bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantitative Cellular-Resolution Map of the Oxytocin Receptor in Postnatally Developing Mouse Brains
Authors: Newmaster Kyra T. , Nolan Zachary T. , Chon Uree , Vanselow Daniel J. , Weit Abigael R. , Tabbaa Manal , Hidema Shizu , Nishimori Katsuhiko , Hammock Elizabeth A.D. , Kim Yongsoo
Published: July 2019

Oxytocin receptor (OTR) plays critical roles in social behavior development. Despite its significance, brain-wide quantitative understanding of OTR expression remains limited in postnatally developing brains. Here, we validated and utilized fluorescent reporter mice (OTRvenus/+) to examine OTR cells across postnatal periods. We developed postnatal 3D template brains to register whole brain images with cellular resolution to systematically quantify OTR cell densities. We found that cortical regions showed temporally and spatially heterogeneous patterns with transient postnatal OTR expression without cell death. Cortical OTR cells were largely not GABAergic neurons with the exception of cells in layer 6b. Subcortical regions showed similar temporal regulation except the hypothalamus. Moreover, our unbiased approach identified two hypothalamic nuclei with sexually dimorphic OTR expression. Lastly, we created a website to easily share our imaging data. In summary, we provide comprehensive quantitative data to understand postnatal OTR expression in the mouse brain.
Identifying the fitness consequences of sex in complex natural environments
Authors: Rushworth Catherine A. , Brandvain Yaniv , Mitchell-Olds Tom
Published: July 2019

In the natural world, sex prevails, despite its costs. While much effort has been dedicated to identifying the intrinsic costs of sex (e.g. the cost of males), few studies have identified the ecological fitness consequences of sex. Furthermore, correlated biological traits that differ between sexuals and asexuals may alter these costs, or even render the typical costs of sex irrelevant. Here we use a large-scale transplant experiment of a North American wildflower to show that sex is associated with reduced lifetime fitness, despite lower herbivory. We separate the effects of sex from hybridity, finding that over-winter survival is elevated in asexuals regardless of hybridity, but herbivores target hybrid asexuals. Survival is lowest in homozygous sexual lineages, implicating inbreeding depression as a cost of sex. Our results show that the consequences of sex are shaped by complex natural environments, correlated traits, and the identity of mates, rather than sex itself.
Spatial modeling of prostate cancer metabolic gene expression reveals extensive heterogeneity and selective vulnerabilities
Authors: Wang Yuliang , Ma Shuyi , Ruzzo Walter L.
Published: July 2019

Spatial heterogeneity is a fundamental feature of the tumor microenvironment (TME), and tackling spatial heterogeneity in neoplastic metabolic aberrations is critical for tumor treatment. Genome-scale metabolic network models have been used successfully to simulate cancer metabolic networks. However, most models use bulk gene expression data of entire tumor biopsies, ignoring spatial heterogeneity in the TME. To account for spatial heterogeneity, we performed spatially-resolved metabolic network modeling of the prostate cancer microenvironment. We discovered novel malignant-cell-specific metabolic vulnerabilities targetable by small molecule compounds. We predicted that inhibiting the fatty acid desaturase SCD1 may selectively kill cancer cells based on our discovery of spatial separation of fatty acid synthesis and desaturation. We also uncovered higher prostaglandin metabolic gene expression in the tumor, relative to the surrounding tissue. Therefore, we predicted that inhibiting the prostaglandin transporter SLCO2A1 may selectively kill cancer cells. Importantly, SCD1 and SLCO2A1 have been previously shown to be potently and selectively inhibited by compounds such as CAY10566 and suramin, respectively. We also uncovered cancer-selective metabolic liabilities in central carbon, amino acid, and lipid metabolism. Our novel cancer-specific predictions provide new opportunities to develop selective drug targets for prostate cancer and other cancers where spatial transcriptomics datasets are available.
Strong population structure in Venezuelan populations ofCoccidioides posadasii
Authors: Teixeira Marcus M. , Alvarado Primavera , Roe Chandler , Thompson George R. , Patané José Salvatori , Sahl Jason W. , Keim Paul , Galgiani John N. , Litvintseva Ana , Matute Daniel R. , Barker Bridget M.
Published: July 2019

Coccidioides posadasiiis a pathogenic fungus that causes coccidioidomycosis in many arid regions of the Americas. One of these regions is bordered by the Caribbean Sea, and the surrounding landscape may play an important role in the dispersion ofC. posadasiiacross South America through southeastern Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala and Venezuela. Comparative phylogenomic analyses ofC. posadasiireveal that clinical strains from Venezuela are genetically distinct from the North American populations found in Arizona (AZ), Texas, Mexico, and the rest of South America (TX/MX/SA). We find evidence for admixture between the Venezuela and the North American populations ofC. posadasiiin Central America. As expected, the proportion of Venezuelan alleles in the admixed population decreases as latitude (and distance from Venezuela) increases. Our results indicate that the population in Venezuela may have been subjected to a recent bottleneck, and shows strong population structure. This analysis provides insight into potential forCoccidioidesspp. to invade new regions.
Genetic variation for root architectural traits in response to phosphorus deficiency in mungbean at the seedling stage
Authors: Reddy Venkata Ravi Prakash , Aski M. , Mishra G.P. , Dikshit H.K. , Singh Akanksha , Pandey Renu , Pal Madan , Gayacharan  , Ramtekey Vinita , Priti  , Rai Neha
Published: July 2019

Roots enable the plant to survive in natural environment by providing anchorage and acquisition of water and nutrients. In this study, 153 mungbean genotypes were studied to compare root architectural traits under normal and low phosphorus conditions. Significant variations, medium to high heritability, near normal distribution and significant correlations were observed for studied root traits. Total root length (TRL) was positively correlated with total surface area (TSA), total root volume (TRV), total root tips (TRT) and root forks. The first two principal components explained the 79.19 % and 78.84% of the total variation under normal and low phosphorus conditions. TRL, TSA and TRV were major contributors of variation and can be utilized for screening of phosphorus uptake efficiency at seedling stage. Released Indian mungbean varieties were found to be superior for root traits than other genotypic groups. Based on comprehensive phosphorus efficiency measurement, IPM-288, TM 96-25, TM 96-2, M 1477, PUSA 1342 were found to be best five highly efficient genotypes whereas M 1131, PS-16, Pusa Vishal, M 831, IC 325828 were highly inefficient genotypes. These identified highly efficient lines are valuable genetic resources for phosphorus uptake efficiency that could be used in mungbean breeding programme.
A Curvature-Enhanced Random Walker Segmentation Method for Detailed Capture of 3D Cell Surface Membranes
Authors: Lutton E. Josiah , Collier Sharon , Bretschneider Till
Published: July 2019

High-resolution 3D microscopy is a fast advancing field and requires new techniques in image analysis to handle these new datasets. In this work, we focus on detailed 3D segmentation ofDictyosteliumcells undergoing macropinocytosis captured on an iSPIM microscope. We propose a novel random walker-based method with a curvature-based enhancement term, with the aim of capturing fine protrusions, such as filopodia and deep invaginations, such as macropinocytotic cups, on the cell surface. We tested our method on both real and synthetic 3D image volumes, demonstrating that the inclusion of the curvature enhancement term can improve the segmentation of the aforementioned features. We show that our method performs better than other state of the art segmentation methods in 3D images ofDictyosteliumcells, and performs competitively against CNN-based methods in challenge datasets, demonstrating the ability to obtain accurate segmentations without the requirement of large training datasets. We also present an automated seeding method for microscopy data, which, combined with the curvature-enhanced random walker method, enables the segmentation of large time series with minimal input from the experimenter.
Effects of the copper IUD on composition of the vaginal microbiota in the olive baboon
Authors: Eastman AJ , Sack D , Chai D , Bassis CM , Carter KA , Young VB , Bergin IL , Bell JD
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Assess the impact of transcervical insertion, use, and removal of copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUD) on baboon physiology (e.g. weight, menstruation) and vaginal microbiota.

Study design

Vaginal swabs were taken before insertion (pre-IUD), during IUD use (IUD), and after removal (post-IUD) and microbiota assessed by 16S rRNA-encoding gene sequence analysis.

Results

No animals showed physical changes or discomfort during pre-IUD, IUD, or post-IUD phases. There were no changes to the microbiome associated with insertion or use of Cu-IUD over 16 weeks, although removal resulted in perturbation to community structure.

Conclusions

Baboons tolerate Cu-IUD insertion with minimal device-associated changes to their vaginal microbiome throughout use and have no significant changes to their physiology or menstrual cycle during any phase.

Implications

A baboon model of Cu-IUD may allow investigations into the intersection of Cu-IUDs, reproductive tract disorders and pathogens that would not be possible in human studies.
DIMR, a Yeast-Based Synthetic Reporter System for Probing Oligomeric Transcription Factor DNA Binding
Authors: Myers Zachary A. , Swain Swadhin , Bialek Shannan , Keltner Samuel , Holt Ben F.
Published: July 2019

Transcription factors (TFs) are fundamental components of biological regulation, facilitating the basal and differential gene expression necessary for life. TFs exert transcriptional regulation through interactions with both DNA and other TFs, ultimately influencing the action of RNA polymerase at a genomic locus. Current approaches are proficient at identification of binding site requirements for individual TFs, but few methods have been adapted to study oligomeric TF complexes. Further, many approaches that have been turned toward understanding DNA binding of TF complexes, such as electrophoretic mobility shift assays, require protein purification steps that can be burdensome or scope-limiting when considering more exhaustive experimental design. In order to address these shortfalls and to facilitate a more streamlined approach to understanding DNA binding by TF complexes, we developed the DIMR (Dynamic, Interdependent TF binding Molecular Reporter) system, a modular, yeast-based synthetic transcriptional activity reporter. As a proof of concept, we focused on the NUCLEAR FACTOR-Y (NF-Y) family of obligate heterotrimeric TFs in Arabidopsis thaliana. The DIMR system was able to reproduce the strict DNA-binding requirements of an experimentally validated NF-YA2/B2/C3 complex with high fidelity, including recapitulation of previously characterized mutations in subunits that either break NF-Y complex interactions or are directly involved in DNA binding. The DIMR system is a novel, powerful, and easy-to-use approach to address questions regarding the binding of oligomeric TFs to DNA.

One sentence summary

The DIMR system provides an accessible and easy-to-use platform to elucidate DNA binding and transcriptional regulatory capacity of oligomeric transcription factor complexes
Loss of cell cycle control renders cells nonresponsive to local extrinsic differentiation cues
Authors: Cerveny Kara L. , Tower Ingrid , Lamb Dayna B. , Van Duzer Avery , Bronstein Hannah , Hagen Olivia , Varga Máté
Published: July 2019

Objective and approaches

Aberrantly proliferating cells are linked to a number of diseases including cancers and developmental defects.To determine the extent to which local extrinsic signals contribute to or ameliorate mutant cell behaviors, we examined survival and differentiation of mutant cells in wild-type retinal environments by generating chimeric zebrafish embryos comprised of unlabeled host cells and GFP-labeled neural progenitor donor cells. In addition, we examined the fate of retinal progenitor cells whencdkn1c, a cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor, was induced in clones within wild-type andhdac1mutant retinae.

Results

We found that seven of the ten mutants examined exhibited apoptosis when grafted into wild-type tissue, with cells from two slowly cycling mutants,elysandemi1, noticeably differentiating in a wild-type environment. Observations of the one hyperproliferative mutant,hdac1, revealed that these mutant cells did not appear to die or differentiate but instead survived and formed tumor-like rosettes in a wild-type environment. Ectopic expression ofcdkn1cwas unable to force cell cycle exit and differentiation of the majority ofhdac1mutant cells.

Conclusions

Together, these results suggest that although a wild-type environment rarely encourages cell cycle exit and differentiation of neural progenitors with cell cycle defects, wild-type survival signals may enable hyperproliferative progenitor cells to persist instead of die.
Computational Analysis of Energy Landscapes Reveals Dynamic Features that Contribute to Binding of Inhibitors to CFTR-Associated Ligand
Authors: Holt Graham T. , Jou Jonathan D. , Gill Nicholas P. , Lowegard Anna U. , Martin Jeffrey W. , Madden Dean R. , Donald Bruce R.
Published: July 2019

PDZ domains are small protein-binding domains that interact with short, mostly C-terminal peptides and play important roles in cellular signaling and the trafficking and localization of ion channels. The CFTR-associated ligand PDZ domain (CALP) binds to the cystic fibro-sis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and mediates degradation of mature CFTR through lysosomal pathways. Inhibition of the CALP:CFTR interaction has been explored as a potential therapeutic avenue for cystic fibrosis (CF).1Previously, we reported2the ensemble-based computational design of a novel 6-residue peptide inhibitor of CALP, which resulted in the most binding-efficient inhibitor of CALP to date. This inhibitor, kCAL01, was designed using OSPREY3and displayed significant biological activity inin vitrocell-based assays. Here, we report a crystal structure of kCAL01 bound to CALP (PDB ID: 6OV7). To elucidate the structural basis for the enhanced binding efficiency of kCAL01, we compare this structure to that of a previously developed inhibitor of CALP, iCAL36 (PDB ID: 4E34). In addition to per-forming traditional structural analysis, we compute the side-chain energy landscapes for each structure using the recently developedMARK*partition function approximation algorithm.4Analysis of these energy landscapes not only enables approximation of binding thermodynamics for these structural models of CALP:inhibitor binding, but also foregrounds important structural features and reveals dynamic features, both of which contribute to the comparatively efficient binding of kCAL01. The investigation of energy landscapes complements traditional analysis of the few low-energy conformations found in crystal structures, and provides information about the entire conformational ensemble that is accessible to a protein structure model. Finally, we compare the previously reported NMR-based design model ensemble for kCAL01 vs. the new crystal structure and show that, despite the notable differences between the CALP NMR model and crystal structure, many significant features are successfully captured in the design ensemble. This suggests not only that ensemble-based design captured thermodynamically significant features observedin vitro, but also that a design algorithm eschewing ensembles would likely miss the kCAL01 sequence entirely.

Graphical TOC Entry
Heterospecific aggression differs predominately by species, rather than sex, in Lake Malawi cichlid fish
Authors: Moore Emily C. , Roberts Reade B.
Published: July 2019

Because of their striking diversity, Lake Malawi cichlid fish have been well studied for male aggression, particularly among dominant males of closely related sister species within the framework of mate-choice and speciation. However, aggression in females has been largely ignored, and variation in aggressive behaviors between more distantly-related taxa is not well understood despite its potential impact in a complex community structure. To better understand variation in patterns of aggression between species, we presented males and females from five species of Lake Malawi cichlid with a non-predator intruder and recorded all movement and aggressive acts. Additionally, we measured excreted cortisol levels the day after the intruder assay to evaluate one physiological aspect of stress response. We identified species-specific patterns in both specific aggressive acts, and overall level of aggression. Additionally, we found that sexual dimorphism in aggressive acts varies by species and act, where the species with the most aggressive males also has aggressive females. Additionally, cortisol levels vary by taxa, and are associated with restless behavior in the intruder assay, but not levels of aggression. These findings have bearing on understanding sex differences in aggression and their impact on community structure in this important model of rapid evolution.
Hecaton: reliably detecting copy number variation in plant genomes using short read sequencing data
Authors: Wijfjes Raúl , Smit Sandra , de Ridder Dick
Published: July 2019

Copy number variation (CNV) is thought to actively contribute to adaptive evolution of plant species. While many computational algorithms are available to detect copy number variation from whole genome sequencing datasets, the typical complexity of plant data likely introduces false positive calls.

To enable reliable and comprehensive detection of CNV in plant genomes, we developed Hecaton, a novel computational workflow tailored to plants, that integrates calls from multiple state-of-the-art algorithms through a machine-learning approach. In this paper, we demonstrate that Hecaton outperforms current methods when applied to short read sequencing data of A. thaliana, rice, maize, and tomato. Moreover, it correctly detects dispersed duplications, a type of CNV commonly found in plant species, in contrast to several state-of-the-art tools that erroneously represent this type of CNV as overlapping deletions and tandem duplications. Finally, Hecaton scales well in terms of memory usage and running time when applied to short read datasets of domesticated and wild tomato accessions. Hecaton provides a robust method to detect CNV in plants. We expect it to be of immediate interest to both applied and fundamental research on the relationship between genotype and phenotype in plants.
Location-specific quantification of protein-bound metal ions by X-ray anomalous dispersion: Q-XAD
Authors: Griese Julia J. , Högbom Martin
Published: July 2019

Here, a method is described which exploits X-ray anomalous dispersion (XAD) to quantify mixtures of metal ions in the binding sites of proteins and can be applied to metalloprotein crystals of average quality. This method has successfully been used to study site-specific metal binding in a protein from the R2-like ligand-binding oxidase family which assembles a heterodinuclear Mn/Fe cofactor. While previously only the relative contents of Fe and Mn in each metal-binding site have been assessed, here it is shown that the method can be extended to quantify the relative occupancies of at least three different transition metals, enabling complex competition experiments. The number of different metal ions that can be quantified is only limited by the number of high-quality anomalous data sets that can be obtained from one crystal, as one data set has to be collected for each transition-metal ion that is present (or is suspected to be present) in the protein, ideally at the absorption edge of each metal. A detailed description of the method, Q-XAD, is provided.
To grab or not to grab? The role of trust and perceived value in on-demand ridesharing services
Authors: Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Basha Norazlyn Kamal , Ng Siew Imm , Sambasivan Murali
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically test the antecedents and outcome of perceived value and trust toward on-demand ridesharing services (ODRS). The antecedents are perceived innovativeness, perceived personalization, perceived usefulness of rating system and service personal values. The outcome is the continuance intention toward ODRS. This study also aims to uncover the mediating role of trust and the moderating role of technology readiness.

Design/methodology/approach

The ODRS considered in this research are Grab and Uber in the context of Malaysia. A questionnaire was constructed, and responses were obtained from 280 Malaysian consumers who have experienced ODRS. The authors tested the framework using partial least square structural equation modeling technique.

Findings

The result indicates several significant relationships: perceived personalization, perceived usefulness of rating system and service personal values significantly influence perceived value and trust; trust mediates the relationships between perceived personalization, perceived usefulness of rating system, service personal values and perceived value; perceived value significantly influences continuance intention; and technology readiness moderates the relationship between perceived personalization and perceived value.

Originality/value

The current study adds significantly to the body of knowledge about ODRS by examining the direct determinants of trust and perceived value, and exhibiting how trust mediates the mechanism. This study also illustrates the interplay of moderator (technology readiness) and perceived value.
The impact of exhibition service quality on general attendees’ satisfaction through distinct mediating roles of perceived value
Authors: Lee Dae Hui
Published: July 2019

Purpose

In an effort to better understand value-oriented general attendees, the purpose of this paper is to propose and empirically test a comprehensive model to examine the effect of three factors of service quality in exhibitions (i.e. service product, service environment and service delivery) on satisfaction through three factors of perceived value (i.e. emotional value, economic value and social value).

Design/methodology/approach

A confirmatory factor analysis was performed to determine key factors in exhibition service quality, perceived value and satisfaction. A structural equation modeling was conducted to analyze the causal relationships among the factors.

Findings

The empirical results indicated that service product and service environment were significantly and positively associated with all factors of perceived value, which in turn significantly influenced satisfaction. Service delivery, however, was associated only with emotional value. On the other hand, all three factors of perceived value significantly influenced general attendees’ satisfaction. The findings indicated perceived value as an important mediator between exhibition service quality and general attendees’ satisfaction.

Originality/value

Clearly identifying specific trajectories from service quality to satisfaction through distinct perceived values can be a stepping stone to establishing effective and efficient marketing strategies for general attendees and customizing for their needs. The distinct and clear associations between service quality and perceived value can help exhibition organizers and practitioners understand the process of determining general attendees’ overall satisfaction.
Determinants of Tier 2 Indian consumer’s online shopping attitude: a SEM approach
Authors: Kaur Anupriya , Thakur Preeti
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to validate the conceptual model that presents the determinants of Tier 2 consumer’s online shopping attitude and the interrelationships among the constructs across the three Tier 2 cities in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses survey-based data from three Tier 2 cities of North India – Kota, Agra and Jalandhar and uses a combination of statistical techniques to assess psychometric properties of the scales and conduct the measurement and structural invariance.

Findings

The findings of the paper reveals that technology readiness, consumer innovativeness, fondness for branded products and perceived brand unavailability act as determinants of online shopping attitude and there is a positive relationship between online shopping attitude and online purchase intention among Tier 2 consumers in India while perceived offline hedonic value do not have any significant impact.

Research limitations/implications

Future researchers can use this model with additional confidence given its cross-segment robustness.

Practical implications

Online marketers can use the antecedents identified in this study to develop and encourage positive online shopping attitude in small town India.

Originality/value

This research paper is the first one that investigated online shopping attitudes of Indian Tier 2 consumers. Importantly, it validated the determinants of online shopping attitude among Tier 2 consumers. National and international e-tailers aiming to develop and expand their operations to India now have the critical empirical verification concerned with the determinants of online shopping attitude and behaviour in India which would be meaningful to develop a sound marketing strategy.
Construction worker productivity in hot and humid weather conditions
Authors: Moohialdin Ammar Saeed Mohammed , Lamari Fiona , Miska Marc , Trigunarsyah Bambang
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper shows the effect of hot and humid weather conditions (HHWCs) on workers that has resulted in considerable loss in the construction industry, especially during the hottest periods due to decline in worker productivity (WP). Until the last few decades, there is very limited research on construction WP in HHWCs. Nevertheless, these studies have sparked interests on seeking for the most appropriate methods to assess the impact of HHWCs on construction workers.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper begins by reviewing the current measuring methods on WP in HHWCs, follows by presenting the potential impact of HHWCs on WP. The paper highlights the methodological deficiencies, which consequently provides a platform for scholars and practitioners to direct future research to resolve the significant productivity loss due to global warming. This paper highlights the need to identify the limitations and advantages of the current methods to formulate a framework of new approaches to measure the WP in HHWCs.

Findings

Results show that the methods used in providing real-time response on the effects of HHWCs on WP in construction at project, task and crew levels are limited. An integration of nonintrusive real-time monitoring system and local weather measurement with real-time data synchronisation and analysis is required to produce suitable information to determine worker health- and safety-related decisions in HHWCs.

Originality/value

The comprehensive literature review makes an original contribution to WP measurements filed in HHWCs in the construction industry. Results of this review provide researchers and practitioners with an insight into challenges associated with the measurements methods and solving practical site measurements issues. The findings will also enable the researchers and practitioners to bridge the identified research gaps in this research field and enhance the ability to provide accurate measures in HHWCs. The proposed research framework may promote potential improvements in the productivity measurements methods, which support researchers and practitioners in developing new innovative methods in HHWCs with the integration of the most recent monitoring technologies.
Factors that influence the facilities management construction sites in the Brazilian Amazon region
Authors: Cabral Daniel Barbosa , Farias Filho Milton Cordeiro , Mattos Carlos André Corrêa de
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that influence the facilities management (FM) in construction sites in the Brazilian Amazon.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used structured questionnaires, with the participation of 136 facilities professionals in construction sites in the Brazilian Amazon. These sites were selected with help of 17 facilities managers. The survey achieved a total response rate of 76.5 per cent. The factorial analysis was performed after checking the adequacy of the sample to the technique. The results allowed the continuation of data processing and the use of exploratory factorial analysis to summarize the variables and identify the influencing factors.

Findings

The results indicated five factors that influence the FM on construction sites in the Brazilian Amazon, namely: negotiation with local entities; weather; local suppliers; manpower; and logistical infrastructure. With the proper understanding of these factors, facilities professionals could plan actions to minimize negative impacts over the FM on construction sites.

Research limitations/implications

The influence of factors on FM was studied from the professionals’ viewpoint. It is possible that there are other perspectives or other influencing factors. However, this work is limited to the analysis of the variables that make up the five dimensions presented.

Practical implications

Organizations and FM professionals might be interested in the results of this research to enhance the FM performance on the construction sites existed and to plan the implementation of the FM on upcoming construction sites.

Originality/value

This paper is the first large research about FM in construction sites conducted in the Brazilian Amazon and serve as a basis to other research works that promote the development of FM in Brazil.
Research on forest insurance policy simulation in China
Authors: Ma Ning , Li Can , Zuo Yang
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Forest insurance is a popular way to reduce the loss of forest disasters, so it is necessary to actively involve stakeholders. In the multi-agent simulation model, the government, insurance companies and forest farmers participate as three main stakeholders. The purpose of this paper is to mainly simulate the behavior of forest farmers under different environmental variables in order to find the important factors affecting the coverage of forest insurance, so as to improve the ability of forest farmers to resist risks in the face of disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

In the simulation process, the decision-making rule of a forest farmer’s purchasing behavior is a binary selection chain, which is created at random. Forest farmer agents who adapt to the environment will remain; on the contrary, those will be eliminated. The eliminated agents will renew their behavior selection chains through learning others’ successful behavior based on genetic algorithm. The multi-agent mode is set up on the Eclipse platform by using Java language.

Findings

The adjustment simulation experiments of insurance premium, insurance subsidy and forest area were carried out. According to the result, conclusions and suggestions are as follows: at present, government subsidies are necessary for the implementation of forest insurance; in the future, with the expansion of the insured forest area and the upgrading and large-scale operation of forest farms, forest farmers will be more willing to join forest insurance program, and, then, the implementation of forest insurance no longer requires government subsidies for forest insurance premiums.

Originality/value

This paper explores the impact of three important factors on the implementation of forest insurance.
Numerical simulation of ophthalmic laser surgeries by a local thermal non-equilibrium two-temperature model
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhao Yibo , Li Dong
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the laser–tissue interaction mechanism during ophthalmic laser surgeries through numerical analysis. The influence of laser parameters and the multipulse technique were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The ocular fundus was simplified as a multilayered homogenous medium model. Afterward, the multilayer Monte Carlo method was used to simulate the propagation and energy deposition of laser light, and a local thermal non-equilibrium two-temperature model was established to simulate the temperature variation of chromophores and surrounding tissue with different laser wavelength.

Findings

Through the model, the selective heating of chromophore (melanin and blood vessels) was clearly illustrated: 1) neglecting the laser energy absorbance by blood in the traditional model will cause significant errors in temperature calculation; 2) the non-thermal equilibrium heat transfer model was needed to obtain an accurate description of the thermal process when the dimensionless pulse width (tp*) is <105. For 532 nm Argon laser, the optimize tp* is around 105 and the appropriate energy density is 5 J/cm2; 3) multipulse technique makes the energy more concentrated within the melanin, thereby reducing the thermal damage in surrounding tissue, with most appropriate pulse number and duty cycle is 10 and 1/10.

Originality/value

Taking the blood absorption into account, the different temperature variations of melanin/vessels and surrounding tissue caused by the selective photo-thermolysis were simulated successfully. By understanding the mechanism of laser therapy, laser parameters and multipulse technique are suggested to improve the clinical results.
Multisensory experience for enhancing hotel guest experience
Authors: Lee Minwoo , Lee Seonjeong (Ally) , Koh Yoon
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of customers’ multisensory service experience on customer satisfaction with cognitive effort and affective evaluations using big data and business intelligence techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

Online customer reviews for all New York City hotels were collected from Tripadvisor.com and analyzed through business intelligence and big data analytics techniques including data mining, text analytics, sentiment analysis and regression analysis.

Findings

The current study identifies the relationship between affective evaluations (i.e. positive affect and negative affect) and customer satisfaction. Research findings also find the negative effect of reviewer’s cognitive effort on satisfaction rating. More importantly, this study demonstrates the moderating role of multisensory experience as an innovative marketing tool on the relationship between affect/cognitive evaluation and customer satisfaction in the hospitality setting.

Originality/value

This study is the first study to explore the critical role of sensory marketing on hotel guest experience in the context of hotel customer experience and service innovation, based on big data and business intelligence techniques.
Senior consumers’ dining-out behaviors: the roles of physical, psychological and economic health
Authors: Kim DongHee , Jang SooCheong (Shawn)
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of three types of perceived healthiness (physical, psychological and economic health) on restaurant consumption activities among senior consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 325 restaurant customers in the USA through a Web-based survey conducted by an online marketing research firm. Following previous studies’ categorization of senior consumers, this study distinguished between “senior consumers” (age 60 or older) and “younger consumers” (age 39 or younger) to better compare different age-related behaviors. A series of two-way ANOVA was conducted for dining-out frequency and the number of choice sets.

Findings

The results revealed that senior diners’ perceptions of healthiness are critical in determining senior consumers’ restaurant behaviors, such as information processing and purchasing behaviors. The results provide evidence that seniors with a positive perception of their physical and psychological status seek a greater number of alternative restaurant choices, which is actively related to purchasing frequency.

Practical implications

The managerial implications indicate that restaurant marketers should avoid stereotypes and instead rely on more recent and accurate information regarding today’s senior consumers.

Originality/value

The position taken in this study recognizes the need to enhance the understanding of senior consumers’ patterns regarding their perceived physical, psychological and economic health. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to investigate the impact of three types of health on seniors’ dining behaviors.
Deep reflection seismic imaging of iron‐oxide deposits in the Ludvika mining area of central Sweden
Authors: Markovic Magdalena , Maries Georgiana , Malehmir Alireza , von Ketelhodt Julius , Bäckström Emma , Schön Monica , Marsden Paul
Published: July 2019

Reflection seismic data were acquired within two field campaigns in the Blötberget, Ludvika mining area of central Sweden, for deep imaging of iron‐oxide mineralization that were known to extend down to 800–850 m depth. The two surveys conducted in years 2015 and 2016, one employing a seismic landstreamer and geophones connected to wireless recorders, and another one using cabled geophones and wireless recorders, aimed to delineate the geometry and depth extent of the iron‐oxide mineralization for when mining commences in the area. Even with minimal and conventional processing approaches, the merged datasets provide encouraging information about the depth continuation of the mineralized horizons and the geological setting of the study area. Multiple sets of strong reflections represent a possible continuation of the known deposits that extend approximately 300 m further down‐dip than the known 850 m depth obtained from historical drilling. They show excellent correlation in shape and strength with those of the Blötberget deposits. Furthermore, several reflections in the footwall of the known mineralization can potentially be additional resources underlying the known ones. The results from these seismic surveys are encouraging for mineral exploration purposes given the good quality of the final section and fast seismic surveys employing a simple cost‐effective and easily available impact‐type seismic source.
Microbial degradation of phthalates: biochemistry and environmental implications
Authors: Boll Matthias , Geiger Robin , Junghare Madan , Schink Bernhard
Published: July 2019

The environmentally relevant xenobiotic esters of phthalic acid (PA), isophthalic acid (IPA) and terephthalic acid (TPA) are produced on a million ton scale annually and are predominantly used as plastic polymers or plasticizers. Degradation by microorganisms is considered as the most effective means of their elimination from the environment and proceeds via hydrolysis to the corresponding PA isomers and alcohols under oxic and anoxic conditions. Further degradation of PA, IPA and TPA differs fundamentally between anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms. The latter introduce hydroxyl functionalities by dioxygenases to facilitate subsequent decarboxylation by either aromatizing dehydrogenases or cofactor‐free decarboxylases. In contrast, anaerobic bacteria activate the PA isomers to the respective thioesters using CoA ligases or CoA transferases followed by decarboxylation to the central intermediate benzoyl‐CoA. Decarboxylases acting on the three PA CoA thioesters belong to the UbiD enzyme family that harbour a prenylated flavin mononucleotide (FMN) cofactor to achieve the mechanistically challenging decarboxylation. Capture of the extremely instable PA‐CoA intermediate is accomplished by a massive overproduction of phthaloyl‐CoA decarboxylase and a balanced production of PA‐CoA forming/decarboxylating enzymes. The strategy of anaerobic phthalate degradation probably represents a snapshot of an ongoing evolution of a xenobiotic degradation pathway via a short‐lived reaction intermediate.
Associations Between Drinking and Cortical Thickness in Younger Adult Drinkers: Findings From the Human Connectome Project
Authors: Morris Vanessa L. , Owens Max M. , Syan Sabrina K. , Petker Tashia D. , Sweet Lawrence H. , Oshri Assaf , MacKillop James , Amlung Michael
Published: July 2019

Background

Previous neuroimaging studies examining relations between alcohol misuse and cortical thickness have revealed that increased drinking quantity and alcohol‐related problems are associated with thinner cortex. Although conflicting regional effects are often observed, associations are generally localized to frontal regions (e.g., dorsolateral prefrontal cortex [DLPFC], inferior frontal gyrus [IFG], and anterior cingulate cortex). Inconsistent findings may be attributed to methodological differences, modest sample sizes, and limited consideration of sex differences.

Methods

This study examined neuroanatomical correlates of drinking quantity and heavy episodic drinking in a large sample of younger adults (N = 706; Mage = 28.8; 51% female) using magnetic resonance imaging data from the Human Connectome Project. Exploratory analyses examined neuroanatomical correlates of executive function (flanker task) and working memory (list sorting).

Results

Hierarchical linear regression models (controlling for age, sex, education, income, smoking, drug use, twin status, and intracranial volume) revealed significant inverse associations between drinks in past week and frequency of heavy drinking and cortical thickness in a majority of regions examined. The largest effect sizes were found for frontal regions (DLPFC, IFG, and the precentral gyrus). Follow‐up regression models revealed that the left DLPFC was uniquely associated with both drinking variables. Sex differences were also observed, with significant effects largely specific to men.

Conclusions

This study adds to the understanding of brain correlates of alcohol use in a large, gender‐balanced sample of younger adults. Although the cross‐sectional methodology precludes causal inferences, these findings provide a foundation for rigorous hypothesis testing in future longitudinal investigations.
Telepresence robots: Encouraging interactive communication between family carers and people with dementia
Authors: Moyle Wendy , Jones Cindy , Sung Billy
Published: July 2019

Objective

The aim of the study was to explore the feasibility of using telepresence robots to encourage interactive communication in dementia care, from the perspective of family carers.

Methods

Qualitative findings from semi‐structured interviews with six family carers.

Results

Generally, family carers reported a feeling of presence and connectedness when talking to their family member via the telepresence robots. They reported the robots as helping to enhance longer conversations and social connection with their family member.

Conclusion

Telepresence may offer potential to encourage social connection, in particular where families are unable to make regular visits to the nursing home.
Do Voters Polarize When Radical Parties Enter Parliament?
Authors: Bischof Daniel , Wagner Markus
Published: July 2019

Do voters polarize ideologically when radical views gain political legitimacy, or does the rise of radical voices merely reflect societal conflict? We argue that elite polarization as signaled by radical parties' first entrance into parliament leads to voter divergence. Immediately after the election, legitimization and backlash effects mean that voters on both ideological sides move toward the extremes. In the longer term, this polarization is solidified because of radical parties' parliamentary presence. A panel study of Dutch voters shows that the 2002 parliamentary entrance of a radical‐right party indeed led to immediate ideological polarization across the political spectrum. Estimating time‐series cross‐sectional models on Eurobarometer data from 17 countries (1973–2016) shows an additional long‐term impact of radical‐right party entry on polarization. The presence of radical voices on the right has polarizing effects, illustrating how such institutional recognition and legitimization can have a far‐reaching impact on society.
Life satisfaction of informal care recipients: Findings from the German Ageing Survey
Authors: Zwar Larissa , König Hans‐Helmut , Hajek André
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Global judgements of life satisfaction are a core aspect of subjective well‐being, and of central relevance to understanding how those in need of care view their lives. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between the receipt of informal care and life satisfaction in a longitudinal setting.

Design

Longitudinal analysis of a population‐based data set of community‐dwelling individuals aged 40 years and older.

Methods

Data from the German Ageing Survey were used (Waves 2002, 2008, 2011, 2014). Fixed effects regression analysis was implemented to investigate the longitudinal association between receipt of informal care (no/yes) and life satisfaction (Satisfaction with Life Scale), while controlling for sociodemographic data (e.g., age) and health‐related factors (e.g., physical and mental health).

Results

Results from fixed effects longitudinal models revealed that transitioning from not receiving informal care to receiving informal care predicted a decrease in life satisfaction. This result remained stable when specific types of receipt of informal care were used as predictors.

Conclusions

Receiving informal care is associated with a decrease in life satisfaction, irrespective of the type of informal care received. These results highlight the necessity of taking the care recipient's perception into consideration, and indicate the imminent need for the care situation to be improved, if the life satisfaction of care recipients is to be maintained.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on the topic?

In general, few studies investigate the care recipients’ perspective regarding outcomes associated with the receipt of informal care. Particularly, studies on the association between receipt of informal care and life satisfaction, and especially longitudinal population‐based studies, are rare.

What does this study add?

Evidence of a population‐based longitudinal study in a sparsely investigated field of research

Our longitudinal study found recipients of informal care to report reduced life satisfaction

This negative association remained stable when investigating different tasks of informal care