bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Indoor multiuser visible light communication systems using Hadamard-coded modulation
Authors: Lian Jie , Noshad Mohammad , Brandt-Pearce Maïté 
Published: March 2020

Visible light communications (VLC) is a short-range optical wireless communication technology that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as lighting devices and data transmitters. This paper describes a multiuser VLC system using Hadamard-coded modulation (HCM) for indoor data transmission. Considering the peak transmitted power limit of the LEDs, a DC-reduced HCM (DCR-HCM) is used to reduce the nonlinear clipping distortion. Since the Hadamard codewords have different bandwidth requirements for a given symbol rate, they can be assigned to users with varying hardware capabilities. Optimally assigning codewords to users is found to significantly improve the average throughput, up to twice higher than a random assignment for a typical scenario. When the number of active users is less than the size of the Hadamard matrix used, more than one codeword can be assigned per user, which further improves the throughput. This paper also examines a scenario where multiple lamps in an indoor space transmit the same data. Since the time of arrival for the received signals emitted from different lamps is different, the Hadamard codes received are no longer orthogonal, resulting in multiple access interference and inter-chip interference. The number of acceptable codewords is computed based on the specific interference experienced in different parts of the indoor space. The spatial distribution of the maximum throughput is also simulated, showing that the ratio of the maximum to the minimum data rate can be as high as 10 when considering the entire area of a typical indoor room.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Optical wireless communication’.
Organic semiconductors for visible light communications
Authors: Manousiadis Pavlos P. , Yoshida Kou , Turnbull Graham A. , Samuel Ifor D. W. 
Published: March 2020

Organic semiconductors are an important class of optoelectronic material that are widely studied because of the scope for tuning their properties by tuning their chemical structure, and simple fabrication to make flexible films and devices. Although most effort has focused on developing displays and lighting from these materials, their distinctive properties also make them of interest for visible light communications (VLCs). This article explains how their properties make them suitable for VLC and reviews the main uses that have been explored. On the transmitter side, record white VLC communication has been achieved by using organic semiconductors as colour converters, while direct modulation of organic light-emitting diodes is also possible and could be of interest for display-to-display communication. On the receiver side, organic solar cells can be used to harvest power and data simultaneously, and fluorescent antennas enable fast and sensitive receivers with large field of view.
This article is part of the theme issue ‘Optical wireless communication’.
Comparison of the performance of the Panther Fusion respiratory virus panel to R-Gene and laboratory developed tests for diagnostic and hygiene screening specimens from the upper and lower respiratory tract
Authors: Ganzenmueller Tina , Kaiser Rolf , Baier Claas , Wehrhane Marlies , Hilfrich Brigitta , Witthuhn Jenny , Flucht Sandra , Heim Albert 
Published: March 2020

Introduction.Diagnosis of acute respiratory infections (ARIs) can be facilitated by the Panther Fusion (PF) automatic, random access PCR system for the detection of influenzavirus A (Flu A) and B (Flu B), parainfluenzavirus (Paraflu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), human metapneumovirus (hMPV), rhinovirus (RV) and human adenovirus (AdV) in nasopharyngeal swabs.Aim.To evaluate the performance of PF in comparison with established methods, including subsets of (1) lower respiratory tract (LRT) specimens and (2) upper respiratory tract (URT) hygiene screening specimens of patients without ARI symptoms.Methodology.The performance characteristics of PF were compared with bioMérieux R-Gene and laboratory-developed PCR tests (LDTs). Overall, 1544 specimens with 6658 individual diagnostic requests were analysed.Results.The overall concordances of PF and LDTs for Flu A, Flu B and AdV were 98.4, 99.9 and 96.1%, respectively; by re-testing of discrepant specimens concordances increased to 99.4, 99.9 and 98.0%, respectively. Initial concordances of PF and R-Gene assays for RSV, Paraflu, hMPV and RV were 98.4, 96.3, 99.3 and 96.0%, respectively, and retest concordances were 99.7, 97.9, 99.9 and 98.9%, respectively. No differences to the overall performance were found for the subgroups of LRT and hygiene screening specimens. PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values correlated very well between methods, indicating that a semi-quantitative diagnostic approach using Ct values (e.g. highly vs. weakly positive) could augment the diagnostic information.Conclusion.PF performed similar to R-Gene and LDTs not only for its intended use but also for LRT and hygiene screening specimens with shorter hands-on and turnaround times.
Screening of FDA-approved drugs using a MERS-CoV clinical isolate from South Korea identifies potential therapeutic options for COVID-19
Authors: Ko Meehyun , Chang So Young , Byun Soo Young , Ianevski Aleksandr , Choi Inhee , d’Alexandry d’Orengiani Anne-Laure Pham Hung , Kainov Denis E. , Shum David , Min Ji-Young , Windisch Marc P. 
Published: March 2020

AbstractTherapeutic options for coronavirus remain limited. To address this unmet medical need, we screened 5,406 compounds, including United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA)- approved drugs and bioactives, for activity against a South Korean Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) clinical isolate. Among 221 identified hits, 54 had therapeutic indexes (TI) greater than 6. Time-of-addition studies with selected drugs demonstrated eight and four FDA-approved drugs acted on the early and late stages of the viral life cycle, respectively. Confirmed hits included several cardiotonic agents (TI>100), atovaquone, an anti-malarial (TI>34), and ciclosonide, an inhalable corticosteroid (TI>6). Furthermore, utilizing the severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2), combinations of remedesivir with selected dugs were evaluated, which identified ciclosonide and nelfinavir to be additive and synergistic drugsin vitro, respectively. Together, we screened FDA-approved drugs using patient-derived MERS-CoV, triaged hits to discriminate between early and late viral life cycle inhibitors, confirmed selected drugs using SARS-CoV-2, and demonstrated the added value of selected medications in combination with remedesivir. Our results identify potential therapeutic options for MERS-CoV infections, and provide a basis to treat coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other coronavirus-related illnesses.
A machine learning-based model for survival prediction in patients with severe COVID-19 infection
Authors: Yan Li , Zhang Hai-Tao , Goncalves Jorge , Xiao Yang , Wang Maolin , Guo Yuqi , Sun Chuan , Tang Xiuchuan , Jin Liang , Zhang Mingyang , Huang Xiang , Xiao Ying , Cao Haosen , Chen Yanyan , Ren Tongxin , Wang Fang , Xiao Yaru , Huang Sufang , Tan Xi , Huang Niannian , Jiao Bo , Zhang Yong , Luo Ailin , Mombaerts Laurent , Jin Junyang , Cao Zhiguo , Li Shusheng , Xu Hui , Yuan Ye 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe sudden increase of COVID-19 cases is putting a high pressure on healthcare services worldwide. At the current stage, fast, accurate and early clinical assessment of the disease severity is vital. To support decision making and logistical planning in healthcare systems, this study leverages a database of blood samples from 404 infected patients in the region of Wuhan, China to identify crucial predictive biomarkers of disease severity. For this purpose, machine learning tools selected three biomarkers that predict the survival of individual patients with more than 90% accuracy: lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), lymphocyte and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). In particular, relatively high levels of LDH alone seem to play a crucial role in distinguishing the vast majority of cases that require immediate medical attention. This finding is consistent with current medical knowledge that high LDH levels are associated with tissue breakdown occurring in various diseases, including pulmonary disorders such as pneumonia. Overall, this paper suggests a simple and operable formula to quickly predict patients at the highest risk, allowing them to be prioritised and potentially reducing the mortality rate.FundingNone.
Optimal tuning of weighted kNN- and diffusion-based methods for denoising single cell genomics data
Authors: Tjärnberg Andreas , Mahmood Omar , Jackson Christopher A , Saldi Giuseppe-Antonio , Cho Kyunghyun , Christiaen Lionel A , Bonneau Richard A 
Published: March 2020

AbstractThe analysis of single-cell genomics data presents several statistical challenges, and extensive efforts have been made to produce methods for the analysis of this data that impute missing values, address sampling issues and quantify and correct for noise. In spite of such efforts, no consensus on best practices has been established and all current approaches vary substantially based on the available data and empirical tests. The k-Nearest Neighbor Graph (kNN-G) is often used to infer the identities of, and relationships between, cells and is the basis of many widely used dimensionality-reduction and projection methods. The kNN-G has also been the basis for imputation methods using,e.g., neighbor averaging and graph diffusion. However, due to the lack of an agreed-upon optimal objective function for choosing hyperparameters, these methods tend to oversmooth data, thereby resulting in a loss of information with regard to cell identity and the specific gene-to-gene patterns underlying regulatory mechanisms. In this paper, we investigate the tuning of kNN- and diffusion-based denoising methods with a novel non-stochastic method for optimally preserving biologically relevant informative variance in single-cell data. The framework,Denoising Expression data with a Weighted Affinity Kernel and Self-Supervision(DEWÄKSS), uses a self-supervised technique to tune its parameters. We demonstrate that denoising with optimal parameters selected by our objective function (i) is robust to preprocessing methods using data from established benchmarks, (ii) disentangles cellular identity and maintains robust clusters over dimension-reduction methods, (iii) maintains variance along several expression dimensions, unlike previous heuristic-based methods that tend to oversmooth data variance, and (iv) rarely involves diffusion but rather uses a fixed weighted kNN graph for denoising. Together, these findings provide a new understanding of kNN- and diffusion-based denoising methods and serve as a foundation for future research. Code and example data for DEWÄKSS is available athttps://gitlab.com/Xparx/dewakss/-/tree/Tjarnberg2020branch.
In defence of critical realism: a reply to Baxter and Chua and Andrew and Baker
Authors: Modell Sven 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThis is a reply to the commentaries by Baxter and Chua (2020) and Andrew and Baker (2020) on a paper previously published in this journal.Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual discussion that further clarifies the differences between critical realism (CR), actor–network theory (ANT) and traditional Marxist thought as a basis for critical accounting research.FindingsThe relative merits of CR as a basis for critical accounting research are further elucidated in the light of the criticisms raised in the commentaries. In particular, the discussion of its role as a counterweight to the legacy of empiricism that hampers the possibilities of advancing radical social critique and emancipation is further developed.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper clarifies what CR can and cannot do for the critical accounting project and how it may be further developed as a vehicle for emancipation.Originality/valueThe paper extends the debate about what critical accounting research is and could be.
The influence of perceived social media marketing elements on consumer–brand engagement and brand knowledge
Authors: Cheung Man Lai , Pires Guilherme , Rosenberger Philip J. 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThis paper investigates the impact of social-media marketing elements, namely entertainment, customisation, interaction, electronic word-of-mouth (EWOM) and trendiness, on consumer–brand engagement and brand knowledge.Design/methodology/approachUsing an online survey, the study collects data in Hong Kong from 214 experienced social-media users, as indicated by their consumption of a durable technology product, a smartphone. We used partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS–SEM) to test the links between social-media marketing elements, consumer–brand engagement and brand knowledge.FindingsThe results reveal that interaction, electronic word-of-mouth and trendiness are the key elements directly influencing consumer brand engagement, then strengthening brand awareness and brand knowledge. This contrasts with the non-significant results found for the influence of entertainment and customisation on consumer–brand engagement.Research limitations/implicationsHaving cross-sectional nature, the study focuses on one single product, smartphones, at one location, Hong Kong. Future research may enhance the generalisability of the findings by replication in other countries with diverse cultures, such as countries in Latin America and Africa and examine other industries and other products, such as the service sector and convenience products with a low involvement level.Practical implicationsMarketers may strengthen consumer–brand engagement by using content that is trendy, along with encouraging interaction and positive EWOM on social-media platforms, in order to build strong and positive brand knowledge in consumers' minds.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the branding literature by providing an understanding of the role of social-media marketing elements in the brand-building process. Social media is a marketing channel recognised by its effectiveness in communicating brand-related information and its role as a means to stimulate consumers' brand engagement and brand knowledge. However, how effective these elements are for these purposes remains to be established. By empirically testing a theoretical model, this study confirms that specific social-media marketing elements, namely interaction, EWOM and trendiness, are critical drivers in the brand-building process in Hong Kong.
Expanding customer engagement: the role of negative engagement, dual valences and contexts
Authors: Naumann Kay , Bowden Jana , Gabbott Mark 
Published: March 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to operationalise and measure the effects of negative customer engagement (CE) in conjunction with positive CE. Both valences are explored through affective, cognitive and behaviour dimensions, and, in relation to the antecedent of involvement and outcome of word-of-mouth (WOM). It also explores the moderating influence of service context by examining engagement within a social service versus a social networking site (SNS). Engagement with the dual focal objects of a service brand and a service community are also examined.Design/methodology/approachStructural equation modelling is used to analyse 625 survey responses.FindingsInvolvement is a strong driver of positive CE, and positive CE has a strong effect on WOM. These findings are consistent across the “brand” and “community” object, suggesting positive CE is mutually reinforced by different objects in a relationship. Positive CE is also found to operate consistently across the service types. Involvement is a moderately negative driver of negative CE, and negative CE is a positive driver of WOM. These relationships operate differently across the objects and service types. Involvement has a stronger inverse effect on negative CE for the social service, diverging from assumptions that negative CE is reflective of highly involved customers. Interestingly, negative CE has a stronger effect on WOM in the social service, highlighting the active and vocal nature of customers within this service context.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to quantitatively measure positive and negative valences of engagement concurrently, and examine the moderating effect of dual objects across contrasting service types.
Audience leisure involvement, satisfaction and behavior intention at the Macau Science Center
Authors: Li Zhi , Ge Yuemeng , Su Zegang , Huang Xiaohua 
Published: March 2020

Purpose
This study aims to analyze the basic information of visitors of the Macau Science Center to assess their leisure involvement, satisfaction and behavioral intention, along with the interaction of these factors. Suggestions are made for museum policy modifications to improve visitor experience quality.

Design/methodology/approach
The analysis methods used in this study included reliability, descriptive statistics, independent-samples t test, ANOVA, correlation analysis and regression analysis.

Findings
The results showed that there was no significant relationship between gender and satisfaction, involvement of leisure or behavioral intention; age and educational level had significant impacts on satisfaction, leisure involvement and behavioral intention; significant differences were found in terms of visitors’ point of geographic origin, namely, local residents, mainland residents and Hong Kong residents; occupation was found to have no significant impact on satisfaction, leisure involvement or behavioral intention; monthly income was found to have no significant impact on leisure involvement and behavioral intention, but did have a significant impact on satisfaction; number of visits had no significant impact; there was no significant difference in leisure involvement and behavioral intention among different types of visitors, but there was a significant difference in terms of satisfaction; and significant correlations were found between leisure involvement and behavioral intentions.

Originality/value
The value of this study is to identify problems and offer potential solutions for the improvement of the Macau Science Center by studying the leisure involvement, satisfaction and behavioral intention of museum visitors. The proposed measures can improve the visibility and quality of the science museum, attract additional visitors and improve Macau’s branding through promoting science education and tourism.
Building and property management framework for state schools in New Zealand
Authors: Le An Thi Hoai , Domingo Niluka , Rasheed Eziaku Onyeizu , Park Kenneth Sungho 
Published: March 2020

Purpose
This paper aims to develop an integrated and comprehensive framework for building and property management (BAPM) for state schools in New Zealand. The results are expected to clarify the complicated process and provide a guide for school boards to manage their property effectively and efficiently. It also seeks to explore the relationship between the key stakeholders and how this impacts the BAPM.

Design/methodology/approach
In addition, to review literature, qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews with 16 top managers in state schools. The data analysis results were used to develop the framework using the integration definition for process modelling.

Findings
The findings contribute to understanding the processes in the BAPM in state schools of school board members by adding input, output, control and mechanism elements in each activity of the processes. The systematic models with main activities and people involved are presented as a guide for school boards in state schools in New Zealand. Challenges and issues in the processes are also identified to draw further study for both school boards and the Ministry of Education.

Research limitations/implications
The research was conducted with the participation of stakeholders who are sampled from top managers in state schools in New Zealand. A larger scale of participants from other schools may generalise the findings further.

Practical implications
The research findings are based on the needs and requirements of the stakeholders to understand, implement and control the BAPM for their schools and aid them to achieve the best value for money spending on the management.

Originality/value
The paper highlights the complexity of the BAPM in schools, presents the roles and responsibilities of the school stakeholders and proposes a systematic framework to assist the school managers in this management process.
The impact of life cycle stage on firm acquisitions
Authors: Ames Daniel , Coyne Joshua , Kim Kevin 
Published: March 2020

Purpose
The purpose of the authors’ research study is to identify the impact of life cycle stage on firm acquisitions.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors use a series of empirical databases to identify characteristics of acquirers and their targets. The authors then use logistic regressions and joint tests to identify significant differences between declining and non-declining acquirers.

Findings
The authors find that declining acquirers are more likely to pursue diversifying acquisitions and to pay for the acquisition with stock considerations. Acquisitions by declining acquirers result in positive abnormal returns initially, but post-acquisition returns are negative.

Research limitations/implications
The authors’ primary limitation is their data, which only includes public acquirers and targets, and runs from January 1, 1988 to December 31, 2010.

Practical implications
The authors’ research suggests that regulators, stakeholders and prospective stakeholders should consider the life cycle stage of an acquiring firm in setting expectations about motivations for and likely performance subsequent to the acquisition.

Originality/value
The authors’ paper is the first to consider the effect of firm life cycle stage on the motivation and subsequent success of an acquisition. Given the tremendous impact to shareholders of such significant transactions, understanding the acquisition process more completely is important to capital markets participants.
Exploring the antecedents and consequences of impersonal trust
Authors: Safari Ali , Barzoki Ali Shaemi , Heidari Aqagoli Parisa 
Published: March 2020

PurposeTrust and impersonal trust, in particular, are of significant importance both for organizations and for innovative personnel, who are regarded human assets to organizations. The purpose of this study is to investigate the antecedents and consequences of impersonal trust in organizations.Design/methodology/approachThe population of this study constituted the managers, specialists and personnel of a pharmaceutical company in Iran. Out of a total of 200 questionnaires having been administered, 187 were returned; and structural equation modelling (SEM) was used for data analysis.FindingsThe findings of the study indicate that personal learning has a significant positive effect (β= 0.64) on impersonal trust, that interpersonal communication has a significant positive effect (β= 0.14) on impersonal trust, and that organizational justice perception, also, has a significant positive effect (β= 0.14) on impersonal trust. In addition, the findings show that impersonal trust has a significant positive effect both on job satisfaction (β= 0.47) and on innovation (B = 0.42) and job satisfaction has a significant positive effect (β= 0.39) on innovation. Moreover, impersonal trust, through job satisfaction, has a significant indirect effect (β= 0.18) on innovation; and personal learning, through organizational justice perception, does not have a significant indirect effect (β= 0.014) on impersonal trust.Originality/valueThis study is among only a few studies having investigated the antecedents and consequences of impersonal trust together. Also, in a developing country like Iran, impersonal trust has rarely been studied.