , Dewaele Michael , Rambow Florian , Makhzami Samira , Christiaens Valerie , Ceyssens Frederik , Ghanem Ghanem , Marine Jean-Christophe , Poovathingal Suresh , Aerts Stein
Published: July 2019

Melanoma is notorious for its cellular heterogeneity, which is at least partly due to its ability to transition between alternate cell states. Similarly to EMT, melanoma cells with a melanocytic phenotype can switch to a mesenchymal-like phenotype. However, scattered emerging evidence indicates that additional, intermediate state(s) may exist. In order to search for such new melanoma states and decipher their underlying gene regulatory network (GRN), we extensively studied ten patient-derived melanoma cultures by single-cell RNA-seq of >39,000 cells. Although each culture exhibited a unique transcriptome, we identified shared gene regulatory networks that underlie the extreme melanocytic and mesenchymal cell states, as well as one (stable) intermediate state. The intermediate state was corroborated by a distinct open chromatin landscape and governed by the transcription factors EGR3, NFATC2, and RXRG. Single-cell migration assays established that this “transition” state exhibits an intermediate migratory phenotype. Through a dense time-series sampling of single cells and dynamic GRN inference, we unraveled the sequential and recurrent arrangement of transcriptional programs at play during phenotype switching that ultimately lead to the mesenchymal cell state. We provide the scRNA-Seq data with 39,263 melanoma cells on our SCope platform and the ATAC-seq data on a UCSC hub to jointly serve as a resource for the melanoma field. Together, this exhaustive analysis of melanoma cell state diversity indicates that additional states exists between the two extreme melanocytic and mesenchymal-like states. The GRN we identified may serve as a new putative target to prevent the switch to mesenchymal cell state and thereby, acquisition of metastatic and drug resistant potential.
Single-cell in vivo imaging reveals light-initiated circadian oscillators in zebrafish
Authors: Wang Haifang , Yang Zeyong , Li Xingxing , Huang Dengfeng , Yu Shuguang , He Jie , Li Yuanhai , Yan Jun
Published: July 2019

Circadian clock is a cell-autonomous time-keeping mechanism established gradually during embryonic development. Here we generated a transgenic zebrafish line carrying a destabilized fluorescent protein driven by the promoter of a core clock gene, nr1d1, to report in vivo circadian rhythm at the single-cell level. By time-lapse imaging of this fish line, we observed the sequential initiation of the reporter expression starting at photoreceptors in pineal gland then spreading to cells in other brain regions. Even within pineal gland, we found heterogeneous onset of nr1d1 expression in which each cell undergoes circadian oscillation superimposed over cell-type specific developmental trajectory. Furthermore, we found that single-cell expression of nr1d1 showed synchronous circadian oscillation under light-dark cycle. Remarkably, single-cell oscillations were lost in animals raised under constant darkness while developmental trend still persists. It suggests that light exposure in early clock development initializes cellular clocks rather than synchronizes existing individual oscillators as previously believed.
Data-driven integration of hippocampal CA1 synapse physiology in silico
Authors: Ecker András , Romani Armando , Sáray Sára , Káli Szabolcs , Migliore Michele , Mercer Audrey , Markram Henry , Muller Eilif , Ramaswamy Srikanth
Published: July 2019

The anatomy and physiology of synaptic connections in rodent hippocampal CA1 have been exhaustively characterized in recent decades. Yet, the resulting knowledge remains disparate and difficult to reconcile. Here, we present a data-driven approach to integrate the current state-of-the-art knowledge on the synaptic anatomy and physiology of rodent hippocampal CA1, including axo-dendritic innervation patterns, number of synapses per connection, quantal conductances, neurotransmitter release probability, and short-term plasticity into a single coherent resource. First, we undertook an extensive literature review of paired-recordings of hippocampal neurons and compiled experimental data on their synaptic anatomy and physiology. The data collected in this manner is sparse and inhomogeneous due to the diversity of experimental techniques used by different labs, which necessitates the need for an integrative framework to unify these data. To this end, we extended a previously developed workflow for the neocortex to constrain a unifying in silico reconstruction of the synaptic physiology of CA1 connections. Our work identifies gaps in the existing knowledge and provides a complementary resource towards a more complete quantification of synaptic anatomy and physiology in the rodent hippocampal CA1 region.
(3,5-Dimethyladamantan-1-yl)ammonium methanesulfonate (memantinium mesylate): synthesis, structure and solid-state properties
Authors: Tuksar Mihaela , Rubčić Mirta , Meštrović Ernest
Published: July 2019

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C12H22N+·CH3O3S−, consists of three (3,5-dimethyladamantan-1-yl)ammonium cations, C12H22N+, and three methanesulfonate anions, CH3O3S−. In the crystal, the cations and anions associate via N—H...O hydrogen bonds into layers, parallel to the (001) plane, which include large supramolecular hydrogen-bonded rings.
Syntheses and structures of piperazin-1-ium ABr2 (A = Cs or Rb): hybrid solids containing `curtain wall' layers of face- and edge-sharing ABr6 trigonal prisms
Authors: Rickaby Kirstie A. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Harrison William T. A.
Published: July 2019

The isostructural title compounds, poly[piperazin-1-ium [di-μ-bromido-caesium]], {(C4H11N2)[CsBr2]}
n
, and poly[piperazin-1-ium [di-μ-bromido-rubidium]], {(C4H11N2)[RbBr2]}
n
, contain singly-protonated piperazin-1-ium cations and unusual ABr6 (A = Cs or Rb) trigonal prisms. The prisms are linked into a distinctive `curtain wall' arrangement propagating in the (010) plane by face and edge sharing. In each case, a network of N—H...N, N—H...Br and N—H...(Br,Br) hydrogen bonds consolidates the structure.
Palladium(II) complexes of a bridging amine bis(phenolate) ligand featuring κ2 and κ3 coordination modes
Authors: Graziano Brendan J. , Wile Bradley M. , Zeller Matthias
Published: July 2019

Bidentate and tridentate coordination of a 2,4-di-tert-butyl-substituted bridging amine bis(phenolate) ligand to a palladium(II) center are observed within the same crystal structure, namely dichlorido({6,6′-[(ethane-1,2-diylbis(methylazanediyl)]bis(methylene)}bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenol))palladium(II) chlorido(2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-{[(2-{[(3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxyphenyl)methyl](methyl)amino}ethyl)(methyl)amino]methyl}phenolato)palladium(II) methanol 1.685-solvate 0.315-hydrate, [PdCl2(C34H56N2O2)][PdCl(C34H55N2O2)]·1.685CH3OH·0.315H2O. Both complexes exhibit a square-planar geometry, with unbound phenol moieties participating in intermolecular hydrogen bonding with co-crystallized water and methanol. The presence of both κ2 and κ3 coordination modes arising from the same solution suggest a dynamic process in which phenol donors may coordinate or dissociate from the metal center, and offers insight into catalyst speciation throughout Pd-mediated processes. The unit cell contains dichlorido({6,6′-[(ethane-1,2-diylbis(methylazanediyl)]bis(methylene)}bis(2,4-di-tert-butylphenol))palladium(II), {(L
2)PdCl2}, and chlorido(2,4-di-tert-butyl-6-{[(2-{[(3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxyphenyl)methyl](methyl)amino}ethyl)(methyl)amino]methyl}phenolato)palladium(II), {(L
2
X)PdCl}, molecules as well as fractional water and methanol solvent molecules.
3-(2,5-Dichlorothiophen-3-yl)-5-(2,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammad M. , Al-Refai Mahmoud , Ali Basem F. , Geyer Armin , Harms Klaus , Marsch Michael
Published: July 2019

In the title compound, C16H16Cl2N2O2S, the pyrazole ring has an envelope conformation with the C atom bearing the phenyl ring being the flap. The dihedral angles between the central pyrazole ring (all atoms) and pendant thiophene and phenyl rings are 2.00 (14) and 81.49 (12)°, respectively. In the crystal, weak C—H...O, Cl...π and π–π stacking interactions link the molecules into a three-dimensional network.
A flexible resource investment problem based on project splitting for aircraft moving assembly line
Authors: Ren Yifei , Lu Zhiqiang
Published: July 2019

Purpose

In response to the station design and flexible resources allocation of the aircraft moving assembly line, a new problem named flexible resource investment problem based on project splitting (FRIP_PS), which minimizes total cost of resources with a given deadline are proposed in this paper.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a corresponding mathematical model considering project splitting is constructed, which needs to be simultaneously determined together with job scheduling to acquire the optimized project scheduling scheme and resource configurations. Then, an integrated nested optimization algorithm including project splitting policy and job scheduling policy is designed in this paper. In the first stage of the algorithm, a heuristic algorithm designed to get the project splitting scheme and then in the second stage a genetic algorithm with local prospective scheduling strategy is adopted to solve the flexible resource investment problem.

Findings

The heuristic algorithm of project splitting gets better project splitting results through the job shift selection strategy and meanwhile guides the algorithm of the second stage. Furthermore, the genetic algorithm solves resources allocation and job schedule through evaluation rules which can effectively solve the delayed execution of jobs because of improper allocation of flexible resources.

Originality/value

This paper represents a new extension of the resource investment problem based on aircraft moving assembly line. An effective integrated nested optimization algorithm is proposed to specify station splitting scheme, job scheduling scheme and resources allocation in the assembly lines, which is significant for practical engineering applications.
Factors affecting environmental citizenship behaviour
Authors: Chua Kean Boon , Quoquab Farzana , Mohammad Jihad
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that affect paddy farmers’ environmental citizenship behaviour (ECB) in the context of agrochemical purchase. To achieve this objective, a theoretical framework has been developed based on value-belief-norm (VBN) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from 251 farmers using a survey method. Partial lease square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to examine the hypothetical model.

Findings

The results of PLS analysis confirm the direct and mediating effect of the causal sequences of the variables in the VBN model.

Originality/value

Given the limited number of studies in a non-western context, this study examines and confirms the applicability of the VBN theory in predicting ECB in a Malaysian context.
A modified method for solving non-linear time and space fractional partial differential equations
Authors: Saeed Umer , Umair Muhammad
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to extend the differential quadrature method (DQM) for solving time and space fractional non-linear partial differential equations on a semi-infinite domain.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method is the combination of the Legendre polynomials and differential quadrature method. The authors derived and constructed the new operational matrices for the fractional derivatives, which are used for the solutions of non-linear time and space fractional partial differential equations.

Findings

The fractional derivative of Lagrange polynomial is a big hurdle in classical DQM. To overcome this problem, the authors represent the Lagrange polynomial in terms of shifted Legendre polynomial. They construct a transformation matrix which transforms the Lagrange polynomial into shifted Legendre polynomial of arbitrary order. Then, they obtain the new weighting coefficients matrices for space fractional derivatives by shifted Legendre polynomials and use these in conversion of a non-linear fractional partial differential equation into a system of fractional ordinary differential equations. Convergence analysis for the proposed method is also discussed.

Originality/value

Many engineers can use the presented method for solving their time and space fractional non-linear partial differential equation models. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the differential quadrature method has never been extended or implemented for non-linear time and space fractional partial differential equations.
Identifying the preference of buyers of single-family homes in Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bin Mohanna Ameen , Alqahtany Ali
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the preferred characteristics of buyers of single-family homes in Saudi Arabia with an emphasis on the city of Dammam.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using face-to-face structured interviews conducted from November 2016 to May 2017 with 177 owners of single-family homes that were purchased between 2010 and the first quarter of 2017.

Findings

The findings indicate that homes can be divided into three types: villas, detached duplexes and semi-detached duplexes. Also, more than three-quarters of the respondents purchased their homes through mortgages from either lenders or the government. It seems we find that the advantages of the detached duplex, particularly its privacy level, over other types of single-family homes induce homebuyers to choose this home type.

Originality/value

In this study, the authors analyze housing preferences among various segments of the Saudi society, in the city of Dammam, to understand the housing supply in Saudi Arabia. Only a few studies have investigated the preferences of homebuyers in Saudi Arabia. Below the authors provide a literature review, discuss data and methods and results, as well as provide concluding remarks.
Inequality, concentration of wealth and ownership structure of Islamic banks
Authors: Farooq Mohammad Omar , Meer Fouad , Iqbal Basit
Published: July 2019

Purpose

An important Islamic imperative is prevention of concentration of wealth among a few so that wealth circulates widely to enhance shared prosperity. In contemporary economic discourse, inequality and concentration of wealth have emerged as among key causes of instability and crisis. Unfortunately, although Islamic finance has emerged as a Shari’ah-compliant industry, it does not seem to be connected with the Islamic concern about inequality and concentration of wealth. This paper aims to explore the issues of inequality and concentration of wealth in the context of Islamic finance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper addresses a number of queries: Are Islamic banks, as the dominant component of the industry, helping to improve inequality and concentration of wealth and thus offer a better framework to deal with instability and crisis? Is the ownership structure of Islamic banks conducive to meeting the Islamic imperative regarding inequality and concentration of wealth? Using secondary data, this research illuminates the pertinent issues in light of the experience of Bahrain as one of the hubs of Islamic banking and finance.

Findings

The paper finds that the ownership pattern of Islamic banks in Bahrain lends credence to the entrenched, not-so-unexpected concentration of wealth.

Research limitations/implications

This study is based on data of one country. Further studies on other countries will help illuminate the relevant patterns and issues.

Practical implications

Inequality and concentration of wealth are among central economic issues in contemporary economic discourse. Because of the significant impact of such inequality and concentration, societies need to be more aware of these impacts and devise ways to address it.

Social implications

Inequality and concentration of wealth have fundamental social implications, as the issues of poverty, deprivation, exploitation, etc. are inseparable from concentration of wealth (accompanied by concentration of power), and widening wealth gap can cause or induce major socio-political upheaval.

Originality/value

Although inequality and concentration of wealth are robust fields of inquiry, this might be the first work addressing the issue of concentration of wealth in the context of Islamic finance in general and Islamic banking in particular.
Motivating factors in a teacher’s research and developmental activities and their impact on effective quality teaching in higher education institutions
Authors: Chakraborty Debarun , Biswas Wendrila
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Research and development pursuits have always been an integral part of a teacher’s professional development. Today, the higher educational institutes (HEIs) are chiefly prioritizing and providing a sustained support toward research-based and research-oriented learning. But as revealed by the broad outlines of the entire scenario, a fall in research productivity and developmental attempts is witnessed among the faculties of higher educational establishments. To put it succinctly, the motivating aspects that reinforce such activities are not adequately taken care of and have thwarted their progression. The purpose of this paper is to delve deep and explore the factors that inspire teachers toward an enriched research and learning, which equally gets reflected in their teaching practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive research with a cross-sectional survey on faculties from different HEIs of West Bengal. A questionnaire has been designed with a five-point Likert scale to draw the primary data. Convenience sampling technique has been utilized. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis have been performed with structural equation modeling on the hypothesized research model through AMOS.

Findings

The major findings of the research have revealed that improved research and development activities of faculties had an immense impact on their teaching quality. The level and accessibility of infrastructure posits a strong influence in augmenting a teacher’s research and developmental endeavors. Working climate influences teachers’ research activities as well their teaching adroitness.

Research limitations/implications

Results may vary when an extensive study is conducted on teachers of HEIs of two or more states or of the country as a whole. Suppression of the real underlying facts by few respondents may affect the result to a small extent.

Practical implications

When faculties orient themselves toward research intensive learning and teaching, the students actively get involved in a platform of greater interaction. It elevates their persistence level, intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and cognitive skills. Research-based teaching is also instrumental in honing their analytical skills, promoting creativity.

Originality/value

The study identified a vital role of the higher education institutes in motivating the faculties toward research-based teaching. There is a dearth of empirical research in identifying the factors that enrich the learning patterns and research activities of the teachers. Thus, it can prove to be a constructive study if implemented.
Dual perspectives on learning analytics in higher education
Authors: Parrish Andrea Harkins , Richman Laila J.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

In higher education, the authors serve multiple stakeholders with varying perspectives on the institution’s learning analytic system. The purpose of this paper is to highlight dual perspectives within the learning analytics (LA) system in one institution: that of an administrator responsible for college-wide improvement, and a faculty member responsible for programmatic improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

This manuscript provides a critical perspective with dual sets of experiences and viewpoints. This approach allows close examination of each perspective within the context of the existing literature, as the authors examine transitions in the use of LA.

Findings

These viewpoints offer insight into the interpretation of LA through the lens of various roles. In examining these viewpoints, the authors offer three actionable steps for other institutions who seek to implement.

Practical implications

These actionable steps offer a starting point for other institutions to engage in conversations related to the adoption of LA for continuous improvement across levels and roles. Relevant implications for various parties are discussed, with an emphasis on how administrators within the university system may support faculty to incorporate LA as part of their scholarly and teaching responsibilities.

Originality/value

Few studies have examined the perspectives of multiple stakeholders within an institution. Here the authors have presented these dual perspectives in order to further the dialogue between university administration and faculty as analytic systems become more widespread. Through this dialogue, the authors see increased opportunities for all stakeholders to better understand their role in LA.
Supporting principal supervisors: what really matters?
Authors: Honig Meredith I. , Rainey Lydia R.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Districts across the country are calling on their principal supervisors to shift from mainly focusing on operations and compliance to dedicating their time to help principals grow as instructional leaders. Learning theory elaborates that such support for principals demands that supervisors take a teaching-and-learning approach – which the authors define as consistently using particular strategies that are characteristic of high quality teachers and mentors across various apprenticeship settings – to their work with principals on their instructional leadership. Prior research on leadership supports these shifts but does not examine the conditions under which principal supervisors are able to persist and grow in taking a teaching-and-learning approach specifically. What are those conditions? The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper addresses that question through a re-examination of data from two studies with socio-cultural learning theory as the conceptual framework. The authors primarily use observation data (approximately 760 hours), supplemented by 344 interviews and reviews of hundreds of documents.

Findings

Contrary to extant research the authors did not associate high quality outside coaching with the positive cases of principal supervision. Nor did hiring principal supervisors with requisite prior knowledge explain why some principal supervisors regressed and grew. Findings underscore the importance of supervisors of principal supervisors (SPSs) being principal supervisors’ main mentors and principal supervisors not over-relying on others for assistance but actively leading their own learning, especially through work with colleagues and protecting their time themselves.

Originality/value

This analysis distinguishes conditions that support principal supervisors in taking a teaching-and-learning approach to their work with principals. The authors elaborate key roles for chief academic officers and others who supervise principal supervisors typically overlooked in policy and research on district leadership. Findings reinforce the importance of mentoring to learning and also district leaders serving as main mentors for each other, rather than relying on outside coaching.
Impact of correspondent bank de-risking on money service businesses in Jamaica
Authors: Gordon Leo-Rey
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The paper aims to provide needed quantitative assessments of the impact of the withdrawal of correspondent banking to small emerging economies. It serves to identify the extent to which global anti-money laundering and combatting the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards have influenced global banks’ decision to withdraw correspondent banking from some jurisdictions and the subsequent economic spillover effects on other non-bank financial entities.

Design/methodology/approach

Separate semi-structured surveys are issued to banks and money services businesses in Jamaica. Analysis of the responses identify the initial impact of de-risking on banks and the subsequent spillover effect on the other aspects of the financial system.

Findings

Results show significant spillover effects on money services businesses in their ability to transact in foreign currency with local commercial banks. Further, the scale of this impact is greater and costlier for smaller entities.

Research limitations/implications

The economic consequences of the direct and indirect impact of correspondent bank de-risking are increased concentration risks and the potential expansion of shadow financial activity.

Practical implications

Tighter AML/CFT standards coupled with action of over-compliance has created unintended consequences for small developing countries across the globe. In Jamaica, commercial banks have either lost correspondent relationships or have had restrictions placed on the types of services available. It creates risks to economic growth and development through the hindrance of access to international financial markets for payments, trade and commerce.

Originality/value

This study is the first among research on the issue of correspondent bank de-risking to provide quantitative assessments of the impact on local financial systems.
From functional quality apparatus to meaningful enactment: UNISA as example
Authors: Zawada Britta
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of a culture of high quality and show how a culture of high or exceptional quality goes beyond the functional apparatus of quality assurance, the so-called props on the stage, to the enactment and ultimately to the shared meaning-making and webs of significance for both the institution and its staff, as well as for the students and the communities they come from and will ultimately serve.

Design/methodology/approach

In addition to a general literature review, the paper is a conceptual exploration using a desktop study with examples from UNISA’s (University of South Africa) practice, to develop a conceptual understanding of the concept of a quality culture in higher education. The types and nature of the evidence required for the different quality loci and units of analysis are explored. Areas for improvement are indicated and linked to strategic imperatives in the South African context such as pedagogical renewal and curriculum transformation.

Findings

Conceptually, a quality culture can be found in four different loci, namely, in the input or functional apparatus, through the enactment to, the individual outcomes and the communal outcomes of institutional activities. The paper also shows that there are different levels of a quality culture that may be found in each of these loci, namely, compliance for accreditation, academic peer review and communities of practice and ultimately transformative meaning-making that leads to innovation and excellence. The conceptual discussion also indicates that in higher education, a regenerative clan culture would likely be the most conducive to ensuring a culture of high academic quality. The case study of UNISA indicates that all the functional quality apparatus is in place with supporting evidence, but that more attention could be paid to the meaningful enactment of a quality culture in in all of the above loci and levels.

Originality/value

This paper makes a conceptual contribution to developing the concept “quality culture” to include meaning making, communities of practice and ultimately communal, rather than only individual, webs of significance. The paper identifies loci and levels of quality and quality cultures and explores what may count as evidence of high quality in a distance-education setting.
Placing emotion and fantasy at the heart of the researcher-researched relationship
Authors: Gabriel Yiannis
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce psychosocial research methodology as a method that makes use of the emotions of researcher and researched and goes well-beyond empathetic understanding.

Design/methodology/approach

This short piece critically introduces the recently published book Further Researching Beneath the Surface (Volume 2): Psycho-social Research Methods in Practice, Eds Cummins, A.-M., and Williams, N., and analyses the psychosocial approach to qualitative research that emphasizes research as an emotional activity and makes use of the researcher’s and the researched’s emotional responses to each other in drawing interpretations about organizational phenomena.

Findings

By analysing transference and counter-transference, researchers can draw valuable insights into organizational phenomena that remain unseen by more conventional research methodologies.

Originality/value

Emotions, far from being the enemy of the researcher, can, if recognized properly, be valuable resources in social research.
Changing the nature of organizational change
Authors: Kirby Deborah
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Although organizational change management has become a permanent practice, failure thrives at a rate of 50 per cent to 75 per cent and has done so for nearly 40 years. Executives and consultants continue to plow the same path of “change,” sowing the same seeds, yet somehow expecting a different crop to grow; it is not for a lack of good intention or sincere effort to improve the organization. This paper is meant to challenge and inspire researchers, consultants and particularly organizational leaders and members toward liberating themselves from fixed ways of thinking to reimagine change as natural and ongoing rather than episodic – essential in an era of constant flux.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical analysis of wide-ranging literature related to the genesis of the organization, organization theory, culture, metaphor and change revealed four unfavorable conditions, making attempts at sustainable change nearly impossible.

Findings

An organization’s unconscious and habitual thought-action patterns considerably contribute to creating four unfavorable conditions for change. Understanding this context is essential before initiating change efforts. Reorienting change from an analytical to a relational paradigm and disrupting linear, prescriptive thinking makes way for emergent, cooperative and inclusive efforts to induce sustainable, transformational change.

Originality/value

This research sheds a different light on what makes sustainable organizational change elusive and offers strategic human resource managers a new perspective on the nature of change.
Modeling Flow, Nutrient, and Sediment Delivery from a Large International Watershed Using a Field‐Scale SWAT Model
Authors: Dagnew Awoke , Scavia Donald , Wang Yu‐Chen , Muenich Rebecca , Long Colleen , Kalcic Margaret
Published: July 2019

A large international watershed, the St. Clair‐Detroit River System, containing both extensive urban and agricultural areas, was modeled using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. The watershed, located in southeastern Michigan, United States, and southwestern Ontario, Canada, encompasses the St. Clair, Clinton, Detroit (DT), Sydenham (SY), Upper, and Lower Thames subwatersheds. The SWAT input data and model resolution (i.e., hydrologic response units, HRUs), were established to mimic farm boundaries, the first time this has been done for a watershed of this size. The model was calibrated (2007–2015) and validated (2001–2006) with a mix of manual and automatic methods at six locations for flow and water quality at various time scales. The model was evaluated using Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency and percent bias and was used to explore major water quality issues. We showed the importance of allowing key parameters to vary among subwatersheds to improve goodness of fit, and the resulting parameters were consistent with subwatershed characteristics. Agricultural sources in the Thames and SY subwatersheds and point sources from DT subwatershed were major contributors of phosphorus. Spatial distribution of phosphorus yields at HRU and subbasin levels identified locations for potential management targeting for both point and nonpoint sources and revealed that in some subwatersheds nonpoint sources are dominated by urban sources.
Prevalence of resolved paracentral acute middle maculopathy lesions in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Maltsev Dmitrii S. , Kulikov Alexei N. , Burnasheva Maria A. , Chhablani Jay
Published: July 2019

Purpose

To study the prevalence of resolved paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) lesions in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral retinal vein occlusion (RVO) and eyes of healthy individuals.

Methods

This case–control observational study took place in a referral university medical centre. Forty‐five (17 males, 28 females, 64.7 ± 10.8 years) patients with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), 21 (17 males, 4 females, 68.8 ± 11.2 years) patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) and 57 healthy individuals (25 males, 32 females, 67.4 ± 10.5 years) were included. Presence of resolved PAMM lesions was evaluated by reviewing cross‐sectional scans of 8‐mm optical coherence tomography angiography protocol. Resolved PAMM lesion was defined as inner nuclear layer thinning with outer plexiform layer elevation.

Results

Resolved PAMM lesions were found in 32/45 (71.1%) and 15/21 (71.4%) of BRVO and CRVO patients, respectively. In healthy volunteers, resolved PAMM lesions were found in 11/57 (19.3%) individuals with bilateral involvement in 8 individuals (72.7%). RVO patients demonstrated the presence of resolved PAMM lesions in fellow eye significantly more frequently than healthy individuals (odds ratio (OR) 10.6, p < 0.001, 95% CI 4.5–24.6). OR for the presence of large resolved PAMM lesions in BRVO patients and CRVO patients versus healthy individual was 12.1 (p = 0.02, 95% CI 1.5–100.9) and 22.4 (p = 0.005, 95% CI 2.5–200.6), respectively.

Conclusion

Resolved PAMM lesions defined as inner nuclear layer thinning associated with outer plexiform layer elevation are highly prevalent in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral RVO. Resolved PAMM lesions may have an association with RVO.
What role do comprehension‐oriented learning strategies have in solving math calculation and word problems at the end of middle school?
Authors: Kikas Eve , Mädamürk Kaja , Palu Anu
Published: July 2019

Background

Math is a difficult subject with which many upper middle‐school students struggle. In addition to knowledge, skills, and motivation, effective learning strategies play an important role in learning math.

Aims

This study aimed to examine the effects of comprehension‐oriented learning strategies (perceptual and abstract grouping of material) – together with math self‐concept, task‐persistent learning behaviour, earlier math skills, reasoning abilities, and reading comprehension – on solving mathematical calculation and word problems at the end of middle school.

Sample

The sample consisted of 231 students (50% boys; mean age in Grade 9 = 15.55 years) from 16 schools and 31 classrooms in Estonia.

Methods

Students were tested twice – once at the end of Grade 6 and once at the end of Grade 9. Calculation and problem‐solving skills were assessed at both time points. Math self‐concept, teacher‐rated task persistence, reasoning abilities, and reading comprehension were assessed in Grade 6. Learning strategies were assessed using a word‐memorization task in Grade 9. Multiple regression analysis was used.

Results and Conclusions

Applying abstract (but not perceptual) grouping was related to higher calculation and problem‐solving skills. Math skills were persistent over time, and calculation and problem‐solving skills mutually affected each other. Math self‐concept, task persistence, and reading comprehension had a positive effect on problem‐solving but not calculation skills. The study noted deficient use of comprehension‐oriented strategies at the end of middle school, suggesting that more attention should be paid to teaching and discussing such learning strategies. These findings suggest that students’ math skills may be enhanced by supporting metacognitive awareness and use of comprehension‐oriented learning strategies.
Writing as ‘Compearance’ in Diário da Queda by Michel Laub
Authors: Baker Emily Mary
Published: July 2019

Diário da Queda (2011) by Michel Laub has been described as autoficção (autofiction), the Brazilian translation of the concept coined by Serge Doubrovsky to describe the narrative working‐through of trauma through fictional autobiography. This article re‐examines the definition of ‘autofiction’ and argues that Laub's narrative process more closely resembles Jean‐Luc Nancy's notion of a singular voice ‘compearing’ experiences in a process of ‘sharing’ that, when combined with touch and affection can – according to the novel – more successfully help to overcome trauma. At stake are questions regarding the inheritance of Holocaust memory, as well as its politicised deployment in contemporary conflicts.
Identification of prognostic markers in diffuse midline gliomas H3K27M‐mutant
Authors: Dufour Charlotte , Perbet Romain , Leblond Pierre , Vasseur Romain , Stechly Laurence , Pierache Adeline , Reyns Nicolas , Touzet Gustavo , Le Rhun Emilie , Vinchon Matthieu , Maurage Claude‐Alain , Escande Fabienne , Renaud Florence
Published: July 2019

Pediatric diffuse midline gliomas are devastating diseases. Among them, diffuse midline gliomas H3K27M‐mutant are associated with worse prognosis. However, recent studies have highlighted significant differences in clinical behavior and biological alterations within this specific subgroup. In this context, simple markers are needed to refine the prognosis of diffuse midline gliomas H3K27M‐mutant and guide the clinical management of patients. The aims of this study were (i) to describe the molecular, immunohistochemical and, especially, chromosomal features of a cohort of diffuse midline gliomas and (ii) to focus on H3K27M‐mutant tumors to identify new prognostic markers. Patients were retrospectively selected from 2001 to 2017. Tumor samples were analyzed by immunohistochemistry (including H3K27me3, EGFR, c‐MET and p53), next‐generation sequencing and comparative genomic hybridization array. Forty‐nine patients were included in the study. The median age at diagnosis was 9 years, and the median overall survival (OS) was 9.4 months. H3F3A or HIST1H3B mutations were identified in 80% of the samples. Within the H3K27M‐mutant tumors, PDGFRA amplification, loss of 17p and a complex chromosomal profile were significantly associated with worse survival. Three prognostic markers were identified in diffuse midline gliomas H3K27M‐mutant: PDGFRA amplification, loss of 17p and a complex chromosomal profile. These markers are easy to detect in daily practice and should be considered to refine the prognosis of this entity.
Pharmacological basis and new insights of resveratrol action in the cardiovascular system
Authors: Cheng Chak Kwong , Luo Jiang‐Yun , Lau Chi Wai , Chen Zhen‐Yu , Tian Xiao Yu , Huang Yu
Published: July 2019

Resveratrol (trans‐3,4′,5‐trihydroxystilbene) belongs to the family of natural phytoalexins. Resveratrol first came to our attention in 1992, following reports of the cardioprotective effects of red wine. Thereafter, resveratrol was shown to exert antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐proliferative, and angio‐regulatory effects against atherosclerosis, ischaemia, and cardiomyopathy. This article critically reviews the current findings on the molecular basis of resveratrol‐mediated cardiovascular benefits, summarizing the broad effects of resveratrol on longevity regulation, energy metabolism, stress resistance, exercise mimetics, circadian clock, and microbiota composition. In addition, this article also provides an update, both preclinically and clinically, on resveratrol‐induced cardiovascular protection and discusses the adverse and inconsistent effects of resveratrol reported in both preclinical and clinical studies. Although resveratrol has been claimed as a master anti‐aging agent against several age‐associated diseases, further detailed mechanistic investigation is still required to thoroughly unravel the therapeutic value of resveratrol against cardiovascular diseases at different stages of disease development.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on The Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.6/issuetoc
Effect of the novel histamine H4 receptor antagonist SENS‐111 on spontaneous nystagmus in a rat model of acute unilateral vestibular loss
Authors: Petremann Mathieu , Gueguen Cindy , Delgado Betancourt Viviana , Wersinger Eric , Dyhrfjeld‐Johnsen Jonas
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose

Histamine H4 receptors are expressed in the peripheral vestibular system, and their selective inhibition improves vertigo symptoms in rats with unilateral vestibular lesions. The effects of SENS‐111, a selective oral H4 receptor antagonist with high affinity to both animal and human receptors, on vertigo symptoms was evaluated in a translational in vivo model of unilateral vestibular loss.

Experimental Approach

Pharmacokinetics of SENS‐111 in rats was determined to aid dose selection for efficacy testing. Vestibular lesions were induced in rats by unilateral transtympanic injection of kainic acid. The effect of SENS‐111 (10 or 20 mg·kg−1) on spontaneous nystagmus was evaluated compared with placebo vehicle using video‐nystagmography, and the effective dose was compared with those of similar drugs used clinically, as single agents or combined with SENS‐111.

Key Results

Doses were selected for plasma exposure were consistent with published phase 1 results from healthy volunteers. SENS‐111 of 10 mg·kg−1 gave a 21–22% reduction in nystagmus at 1 hr post‐administration, whereas a loss of efficacy was seen with 20 mg·kg−1. Compared with SENS‐111, meclizine and methylprednisolone had minimal effects on nystagmus as single agents, and meclizine abolished the effect of SENS‐111 when combined with SENS‐111. All evaluated drugs were well tolerated.

Conclusions and Implications

The exposure‐efficacy relationship for improved spontaneous nystagmus seen with SENS‐111 in this in vivo model is consistent with phase 1 clinical results and provides preclinical support for pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic modelling and selection of effective clinical drug concentrations.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on New Uses for 21st Century. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.3/issuetoc
Modulation of μ‐opioid receptor activation by acidic pH is dependent on ligand structure and an ionizable amino acid residue
Authors: Meyer Johanna , Del Vecchio Giovanna , Seitz Viola , Massaly Nicolas , Stein Christoph
Published: July 2019

Background and Purpose

Adverse side effects of conventional opioids can be avoided if ligands selectively activate peripheral opioid receptors in injured tissue. Injury and inflammation are typically accompanied by acidification. In this study, we examined influences of low pH and mutation of the ionizable amino acid residue H2976.52 on μ‐opioid receptor binding and signalling induced by the μ‐opioid receptor ligands fentanyl, DAMGO, and naloxone.

Experimental Approach

HEK 293 cells stably transfected with μ‐opioid receptors were used to study opioid ligand binding, [35S]‐GTPγS binding, and cAMP reduction at physiological and acidic pH. We used μ‐opioid receptors mutated at H2976.52 to A (MOR‐H2976.52A) to delineate ligand‐specific interactions with H2976.52.

Key Results

Low pH and the mutant receptor MOR‐H2976.52A impaired naloxone binding and antagonism of cAMP reduction. In addition, DAMGO binding and G‐protein activation were decreased under these conditions. Fentanyl‐induced signalling was not influenced by pH and largely independent of H2976.52.

Conclusions and Implications

Our investigations indicate that low pH selectively impairs μ‐opioid receptor signalling modulated by ligands capable of forming hydrogen bonds with H2976.52. We propose that protonation of H2976.52 at acidic pH reduces binding and subsequent signalling of such ligands. Novel agonists targeting opioid receptors in injured tissue might benefit from lack of hydrogen bond formation with H2976.52.