bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Adaptive plasticity generates microclines in threespine stickleback male nuptial color
Authors: Brock Chad D. , Cummings Molly E. , Bolnick Daniel I. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractAdaptive phenotypic divergence is typically studied across relatively broad spatial scales (continents, archipelagos, river basins) because at these scales we expect environmental differences to be strong, and the homogenizing effect of gene flow to be weak. However, phenotypic plasticity and phenotype-dependent habitat choice are additional mechanisms that could also drive adaptation across spatially variable environments. We present evidence for apparently adaptive phenotypic variation across surprisingly small spatial scales (<2 vertical meters) in the threespine stickleback. We find that male breeding coloration varies as a function of the lakes’ optical-depth gradient, and these small-scale clines (‘microclines’) appear to be an adaptive response to ambient light gradients, as male color changes predictably in the opposite direction (‘countergradient’) to ambient light spectral shifts. Using visual models and field enclosure experiments, we show that these microclines result from phenotypic plasticity that maintains male conspicuousness. Our results show that adaptive phenotypic clines can exist across small spatial scales, because phenotypic plasticity rapidly generates repeatable trait-environment correlations despite the overwhelming opportunity for gene flow. Furthermore, these results provide strong evidence that phenotypic plasticity in nuptial coloration is an important mechanism for adjusting the conspicuousness of a visual signal to conspecifics.
Sequential Super-Resolution Imaging using DNA Strand Displacement
Authors: Lidke Diane S. , Martin Cheyenne , Farzam Farzin , Edwards Jeremy S. , Pallikkuth Sandeep , Lakin Mathew R. , Lidke Keith A. 
Published: December 2017

AbstractSequential labeling and imaging in fluorescence microscopy allows the imaging of multiple structures in the same cell using a single fluorophore species. In super-resolution applications, the optimal dye suited to the method can be chosen, the optical setup can be simpler and there are no chromatic aberrations between images of different structures. We describe a method based on DNA strand displacement that can be used to quickly and easily perform the labeling and removal of the fluorophores during each sequence. Site-specific tags are conjugated with unique and orthogonal single stranded DNA. Labeling for a particular structure is achieved by hybridization of antibody-bound DNA with a complimentary dye-labeled strand. After imaging, the dye is removed using toehold-mediated strand displacement, in which an invader strand competes off the dye-labeled strand than can be subsequently washed away. Labeling and removal of each DNA-species requires only a few minutes. We demonstrate the concept using sequential dSTORM super-resolution for multiplex imaging of subcellular structures.
Enhancing student engagement through simulation in programming sessions
Authors: Isiaq Sakirulai Olufemi , Jamil Md Golam 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of a simulator for teaching programming to foster student engagement and meaningful learning.

Design/methodology/approach
An exploratory mixed-method research approach was adopted in a classroom-based environment at a UK university. A rich account of student engagement dimensions (behavioural, affective/emotional, and cognitive) was captured through descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. This was triangulated through reflective and in-depth validation of open-ended questions.

Findings
Results show higher behavioural and emotional engagement in simulator-based sessions, but relatively low cognitive engagement when compared with traditional programming sessions. A strong interweaving relationship between these three dimensions is evident in both the traditional and simulator approaches. Therefore, a balanced distribution of the dimensions is recommended for effective planning and delivery of programming sessions.

Research limitations/implications
Student engagement is multidimensional as it includes various internal and external/ecological factors. This study did not consider external factors, such as family and societal influence; it focused on the classroom-based environment.

Originality/value
This study critically examined the use of simulation as a means to foster student engagement in programming sessions. Findings suggest that a balanced activities within the three engagement dimensions can facilitate meaningful learning.
Quality management systems in European social service organizations
Authors: Melão Nuno Filipe , Amorim Marlene , Marimon Frederic , Alegre Inés 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze from an adopters’ perspective the European Quality in Social Services (EQUASS) Assurance standard, a certification program to implement a quality management (QM) system specifically tailored to European social service organizations (SSO). Specifically, it analyzes the motives, internalization, impacts, satisfaction, and renew intentions of this standard.

Design/methodology/approach
The research uses a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey methodology with both closed and open-ended questions. Of the 381 organizations contacted, 196 responses from eight different European countries were considered valid (51.4 percent). Descriptive statistical techniques and content analysis were employed to analyze closed- and open-ended questions, respectively.

Findings
The results show that SSO typically implement the certification for internal reasons, internalize EQUASS Assurance principles and practices in daily usage, obtain mainly operational and customer benefits, and consider main pitfalls such as increased workload and bureaucracy. Around 85 percent of the respondents are very satisfied or satisfied with the standard, which suggests that it meets their needs. The intention to renew the certification is also encouraging, but the final decision may be contingent on several aspects. Overall, the results reveal a rather optimistic picture, though there are some reasons for concern.

Originality/value
Recent years have seen many social services implementing QM systems, but there have been few studies investigating this phenomenon. Social service managers, consultants, auditors, and the EQUASS certification body can find in this work valuable information to make their practice more effective. This is the first study to report the results of an EQUASS survey in a scholarly journal.
A case study of a simultaneous integration in an SME
Authors: Llonch Marc , Bernardo Merce , Presas Pilar 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the simultaneous implementation of an integrated management system (IMS) in a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) and its impact on costs.

Design/methodology/approach
Based on a case study, the paper presents and analyzes the implementation of the ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 management system (MS) standards. The organization analyzed is an SME of the heating and air conditioning sector that had no MSs implemented (common in the sector) and decided to implement an IMS based on both function-specific MS standards (MSSs) and also achieving the separated certification. The analysis of expected and real costs is also presented.

Findings
The results show that a simultaneous integration is possible and the cost analysis evidences the improvement of the organization’s efficiency. The certificates for both MSSs were also achieved. These findings help in confirming theoretical statement posed in the literature of the integration of MSs: integration strategy, methodology and level. The organization values this integrated implementation as very positive internally and externally, as this is one of the first organizations of the sector implementing and integrating the ISO 9001 and ISO 14001.

Originality/value
Although studies analyzing empirically the integration of MSs have been widely published in recent years, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first papers analyzing the implementation of an IMS directly and analyzing its costs. In addition, this paper provides evidence that those organizations implementing integration later than others, can learn from the beginners’ experience.
Reduction of life cycle costs for a contemporary helicopter through improvement of reliability and maintainability parameters
Authors: Ghosh Chanchal , Maiti J. , Shafiee Mahmood , Kumaraswamy K.G. 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The modern helicopters are designed with maximum serviceability and long life expectancy to ensure minimum life cycle cost. The purpose of this paper is to present a framework to incorporate the customer requirements on reliability and maintainability (R&M) parameters into the design and development phase of a contemporary helicopter, and to discuss the way to capture operational data to establish and improve the R&M parameters to reduce life cycle cost.

Design/methodology/approach
From the analysis, it is established that the reliability and maintainability cost is the major contributor to the life cost. The significant reliability and maintainability parameters which influence R&M cost are identified from analysis. The operational and design data of a contemporary helicopter are collected, compiled and analyzed to establish and improve the reliability and maintainability parameters.

Findings
The process depicted in the paper is followed for a contemporary helicopter and substantial amount of life cycle cost reduction is observed with improvement of R&M parameters.

Practical implications
The benefits of this methodology not only reduce life cycle cost but also improve the availability/serviceability through less failure and less time for scheduled maintenance. The methodologies also provide the reliability trends indicating potential area for design improvement.

Originality/value
The proposed approach assists asset managers to reduce the life cycle costs through improvement of R&M parameters.
Seismic resistance prediction of corroded S400 (BSt420) reinforcing bars
Authors: Apostolopoulos Charis , Konstantopoulos George , Koulouris Konstantinos 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
Structures in seismic areas, during their service lifetime, are subjected to numerous seismic loads that certainly affect their structural integrity. The degradation of these structures, to a great extent, depends on the scale of seismic events, the steel mechanical performance on reversal loads and its resistance to corrosion phenomena. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach
Based on the experimental results of seismic steel behavior S400 (BSt III), which was widely used in the past years, a prediction study of seismic steel behavior was conducted in the current study. This prediction on behavior of both reference and corroded steel was succeeded through a simulation of experimental low cycle fatigue conditions (LCF – strain controlled).

Findings
At the same time, the present study analyses fatigue factors (ef, a, fSR, ed, ep, R, b) that define their inelastic relation between tension – strain and a prediction model on behavior of both reference and corroded steel rebar, in seismic loads conditions (LCF), is proposed.

Originality/value
Moreover, this study dealt with the synergy of corrosion factor and the existence of superficial ribs (ribbed and smoothed) in seismic behavior of steel bar S400 (BSt420). The S-N curves that are exported can be resulted in a first attempt of prediction of anti-seismic behavior on reinforced concrete structures with this the same steel class.
Effect of air chamber and oil properties on damping characteristics of single-tube pneumatic shock absorber
Authors: Liu Hongtuo , Xie Fangwei , Zhang Kai , Zhang Xinxing , Zhang Jin , Wang Cuntang , Li Hao 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The shock absorber is an important component of vehicle suspension that attenuates the vehicle vibration. Its running state directly affects the performance of the vehicle suspension. The purpose of this paper is to quantitatively study the relationship between damping characteristics and air chamber and oil properties in single-tube pneumatic shock absorber.

Design/methodology/approach
Combined with the principle of fluid dynamics and hydraulic transmission technology, the rebound stroke and compression stroke mathematical models, and damping characteristics simulation model are established to investigate the effect of the air chamber and oil property on damping characteristics.

Findings
Research results show that the initial pressure of the air chamber is the key parameter which influences the damping characteristics of the shock absorber. The change of the initial pressure has more impact on damping force, and less impact on the speed characteristic; the initial volume of the air chamber almost has no effect on the damping characteristics. The density and viscosity of the oil have certain influence on the damping characteristics. Therefore, selecting suitable damping oil is very important.

Originality/value
Using Matlab/Simulink software to build simulation models, its results are very accurate. The conclusions can provide a theoretical reference for the structure design of a single-tube pneumatic shock absorber.
On macroscopic intricate states
Authors: Dubois François 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
The present contribution is in the field of quantum modelling of macroscopic phenomena. The focus is on one enigmatic aspect of quantum physics, namely, the Einstein–Podolsky–Rosen paradox and entanglement. After a review of the state-of-the-art concerning macroscopic quantum effects and quantum interaction, this paper aims to propose a link between embryology and acupuncture in the framework of macroscopic intricate states induced by quantum mechanics.

Design/methodology/approach
The author uses the fractaquantum hypothesis which supposes that the quantum framework is applicable to all insecable elements in nature, whatever their size.

Findings
This contribution considers an open question related to a possible link between acupuncture and embryology: can a weak form of intrication be maintained during stem cell division to interpret the acupuncture meridians as an explicit manifestation of a macroscopic intricate system? The macroscopic structure suggested by quantum mechanics could be a beginning of explanation of acupuncture through the embryologic development.

Research limitations/implications
A fundamental hypothesis is the fact that during cell division, cells keep some weak intrication.

Practical implications
This contribution suggests a structure of the acupuncture meridians. The links between the acupuncture points have to be searched in the embryologic development of the individual through a weak remaing intrication of some of his cells and not in present explicit relations.

Social implications
A new link between occidental and oriental cultures is explored.

Originality/value
This contribution suggests conceptual links between acupuncture, embryology and macroscopic intricate states.
Continuous wide spectrum odor sensing for electronic nose system
Authors: Zhang Wenli , Tian Fengchun , Song An , Zhao Zhenzhen , Hu Youwen , Jiang Anyan 
Published: December 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to propose an odor sensing system based on wide spectrum for e-nose, based on comprehensive analysis on the merits and drawbacks of current e-nose.

Design/methodology/approach
The wide spectral light is used as the sensing medium in the e-nose system based on continuous wide spectrum (CWS) odor sensing, and the sensing response of each sensing element is the change of light intensity distribution.

Findings
Experimental results not only verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed system but also show the effectiveness of least square support vector machine (LSSVM) in eliminating system errors.

Practical implications
Theoretical model of the system was constructed, and experimental tests were carried out by using NO2 and SO2. System errors in the test data were eliminated using the LSSVM, and the preprocessed data were classified by euclidean distance to centroids (EDC), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), LSSVM, respectively.

Originality/value
The system not only has the advantages of current e-nose but also realizes expansion of sensing array by means of light source and the spectrometer with their wide spectrum, high resolution characteristics which improve the detection accuracy and realize real-time detection.
Analytical expressions for the borehole seismic signatures excited by an explosive source buried in an elastic half‐space
Authors: Ionov Andrei M. 
Published: December 2017

ABSTRACTBorehole guided waves that are excited by explosive sources outside of the borehole are important for interpreting borehole seismic surveys and for rock property inversion workflows. Borehole seismograms are typically modelled using numerical methods of wave propagation. In order to benchmark such numerical algorithms and partially to interpret the results of modelling, an analytical methodology is presented here to compute synthetic seismograms. The specific setup is a wavefield emanating from a monopole point source embedded within a homogeneous elastic medium that interacts with a fluid‐filled borehole and a free surface. The methodology assumes that the wavelength of the seismic signal is much larger than the borehole radius. In this paper, it is supposed that there is no poroelastic coupling between the formation and the borehole.The total wavefield solution consists of P, PP, and PS body waves; the surface Rayleigh wave; and the low‐frequency guided Stoneley wave (often referred as the tube wave) within the borehole. In its turn, the tube wave consists of the partial responses generated by the incident P‐wave and the reflected PP and PS body waves at the borehole mouth and by the Rayleigh wave, as well as the Stoneley wave eigenmode. The Mach tube wave, which is a conic tube wave, additionally appears in the Mach cone in a slow formation with the tube‐wave velocity greater than the shear one. The conditions of appearance of the Mach wave in a slow formation are formulated. It is shown that the amplitude of the Mach tube wave strongly depends on Poisson's ratio of the slow surrounding formation. The amplitude of the Mach tube wave exponentially decreases when the source depth grows for weakly compressible elastic media with Poisson's ratio close to 0.5 (i.e., saturated clays and saturated clay soils). Asymptotic expressions are also provided to compute the wavefield amplitudes for different combinations of source depth and source‐well offset. These expressions allow an approximate solution of the wavefield to be computed much faster (within several seconds) than directly computing the implicit integrals arising from the analytical formulation.
Within‐host evolution versus immigration as a determinant of Escherichia coli diversity in the human gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Dixit Ojas V. A. , O'Brien Claire L. , Pavli Paul , Gordon David M. 
Published: December 2017

SummaryWhen a human host harbors two or more strains of Escherichia coli, the second strain is more likely to be a member of the same phylogroup rather than a different phylogroup. This outcome may be the consequence of a within host evolution event or an independent immigration/establishment event. To determine the relative importance of these two events in determining E. coli diversity in a host, a collection of multiple E. coli isolates recovered from each of 67 patients undergoing colonoscopies was used. Whole genome sequence data were available for one example of every REP‐fingerprint type identified in a patient. Sequence type (ST) and single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analyses revealed that 83% of strains observed in the host population were a consequence of immigration/establishment events. Restricting the analysis to hosts harboring two or more strains belonging to the same phylogroup revealed that in about half of these cases, the presence of a second strain belonging to the same phylogroup was the consequence of an independent immigration/establishment event. Thus, the results of this study show that despite hosts being exposed to a diversity of E. coli via their food, factors related to the host also determine what E. coli strains succeed in establishing.
Development of Tissue‐Engineered Ligaments: Elastin Promotes Regeneration of the Rabbit Medial Collateral Ligament
Authors: Hirukawa Masaki , Katayama Shingo , Sato Tatsuya , Yamada Masayoshi , Kageyama Satoshi , Unno Hironori , Suzuki Yoshiaki , Miura Yoshihiro , Shiratsuchi Eri , Hasegawa Masahiro , Miyamoto Keiichi , Horiuchi Takashi 
Published: December 2017

AbstractWhen ligaments are injured, reconstructive surgery is sometimes required to restore function. Methods of reconstructive surgery include transplantation of an artificial ligament and autotransplantation of a tendon. However, these methods have limitations related to the strength of the bone–ligament insertion and biocompatibility of the transplanted tissue after surgery. Therefore, it is necessary to develop new reconstruction methods and pursue the development of artificial ligaments. Elastin is a major component of elastic fibers and ligaments. However, the role of elastin in ligament regeneration has not been described. Here, we developed a rabbit model of a medial collateral ligament (MCL) rupture and treated animal knees with exogenous elastin [100 µg/(0.5 mL·week)] for 6 or 12 weeks. Elastin treatment increased gene expression and protein content of collagen and elastin (gene expression, 6‐fold and 42‐fold, respectively; protein content, 1.6‐fold and 1.9‐fold, respectively), and also increased the elastic modulus of MCL increased with elastin treatment (2‐fold) compared with the controls. Our data suggest that elastin is involved in the regeneration of damaged ligaments.