bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PPUS: a web server to predict PUS-specific pseudouridine sites
Authors: Li Yan-Hui , Zhang Gaigai , Cui Qinghua
Published: June 2015

Motivation: Pseudouridine (Ψ), catalyzed by pseudouridine synthase (PUS), is the most abundant RNA modification and has important cellular functions. Developing an algorithm to identify Ψ sites is an important work. And it is better if the algorithm could assign which PUS modifies the Ψ sites. Here, we developed PPUS (http://lyh.pkmu.cn/ppus/), the first web server to predict PUS-specific Ψ sites. PPUS employed support vector machine as the classifier and used nucleotides around Ψ sites as the features. Currently, PPUS could accurately predict new Ψ sites for PUS1, PUS4 and PUS7 in yeast and PUS4 in human. PPUS is well designed and friendly to user.

Availability and Implementation: Our web server is available freely for non-commercial purposes at: http://lyh.pkmu.cn/ppus/

Contact: liyanhui@bjmu.edu.cn or cuiqinghua@hsc.pku.edu.cn
Characterization of distinct bloom phenology regimes in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Sallée Jean-Baptiste , Llort J. , Tagliabue A. , Lévy M.
Published: June 2015

In this study, we document the regional variations of bloom phenology in the Southern Ocean, based on a 13-year product of ocean colour measurements co-located with observation-based estimates of the mixed-layer depth. One key aspect of our work is to discriminate between mixed-layer integrated blooms and surface blooms. By segregating blooms that occur before or after the winter solstice and blooms where integrated and surface biomass increase together or display a lag, we define three dominating Southern Ocean bloom regimes. While the regime definitions are solely based on bloom timing characteristics, the three regimes organize coherently in geographical space, and are associated with distinct dynamical regions of the Southern Ocean: the subtropics, the subantarctic, and the Antarctic Circumpolar Current region. All regimes have their mixed-layer integrated onset between autumn and winter, when the daylength is short and the mixed layer actively mixes and deepens. We discuss how these autumn–winter bloom onsets are controlled by either nutrient entrainment and/or reduction in prey-grazer encounter rate. In addition to the autumn–winter biomass increase, the subantarctic regime has a significant spring biomass growth associated with the shutdown of turbulence when air–sea heat flux switches from surface cooling to surface warming.
Assessment of upstream and downstream passability for eel at dams
Authors: Tremblay V. , Cossette C. , Dutil J-D. , Verreault G. , Dumont P.
Published: June 2015

The American eel (Anguilla rostrata) population has experienced a marked population decline. Habitat loss resulting from dam construction to improve the control and use of freshwater discharge is one of the factors involved. There are some 5600 dams in rivers draining to the St. Lawrence River in Quebec (Canada). Their passability to eels migrating upstream and downstream has been assessed using the Québec Dam Database. Eighteen percent of the dams are used for supplying water and 13% for hydroelectricity, but >50% are used for recreational purposes. Although the majority of the dams are <3 m in height and are made of concrete or earthfill, dams present a great variety of physical characteristics. Passability ranks were assigned to each category of dam based on three assessment criteria: the height of the dam, the materials used in its construction, and its use. Passability to upstream migrants was also assessed from photographs for a subset of dams. The two methods (statistical analysis and the use of photographs) may yield different results, but the two methods were consistent to identify the impassable dams. This analysis shows overall that the problem of passability is more significant for upstream passage than it is for downstream passage.
Improving vaccine registries through mobile technologies: a vision for mobile enhanced Immunization information systems
Authors: Wilson Kumanan , Atkinson Katherine M. , Deeks Shelley L. , Crowcroft Natasha S.
Published: June 2015

Immunization registries or information systems are critical to improving the quality and evaluating the ongoing success of immunization programs. However, the completeness of these systems is challenged by a myriad of factors including the fragmentation of vaccine administration, increasing mobility of individuals, new vaccine development, use of multiple products, and increasingly frequent changes in recommendations. Mobile technologies could offer a solution, which mitigates some of these challenges. Engaging individuals to have more control of their own immunization information using their mobile devices could improve the timeliness and accuracy of data in central immunization information systems. Other opportunities presented by mobile technologies that could be exploited to improve immunization information systems include mobile reporting of adverse events following immunization, the capacity to scan 2D barcodes, and enabling bidirectional communication between individuals and public health officials. Challenges to utilizing mobile solutions include ensuring privacy of data, access, and equity concerns, obtaining consent and ensuring adoption of technology at sufficiently high rates. By empowering individuals with their own health information, mobile technologies can also serve as a mechanism to transfer immunization information as individuals cross local, regional, and national borders. Ultimately, mobile enhanced immunization information systems can help realize the goal of the individual, the healthcare provider, and public health officials always having access to the same immunization information.
What makes an EHR “open” or interoperable?
Authors: Sittig Dean F , Wright Adam
Published: June 2015

We have identified 5 use cases that comprise a useful definition of an “open or interoperable electronic health record (EHR).” Each of these use cases represents important functionality that should be available to 1) clinicians, so they can provide safe and effective health care; 2) researchers, so they can advance our understanding of disease and health care processes; 3) administrators, so they can reduce their reliance on a single-source EHR developer; 4) software developers, so they can develop innovative solutions to address limitations of current EHR user interfaces and new applications to improve the practice of medicine; and 5) patients, so they can access their personal health information no matter where they receive their health care. Widespread access to “open EHRs” that can accommodate at least these 5 use cases is important if we are to realize the enormous potential of EHR-enabled health care systems.
Biogeography of Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in East and Southeast Asia
Authors: Robert Liu Fu-Guo , Tsaur Shun-Chern , Huang Hsiao-Ting
Published: June 2015

The causes of high biological diversity in biodiversity hotspots have long been a major subject of study in conservation biology. To investigate this matter, we conducted a phylogeographic study of five Drosophila (Diptera: Drosophilidae) species from East and Southeast Asia: Drosophila albomicans Duda , D. formosana Duda, D. immigrans Sturtevant, D. melanogaster Meigen, and D. simulans Sturtevant. We collected 185 samples from 28 localities in eight countries. From each collected individual, we sequenced the autosomal extra sex comb gene ( esc ) and seven mitochondrial genes, including nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide hydrate-reductase dehydrogenase subunit 4 ( ND4 ), ND4L , tRNA-His , tRNA-Pro , tRNA-Thr , partial ND5 , and partial ND6 . Phylogenetic analyses using maximum- likelihood and Bayesian methods revealed interesting population structure and identified the existence of two distinct D. formosana lineages (Southeast Asian and Taiwanese populations). Genetic differentiation among groups of D. immigrans suggests the possibility of endemic speciation in Taiwan. In contrast, D. melanogaster remained one extensively large population throughout East and Southeast Asia, including nearby islets. A molecular clock was used to estimate divergence times, which were compared with past geographical events to infer evolutionary scenarios. Our findings suggest that interglacial periods may have caused population isolation, thus enhancing population differentiation more strongly for some of the Drosophila species. The population structure of each Drosophila species in East and Southeast Asia has been influenced by past geographic events.
Sectioned Images and Surface Models of a Cadaver for Understanding the Dorsalis Pedis Flap
Authors: Shin Dong Sun , Kim Hyung Jun , Kim Bong Chul
Published: June 2015

The aim of this study was to represent the dorsalis pedis (DP) flap on sectioned images and surface models using Visible Korean for medical education and clinical training in the field of maxillofacial reconstructive surgery. Serially sectioned images of the foot were obtained from a cadaver. The important structures in the sectioned images were outlined and stacked to create a surface model. The PDF file (53 MB) of the assembled models is accessible for free download on the Department of Anatomy at Ajou University School of Medicine Web site (http://anatomy.co.kr). In this file, the significant anatomic structures of the DP flap can be inspected in the sectioned images. All surface models and stereoscopic structures of the DP flap are described in real time. We hope that these state-of-the-art sectioned images, outlined images, and surface models will help students and trainees gain a better understanding of the DP flap anatomy.
Impact behaviour of freeze-dried and fresh pomelo (
Citrus maxima
) peel: influence of the hydration state
Authors: Thielen Marc , Speck Thomas , Seidel Robin
Published: June 2015

Pomelos (
Citrus maxima
) are known for their thick peel which—inter alia—serves as energy dissipator when fruits impact on the ground after being shed. It protects the fruit from splitting open and thus enables the contained seeds to stay germinable and to potentially be dispersed by animal vectors. The main part of the peel consists of a parenchymatous tissue that can be interpreted from a materials point of view as open pored foam whose struts are pressurized and filled with liquid. In order to investigate the influence of the water content on the energy dissipation capacity, drop weight tests were conducted with fresh and with freeze-dried peel samples. Based on the coefficient of restitution it was found that freeze-drying markedly reduces the relative energy dissipation capacity of the peel. Measuring the transmitted force during impact furthermore indicated a transition from a uniform collapse of the foam-like tissue to a progressive collapse due to water extraction. Representing the peel by a Maxwell model illustrates that freeze-drying not only drastically reduces the damping function of the dashpots but also stiffens the springs of the model.
Kin selection and polygyny: can relatedness lower the polygyny threshold?
Authors: Grønstøl Gaute , Blomqvist Donald , Pauliny Angela , Wagner Richard H.
Published: June 2015

Resource polygyny incurs costs of having to share breeding resources for female breeders. When breeding with a relative, however, such costs may be lessened by indirect fitness benefits through kin selection, while benefits from mutualistic behaviour, such as communal defence, may increase. If so, females should be less resistant to sharing a territory with a related female than with a non-related one. We investigated whether kin selection may lower the threshold of breeding polygynously, predicting a closer relatedness between polygynous females breeding on the same territory than between females breeding on different territories. Northern lapwings,
Vanellus vanellus
, are suitable for testing this hypothesis as they are commonly polygynous, both sexes take part in nest defence, and the efficiency of nest defence increases with the number of defenders. Using an index of relatedness derived from DNA fingerprinting, we found that female lapwings that shared polygynous dyads were on average twice as closely related as were random females. Furthermore, relatedness did not correlate with distance between breeders, indicating that our findings cannot be explained by natal philopatry alone. Our results suggest that the polygyny threshold in lapwings may be lowered by inclusive fitness advantages of kin selection.
Position-dependent hearing in three species of bushcrickets (Tettigoniidae, Orthoptera)
Authors: Lakes-Harlan Reinhard , Scherberich Jan
Published: June 2015

A primary task of auditory systems is the localization of sound sources in space. Sound source localization in azimuth is usually based on temporal or intensity differences of sounds between the bilaterally arranged ears. In mammals, localization in elevation is possible by transfer functions at the ear, especially the pinnae. Although insects are able to locate sound sources, little attention is given to the mechanisms of acoustic orientation to elevated positions. Here we comparatively analyse the peripheral hearing thresholds of three species of bushcrickets in respect to sound source positions in space. The hearing thresholds across frequencies depend on the location of a sound source in the three-dimensional hearing space in front of the animal. Thresholds differ for different azimuthal positions and for different positions in elevation. This position-dependent frequency tuning is species specific. Largest differences in thresholds between positions are found inAncylecha fenestrata. Correspondingly,A. fenestratahas a rather complex ear morphology including cuticular folds covering the anterior tympanal membrane. The position-dependent tuning might contribute to sound source localization in the habitats. Acoustic orientation might be a selective factor for the evolution of morphological structures at the bushcricket ear and, speculatively, even for frequency fractioning in the ear.
Incubator-independent cell-culture perfusion platform for continuous long-term microelectrode array electrophysiology and time-lapse imaging
Authors: Saalfrank Dirk , Konduri Anil Krishna , Latifi Shahrzad , Habibey Rouhollah , Golabchi Asiyeh , Martiniuc Aurel Vasile , Knoll Alois , Ingebrandt Sven , Blau Axel
Published: June 2015

Mostin vitroelectrophysiology studies extract information and draw conclusions from representative, temporally limited snapshot experiments. This approach bears the risk of missing decisive moments that may make a difference in our understanding of physiological events. This feasibility study presents a simple benchtop cell-culture perfusion system adapted to commercial microelectrode arrays (MEAs), multichannel electrophysiology equipment and common inverted microscopy stages for simultaneous and uninterrupted extracellular electrophysiology and time-lapse imaging at ambient CO2levels. The concept relies on a transparent, replica-casted polydimethylsiloxane perfusion cap, gravity- or syringe-pump-driven perfusion and preconditioning of pH-buffered serum-free cell-culture medium to ambient CO2levels at physiological temperatures. The low-cost microfluidicin vitroenabling platform, which allows us to image cultures immediately after cell plating, is easy to reproduce and is adaptable to the geometries of different cell-culture containers. It permits the continuous and simultaneous multimodal long-term acquisition or manipulation of optical and electrophysiological parameter sets, thereby considerably widening the range of experimental possibilities. Two exemplary proof-of-concept long-term MEA studies on hippocampal networks illustrate system performance. Continuous extracellular recordings over a period of up to 70 days revealed details on both sudden and gradual neural activity changes in maturing cell ensembles with large intra-day fluctuations. Correlated time-lapse imaging unveiled rather static macroscopic network architectures with previously unreported local morphological oscillations on the timescale of minutes.
Phenotype-limited distributions: short-billed birds move away during times that prey bury deeply
Authors: Duijns Sjoerd , van Gils Jan A. , Smart Jennifer , Piersma Theunis
Published: June 2015

In our seasonal world, animals face a variety of environmental conditions in the course of the year. To cope with such seasonality, animals may be phenotypically flexible, but some phenotypic traits are fixed. If fixed phenotypic traits are functionally linked to resource use, then animals should redistribute in response to seasonally changing resources, leading to a ‘phenotype-limited’ distribution. Here, we examine this possibility for a shorebird, the bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica; a long-billed and sexually dimorphic shorebird), that has to reach buried prey with a probing bill of fixed length. The main prey of female bar-tailed godwits is buried deeper in winter than in summer. Using sightings of individually marked females, we found that in winter only longer-billed individuals remained in the Dutch Wadden Sea, while the shorter-billed individuals moved away to an estuary with a more benign climate such as the Wash. Although longer-billed individuals have the widest range of options in winter and could therefore be selected for, counterselection may occur during the breeding season on the tundra, where surface-living prey may be captured more easily with shorter bills. Phenotype-limited distributions could be a widespread phenomenon and, when associated with assortative migration and mating, it may act as a precursor of phenotypic evolution.
Image analysis of weaverbird nests reveals signature weave textures
Authors: Bailey Ida E. , Backes André , Walsh Patrick T. , Morgan Kate V. , Meddle Simone L. , Healy Susan D.
Published: June 2015

In nature, many animals build structures that can be readily measured at the scale of their gross morphology (e.g. length, volume and weight). Capturing individuality as can be done with the structures designed and built by human architects or artists, however, is more challenging. Here, we tested whether computer-aided image texture classification approaches can be used to describe textural variation in the nests of weaverbirds (
Ploceus
species) in order to attribute nests to the individual weaverbird that built them. We found that a computer-aided texture analysis approach does allow the assignment of a signature to weaverbirds' nests. We suggest that this approach will be a useful tool with which to examine individual variation across a range of animal constructions, not just for nests.
Tools to tipple: ethanol ingestion by wild chimpanzees using leaf-sponges
Authors: Hockings Kimberley J. , Bryson-Morrison Nicola , Carvalho Susana , Fujisawa Michiko , Humle Tatyana , McGrew William C. , Nakamura Miho , Ohashi Gaku , Yamanashi Yumi , Yamakoshi Gen , Matsuzawa Tetsuro
Published: June 2015

African apes and humans share a genetic mutation that enables them to effectively metabolize ethanol. However, voluntary ethanol consumption in this evolutionary radiation is documented only in modern humans. Here, we report evidence of the long-term and recurrent ingestion of ethanol from the raffia palm (
Raphia hookeri,
Arecaceae) by wild chimpanzees (
Pan troglodytes verus
) at Bossou in Guinea, West Africa, from 1995 to 2012. Chimpanzees at Bossou ingest this alcoholic beverage, often in large quantities, despite an average presence of ethanol of 3.1% alcohol by volume (ABV) and up to 6.9% ABV. Local people tap raffia palms and the sap collects in plastic containers, and chimpanzees use elementary technology—a leafy tool—to obtain this fermenting sap. These data show that ethanol does not act as a deterrent to feeding in this community of wild apes, supporting the idea that the last common ancestor of living African apes and modern humans was not averse to ingesting foods containing ethanol.
Eye-spots in Lepidoptera attract attention in humans
Authors: Yorzinski Jessica L. , Platt Michael L. , Adams Geoffrey K.
Published: June 2015

Many prey species exhibit defensive traits to decrease their chances of predation. Conspicuous eye-spots, concentric rings of contrasting colours, are one type of defensive trait that some species exhibit to deter predators. We examined the function of eye-spots in Lepidoptera to determine whether they are effective at deterring predators because they resemble eyes (‘eye mimicry hypothesis’) or are highly salient (‘conspicuous signal hypothesis’). We recorded the gaze behaviour of men and women as they viewed natural images of butterflies and moths as well as images in which the eye-spots of these insects were modified. The eye-spots were modified by removing them, scrambling their colours, or replacing them with elliptical or triangular shapes that had either dark or light centres. Participants were generally more likely to look at, spend more time looking at and be faster to first fixate the eye-spots of butterflies and moths that were natural compared with ones that were modified, including the elliptical eye-spots with dark centres that most resembled eyes as well as the scrambled eye-spots that had the same contrast as the natural eye-spots. Participants were most likely to look at eye-spots that were numerous, had a large surface area and were located close to the insects' heads. Participants' pupils were larger when viewing eye-spots compared with the rest of the insects' body, suggesting a greater arousal when viewing eye-spots. Our results provide some support for the conspicuous signal hypothesis (and minimal support for the eye mimicry hypothesis) and suggest that eye-spots may be effective at deterring predators because they are highly conspicuous signals that draw attention.
Molecular ping-pong Game of Life on a two-dimensional DNA origami array
Authors: Jonoska N. , Seeman N. C.
Published: June 2015

We propose a design for programmed molecular interactions that continuously change molecular arrangements in a predesigned manner. We introduce a model where environmental control through laser illumination allows platform attachment/detachment oscillations between two floating molecular species. The platform is a two-dimensional DNA origami array of tiles decorated with strands that provide both, the floating molecular tiles to attach and to pass communicating signals to neighbouring array tiles. In particular, we show how algorithmic molecular interactions can control cyclic molecular arrangements by exhibiting a system that can simulate the dynamics similar to two-dimensional cellular automata on a DNA origami array platform.
Bacterial computing with engineered populations
Authors: Amos Martyn , Axmann Ilka Maria , Blüthgen Nils , de la Cruz Fernando , Jaramillo Alfonso , Rodriguez-Paton Alfonso , Simmel Friedrich
Published: June 2015

We describe strategies for the construction of bacterial computing platforms by describing a number of results from the recently completed bacterial computing with engineered populations project. In general, the implementation of such systems requires a framework containing various components such as intracellular circuits, single cell input/output and cell–cell interfacing, as well as extensive analysis. In this overview paper, we describe our approach to each of these, and suggest possible areas for future research.
Integration testing of heterotic systems
Authors: Stannett M. , Gheorghe M.
Published: June 2015

Computational theory and practice generally focus on single-paradigm systems, but relatively little is known about how best to combine components based on radically different approaches (e.g. silicon chips and wetware) into a single coherent system. In particular, while testing strategies for single-technology artefacts are generally well developed, it is unclear at present how to perform integration testing on heterotic systems: can we develop a test-set generation strategy for checking whether specified behaviours emerge (and unwanted behaviours do not) when components based on radically different technologies are combined within a single system? In this paper, we describe an approach to modelling multi-technology heterotic systems using a general-purpose formal specification strategy based on Eilenberg's
X
-machine model of computation. We show how this approach can be used to represent disparate technologies within a single framework, and propose a strategy for using these formal models for automatic heterotic test-set generation. We illustrate our approach by showing how to derive a test set for a heterotic system combining an
X
-machine-based device with a cell-based P system (membrane system).
Abstraction/Representation Theory for heterotic physical computing
Authors: Horsman Dominic
Published: June 2015

We give a rigorous framework for the interaction of physical computing devices with abstract computation. Device and program are mediated by the non-logical
representation relation
; we give the conditions under which representation and device theory give rise to commuting diagrams between logical and physical domains, and the conditions for computation to occur. We give the interface of this new framework with currently existing formal methods, showing in particular its close relationship to refinement theory, and the implications for questions of meaning and reference in theoretical computer science. The case of hybrid computing is considered in detail, addressing in particular the example of an Internet-mediated
social machine
, and the abstraction/representation framework used to provide a formal distinction between heterotic and hybrid computing. This forms the basis for future use of the framework in formal treatments of non-standard physical computers.
Heterotic computing: exploiting hybrid computational devices
Authors: Kendon Viv , Sebald Angelika , Stepney Susan
Published: June 2015

Current computational theory deals almost exclusively with single models: classical, neural, analogue, quantum, etc. In practice, researchers use ad hoc combinations, realizing only recently that they can be fundamentally more powerful than the individual parts. A Theo Murphy meeting brought together theorists and practitioners of various types of computing, to engage in combining the individual strengths to produce powerful new heterotic devices. ‘Heterotic computing’ is defined as a combination of two or more computational systems such that they provide an advantage over either substrate used separately. This post-meeting collection of articles provides a wide-ranging survey of the state of the art in diverse computational paradigms, together with reflections on their future combination into powerful and practical applications.
Linkage disequilibrium between single nucleotide polymorphisms and hypermutable loci
Authors: Sawaya Sterling , Jones Matt , Keller Matt
Published: June 2015

Some diseases are caused by genetic loci with a high rate of change, and heritability in complex traits is likely to be partially caused by variation at these loci. These hypermutable elements, such as tandem repeats, change at rates that are orders of magnitude higher than the rates at which most single nucleotides mutate. However, single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, are currently the primary focus of genetic studies of human disease. Here we quantify the degree to which SNPs are correlated with hypermutable loci by examining a range of mutation rates. We use established population genetics theory to relate mutation rates to recombination rates and compare the theoretical predictions to simulations. Both simulations and theory agree that, at the highest mutation rates, almost all correlation is lost between a hypermutable locus and surrounding SNPs. The theoretical predictions break down as the mutation rate increases, and consequently differ widely from the simulated results. The simulation results suggest that some correlation remains between SNPs and hypermutable loci when mutation rates are on the lower end of the mutation spectrum. Consequently, in some cases SNPs can tag variation caused by some hypermutable loci. We also examine the linkage between SNPs and other SNPs and uncover ways in which the linkage disequilibrium of rare SNPs differs from that of hypermutable loci.
The sodium-activated potassium channel Slack is required for optimal cognitive flexibility in mice
Authors: Bausch Anne E. , Dieter Rebekka , Nann Yvette , Hausmann Mario , Meyerdierks Nora , Kaczmarek Leonard K. , Ruth Peter , Lukowski Robert
Published: June 2015

Kcnt1encoded sodium-activated potassium channels (Slack channels) are highly expressed throughout the brain where they modulate the firing patterns and general excitability of many types of neurons. Increasing evidence suggests that Slack channels may be important for higher brain functions such as cognition and normal intellectual development. In particular, recent findings have shown that human Slack mutations produce very severe intellectual disability and that Slack channels interact directly with the Fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP), a protein that when missing or mutated results in Fragile X syndrome (FXS), the most common form of inherited intellectual disability and autism in humans. We have now analyzed a recently developedKcnt1null mouse model in several behavioral tasks to assess which aspects of memory and learning are dependent on Slack. We demonstrate that Slack deficiency results in mildly altered general locomotor activity, but normal working memory, reference memory, as well as cerebellar control of motor functions. In contrast, we find that Slack channels are required for cognitive flexibility, including reversal learning processes and the ability to adapt quickly to unfamiliar situations and environments. Our data reveal that hippocampal-dependent spatial learning capabilities require the proper function of Slack channels.
Pretrial hippocampal θ-state differentiates single-unit response profiles during rabbit trace eyeblink conditioning
Authors: Cicchese Joseph J. , Darling Ryan D. , Berry Stephen D.
Published: June 2015

Eyeblink conditioning given in the explicit presence of hippocampal θ results in accelerated learning and enhanced multiple-unit responses, with slower learning and suppression of unit activity under non-θ conditions. Recordings from putative pyramidal cells during θ-contingent training show that pretrial θ-state is linked to the probability of firing increases versus decreases rather than to the magnitude of such responses. These findings suggest that the learning facilitation during θ may be due to the recruitment of additional neurons that increase their firing rate during trials.
Crystal structure of 2-diazoimidazole-4,5-dicarbonitrile
Authors: Parrish Damon A. , Kramer Stephanie , Windler G. Kenneth , Chavez David E. , Leonard Philip W.
Published: June 2015

In the title compound, C5N6, all the atoms are approximately coplanar. In the crystal, molecules are packed with short contact distances of 2.885 (2) (between the diazo N atom connected to the ring and a cyano N atom on a neighboring molecule) and 3.012 (2) Å (between the terminal diazo N atom and an N atom of a neighboring imidazole ring).
Crystal structure of (E)-N-{2-[2-(2-chlorobenzylidene)hydrazin-1-yl]-2-oxoethyl}-4-methylbenzamide monohydrate
Authors: Purandara H. , Foro Sabine , Gowda B. Thimme
Published: June 2015

The title compound, C17H16ClN3O2·H2O, an acylhydrazone derivative, contains a glycine moiety and two substituted benzene rings on either end of the chain. It crystallized as a monohydrate. The molecules adopt anEconformation with respect to the C=N double bond, as indicated by the N—N=C—C torsion angle of 179.38 (14)°. The molecule is twisted in such a way that the almost planar Car—C(=O)—N(H)—C(H2) and C(H2)—C(=O)N(H)—N=C—Car[r.m.s deviations = 0.009 and 0.025 Å, respectively] segments are inclined to on another by 77.36 (8)°, while the benzene rings are normal to one another, making a dihedral angle of 89.69 (9)°. In the crystal, the water molecule links three molecules through two O—H...O and one N—H...O hydrogen bonds. The molecules are linkedviapairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers with anR22(14) ring motif. The dimers are linked by O—H...O hydrogen bonds, involving two molecules of water, forming chains along [100], enclosingR22(14) andR22(18) ring motifs. The chains are linked through C—H...O interactions, forming sheets parallel to (010). Within the sheets, there are C—H...π and parallel slipped π–π stacking interactions present [inter-centroid distance = 3.6458 (12) Å].
`Pd20Sn13' revisited: crystal structure of Pd6.69Sn4.31
Authors: Klein Wilhelm , Jin Hanpeng , Hlukhyy Viktor , Fässler Thomas F.
Published: June 2015

The crystal structure of the title compound was previously reported with composition `Pd20Sn13' [Sarahet al.(1981).Z. Metallkd,72, 517–520]. For the original structure model, as determined from powder X-ray data, atomic coordinates from the isostructural compound Ni13Ga3Ge6were transferred. The present structure determination, resulting in a composition Pd6.69Sn4.31, is based on single crystal X-ray data and includes anisotropic displacement parameters for all atoms as well as standard uncertainties for the atomic coordinates, leading to higher precision and accuracy for the structure model. Single crystals of the title compound were obtainedviaa solid-state reaction route, starting from the elements. The crystal structure can be derived from the AlB2type of structure after removing one eighth of the atoms at the boron positions and shifting adjacent atoms in the same layer in the direction of the voids. One atomic site is partially occupied by both elements with a Pd:Sn ratio of 0.38 (3):0.62 (3). One Sn and three Pd atoms are located on special positions with site symmetry 2. (Wyckoff letter 3aand 3b).
Crystal structure of a second polymorph of 2-cyclopentadienyl-1,7-dicarba-2-cobalta-closo-dodecaborane(11)
Authors: Man Wing Y. , Rosair Georgina M. , Welch Alan J.
Published: June 2015

A new polymorph of the title compound 2-(η-C5H5)-2,1,7-closo-CoC2B9H11, [Co(C5H5)(C2H11B9)], in the space groupP21/nhas been characterized, including the unambiguous location of both cage C atoms. The precision of this study is an order of magnitude greater than that of the first polymorph [C2/c; Lopezet al.(2010).Collect. Czech. Chem. Commun.75, 853–869].
Aramex PJSC: carving a competitive advantage in the global logistics and express transportation service industry
Authors: Balakrishnan Melodena Stephens
Published: June 2015

Title

Aramex PJSC: carving a competitive advantage in the global logistics and express transportation service industry.

Subject area

Entrepreneurship, International Business, Strategy.

Study level/applicability

Post-graduates, Practitioners.

Case overview

This case chronicles the Aramex PJSC story of entrepreneur Fadi Gandhour. The case looks at the new start-up, its growth and financing plans for expansion and how it got a competitive advantage in an industry dominated by big players. Aramex, as of 2012, was the only Arab company to have successfully listed on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange. After 30 years at the helm of the company, Fadi Ghandour, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), was stepping down and was being succeeded by regional head, Hussein Hachem, the CEO of Middle East and Africa. Aramex had a competitive edge in emerging markets, and Fadi and Hussein knew that the route to sustainable growth was to capitalize on this opportunity using organic growth, acquisitions and strategic alliances.

Expected learning outcomes

Strategy included looking at gaining a competitive advantage in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia and other emerging markets. Lessons are provided on capitalization of opportunity, funding and creating an organization culture that is sustainable and reflects the Founder's ideal.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.
Research and development in Dubai – Impression et Enregistrement des Résultats (IER): cross-cultural management
Authors: Azaad Moonesar Immanuel , Thibaud Lionel
Published: June 2015

Subject area

Management and leadership.

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate and graduate.

Case overview

Mr Lionel Thibaud, the General Manager, was highlighting the achievements and challenges faced at Impression et Enregistrement des Résultats (IER) within the Middle East region over the past four years in relation to the various cross-cultures and multi-nationalities. IER is a world-leading supplier of printing terminals and IT solutions for the air transportation industry. The problem facing the decision-maker is how to do business with the Middle Eastern countries and handling and striking a balance with all the varying cultures and customs. In addition, to meet the needs of the customers, a long-term mission is to establish long-term relationships and collaborations.

Expected learning outcomes

On completion of utilizing the case study as an exercise, students should be able to: case-specific skills – critically examine the importance of the cross-cultural management, decision-making, managing in multinational companies and leadership and management in the Middle East and demonstrate this by analysing real regional/world examples using complex theoretical frameworks; identify examples of best practice (including ethical “best practice”) and explain the dynamics towards cross-cultural management, decision-making, managing in multinational companies and leadership and management with reference to a range of theoretical models and apply these in a meaningful way to the MENA region; discipline-specific skills – synthesize and critically evaluate a corpus of academic literature and government reports on cross-cultural management, decision-making, managing in multinational companies and leadership and management; link cross-cultural management, decision-making, managing in multinational companies and leadership and management concepts and theories to real regional/world examples; personal and key skills – reflect on the process of learning and undertake independent/self-directed learning (including time management) to achieve consistent, proficient and sustained attainment; work as a participant or leader of a group and contribute effectively to the achievement of objectives in the field of cross-cultural management, decision-making, managing in multinational companies and leadership and management.

Supplementary materials

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Explorations into sex, gender and leadership in the UK Civil Service Part 1. Introduction, background and theoretical considerations
Authors: Manning Tony , Robertson Bob
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– This is the first of a three-part paper exploring the intersection between sex, gender and leadership in the UK Civil Service. The purpose of this paper is to introduce research by the authors into differences in the behaviour of men and women managers in the UK Civil Service, differences in 360 degree assessments of these behaviours and variations in the behaviours and assessments in different organisational contexts. This part of the paper sets the scene, and provides a literature review and a series of conjectures, derived from this review.

Design/methodology/approach

– This part of the paper outlines the training and development activities carried out by the authors and explains the target populations, the context in which managers operated and the part played by psychometric assessments in such activities. It then provides a literature review on the intersection of sex, gender and leadership. This looks at: the glass ceiling; leader preferences; gender stereotypes; gender stereotypes and leaders; attitudes towards women as leaders; leadership theories and gender stereotypes; sex differences in psychological traits; sex differences in leader behaviour and effectiveness. Finally, it presents a series of conjectures, derived from the literature review.

Findings

– The literature review shows that the playing field that constitutes managerial ranks continues to be tilted in favour of men and behaviours associated with the male stereotype, despite what leadership theories and field evidence would suggest.

Research limitations/implications

– The research was also a by-product of the authors’ training and development work, not a purpose-built research programme to explain the “glass ceiling”. It relates to the UK Civil Service and may not be relevant in other contexts.

Practical implications

– Later parts of the paper present prescriptions for minimising the impact of gender stereotypes, along with an evidence-based leadership framework. Training and development implications are presented. Findings are relevant to leaders, would be leaders and human resource professionals, including training and development specialists.

Social implications

– The vast majority of top leadership positions across the world are held by males rather than females. This prevents women from moving up the corporate ladder. This literature review describes the “glass ceiling” and explores what lies behind it.

Originality/value

– Research on sex differences in behaviour, gender stereotypes and situational differences in both, in the UK Civil Service, are all original. Of particular importance is the new evidence-based framework of leadership competences.
Blame the parents! Attitudes towards business ethics with reference to MBA programs in Malaysia
Authors: Rees Christopher , Jamil Rossilah , Rowlands Kate
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the attitudes of two key groups of stakeholders (n=22) from academia and industry toward the nature of business ethics and their integration and inculcation in MBA programs in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a qualitative study based on n=22 interviews with stakeholders from academia and industry.

Findings

– The main findings of the study indicate that respondents in this context tended define business ethics with reference to factors such as the interests of organizational stakeholders, environmental issues, property rights, and religion. It was also found that the respondents tended to consider ethical business practice to be primarily a social and religious obligation rather than representing a specific requirement of the workplace which could and should be developed during an MBA program.

Research limitations/implications

– The implications of the study are discussed in relation to some of the barriers that may exist to integrating business ethics into MBA programs in Malaysia.

Originality/value

– The study highlights the widely held view among the respondents that employees’ business ethics are primarily attributable to family upbringing, including religious instruction thus limiting the perceived need for and effect of later training and education in business ethics.
Toward sustainable supply chain orientation (SSCO): mapping managerial perspectives
Authors: Signori Paola , Flint Daniel John , Golicic Susan
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose this paper is to profile individual-level perspectives on sustainability and supply chain partnering, introduces the concept of sustainable supply chain orientation (SSCO), and suggests pathways between executive profiles toward SSCO.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research relies on inductive, theory-building grounded theory and phenomenological data collection and interpretations in the wine industry. In-depth interviews were conducted over five years with 112 senior managers from 88 organizations in the global wine industry representing nine wine regions in four countries.

Findings

– Ten profiles were developed depicting executives’ perspectives on embracing sustainability, the extent to which motivations for various forms of sustainability and partnering compete, and being self-or supply chain partner focussed. A SSCO depicts a leader who embraces sustainability, sees alignment in motivations and is supply chain partner focussed.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper contributes to the sustainable supply chain management and general business orientation discourses by introducing the concept of SSCO and profiling executives’ perspectives that may help to define pathways toward SSCO. It may be limited by its inductive method and the industry context. Limitations suggest future research in discovering additional profiles and pathways as well as validating them.

Practical implications

– Findings reveal the importance of understanding what sustainability means to business executives of firms in hyper-competitive markets with global supply chains. Managers will recognize that there are many possible routes toward SSCO, each one revealing potentially unique differentiation opportunities while also providing clues to competitors’ strategies.

Originality/value

– This work introduces the concept of SSCO and contributes a classification scheme consisting of detailed business executive profile descriptions and specific pathways toward SSCO followed by those executives.
A systematic review of research on educational leadership in Hong Kong, 1995-2014
Authors: Szeto Elson , Lee Theodore Tai Hoi , Hallinger Philip
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a research synthesis of substantive findings drawn from studies of educational leadership and management in Hong Kong between 1995 and 2014. The goal of the research synthesis was to identify and elaborate on key trends identified by scholars who studied educational leadership in Hong Kong over the past two decades. The synthesis drew upon on relevant articles published in eight “core international journals” specializing in educational leadership and management.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study first identifies a clearly delimited body of relevant literature comprised of empirical, non-empirical and review/synthesis types of studies in a total of 161 published research articles from the eight journals. Information concerning the nature of the studies as well as substantive findings was extracted from each of the articles. The findings were then initially coded in preparation for data analysis. Synthesis of substantive findings was accomplished by cross-article comparative mapping aimed at identifying key themes in the literature. Findings within four of the most robust themes were then synthesized and reported.

Findings

– The synthesis highlights the challenges faced in Hong Kong’s efforts to reshape its education in a multi-faceted quest for quality education in the twenty-first century. A variety of inter-related issues emerged as policymakers and education administrators sought to implement a full plate of imported globally recognized education reforms. Analysis of the research from this period yielded four robust themes: “leadership development,” “leadership for learning,” “organizational change,” “multi-level performance focus.” The findings also further highlight the impact of “education policy borrowing” on system-level efforts to revamp the structural conditions in which school leaders operate and reshape managerial, as well as teaching and learning processes in schools.

Research limitations/implications

– Although the scope of the sources included in the review are highly representative of the “Hong Kong literature” of the past two decades, the authors note that it was not an “exhaustive” review of all potential sources.

Originality/value

– Prior research by Hallinger and Bryant (2013b) had identified Hong Kong as having produced the largest volume of literature in educational leadership and management in Asia. This paper represents the first systematic review of research findings that emerged in the recent educational leadership literature produced in Hong Kong. Therefore, although the authors make no claims of generalizability to other parts of Asia or even to China as a whole, the paper offers insight into how global trends have reshaped the practice of educational leadership in one East Asian society.