bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A TRANSFORMATION METHOD FOR SOLVING THE HAMILTON–JACOBI–BELLMAN EQUATION FOR A CONSTRAINED DYNAMIC STOCHASTIC OPTIMAL ALLOCATION PROBLEM
Authors: KILIANOVÁ S. , ŠEVČOVIČ D.
Published: October 2013

We propose and analyse a method based on the Riccati transformation for solving the evolutionary Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation arising from the dynamic stochastic optimal allocation problem. We show how the fully nonlinear Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation can be transformed into a quasilinear parabolic equation whose diffusion function is obtained as the value function of a certain parametric convex optimization problem. Although the diffusion function need not be sufficiently smooth, we are able to prove existence and uniqueness and derive useful bounds of classical Hölder smooth solutions. Furthermore, we construct a fully implicit iterative numerical scheme based on finite volume approximation of the governing equation. A numerical solution is compared to a semi-explicit travelling wave solution by means of the convergence ratio of the method. We compute optimal strategies for a portfolio investment problem motivated by the German DAX 30 index as an example of the application of the method.
The potassium paradox: Implications for soil fertility, crop production and human health
Authors: Khan S.A. , Mulvaney R.L. , Ellsworth T.R.
Published: October 2013

Intensive fertilizer usage of KCl has been inculcated as a prerequisite for maximizing crop yield and quality, and relies on a soil test for exchangeable K in the plow layer to ensure that soil productivity will not be limited by nutrient depletion. The interpretive value of this soil test was rigorously evaluated by: (1) field sampling to quantify biweekly changes and seasonal trends, (2) characterizing the variability induced by air drying and the dynamic nature of soil K reserves and (3) calculating the K balance in numerous cropping experiments. These evaluations leave no alternative but to question the practical utility of soil K testing because test values cannot account for the highly dynamic interchange between exchangeable and non-exchangeable K, exhibit serious temporal instability with or without air drying and do not differentiate soil K buildup from depletion. The need for routine K fertilization should also be questioned, considering the magnitude and inorganic occurrence of profile reserves, the recycling of K in crop residues and the preferential nature of K uptake. An extensive survey of more than 2100 yield response trials confirmed that KCl fertilization is unlikely to increase crop yield. Contrary to the inculcated perception of KCl as a qualitative commodity, more than 1400 field trials predominately documented a detrimental effect of this fertilizer on the quality of major food, feed and fiber crops, with serious implications for soil productivity and human health.
Phonologische Verarbeitung bei Grundschulkindern mit schwacher Lesefähigkeit
Authors: Klatte Maria , Steinbrink Claudia , Bergström Kirstin , Lachmann Thomas
Published: October 2013

Defizite in der phonologischen Informationsverarbeitung werden heute als Kernsymptom der Lese-Rechtschreibstörung betrachtet. In Trainingsstudien mit betroffenen Kindern erwiesen sich Phonemwahrnehmungsfähigkeiten als trainierbar, und Programme, in denen Aufgaben zur phonologischen Bewusstheit mit der systematischen Vermittlung von Phonem-Graphem-Zuordnungen kombiniert wurden, zeigten Transfereffekte auf Lese- und Rechtschreibleistungen. Ausgehend von diesen Erkenntnissen wurde ein computerbasiertes Trainingsprogramm zur Förderung der Phonemwahrnehmung, der phonologischen Bewusstheit und der Graphem-Phonem-Zuordnungen für deutschsprachige Grundschulkinder mit Lese-Rechtschreibstörung entwickelt. Aufgrund der besonderen Relevanz der Vokallänge für die deutsche Orthographie enthält das Programm neben Aufgaben, die auf Konsonanten fokussieren, auch Vokallängenaufgaben. Bei der Konzipierung des Programms wurden etablierte, ursprünglich für andere Sprachen entwickelte Aufgaben an die deutsche Phonologie angepasst und in ein computerbasiertes Format übersetzt. Im Rahmen der vorliegenden Studie sollte überprüft werden, ob die konstruierten Trainingsaufgaben die spezifischen Defizite von Kindern mit Lese-Rechtschreibstörung wie intendiert abbilden. Hierzu wurden leseschwache Dritt- und Viertklässler (n = 35) mit mindestens durchschnittlichen Lesern derselben Klassenstufen (n = 75; Kontrollgruppe) hinsichtlich ihrer Leistungen in den Aufgaben verglichen. Die leseschwachen Kinder zeigten in allen Aufgaben schlechtere Leistungen als die Kontrollgruppe. Die Effektstärken der Gruppenunterschiede (Cohen's d) lagen im mittleren bis hohen Bereich (0.50 – 2.19). Die Ergebnisse bestätigen, dass die Aufgaben des Trainingsprogramms die spezifischen Defizite leseschwacher Kinder abbilden. Ein Training mit diesen Aufgaben erscheint daher grundsätzlich sinnvoll. Die Wirkungen eines solchen Trainings auf die schriftsprachlichen Leistungen von Kindern mit Lese-Rechtschreibstörung werden in zukünftigen Studien überprüft.
Gpr97 is essential for the follicular versus marginal zone B-lymphocyte fate decision
Authors: Wang J-j , Zhang L-l , Zhang Hong-x , Shen C-l , Lu S-y , Kuang Y , Wan Y-h , Wang W-g , Yan H-m , Dang S-y , Fei J , Jin X-l , Wang Z-g
Published: October 2013

Gpr97 is an orphan adhesion GPCR and is highly conserved among species. Up to now, its physiological function remains largely unknown. Here, we show that Gpr97 deficiency results in an extensive reduction in B220+lymphocytes in mice. More intensive analyses reveal an expanded marginal zone but a decreased follicular B-cell population inGpr97−/−spleen, which displays disorganized architecture characterized by diffuse, irregular B-cell areas and the absence of discrete perifollicular marginal and mantle zones.In vivofunctional studies reveal that the mutant mice could generate antibody responses to T cell-dependent and independent antigens, albeit enhanced response to the former and weakened response to the latter. By screening for the molecular events involved in the observed phenotypes, we found that lambda 5 expression is downregulated and its upstream inhibitorAiolosis increased in the spleen of mutant mice, accompanied by significantly enhanced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of cAMP response element-binding protein. Interestingly, increased constitutive Nf-κb p50/p65 expression and activity were observed inGpr97−/−spleen, implicating a crucial role of Gpr97 in regulating Nf-κb activity. These findings uncover a novel biological function of Gpr97 in regulating B-cell development, implying Gpr97 as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of immunological disorders.
Autophagy and chemotherapy resistance: a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment
Authors: Sui X , Chen R , Wang Z , Huang Z , Kong N , Zhang M , Han W , Lou F , Yang J , Zhang Q , Wang X , He C , Pan H
Published: October 2013

Induction of cell death and inhibition of cell survival are the main principles of cancer therapy. Resistance to chemotherapeutic agents is a major problem in oncology, which limits the effectiveness of anticancer drugs. A variety of factors contribute to drug resistance, including host factors, specific genetic or epigenetic alterations in the cancer cells and so on. Although various mechanisms by which cancer cells become resistant to anticancer drugs in the microenvironment have been well elucidated, how to circumvent this resistance to improve anticancer efficacy remains to be defined. Autophagy, an important homeostatic cellular recycling mechanism, is now emerging as a crucial player in response to metabolic and therapeutic stresses, which attempts to maintain/restore metabolic homeostasis through the catabolic lysis of excessive or unnecessary proteins and injured or aged organelles. Recently, several studies have shown that autophagy constitutes a potential target for cancer therapy and the induction of autophagy in response to therapeutics can be viewed as having a prodeath or a prosurvival role, which contributes to the anticancer efficacy of these drugs as well as drug resistance. Thus, understanding the novel function of autophagy may allow us to develop a promising therapeutic strategy to enhance the effects of chemotherapy and improve clinical outcomes in the treatment of cancer patients.
Green Chemistry and the Biorefinery
Authors: Kazmi Abbas
Published: October 2013

The concept of Green Chemistry is now mainstream with industry and society taking the lead. Recently, on UK national radio the issue of waste cooking oil from domestic households and restaurants that ends up blocking drains was being discussed. The waste congeals and forms a “Fatberg”, and unsurprisingly it costs Thames Water, £1 million per month to remove the 100,000 blockages that arise each year. Instead of just accepting that this materials destiny is landfill, a commercial energy company has collaborated with the water agency to burn this fat and generate renewable energy. The plant will generate enough energy to support nearly 40,000 homes, although the company plans to use the electricity to run internal processes and the surplus amount will be distributed in the national energy grid. This example shows how the concept of “waste” is disappearing and being replaced by the concept of “resource”. We know that waste cooking oil is being used to manufacture biodiesel by leading retail outlets such as McDonald’s to fuel the companies transport fleet. These types of closed-loop approaches not only make sense from an environmental perspective but also commercially. Let us not forget that when the price of crude oil spiked to $150 it caused global chaos and according to some economists, it was the trigger of the deepest recession we have seen for nearly a century. Alternative supplies of fuel and energy may provide a buffer during high crude oil prices, and the same applies to alternative chemicals and materials. Society needs to implement a biorefinery approach where renewable carbon is used to provide the necessities of life; food, chemicals, materials and energy.
Food Waste in the European Union
Authors: Nattrass Lucy
Published: October 2013

The European Union generates around 90 million tonnes of food waste per year. This could increase to 126 million tonnes in 2020. This chapter presents estimates of food waste generated by Member State, and by source, including the manufacturing sector, retail, service industry and households. It goes on to outline the environmental and economic impacts of food waste, the EU policy framework, and initiatives intended to reduce the amount food we waste.
The Thermochemical Conversion of Biomass into High-Value Products: Microwave Pyrolysis
Authors: Shuttleworth Peter , Budarin Vitaly , Gronnow Mark
Published: October 2013

Thermochemical conversion of biomass appears to be one of the most promising methods by which the knowledge-based biobased economy will develop. With mankind’s insatiable hunger for electricity, chemicals, road transport fuels and aviation fuels showing no signs of abating we need drop-in replacements for coal and crude oil. Through application of microwave heating in place of conventional heating a greater level of control and tunability is possible. Furthermore, microwave processing of biomass offers lower temperatures than flash pyrolysis typically in the order of 200 °C in comparison with >400 °C that will have a significant impact on cost reduction and operational safety. Alternatively, microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment of biomass offers a different product stream and is particularly effective for biomass with high water content such as food waste. This methodology generates predominately sugars instead of bio-oil, through depolymerisation of cellulose and hemicellulose generating fermentable sugars a wide range of chemicals and fuels can be produced by enzymatic routes.
Food Waste and Catering Waste; Focus on Valorisation of Used Cooking Oil and Recovered Triglycerides
Authors: Herrero Dávila Lorenzo
Published: October 2013

The issue of food waste is becoming increasingly relevant for various reasons, resource efficiency is currently scoring high in industrial and political agendas all around the world, due mainly to the sustainability of wasting unnecessary natural resources in food production as well as due to the potential for these of food waste as a raw material for the renewable production of fuels and chemicals.
The tipping point of the inert pair effect: experimental and computational comparison of In(i) and Sn(ii) bis(imino)pyridine complexes
Authors: Jurca Titel , Hiscock Lana K. , Korobkov Ilia , Rowley Christopher N. , Richeson Darrin S.
Published: October 2013

The autoionization reaction of neutral bis(imino)pyridine and SnX2 led to three compounds [{ArNCPh}2(NC5H3)]SnX+SnX3− (Ar = 2,6-(2,5-tBu2C6H3), X = Cl, Br; Ar = 2,6-(2,6-Me2C6H3), X = Cl) which display, within the same species, cations and anions possessing Sn(ii) centers.
Ligand-specific conformational change of the G-protein–coupled receptor ALX/FPR2 determines proresolving functional responses
Authors: Cooray Sadani N. , Gobbetti Thomas , Montero-Melendez Trinidad , McArthur Simon , Thompson Dawn , Clark Adrian J. L. , Flower Roderick J. , Perretti Mauro
Published: October 2013

Significance

Inflammation is a crucial host defense response but can cause chronic disease if unregulated. Several endogenous anti-inflammatory and proresolving circuits balance and modulate inflammation, including a mechanism centered on the formyl peptide receptor (FPR) family. One receptor, ALX/FPR2, recognizes both proinflammatory and proresolving signals. We have investigated this unusual molecular mechanism finding that anti-inflammatory, but not proinflammatory signals, activate homodimers of this receptor. This triggers intracellular changes culminating in the release of anti-inflammatory mediators such as IL-10. Heterodimers of ALX with other FPR receptors can transduce proapoptotic signals. These results explain how both the development and resolution of inflammation may be integrated by the same receptor system and show how drugs can be developed that have only anti-inflammatory effects.
Portraiture and Arithmetic in Sixteenth-Century Bavaria: Deciphering Barthel Beham’sCalculator*
Authors: Buskirk Jessica
Published: October 2013

In his portrait of an unidentified man (Vienna, 1529), Barthel Beham portrays the sitter paused in the midst of a math problem. As has been discovered, the numbers and symbols belong to the vocabulary of numerical calculation. This finding first raises the question of why a patron would want to be shown doing computation with Arabic numerals in a portrait. In 1529, numerical calculation was a commercial tool, not a field with humanistic/social cachet such as geometry. Further, the depicted computation does not make sense: the symbols and numbers are arranged in the form of a problem without actually being one. Yet the patron either did not notice or care. This article argues that the incomplete computation is not only a reflection of the contemporary status of mathematics using Arabic numbers, but also provides a way of understanding how the painting functioned as a portrait in the social milieu of the sixteenth-century Munich court.
A Canker Disease of Populus × euramericana in China Caused by Lonsdalea quercina subsp. populi
Authors: Li Yong , He Wei , Ren Feijuan , Guo Limin , Chang Jupu , Cleenwerck Ilse , Ma Yuchao , Wang Haiming
Published: October 2013

In 2006, a new canker was observed on trees of Populus × euramericana ‘74/76’ and P. × euramericana ‘Zhonglin 46’ in the Henan and Shandong provinces of China. The disease, which is characterized by canker with white exudates dripping from the bark, occurred mainly in the summer. A particular gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium was repeatedly isolated from the infected samples and proven to infect trees of P. × euramericana by Koch's postulates. Through a polyphasic taxonomic approach using sequence, DNA-DNA hybridization, chemotaxonomic, and phenotypic data, the poplar isolates were identified as Lonsdalea quercina subsp. populi, a subspecies very recently described based on isolates from oozing bark canker of poplar (P. × euramericana) trees in Hungary.
Disease-Suppressive Vermicompost Induces a Shift in Germination Mode ofPythium aphanidermatumZoosporangia
Authors: Carr Eric A. , Nelson Eric B.
Published: October 2013

Compost amendments to soils can minimize losses from soilborne plant pathogens, yet the mechanisms by which this occurs have not been well elucidated. In the present study, developmental responses of Pythium aphanidermatum zoosporangia to vermicomposts were observed to better understand how suppression of Pythium seedling disease is expressed. Mature zoosporangia were exposed to vermicompost extracts (VCEs) and monitored using time-lapse photomicroscopy. Sterile and nonsterile VCEs inhibited indirect germination and viable zoospore production whereas zoosporangia germinated directly in VCE to produce germ tubes. Additional treatments were tested to determine factors that promote direct over indirect germination. The pH (5 to 9 at 0.001 M) and ionic strength (0.1 to 0.0001 at pH 6) of potassium phosphate buffer did not alter zoosporogenesis compared with sterile water. Decreasing osmotic potentials in glucose and sucrose from –248 to –2,712 kPa or in polyethylene glycol 8000 from –0.335 to –105 kPa led to a decrease in indirect germination with a corresponding increase in direct germination. Significant levels of seed infection were observed within 1 h of exposure to zoospores (produced in sterile water) or to germ tubes (produced in sucrose solution). Our data demonstrate that VCEs suppress zoosporogenesis and stimulate direct germination; however, this did not result in the suppression of germ tube growth and seed infection.
Profiling Viral Infections in Grapevine Using a Randomly Primed Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction/Macroarray Multiplex Platform
Authors: Thompson J. R. , Fuchs Marc , McLane Heather , Celebi-Toprak Fevziye , Fischer Kael F. , Potter Jamie L. , Perry Keith L.
Published: October 2013

Crop-specific diagnostics to simultaneously detect a large number of pathogens provides an invaluable platform for the screening of vegetative material prior to its propagation. Here we report the use of what is to-date the largest published example of a crop-specific macroarray for the detection of 38 of the most prevalent or emergent viruses to infect grapevine. The reusable array consists of 1,578 virus-specific 60 to 70mer oligonucleotide probes and 19 plant and internal control probes spotted onto an 18 × 7 cm nylon membrane. In a survey of 99 grapevines from the United States and Europe, virus infections were detected in 46 selections of Vitis vinifera, V. labrusca, and interspecific hybrids. The majority of infected vines (30) was singly infected, while 16 were mixed-infected with viruses from two or more families. Representatives of the four main virus families Betaflexiviridae, Closteroviridae, Secoviridae, and Tymoviridae present in grapevines were found alone and in combination, with a notable bias in representation by members of the family Tymoviridae. This work demonstrates the utility of the macroarray platform for the multiplex detection of viruses in a single crop, its potential for characterizing grapevine virus associations, and usefulness for rapid diagnostics of introduced material in quarantine centers or in certification programs.
Roles of a Solo LuxR in the Biological Control Agent Lysobacter enzymogenes Strain OH11
Authors: Qian Guoliang , Xu Feifei , Venturi Vittorio , Du Liangcheng , Liu Fengquan
Published: October 2013

Lysobacter enzymogenes is a ubiquitous plant-associated and environmentally friendly bacterium emerging as a novel biological control agent of plant disease. This bacterium produces diverse antifungal factors, such as lytic enzymes and a secondary metabolite (heat-stable antifungal factor [HSAF]) having antifungal activity with a novel structure and mode of action. The regulatory mechanisms for biosynthesis of antifungal factors is largely unknown in L. enzymogenes. The solo LuxR proteins have been shown to be widespread, playing important roles in plant-associated bacteria. Here, we cloned and studied a solo LuxR protein, LesR, from L. enzymogenes strain OH11. Overexpression but not deletion of lesR significantly impaired HSAF biosynthesis levels and antimicrobial activities but did not show visible effect on production of major lytic enzymes. Overexpression of lesR also led to remarkably accelerated cell aggregation and induced production of a melanin-like pigment in L. enzymogenes; these two phenotypes are mediated by the diffusible factor cell-to-cell signaling system of L. enzymogenes. The C-terminus helix-turn-helix domain was shown to be critical for several lesR-controlled functions. Overall, our study provides the first example of the roles and mechanisms of a solo LuxR protein in a plant-associated L. enzymogenes.
Patient Selection for Day Case-eligible Surgery
Authors: Mathis Michael R. , Naughton Norah N. , Shanks Amy M. , Freundlich Robert E. , Pannucci Christopher J. , Chu YiJia , Haus Jason , Morris Michelle , Kheterpal Sachin
Published: October 2013

Background:

Due to economic pressures and improvements in perioperative care, outpatient surgical procedures have become commonplace. However, risk factors for outpatient surgical morbidity and mortality remain unclear. There are no multicenter clinical data guiding patient selection for outpatient surgery. The authors hypothesize that specific risk factors increase the likelihood of day case-eligible surgical morbidity or mortality.

Methods:

The authors analyzed adults undergoing common day case-eligible surgical procedures by using the American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database from 2005 to 2010. Common day case-eligible surgical procedures were identified as the most common outpatient surgical Current Procedural Terminology codes provided by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Medicare publications. Study variables included anthropometric data and relevant medical comorbidities. The primary outcome was morbidity or mortality within 72 h. Intraoperative complications included adverse cardiovascular events; postoperative complications included surgical, anesthetic, and medical adverse events.

Results:

Of 244,397 surgeries studied, 232 (0.1%) experienced early perioperative morbidity or mortality. Seven independent risk factors were identified while controlling for surgical complexity: overweight body mass index, obese body mass index, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, history of transient ischemic attack/stroke, hypertension, previous cardiac surgical intervention, and prolonged operative time.

Conclusions:

The demonstrated low rate of perioperative morbidity and mortality confirms the safety of current day case-eligible surgeries. The authors obtained the first prospectively collected data identifying risk factors for morbidity and mortality with day case-eligible surgery. The results of the study provide new data to advance patient-selection processes for outpatient surgery.
Aquimarina amphilecti sp. nov., isolated from the sponge Amphilectus fucorum
Authors: Kennedy Jonathan , Margassery Lekha Menon , O’Leary Niall D. , O’Gara Fergal , Morrissey John , Dobson Alan D. W.
Published: October 2013

A Gram-stain-negative, rod-shaped, orange-coloured, catalase- and oxidase-positive, non-motile bacterium, designated strain 92VT, was isolated from the marine sponge Amphilectus fucorum, collected from Lough Hyne, County Cork, Ireland. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain 92VT clustered with members of the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, the closest member being

Aquimarina latercula

NCIMB 1399T, with a gene sequence similarity of 97.5 %. Strain 92VT required seawater for growth with optimal growth occurring at 25 °C, at pH 6–7 and with 3 % (w/v) NaCl. MK-6 was the sole respiratory quinone present and the major fatty acids were iso-C17 : 0 3-OH, iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 1ω9c and iso-C15 : 0 3-OH. The DNA G+C content was 36.1 mol%. Combined phenotypic differences and phylogenetic analysis indicate that strain 92VT represents a novel species of the genus

Aquimarina

, for which the name Aquimarina amphilecti sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is 92VT ( = NCIMB 14723T = DSM 25232T).
Micromonospora polyrhachis sp. nov., an actinomycete isolated from edible Chinese black ant (Polyrhachis vicina Roger)
Authors: Xiang Wensheng , Yu Chao , Liu Chongxi , Zhao Junwei , Yang Lingyu , Xie Binjiao , Li Lei , Hong Kui , Wang Xiangjing
Published: October 2013

A novel actinomycete, designated strain NEAU-ycm2T, was isolated from edible Chinese black ants (Polyrhachis vicina Roger) and characterized using a polyphasic approach. The organism was found to have morphological and chemotaxonomic characteristics typical of the genus

Micromonospora

. The 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain NEAU-ycm2T showed highest similarity to those of

Micromonospora sonneratiae

274745T (99.12 %),

Micromonospora pattaloongensis

TJ2-2T (98.85 %),

Micromonospora pisi

GUI 15T (98.76 %),

Polymorphospora rubra

TT 97-42T (98.42 %) and

Micromonospora eburnea

LK2-10T (98.21 %). Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene and gyrB gene demonstrated that strain NEAU-ycm2T is a member of the genus

Micromonospora

and supported the close phylogenetic relationship to

M. sonneratiae

274745T,

M. pattaloongensis

JCM 12833T and

M. pisi

GUI 15T. Furthermore, a combination of DNA–DNA hybridization and some physiological and biochemical properties indicated that the novel strain could be readily distinguished from its closest phylogenetic relatives. Therefore, it is proposed that NEAU-ycm2T represents a novel species of the genus of

Micromonospora

, for which the name Micromonospora polyrhachis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NEAU-ycm2T ( = CGMCC 4.7100T = DSM 45886T).
Kurthia huakuii sp. nov., isolated from biogas slurry, and emended description of the genus Kurthia
Authors: Ruan Zhiyong , Wang Yanwei , Song Jinlong , Jiang Shenghua , Wang Huimin , Li Yanting , Zhao Binqiang , Jiang Ruibo , Zhao Bin
Published: October 2013

A novel facultatively anaerobic bacterium, designated strain LAM0618T, was isolated from biogas slurry samples collected from the large-scale anaerobic digester of Modern Farming Corporation in Hebei Province, China. Cells of strain LAM0618T were Gram-stain-positive, motile, non-spore-forming and short-rod-shaped. The optimal temperature and pH for growth were 30 °C and 7.0, respectively. The strain did not require NaCl for growth but tolerated up to 70 g NaCl l−1. The major fatty acids of strain LAM0618T were iso-C15 : 0, anteiso-C15 : 0, iso-C14 : 0, C16 : 0 and C18 : 0. The predominant menaquinones of strain LAM0618T were menaquinone 7 (MK-7) and menaquinone 6 (MK-6). The main polar lipids of strain LAM0618T were phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and six unknown glycolipids. The genomic DNA G+C content was 41 mol% as determined by the T
m method. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain LAM0618T was a member of the genus

Kurthia

, and was most closely related to ‘

Kurthia

massiliensis’ DSM 24639,

Kurthia zopfii

DSM 20580T,

Kurthia gibsonii

DSM 20636T and

Kurthia sibirica

DSM 4747T, with 96.9, 95.7, 95.6 and 94.9 % sequence similarity, respectively. Based on its phenotypic and genotypic properties, strain LAM0618T is suggested to represent a novel species of the genus

Kurthia

, for which the name

Kurthia

huakuii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is LAM0618T ( = ACCC 06121T = JCM 19187T).
Methanobacterium movilense sp. nov., a hydrogenotrophic, secondary-alcohol-utilizing methanogen from the anoxic sediment of a subsurface lake
Authors: Schirmack Janosch , Mangelsdorf Kai , Ganzert Lars , Sand Wolfgang , Hillebrand-Voiculescu Alexandra , Wagner Dirk
Published: October 2013

A novel strain of methanogenic archaea, designated MC-20T, was isolated from the anoxic sediment of a subsurface lake in Movile Cave, Mangalia, Romania. Cells were non-motile, Gram-stain-negative rods 3.5–4.0 µm in length and 0.6–0.7 µm in width, and occurred either singly or in short chains. Strain MC-20Twas able to utilize H2/CO2, formate, 2-propanol and 2-butanol as substrate, but not acetate, methanol, ethanol, dimethyl sulfide, monomethylamine, dimethylamine or trimethylamine. Neither trypticase peptone nor yeast extract was required for growth. The major membrane lipids of strain MC-20Twere archaeol phosphatidylethanolamine and diglycosyl archaeol, while archaeol phosphatidylinositol and glycosyl archaeol were present only in minor amounts. Optimal growth was observed at 33 °C, pH 7.4 and 0.08 M NaCl. Based on phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences, strain MC-20Twas closely affiliated withMethanobacterium oryzaeFPiT(similarity 97.1 %) andMethanobacterium lacus17A1T(97.0 %). The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 33.0 mol%. Based on phenotypic and genotypic differences, strain MC-20Twas assigned to a novel species of the genusMethanobacteriumfor which the nameMethanobacterium movilensesp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is MC-20T( = DSM 26032T = JCM 18470T).
Genogroup I avian picobirnavirus detected in Brazilian broiler chickens: a molecular epidemiology study
Authors: Ribeiro Silva René , Bezerra Delana Andreza Melo , Kaiano Jane Haruko Lima , Oliveira Darleise de Souza , Silvestre Rodrigo Vellasco Duarte , Gabbay Yvone Benchimol , Ganesh Balasubramanian , Mascarenhas Joana D’Arc Pereira
Published: October 2013

Picobirnavirus (PBV) belongs to the family Picobirnaviridae. Picobirnaviruses contain a bisegmented dsRNA genome that is non-enveloped. A total of 85 pooled faecal samples were collected from the poultry of 37 farms from the Metropolitan Mesoregion of Belém (MMB), Pará state, Brazil. The viral RNA from each sample was analysed by PAGE and reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). For each county affected, at least one positive sample was selected, cloned and sequenced. The samples showed a positivity of 15.3 % (13/85) by PAGE and 49.4 % (42/85) by RT-PCR. Sequencing of these strains demonstrated a considerable RdRp gene heterogeneity that ranged from 56.1 to 100 % at the nucleotide level compared with prototypes of different species and water sewage, and from 50.3 to 100 % among themselves. Avian picobirnavirus (AvPBV) was detected in MMB broiler farms and showed a heterogeneous relationship with the prototypes used. This report includes what is believed to be the first gene sequencing of AvPBV in Brazilian broiler chickens.
First laboratory X-ray diffraction contrast tomography for grain mapping of polycrystals
Authors: King A. , Reischig P. , Adrien J. , Ludwig W.
Published: October 2013

The first results of three-dimensional grain mapping using a laboratory tomograph equipped with a microfocus W target X-ray tube source, operated at 90 kV and 350 µA, are presented. Adapted algorithms exploit the polychromatic radiation spectrum and the projection magnification arising from the cone-beam geometry. The first map of grain shapes and crystallographic orientations from a titanium sample containing 42 grains is presented and its validity confirmed by a phase contrast reconstruction of the grain boundaries. Perspectives are given for the further development of the technique to accommodate samples with more grains or with greater intragranular orientation spread.
Convergence of the hyperspherical harmonic expansion for crystallographic texture
Authors: Mason Jeremy K. , Johnson Oliver K.
Published: October 2013

Advances in instrumentation allow a material texture to be measured as a collection of spatially resolved crystallite orientations rather than as a collection of pole figures. However, the hyperspherical harmonic expansion of a collection of spatially resolved crystallite orientations is subject to significant truncation error, resulting in ringing artifacts (spurious oscillations around sharp transitions) and false peaks in the orientation distribution function. This article finds that the ringing artifacts and the accompanying regions of negative probability density may be mitigated or removed entirely by modifying the coefficients of the hyperspherical harmonic expansion by a simple multiplicative factor. An addition theorem for the hyperspherical harmonics is derived as an intermediate result.
RieCalc: quantitative phase analysis of hydrating cement pastes
Authors: Valentini Luca
Published: October 2013

The MATLAB programRieCalc, developed for the quantitative phase analysis of hydrating cement pastes, is presented. Rietveld refined data obtained fromin situX-ray diffraction measurements are used as input and loaded by means of a simple graphical user interface. Time-resolved phase fractions are rescaled by a mass balance method, which calculates the amounts of amorphous phases (calcium silicate hydrate and capillary water) present in the system. Furthermore,RieCalccalculates theoretical curves that simulate those obtained from isothermal calorimetry measurements.
Scattering functions of yolk–shell particles
Authors: Li Xin , Liu Kao-Hsiang , Wu Bin , Sanchez-Diaz Luis Enrique , Smith Gregory S. , Chen Wei-Ren
Published: October 2013

The single-particle small-angle scattering properties of the yolk–shell particle, a new type of core–shell particle with a mobile core within the hosting shell, are systematically investigated. The Debye spatial autocorrelation function, pair distance distribution function and intraparticle structure factor (form factor) are calculated and compared with the corresponding scattering functions of reference systems of hard sphere and concentric core–shell particles with identical sizes. On the basis of these theoretical calculations, it is found that the broken centrosymmetry, originating from the mobility of the trapped yolk, results in an imaginary scattering amplitude. As a result, it contributes an additional destructive interference term which smears certain features present in the scattering functions of the reference systems. These theoretical models raise the prospect of jointly using small-angle neutron and X-ray scattering techniques to quantitatively determine the structural characteristics of yolk–shell particles.
Extreme X-ray beam compression for a high-resolution table-top grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering setup
Authors: Jergel Matej , Šiffalovič Peter , Végsö Karol , Majková Eva , Korytár Dušan , Zápražný Zdenko , Perlich Jan , Ziberi Bashkim , Cornejo Marina , Vagovic Patrik
Published: October 2013

The application of V-shaped channel-cut GeSi(220) and Ge(220) monochromators for one-dimensional extreme X-ray beam compression was tested on a table-top setup for grazing-incidence small-angle X-ray scattering (GISAXS) with a microfocus source. A lattice constant gradient and different asymmetry angles of the diffractors were employed to enhance the compression factor to 21 and 15, respectively. It was demonstrated that the output beam parameters in terms of the size, divergence, photon flux and spectral bandwidth surpass those of the slit collimators used traditionally in GISAXS. A beam size far below 100 µm allows a high-resolution spatial GISAXS mapping, while the reciprocal space resolution of ∼500 nm approaches the level of synchrotron measurements and allows a fast one-shot detection of high-resolution GISAXS patterns. An oversampling shifts the detection limit up to ∼1 µm. The very short design of the compact high-resolution table-top GISAXS setup is another advantage of the extreme beam compression. Benefits of V-shaped monochromators for medium-resolution X-ray diffraction experiments as a bonus application are demonstrated by a comparison with parallel channel-cut monochromators combined with a slit.
Obtaining the structure factors for an epitaxial film using Cu X-ray radiation
Authors: Wadley P. , Crespi A. , Gázquez J. , Roldán M.A. , García P. , Novak V. , Campion R. , Jungwirth T. , Rinaldi C. , Martí X. , Holy V. , Frontera C. , Rius J.
Published: October 2013

Determining atomic positions in thin films by X-ray diffraction is, at present, a task reserved for synchrotron facilities. Here an experimental method is presented which enables the determination of the structure factor amplitudes of thin films using laboratory-based equipment (Cu Kα radiation). This method was tested using an epitaxial 130 nm film of CuMnAs grown on top of a GaAs substrate, which unlike the orthorhombic bulk phase forms a crystal structure with tetragonal symmetry. From the set of structure factor moduli obtained by applying this method, the solution and refinement of the crystal structure of the film has been possible. The results are supported by consistent high-resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy and stoichiometry analyses.
A combined CFAHP-FTOPSIS approach for portfolio selection
Authors: Chen Li , Li Benli , Dong Shangjia , Pan Heping
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Owing to the importance of the portfolio problem in modern financial investment fields, the aim of this paper is to rank and choose suitable stocks in stock markets under vague environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– Many new principles and methods have been introduced to help the investor to decide which stocks are worth to be chosen. In real word, people prefer to express their attributes by using linguistic terms, so the used data are often imprecise and vague. In this paper, the second method of constrained fuzzy analysis hierarchy process (CFAHP) is used to evaluate the relative weights of the criteria and rank alternatives by fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (FTOPSIS).

Findings

– In this paper, empirical result shows that the proposed method is capable of helping investor to allocate asset in portfolio problems under vague environment.

Research limitations/implications

– The proposed method gives a new mathematical framework for portfolio selection. Investors can decide the asset allocation by using the combination of CFAHP and FTOPSIS.

Practical implications

– Besides the benefit of sorting feature, the proposed method can be used to obtain the asset allocation.

Social implications

– The aim of the portfolio selection theory is to rank and decide the asset allocations. But it is still a difficult task in deciding which assets should be selected under uncertain environment. The proposed method in this paper has been proved to be an efficient method to deal with vague information in decision-making programs.

Originality/value

– This study analyzes the effectiveness of the combined method of CFAHP and TOPSIS in portfolio problem.
Entrepreneurship education: an evaluation of the Young Enterprise Wales initiative
Authors: Jones Paul , Colwill Anne
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present an evaluation of the impact of the Young Enterprise Wales (YEW) programme on its participants. YEW represents the Wales region of the programme which is an annual competition to assist 15-19-year-old secondary school pupils acquire entrepreneurial skills through running a business.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper utilises a semi-structured data collection method within which attitudes, impacts and perceptions of the YEW programme are assessed. In total, 44 participants in a YEW regional final were interviewed and a questionnaire completed.

Findings

– The results indicated a positive participant reaction to the YEW programme with an affirmative response to all questions regarding the impact and experience of the course. The post final results suggested that the programme has improved entrepreneurial competencies and the future potential for business start-up.

Research limitations/implications

– The paper recognises that the research respondents were drawn from one region of the UK and were successful participants in the programme. Further evidence is required to assess the longitudinal impact upon future entrepreneurial behaviour on these individuals.

Practical implications

– The paper contributes to knowledge by adding to a limited literature examining the impact of entrepreneurship education within the 16-19 secondary school age sector. The essential elements of the YE experience are identified and proposed as a model for best practice for enterprise education at this age group.

Originality/value

– The paper contributes to knowledge by adding to a limited literature examining the impact of entrepreneurship education within the 16-19 secondary school age sector. The essential elements of the YE experience are identified and proposed as a model for best practice for enterprise education at this age group.
The process of impact of entrepreneurship education and training on entrepreneurship perception and intention
Authors: Dehghanpour Farashah Ali
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Conventional wisdom as well as many studies confirm that entrepreneurship education increases entrepreneurial intention but there is a lack of research on some aspects including conceptual and theoretical development, mechanism of the effect of education and study of regional variations. The paper studies the process of impact of entrepreneurship education and training (EET) on attitudes toward entrepreneurship, perception of social norms, self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention.

Design/methodology/approach

– Empirical data from 601 individuals from Iran is utilized to evaluate the model. The data are reported by Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM). Binary logistics regression is used to evaluate the effects of variables.

Findings

– Results show that completion of one entrepreneurship course increases the likelihood of having entrepreneurial intention by 1.3 times. Wald criteria demonstrate that fear of failure, desirability of entrepreneurial career, entrepreneurs’ status in society, self-efficacy and education and training are significant predictors of entrepreneurial intention. Perceived opportunity is not a strong but a moderate predictor.

Research limitations/implications

– Because of the country-level focus of research, the paper's results may lack generalizability. The paper makes no rigid claim of causality. The causality is likely to be bi-directional.

Practical implications

– The findings have wider implications for a theory of entrepreneurial intention and also for the practice of teaching entrepreneurship. Higher efficiency of informal training than formal training, failing entrepreneurship education to provide necessary knowledge and skills for nascent entrepreneurs, and not considering the effect of macro socioeconomic conditions call for an immediate pedagogical redesign of EET in Iran.

Originality/value

– The paper summarizes learning processes and teaching models of entrepreneurship education, matches them with educational theories and makes argument on the mechanism of the effects of education. Then, utilizing empirical data, the paper shows the effectiveness of entrepreneurship training and education initiatives in Iran and propose areas for improvement in the national level based on the summarized educational theories and teaching models.
Entrepreneurial assets and mindsets
Authors: Z. Solesvik Marina , Westhead Paul , Matlay Harry , N. Parsyak Vladimir
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– Universities provide entrepreneurship-specific education (ESE) to equip students with the entrepreneurial alertness and risk-taking assets required to pursue entrepreneurial careers. Building upon insights from a dynamic view of human capital, the paper explores the linkage between ESE investment, alertness, and risk-taking asset accumulation, and the outcome relating to the intention “to become an entrepreneur” (henceforth termed an “entrepreneurial mindset”).

Design/methodology/approach

– Survey information from 189 students from three universities in the Ukraine was hand collected. Hierarchical multiple ordinary least squares regression analysis and slope analysis were used to test presented hypotheses.

Findings

– ESE students reported higher intensity of entrepreneurial mindset. Further, ESE students who accumulated the connection entrepreneurial alertness asset reported higher intensity of entrepreneurial mindset. ESE students were more oriented to higher entrepreneurial mindset when they had accumulated more connection entrepreneurial alertness asset. ESE students who accumulated the risk-taking propensity asset reported lower intensity of entrepreneurial mindset. ESE students were more oriented to higher entrepreneurial mindset when they perceived less risk.

Originality/value

– The paper makes a novel contribution by considering whether ESE promotes different elements of entrepreneurial alertness and risk-taking assets. Building upon insights from a broader conceptualization of the entrepreneurial alertness asset (Tang et al., 2012), the paper conceptualized for the first time the linkage between three elements of entrepreneurial alertness and student entrepreneurial mindset. Further, the paper conceptualized linkage between two elements of risk-taking relating to risk-taking perception asset and risk-taking propensity asset, and higher intensity of entrepreneurial mindset. Assets relating to entrepreneurial alertness and risk-taking perception need to be honed in transition economy contexts associated with political structures that did not promote individual risk-taking.
Reflections on the omission of social capital from enterprise education and business start training
Authors: Bridge Simon
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the case for the inclusion, in enterprise education, of training and/or guidance in the acquisition and use of social capital.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper considers the reasons, not just why social capital should be included as a factor at least as important as financial capital, but also the possible reasons why so far it has largely been omitted – and then explores the implications behind that omission.

Findings

– The core assertion of the paper is that, despite its clear relevance, social capital is rarely included in enterprise education because the basis for much enterprise education is a traditional business plan menu which is in turn based on big business thinking.

Practical implications

– The implications of this are not just that social capital should be given a key place in enterprise education but that, before this can happen, the different nature of small business needs to be accepted and the basis of small business training adjusted accordingly.

Originality/value

– To date a lot of enterprise education and training has been based on the assumption that the traditional components of a business plan form a suitable agenda for enterprise education – either because it is directly based on a business plan or drawn from the same sort of thinking. The paper questions the validity of that assumption which excludes important factors such as social capital.