bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Insights on the assembly rules of a continent-wide multilayer network
Authors: Mello Marco A. R. , Felix Gabriel M. , Pinheiro Rafael B. P. , Muylaert Renata L. , Geiselman Cullen , Santana Sharlene E. , Tschapka Marco , Lotfi Nastaran , Rodrigues Francisco A. , Stevens Richard D. 
Published: October 2018

Introductory paragraphHow are ecological systems assembled? Here, we aim to contribute to answering this question by harnessing the framework of a novel integrative hypothesis. We shed light on the assembly rules of a multilayer network formed by frugivory and nectarivory interactions between bats and plants in the Neotropics. Our results suggest that, at a large scale, phylogenetic trade-offs separate species into different layers and modules. At an intermediate scale, the modules are also shaped by geographic trade-offs. And at a small scale, the network shifts to a nested structure within its modules, probably as a consequence of resource breadth processes. Finally, once the topology of the network is shaped, morphological traits related to consuming fruits or nectar determine which species are central or peripheral. Our results help understand how different processes contribute to the assemblage of ecological systems at different scales, resulting in a compound topology.
Fitness Benefits of Loss of Heterozygosity in SaccharomycesHybrids
Authors: Lancaster Samuel M. , Payen Celia , Heil Caiti Smukowski , Dunham Maitreya J. 
Published: October 2018

ABSTRACTWith two genomes in the same organism, interspecific hybrids have unique opportunities and costs. In both plants and yeasts, wild, pathogenic, and domesticated hybrids may eliminate portions of one parental genome, a phenomenon known as loss of heterozygosity (LOH). Laboratory evolution of hybrid yeast recapitulates these results, with LOH occurring in just a few hundred generations of propagation. In this study, we systematically looked for alleles that are beneficial when lost in order to determine how prevalent this mode of adaptation may be, and to determine candidate loci that might underlie the benefits of larger-scale chromosome rearrangements. These aims were accomplished by matingSaccharomyces uvarumwith theS. cerevisiaedeletion collection to create hybrids, such that each nonessentialS. cerevisiaeallele is deleted. Competitive fitness assays of these pooled, barcoded, hemizygous strains, and accompanying controls, revealed a large number of loci for which LOH is beneficial. We found that the fitness effects of hemizygosity are dependent on the species context, the selective environment, and the species origin of the deleted allele. Further, we found that hybrids have a larger distribution of fitness consequences vs. matchedS. cerevisiaehemizygous diploids. Our results suggest that LOH can be a successful strategy for adaptation of hybrids to new environments, and we identify candidate loci that drive the chromosomal rearrangements observed in evolution of yeast hybrids.
Potentiating α2 subunit containing perisomatic GABAA receptors protects against seizures in a mouse model of Dravet Syndrome
Authors: Nomura Toshihiro , Hawkins Nicole A. , Kearney Jennifer A. , George Alfred L. , Contractor Anis 
Published: October 2018

AbstractGABAA receptor potentiators are commonly used for the treatment of epilepsy, but it is not clear whether distinct GABAA receptor subtypes contribute to seizure activity, and whether targeting receptor subtypes will have disproportionate benefit over adverse effects. Here we demonstrate that the α2 / α3 selective positive allosteric modulator (PAM) AZD7325 preferentially potentiates hippocampal inhibitory responses at synapses proximal to the soma of CA1 neurons. The effect of AZD7325 on synaptic responses was more prominent in mice on the 129S6/SvEvTac background strain that has been demonstrated to be seizure resistant in the model of Dravet syndrome (Scn1a+/−) and in which the α2 GABAA receptor subunits are higher relative to in the C57BL/6J strain. Consistent with this, treatment of mice with AZD7325 is associated with a higher temperature threshold for hyperthermia-induced seizures in Scn1a+/− mice without apparent sedative effects. Our results in a model system indicate that selective targeting α2 is a potential therapeutic option for Dravet syndrome.
Reporting of “dialysis adequacy” as an outcome in randomised trials conducted in adults on haemodialysis: a systematic review
Authors: Steyaert Sanne , Holvoet Els , Nagler Evi , Malfait Simon , Van Biesen Wim 
Published: October 2018

ABSTRACTBackgroundClinical trials are most informative for evidence-based decision-making when they consistently measure and report outcomes of relevance to stakeholders, especially patients, clinicians, and policy makers. However, sometimes terminology used is interpreted differently by different stakeholders, which might lead to confusion during shared decision making. The constructdialysis adequacyis frequently used, suggesting it is an important outcome both for health care professionals as for patients.ObjectiveTo assess the scope and consistency of the constructdialysis adequacyas reported in randomised controlled trials in hemodialysis, and evaluate whether these align to the insights and understanding of this construct by patients.MethodsTo assess scope and consistency ofdialysis adequacyby professionals, we performed a systematic review searching the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) up to July 2017. We identified all randomised controlled trails (RCT) including patients on hemodialysis and reportingdialysis adequacy,adequacyoradequacy of dialysisand extracted and classified all reported outcomes. To explore interpretation and meaning of the construct ofadequacyby patients, we conducted 10 semi-structured interviews with HD patients using thematic analysis. Belgian registration number B670201731001.FindingsFrom the 31 included trials, we extracted and classified 98 outcome measures defined by the authors asadequacy of dialysis, of which 94 (95%) were biochemical, 3 (3%) non-biochemical surrogate and 2 (2%) patient-relevant. The three most commonly reported measures were all biochemical. None of the studies definedadequacy of dialysisas a patient relevant outcome such as survival or quality of life.Patients had a substantially different understanding of the constructdialysis adequacythan the biochemical interpretation reported in the literature. Being alive, time spent while being on dialysis, fatigue and friendliness of staff were the most prominent themes that patients linked to the construct ofdialysis adequacy.Conclusion Adequacy of dialysisas reported in the literature refers to biochemical outcome measures, most of which are not related with patient relevant outcomes. For patients, adequate dialysis is a dialysis that enables them to spend as much quality time in their life as possible.
Chronosequence and direct observation approaches reveal complementary community dynamics in a novel ecosystem
Authors: Kulmatiski Andrew , Beard Karen H. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractNon-native, early-successional plants have been observed to maintain dominance for decades, particularly in semi-arid systems. Here, two approaches were used to detect potentially slow successional patterns in an invaded semi-arid system: chronosequence and direct observation. Plant communities in 25 shrub-steppe sites that represented a 50-year chronosequence of agricultural abandonment were monitored for 13 years. Each site contained a field abandoned from agriculture (ex-arable) and an adjacent never-tilled field. Ex-arable fields were dominated by short-lived, non-native plants. These ‘weedy’ communities had lower species richness, diversity and ground cover, and greater annual and forb cover than communities in never-tilled fields. Never-tilled fields were dominated by long-lived native plants. Across the chronosquence, plant community composition remained unchanged in both ex-arable and never-tilled fields. In contrast, 13 years of direct observation detected directional changes in plant community composition in both field types. Despite changes in community composition in both field types during direct observation, there was little evidence that native plants were invading ex-arable fields or that non-native plants were invading never-tilled fields. The more-controlled, direct observation approach was more sensitive to changes in community composition, but the chronosequence approach suggested that these changes are unlikely to manifest over longer time periods, at least in part because of disturbances in the system. Results highlight the long-term consequences of soil disturbance and the difficulty of restoring native perennials in disturbed semi-arid systems.Nomenclature: Hitchcock and Cronquist (1973) for plants.
Maternal and zygotic gene regulatory effects of endogenous RNAi pathways
Authors: Almeida Miguel Vasconcelos , Jesus Domingues António Miguel de , Ketting René F. 
Published: October 2018

AbstractEndogenous small RNAs (sRNAs) and Argonaute proteins are ubiquitous regulators of gene expression in germline and somatic tissues. sRNA-Argonaute complexes are often expressed in gametes and are consequently inherited by the next generation upon fertilization. InCaenorhabditis elegans, 26G-RNAs are primary endogenous sRNAs that trigger the expression of downstream secondary sRNAs. Two subpopulations of 26G-RNAs exist, each of which displaying strongly compartmentalized expression: one is expressed in the spermatogenic gonad and associates with the Argonautes ALG-3/4; plus another expressed in oocytes and in embryos, which associates with the Argonaute ERGO-1. The determinants and dynamics of gene silencing elicited by 26G-RNAs are largely unknown. Here, we provide diverse new insights into these endogenous sRNA pathways ofC. elegans. Using genetics and deep sequencing, we dissect a maternal effect of the ERGO-1 branch sRNA pathway. We find that maternal primary sRNAs can trigger the production of zygotic secondary sRNAs that are able to silence targets, even in the absence of zygotic primary triggers. Thus, the interaction of maternal and zygotic sRNA populations, assures target gene silencing throughout animal development. Furthermore, we find that sRNA abundance, the pattern of origin of sRNA and 3’ UTR length are predictors of the regulatory outcome by the Argonautes ALG-3/4. Lastly, we discovered that ALG-3- and ALG-4-bound 26G-RNAs are dampening the expression of their own mRNAs, revealing a negative feedback loop. Altogether, we provide several new regulatory insights on the dynamics, target regulation and self-regulation of the endogenous RNAi pathways ofC. elegans.Author SummarySmall RNAs (sRNAs) and their partner Argonaute proteins regulate the expression of target RNAs. When sperm and egg meet upon fertilization, a diverse set of proteins and RNA, including sRNA-Argonaute complexes, is passed on to the developing progeny. Thus, these two players are important to initiate specific gene expression programs in the next generation. The nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansexpresses several classes of sRNAs. 26G-RNAs are a particular class of sRNAs that are divided into two subpopulations: one expressed in the spermatogenic gonad and another expressed in oocytes and in embryos. In this work, we describe the dynamics whereby oogenic 26G-RNAs setup gene silencing in the next generation. We also show several ways that spermatogenic 26G-RNAs and their partner Argonautes, ALG-3 and ALG-4, use to regulate their targets. Finally, we show that ALG-3 and ALG-4 are fine-tuning their own expression, a rare role of Argonaute proteins. Overall, we provide new insights into how sRNAs and Argonautes are regulating gene expression.
Posting photos of luxury cuisine online: an exploratory study
Authors: Atwal Glyn , Bryson Douglas , Tavilla Valériane 
Published: October 2018

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the motives for posting or sharing food photos using social media, focussed within the context of fine dining (FD) restaurants.Design/methodology/approachEthnographic fieldwork was conducted in France by combining analysis of qualitative diary research and transcripts of focus group discussions.FindingsThe motivation to take food images can be broadly categorised according to experiential (hedonism, altruism and passion collecting) and symbolic (social status, uniqueness, self-esteem and self-presentation) benefits.Research limitations/implicationsThis research is limited by its relatively small sample size and the inability to consider the direct influences of demographic variables and attitudes to FD and social media. Moreover, the cultural context of the study needs to be considered as the study took place in France.Practical implicationsUser-generated images are increasingly an integral aspect of the holistic dining experience. Luxury restaurants need to leverage the opportunities of user-generated content. The FD experience needs to be visually captured and expressed. This can include both tangible and intangible attributes.Originality/valueAlthough the literature has provided a comprehensive overview of social media behaviour, the efficacy of a gastronomic perspective is limited. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate consumer-generated postings of images of food within the luxury restaurant classification.
Criticality of detailed staff turnover measurement
Authors: Gandy Robert , Harrison Patricia , Gold Jeff 
Published: October 2018

PurposeScrutiny of staff turnover in large organisations is traditionally reactive, involving benchmarking against peers at institution level. Not being an outlier tempts the inference that turnover is “satisfactory”. However, individual departments exhibiting varied, counterbalancing patterns might be masked; meaning situations that present challenges and require action could be missed. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the degree to which headline staff turnover can mask internal variations in a large post-1992 English university with over 2,000 staff.Design/methodology/approachThe methods scrutinised related mainstream benchmarking sources, and analysed turnover for both new recruits and staff leaving, as well as net turnover. Theinverted Nomogramma di Gandyhelped highlight overall patterns and identify outliers. Staff categories and characteristics examined included: age, gender, diversity, staff type and contractual status.FindingsIt was found that (wide) internal variations were masked between university departments and between different gender and age groups, with Generation Y presenting issues for future recruitment and retention. Localised high turnover rates were found, with particular issues involving research staff. A proactive approach is essential, analysing local data to reflect internal structures, and staff categories and characteristics. Understanding internal and external staff dynamics supports organisations to meet strategic aims and objectives, and target local action.Originality/valueThe approach and findings provided lessons for staff management relevant to universities, which are critical to many, if not most large organisations in the UK and internationally, particularly in times of uncertainty.
Strategic framework towards measuring a circular supply chain management
Authors: Jain Sourabh , Jain Nikunj Kumar , Metri Bhimaraya 
Published: October 2018

PurposeSustainability issues on economic, environmental and social perspectives have drawn attention of environmentalists, ecologists and governments. In this context, circular economy provides an opportunity to transform waste into resources, reduction of production and consumption activities; and reduction of carbon footprints, all at the same time. The purpose of this paper is to develop a strategic framework for measuring circular supply chain management.Design/methodology/approachA grounded theory approach has been used to develop the strategic framework for circular supply chain management.FindingsThis study provides an integrative framework for studying, designing and evaluating circular supply chain management performance matrix.Research limitations/implicationsA conceptual strategic framework has been proposed to measure the performance of circular supply chain management. Further empirical studies may be carried out to validate the framework.Practical implicationsThe conceptual strategic framework provides key indicators for reducing material consumption, reducing waste, reducing carbon footprint and recycling opportunities throughout the supply chain. These may be utilized by practitioners for gaining competitive advantage.Originality/valueThis paper provides insights into development of circular supply chains that provides opportunities for cost reduction and securing competitive advantage for a business in the long run.
Strategic action grids: a study on supply chain risk management in manufacturing industries in India
Authors: Shenoi V. Viswanath , Dath T.N. Srikantha , Rajendran C. , Shahabudeen P. 
Published: October 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide strategic recommendations to supply chain managers of Indian manufacturing industries for a robust supply chain related to risk management by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers in manufacturing industries to ensure a robust supply chain risk management (SCRM).

Design/methodology/approach
Importance-performance analysis (IPA) is utilized to identify and provide strategic recommendations to manufacturing industries for improving their supply chain performance by attaching due importance to risk constructs and appropriately choosing mitigation strategies.

Findings
The investigation using the strategic action grids reveals that most of the means of risks are near the point of intersection of the grand means of the risk constructs and their impact on the supply chain, indicating that all the risks have the equal likelihood of occurrence. The mean importance of risk monitoring, risk avoidance (RA) and risk sharing surpass the mean performance for both OEMs and suppliers.

Research limitations/implications
The study is executed with following limitations: the study assumes that the manufacturing industries across different sectors perceive similar risk. The sectors considered are automotive, heavy engineering, general engineering and home appliances. The Southern States of India are considered because of the dominant presence of many industries, especially automotive industries. However, it should be noted that these States form the manufacturing hubs where the lead organizations are functioning along with their major suppliers.

Practical implications
By understanding the importance of SCRM dimensions and utilization of these dimensions, firms can mitigate the impact of risk on the supply chain. The detailed study of SCRM strategies highlights the importance attached to risk factors, mitigation strategies, and top management commitment. By the implementation of SCRM strategies, supply chain managers can improve the firm’s performance.

Originality/value
The study involves empirically validated data on SCRM dimensions. The IPA is performed on the SCRM dimensions to investigate the importance attached to the factors of the dimensions and their performance.
Board gender diversity, corporate governance and bank efficiency in Ghana: a two stage data envelope analysis (DEA) approach
Authors: Adeabah David , Gyeke-Dako Agyapomaa , Andoh Charles 
Published: October 2018

PurposeThis study aims to analyze the efficiency of banks under board gender diversity and to examine the determinants of bank efficiency.Design/methodology/approachData for analysis were sourced from annual reports of 21 banks for the period from 2009 to 2017. A two-step framework was used: first, an examination of efficiency scores with and without board gender diversity computed using data envelopment analysis; and second, a regression of board gender diversity as a determinant of bank efficiency using panel estimation on an unbalanced panel data.FindingsThe results reveal that gender diversity promotes bank efficiency up to a maximum of two female directors on a nine-member board of directors, suggesting a threshold effect on bank efficiency. Board size improves bank efficiency. Board independence is negatively related to bank efficiency. Also, powerful chief executive officers are detrimental for bank efficiency. Finally, the authors find that ownership structure, bank size, bank age and loan-to-deposit ratio are important factors affecting bank efficiency.Research limitations/implicationsAll bank-year observations with no female representation on the board were excluded. As such, this paper is limited to 21 banks. Future research should look at a larger data set and account for dynamic endogeneity.Practical implicationsThe paper contributes to bank governance structure, namely, gender composition of boards, and provides an insight for regulators and shareholders to estimate the role of men and women on boards.Originality/valueThe novel feature of the efficiency model used is that it incorporates board gender diversity as an additional input variable, in line with the preposition of proponent of resource dependency theory.
Optimizing architects’ building materials’ specification strategy through knowledge management principles
Authors: Isah Abubakar Danladi , Muhammad Isa Bala , Katun Idris 
Published: October 2018

Purpose
This study aims to avail architects with the potentials of knowledge management (KM) principles towards an optimal and effective procedural mechanism for the choice of building materials during design and construction processes.

Design/methodology/approach
In all, 202 questionnaire forms were distributed in a survey. They were administered to practicing architects and Architectural firms in Nigeria. Thereafter, ANOVA, regression analysis and exploratory factor analysis with reliability and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.861 identified KM principles in specification writing for architects.

Findings
These findings show that the building material selection procedure can be optimized with efficient and conscious consideration of KM principles imbibed by architects in tune with global trends. The study serves as a guide to architects and other stakeholders on the effect of KM principles in deepening reflectiveness of the surpassing role of effective KM in specification writing in the construction industry.

Originality/value
This is perhaps the first empirical research that sought to understudy knowledge sharing strategies in architectural firms within the context of the study location Nigeria. The value of the research lies in optimization of architects’ building materials’ specification strategy through KM principles.