bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
AIRBP: Accurate identification of RNA-binding proteins using machine learning techniques
Authors: Mishra Avdesh , Khanal Reecha , Hoque Md Tamjidul 
Published: March 2020

AbstractMotivationIdentification of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that bind to ribonucleic acid molecules, is an important problem in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics. It becomes indispensable to identify RBPs as they play crucial roles in post-transcriptional control of RNAs and RNA metabolism as well as have diverse roles in various biological processes such as splicing, mRNA stabilization, mRNA localization, and translation, RNA synthesis, folding-unfolding, modification, processing, and degradation. The existing experimental techniques for identifying RBPs are time-consuming and expensive. Therefore, identifying RBPs directly from the sequence using computational methods can be useful to efficiently annotate RBPs and assist the experimental design. In this work, we present a method, called AIRBP, which is designed using an advanced machine learning technique, called stacking, to effectively predict RBPs by utilizing features extracted from evolutionary information, physiochemical properties, and disordered properties. Moreover, our method, AIRBP is trained on the useful feature-subset identified by the evolutionary algorithm (EA).ResultsThe results show that AIRBP attains Accuracy (ACC), F1-score, and MCC of 95.38%, 0.917, and 0.885, respectively, based on the benchmark dataset, using 10-fold cross-validation (CV). Further evaluation of AIRBP on independent test set reveals that it achieves ACC, F1-score, and MCC of 93.04%, 0.943, and 0.855, for Human test set; 91.60%, 0.942 and 0.789 for S. cerevisiae test set; and 91.67%, 0.953 and 0.594 for A. thaliana test set, respectively. These results indicate that AIRBP outperforms the current state-of-the-art method. Therefore, the proposed top-performing AIRBP can be useful for accurate identification and annotation of RBPs directly from the sequence and help gain valuable insight to treat critical diseases.AvailabilityCode-data is available here:http://cs.uno.edu/~tamjid/Software/AIRBP/code_data.zip
Simultaneous mental updating in physical space and number space
Authors: Makin Alexis D.J. , Baurès Robin , Cremoux Sylvain , Chauhan Tushar 
Published: March 2020

AbstractPeople can track moving objects after they disappear or become occluded. For instance, they can estimate the position of a car after it goes behind a truck. People can also track through feature space after occlusion. For instance, they can estimate the current number on a hidden stopwatch. Previous work has suggest that a common rate control module paces mental updating in both physical space and number-space. We tested this by comparing single and dual task conditions. On every trial, participants observed a moving target-counter travel clockwise round a circular track. In the then disappeared for 2, 4, 6 or 8 seconds, and beep sounded. In the single task blocks, participants either estimated the final position or the final number. In the dual task block, they estimated final position and final number. Performance was very similar in single and dual task blocks. This suggests people can extrapolate through physical space and number space simultaneously. This is a challenge to the common rate control model, which implies there should be some dual task interference. We conclude that if a common rate controller exists, it is capable of pacing simultaneous mental simulations in different dimensions.
Observation of the Transport and Removal of Lipofuscin from the Mouse Myocardium using Transmission Electron Microscope
Authors: Wang Lei , Xiao Chang-Yi , Li Jia-Hua , Tang Gui-Cheng , Xiao Shuo-Shuang 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThis study was performed to investigate whether the lipofuscin formed within cardiomyocytes can be excluded by the myocardial tissue. We have provided indicators that can be used for future studies on anti-aging interventions.In the present study, the heart of a 5-month-old BALB/c mouse was obtained for resin embedding and ultra-thin sectioning. The specimens were observed under a Hitach 7500 transmission electron microscope, and the images were acquired using an XR401 side-insertion device.Lipofuscin granules are found abundantly in myocardial cells. Cardiomyocytes can excrete lipofuscin granules into the myocardial interstitium using capsule-like protrusions that are formed on the sarcolemma. These granules enter the myocardial interstitium and can be de-aggregated to form “membrane-like garbage”, which can pass from the myocardial stroma into the lumen of the vessel through its walls in the form of soluble fine particles through diffusion or endocytosis of capillaries. Smaller lipofuscin granules can pass through the walls of the vessels and enter the blood vessel lumen through the active transport function of the capillary endothelial cells. When the extended cytoplasmic end of macrophages and fibroblasts fuse with the endothelial cells, the lipofuscin granules or clumps found in the cells of the myocardial interstitium are transported to the capillary walls, and then, they are released into the lumen of the blood vessel by the endothelial cells.The myocardial tissues of mice have the ability to eliminate the lipofuscin produced in the cardiomyocytes into the myocardial blood circulation. Although there are several mechanisms through which the myocardial tissues release lipofuscin into the bloodstream, it is mainly carried out in the form of small, fine, soluble, continuous transport.
Cytotoxic Activity of CD4 T Cells During the Early Stage of Autoimmune Neuroinflammation
Authors: Pradella Fernando , Boldrini Vinicius O. , Marques Ana Maria , Morais Guilherme A. D. , Francelin Carolina , Cocenza Rani S. , Lima Vitor C. , Bonora Maurilio , Brunetti Natalia S. , Campos Bruna B. , Fonseca Evelise S. M. , Rocha-Parise Michelle , Stella Carla R. V. , Damasceno Alfredo , von Glehn Felipe , Longhini Ana Leda F. , Santos Leonilda M. B. , Farias Alessandro S. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractPathogenic CD4+ T cells are capable of initiating neuroinflammation in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, the precise effector mechanism of these autoaggressive CD4+ T cells is not entirely elucidated. Here, we demonstrated that pathogenic CD4+ T cells, upon autoantigen stimulation, developed a cytotoxic phenotype at the onset of EAE. The cytotoxic activity of pathogenic CD4+ T cells was sufficient to explain the initial myelin lesion. Consistently, CD4+ T cells of peripheral blood (PBMCs) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from relapse-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients present an enhancement of the cytotoxic profile in comparison with healthy control (HC). Moreover, cytotoxic CD4+ T cells (CD4-CTLs) are restrained in the PBMCs of Natalizumab-treated RRMS patients. Mechanistically, autoaggressive CD4-CTLs matched the majority of the molecular pathways of effector CD8+ T cells. Altogether, our findings point to potential new targets for monitoring MS diagnosis, treatment, and the development of novel therapeutic avenues.
Cell wall remodeling and vesicle trafficking mediate the root clock in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wachsman Guy , Zhang Jingyuan , Moreno-Risueno Miguel A. , Anderson Charles T. , Benfey Philip N. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractIn Arabidopsis, lateral roots initiate along the primary root in a process preceded by periodic gene expression, a phenomenon known as the root clock. Many genes involved in lateral root initiation have been identified. However, very little is known about the structural changes underlying the initiation process nor about how root clock function is regulated. In genetic screens, we identified the vesicle trafficking regulators, GNOM and its suppressor, AGD3, as critical to root clock function. We show that GNOM is required for the proper distribution of pectin, a mediator of intercellular adhesion, and that pectin esterification state is essential for a functional root clock. We found that in sites of lateral root primordia emergence, both esterified and de-esterified pectin are differentially distributed. Using a reverse genetic approach, we identified significant enrichment of GO terms associated with pectin modifying enzymes in the oscillation zone were the root clock is established. In agreement with a recent study on the function of pectin in pavement cell morphogenesis, our results indicate that the balance between esterified and de-esterified pectin is essential for proper root clock function and the subsequent initiation of lateral root primordia.
Fixing “bad” capitalism: why CSR and pro-good initiatives may not be enough
Authors: Giuliani Elisa , Nieri Federica 
Published: March 2020

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a short commentary on the negative consequences of contemporary global capitalism on society. Despite the economic growth experienced across the world over the past century, the so-called grand challenges which include, for instance, rising inequality, global warming, modern slavery and child labor, are becoming endemic phenomena also in high income countries. The authors invite further research to come up with radical ideas to fix “bad” capitalism.

Design/methodology/approach
The proliferation of negative business conducts has led international business scholars to propose new ways to address sustainability grand challenges. The articles in this special issue on which the authors were invited to comment, Holmström Lind, Kang, Ljung and Forsgren; Lashitew and van Tulder; Zagelmeyer, are contributing to this agenda. The authors contextualise these articles in the current scholarly discussion on the social role of Multinational Enterprises (MNEs).

Findings
Despite all the calls for business to be more responsible and despite the steps taken by MNEs through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policies, this is not enough to address contemporary grand challenges with any degree of seriousness.

Originality/value
The authors invite further research to propose new attempts to fix “bad” capitalism that also involve a rethinking of the way companies reward corporate elites and redistribute their gains.
Understanding the determinants of festival attendee spending: the role of cultural capital
Authors: Báez-Montenegro Andrea , Devesa María 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore which factors determine visitor spending at a cultural festival, focusing particularly on cultural capital variables.Design/methodology/approachThe case study is the Valdivia International Film Festival. Data from a survey conducted amongst a representative sample of attendees at the festival is used and ordinary least square (OLS) and Tobit regression models are applied.FindingsSix of the variables included from the model prove statistically significant: gender, age, place of residence, participation in other activities at the festival, and “leisure and sharing” motivation.Practical implicationsFestival organisers should draw up a programme and prepare activities that are balanced so as to attract local film lovers, but that should also appeal to outside visitors, who would see the festival as an opportunity to enjoy a wider tourist experience, all of which would have a broader economic impact on the city.Originality/valueUnderstanding which factors determine spending leads to an improvement in the event's viability and ensures its future sustainability. This study adds to the growing literature establishing a sound theoretical corpus on the topic.
Prioritization of financial performance determinants in Indian SMEs
Authors: Vyas Vishal , Jain Priyanka 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThis study aims to quantify and prioritize the financial performance (FP) determinants in Indian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachAnalytic hierarchy process, a multi-criteria decision-making tool, was used. Experts were allowed to express the opinion regarding the relative importance of each factor and sub-factors by making pairwise comparisons through a structured questionnaire based on a nine-point scale.FindingsMarket orientation (0.4529) was perceived as the most important FP determinant followed by the entrepreneurial orientation (0.3382) and corporate social responsibility (0.2089) in SMEs.Research limitations/implicationsThis study can be considered as a pilot study because it is confined to Indian SMEs. Future research studies can incorporate the opinion or insights of other stakeholders and may target the SMEs situated in different geographical areas.Practical implicationsThe inferences drawn in this study would clarify the conceptual and contextual applicability of competitive strategies in SMEs. Indeed, proposed hierarchy and developed framework would guide the SMEs in strategic planning. Moreover, it would help in repositioning and alignment of core strategies duly with business objectives.Originality/valueThe study represents the foremost step and a unique effort in the area of development of hypothetical model (a hierarchal model) with the framework considered to prioritize the FP determinants in SMEs.
Internal marketing, service quality and perceived customer satisfaction
Authors: De Bruin Leigh , Roberts-Lombard Mornay , De Meyer-Heydenrych Christine 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThis study aims to explore the extent to which internal marketing influences employees’ perceived ability to deliver service quality in the Islamic banking industry in Oman. Additionally, the influence of perceived service quality on perceived customer satisfaction is established.Design/methodology/approachData was obtained from retail banking branch employees at the customer front line of Islamic banks in Oman using electronic and person-administered surveys, and 272 responses were deemed suitable for data analysis. The measurement and structural models were measured through structural equation modelling.FindingsThe findings show that internal promotion, internal process and internal purpose are enablers of employees’ perceived ability to deliver service quality in the Islamic banking industry of Oman. In addition, service quality was found to have a strong positive influence on perceived customer satisfaction in Islamic banks.Research limitations/implicationsThis study demonstrates that internal product, internal price, internal promotion, internal process and internal purpose are influencers of service quality, and the latter has a direct relationship with perceived customer satisfaction in Islamic banking.Practical implicationsThe findings can guide the Islamic banking sector in Oman on how internal marketing can foster service quality, ultimately leading to positive perceived customer satisfaction experiences.Originality/valueThe internal marketing mix model is predominately a Western model, which has been tested primarily in mature Western markets. This study reflects on ten internal marketing mix elements, which have been tested for the enablement of service quality and perceived customer satisfaction in Oman.
Financial information in the context of anti-money laundering
Authors: Pavlidis George 
Published: March 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to examine three important interrelated issues that arise in the context of financial investigations: the access of law enforcement agencies to centralised bank account registries that have been set up in several jurisdictions; the exchange of financial information between financial intelligence units (FIUs) that function in different jurisdictions; and the exchange of financial information between FIUs and law enforcement bodies. Through the adoption of Directive 2019/1153, the European Union (EU) has attempted to achieve a paradigm shift in these three areas, but many challenges remain, from the interconnection of registries to the implementation of adequate data protection safeguards.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper draws on primary sources of law, legal scholarship, reports and open source data to analyse the changes that Directive 2019/1153 has brought about in conducting financial investigations in the area of anti-money laundering (AML) and the counter-financing of terrorism (CFT).

Findings
The new Directive 2019/1153 constitutes an international model for broadening the access of law enforcement agencies to financial information and facilitating information exchanges between FIUs and law enforcement agencies. Nevertheless, many challenges have still to be addressed, such as the interconnection of centralised registries and the implementation of adequate safeguards.

Originality/value
This is a comprehensive study examining the new EU framework for access to financial information and information exchanges between FIUs and law enforcement agencies, which can be used as a model for international cooperation in the areas of AML/CFT.
Development of the critical success decision criteria for an equitable order sharing in an extended enterprise
Authors: Taifa Ismail W.R. , Hayes Steve G. , Stalker Iain Duncan 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThis study identifies and ranks the appropriate critical success decision criteria (CSDC) for the bulk order distribution (sharing) amongst multiple manufacturers (suppliers) working as an extended enterprise (EE).Design/methodology/approachThe study deploys a qualitative approach to generate the appropriate decision criteria. The balanced scorecard and Pareto's chart (using Minitab®version 18) were used for gathering and analysing the pertinent criteria.FindingsThe process of evaluating and selecting the right manufacturers is essential. Manufacturer (supplier) selection is no longer decided solely based on cost/price criterion; currently, the quality and delivery criteria prevail. Additional incorporated criteria include price/cost, technical capability, production facilities and capacity, customer satisfaction and impression, geographical location, management and organisation, financial position, environmental concern, performance history, repair service, information technology and communication systems, procedural compliance, labour relation record, reputation, flexibility or diversification, attitude, operating controls, business desire, packaging ability, past business records, trust and loyalty, training aids, complaint handling service, warranties and claim policies, reciprocal arrangements, research and development and innovation, modern slavery concern, sustainable capability, collaborative/partnership and responsiveness. The study proposed a conceptual framework of an EE alongside how manufacturers working as a single virtual entity can consider the supply chain operations reference (SCOR®) model.Research limitations/implicationsThe identified CSDC are suitable for order allocation to domestic manufacturers. The deployed approaches could be extended to the mixed and quantitative approaches for increasing the generalisability.Originality/valueThe study establishes the pertinent CSDC that are important to execute equitable order distribution to manufacturers in an EE framework.
Another chemolithotrophic metabolism missing in nature: sulfur comproportionation
Authors: Amend Jan P. , Aronson Heidi S. , Macalady Jennifer , LaRowe Douglas E. 
Published: March 2020

SummaryChemotrophic microorganisms gain energy for cellular functions by catalyzing oxidation–reduction (redox) reactions that are out of equilibrium. Calculations of the Gibbs energy (
ΔG
r) can identify whether a reaction is thermodynamically favourable and quantify the accompanying energy yield at the temperature, pressure and chemical composition in the system of interest. Based on carefully calculated values of
ΔG
r, we predict a novel microbial metabolism – sulfur comproportionation (3H2S + + 2H+ ⇌ 4S0 + 4H2O). We show that at elevated concentrations of sulfide and sulfate in acidic environments over a broad temperature range, this putative metabolism can be exergonic (
ΔG
r<0), yielding ~30–50 kJ mol−1. We suggest that this may be sufficient energy to support a chemolithotrophic metabolism currently missing from the literature. Other versions of this metabolism, comproportionation to thiosulfate (H2S + ⇌ + H2O) and to sulfite (H2S + 3 ⇌ 4 + 2H+), are only moderately exergonic or endergonic even at ideal geochemical conditions. Natural and impacted environments, including sulfidic karst systems, shallow‐sea hydrothermal vents, sites of acid mine drainage, and acid–sulfate crater lakes, may be ideal hunting grounds for finding microbial sulfur comproportionators.
Health technology identities and self. Patients’ appropriation of an assistive device for self‐management of chronic illness
Authors: Wienroth Matthias , Lund Holm Thomsen Louise , Høstgaard Anna Marie 
Published: March 2020

AbstractIn recent years, assistive technologies have gained acceptance as tools for supporting chronically ill patients in achieving improvements in physical activity. However, various healthcare and sociological studies show contradicting results regarding the physical and social impact of using such devices. This paper explores real‐time user appropriation of an assistive monitoring/tracking device, the pedometer, in a healthcare intervention, with a particular focus on the technology identities users attribute to the pedometer. The study site was a rehabilitation programme at a local Danish health centre supporting patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. As part of this empirical study, six focus‐group interviews were conducted with patients before and after they used pedometers. The analysis of respondents’ accounts shows that monitoring devices become part of users’ complex socio‐technical ensembles in which the use of the device and its tracking of activity is constantly negotiated through experimentation with type and frequency of use; interpretation of knowledge and experience gained via the device; and negotiation of expectations, wellbeing, and the value of quantified knowledge for the management of chronic illness. On the basis of these findings the paper brings together and advances sociological scholarship on chronic illness, embodiment, the quantified self and technology adoption.
Association of a national insurer's reference‐based pricing program and choice of imaging facility, spending, and utilization
Authors: Sinaiko Anna D. , Mehrotra Ateev 
Published: March 2020

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the association of a national insurer's reference‐based pricing (RBP), program for outpatient advanced imaging—a benefit design to encourage patients to choose lower‐price facilities.Data Source/Study SettingAdministrative and medical claims data for three self‐insured employers that introduced RBP and a comparison group without RBP.Study DesignDifference‐in‐difference comparison of pre‐RBP (2014) and post‐RBP (2015‐6) care between intervention and comparison groups.Data Collection/Extraction MethodWe identified 137 680 imaging procedures (4602 intervention group; 133 078 comparison group) in 2014‐2016.Principal FindingsIn the first post‐RBP year (2015), there was no change in choice of facility; by the second year, RBP‐exposed enrollees were 21.9 pp (95% CI: 18.5, 25.3) more likely to choose a lower‐priced facility and net prices were $101.05 (95% CI: −$130.65, −$71.46), a difference of 8.1 percent lower. RBP was associated with higher patient out‐of‐pocket spending in the first post‐RBP year ($31.82; 95% CI: $10.91, $52.73). There was no change in utilization, and higher‐priced providers did not lower prices in the postperiod. Net savings represented 0.3 percent of outpatient spending.ConclusionsReference‐based pricing for advanced imaging was associated with a shift to lower‐priced facilities, but net impact on outpatient spending was modest. Patients paid increased out‐of‐pocket costs, though the amount declined after the first year of the program.