bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electronic Structure of Polyethylene: Role of Chemical, Morphological and Interfacial Complexity
Authors: Chen Lihua , Huan Tran Doan , Ramprasad Rampi
Published: July 2017

The electronic structure of an insulator encodes essential signatures of its short-term electrical performance and long-term reliability. A critical long-standing challenge though is that key features of the electronic structure of an insulator (and its evolution) under realistic conditions have not been entirely accessible, either via experimental or computational approaches, due to the inherent complexities involved. In this comprehensive study, we reveal the role of chemical and morphological imperfections that inevitably exist within the technologically important prototypical and pervasive insulator, polyethylene (PE), and at electrode/PE interfaces. Large-scale density functional theory computations and long-time molecular dynamics simulations were employed to accurately recover, explain and unravel a wide variety of experimental data obtained during the electrical degradation of PE. This scheme has allowed us to directly and realistically address the role of chemical, morphological and interfacial complexity in determining electronic structure. These efforts take us a step closer to understanding and potentially controlling dielectric degradation and breakdown.
High-fidelity de novo synthesis of pathways using microchip-synthesized oligonucleotides and general molecular biology equipment
Authors: Wan Wen , Lu Min , Wang Dongmei , Gao Xiaolian , Hong Jiong
Published: July 2017

Engineering and evaluation of synthetic routes for generating valuable compounds require accurate and cost-effective de novo synthesis of genetic pathways. Here, we present an economical and streamlined de novo DNA synthesis approach for engineering a synthetic pathway with microchip-synthesized oligonucleotides (oligo). The process integrates entire oligo pool amplification, error-removal, and assembly of long DNA molecules. We utilized this method to construct a functional lycopene biosynthetic pathway (11.9 kb encoding 10 genes) in Escherichia coli using a highly error-prone microchip-synthesized oligo pool (479 oligos) without pre-purification, and the error-frequency was reduced from 14.25/kb to 0.53/kb. This low-equipment-dependent and cost-effective method can be widely applied for rapid synthesis of biosynthetic pathways in general molecular biology laboratories.
Nanoscale Investigation of Generation 1 PAMAM Dendrimers Interaction with a Protein Nanopore
Authors: Asandei Alina , Ciuca Andrei , Apetrei Aurelia , Schiopu Irina , Mereuta Loredana , Seo Chang Ho , Park Yoonkyung , Luchian Tudor
Published: July 2017

Herein, we describe at uni-molecular level the interactions between poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimers of generation 1 and the α-hemolysin protein nanopore, at acidic and neutral pH, and ionic strengths of 0.5 M and 1 M KCl, via single-molecule electrical recordings. The results indicate that kinetics of dendrimer-α-hemolysin reversible interactions is faster at neutral as compared to acidic pH, and we propose as a putative explanation the fine interplay among conformational and rigidity changes on the dendrimer structure, and the ionization state of the dendrimer and the α-hemolysin. From the analysis of the dendrimer’s residence time inside the nanopore, we posit that the pH- and salt-dependent, long-range electrostatic interactions experienced by the dendrimer inside the ion-selective α-hemolysin, induce a non-Stokesian diffusive behavior of the analyte inside the nanopore. We also show that the ability of dendrimer molecules to adapt their structure to nanoscopic spaces, and control the flow of matter through the α-hemolysin nanopore, depends non-trivially on the pH- and salt-induced conformational changes of the dendrimer.
Distinct selective forces and Neanderthal introgression shaped genetic diversity at genes involved in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Mozzi Alessandra , Forni Diego , Cagliani Rachele , Pozzoli Uberto , Clerici Mario , Sironi Manuela
Published: July 2017

In addition to high intelligence, humans evolved specialized social-cognitive skills, which are specifically affected in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Genes affected in ASD represent suitable candidates to study the evolution of human social cognition. We performed an evolutionary analysis on 68 genes associated to neurodevelopmental disorders; our data indicate that genetic diversity was shaped by distinct selective forces, including natural selection and introgression from archaic hominins. We discuss the possibility that segregation distortion during spermatogenesis accounts for a subset of ASD mutations. Finally, we detected modern-human-specific alleles in DYRK1A and TCF4. These variants are located within regions that display chromatin features typical of transcriptional enhancers in several brain areas, strongly suggesting a regulatory role. These SNPs thus represent candidates for association with neurodevelopmental disorders, and await experimental validation in future studies.
Short-chain fatty acids and inulin, but not guar gum, prevent diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance through differential mechanisms in mice
Authors: Weitkunat Karolin , Stuhlmann Christin , Postel Anna , Rumberger Sandra , Fankhänel Maria , Woting Anni , Petzke Klaus Jürgen , Gohlke Sabrina , Schulz Tim J. , Blaut Michael , Klaus Susanne , Schumann Sara
Published: July 2017

The role of dietary fibre and short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) in obesity development is controversially discussed. Here, we investigated how various types of dietary fibre and different SCFA ratios affect metabolic syndrome-related disorders. Male mice (B6) were fed high-fat diets supplemented with dietary fibres (either cellulose, inulin or guar gum) or different Ac:Pr ratios (high acetate (HAc) or propionate (HPr)) for 30 weeks. Body-fat gain and insulin resistance were greatly reduced by inulin, but not by guar gum, and completely prevented by SCFA supplementation. Only inulin and HAc increased body temperature, possibly by the induction of beige/browning markers in WAT. In addition, inulin and SCFA lowered hepatic triglycerides and improved insulin sensitivity. Both, inulin and HAc reduced hepatic fatty acid uptake, while only inulin enhanced mitochondrial capacity and only HAc suppressed lipogenesis in liver. Interestingly, HPr was accompanied by the induction of Nrg4 in BAT. Fermentable fibre supplementation increased the abundance of bifidobacteria;B.animaliswas particularly stimulated by inulin andB.pseudolongumby guar gum. We conclude that in contrast to guar gum, inulin and SCFA prevent the onset of diet-induced weight gain and hepatic steatosis by different mechanisms on liver and adipose tissue metabolism.
Gestational age-specific sex difference in mortality and morbidities of preterm infants: A nationwide study
Authors: Shim So-Yeon , Cho Su Jin , Kong Kyoung Ae , Park Eun Ae
Published: July 2017

This study aims to determine whether male sex has adverse effect on mortality and morbidities in very low birth weight infants (VLBWI) <30 weeks of gestation and to ascertain this sex effect, stratified by gestational age, adjusting for perinatal risk factors. This is a population-based study from Korean Neonatal Network for VLBWI born at 23+0 and 29+6 weeks of gestation between January 2013 and December 2014. The primary outcome was gestation-specific sex difference in the occurrence of mortality, combined morbidities, and individual morbidity. A total of 2228 VLBWI were enrolled (males, 51.7%). Mortality was not different between sexes. The risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and combined morbidities was significantly higher in males ≤25 weeks of gestation (odds ratio [OR] 2.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.35–3.20 and OR 2.00, CI 1.19–3.39, respectively). Males had a significantly higher incidence of periventricular leukomalacia at 23 and 29 weeks of gestation. The risk of severe retinopathy of prematurity was higher in females >25 weeks of gestation. Although both sexes have similar risk for mortality, male sex remains an independent risk for major morbidities, especially at ≤25 weeks of gestation. The risk of each outcome for males has a specific pattern with increasing gestational age.
Inductively powered wireless pacing via a miniature pacemaker and remote stimulation control system
Authors: Abiri Parinaz , Abiri Ahmad , Packard René R. Sevag , Ding Yichen , Yousefi Alireza , Ma Jianguo , Bersohn Malcolm , Nguyen Kim-Lien , Markovic Dejan , Moloudi Shervin , Hsiai Tzung K.
Published: July 2017

Pacemakers have existed for decades as a means to restore cardiac electrical rhythms. However, lead-related complications have remained a clinical challenge. While market-released leadless devices have addressed some of the issues, their pacer-integrated batteries cause new health risks and functional limitations. Inductive power transfer enables wireless powering of bioelectronic devices; however, Specific Absorption Rate and size limitations reduce power efficiency for biomedical applications. We designed a remote-controlled system in which power requirements were significantly reduced via intermittent power transfer to control stimulation intervals. In parallel, the cardiac component was miniaturized to facilitate intravascular deployment into the anterior cardiac vein. Given size constraints, efficiency was optimal via a circular receiver coil wrapped into a half-cylinder with a meandering tail. The pacemaker was epicardially tested in a euthanized pig at 60 beats per minute, 2 V amplitude, and 1 ms pulse width, restoring mean arterial pressure from 0 to 37 mmHg. Power consumption was 1 mW at a range of > 3 cm with no misalignment and at 2 cm with 45° displacement misalignment, 45° x-axis angular misalignment, or 45° y-axis angular misalignment. Thus, we demonstrated a remote-controlled miniaturized pacing system with low power consumption, thereby providing a basis for the next generation of wireless implantable devices.
RNAi screening identifies Trypanosoma brucei stress response protein kinases required for survival in the mouse
Authors: Fernandez-Cortes Fernando , Serafim Tiago D. , Wilkes Jonathan M. , Jones Nathaniel G. , Ritchie Ryan , McCulloch Richard , Mottram Jeremy C.
Published: July 2017

Protein kinases (PKs) are a class of druggable targets in Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of Human African Trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), yet little is known about which PKs are essential for survival in mammals. A recent kinome-wide RNAi screen with 176 individual bloodstream form Trypanosoma brucei lines identified PKs required for proliferation in culture. In order to assess which PKs are also potential virulence factors essential in vivo, lines were pooled, inoculated into mice, and screened for loss of fitness after 48 h RNAi. The presence of trypanosomes in the bloodstream was assessed using RNAi target sequencing (RITseq) and compared to growth in culture. We identified 49 PKs with a significant loss of fitness in vivo in two independent experiments, and a strong correlation between in vitro and in vivo loss of fitness for the majority. Nine PKs had a more pronounced growth defect in vivo, than in vitro. Amongst these PKs were several with putative functions related to stress responses mediated through the PI3K/TOR or MAPK signaling cascades, which act to protect the parasite from complement-mediated and osmotic lysis. Identification of these virulence-associated PKs provides new insights into T. brucei-host interaction and reveals novel potential protein kinase drug targets.
Impact of Natural Blind Spot Location on Perimetry
Authors: Wang Mengyu , Shen Lucy Q. , Boland Michael V. , Wellik Sarah R. , De Moraes Carlos Gustavo , Myers Jonathan S. , Bex Peter J. , Elze Tobias
Published: July 2017

We study the spatial distribution of natural blind spot location (NBSL) and its impact on perimetry. Pattern deviation (PD) values of 11,449 reliable visual fields (VFs) that are defined as clinically unaffected based on summary indices were extracted from 11,449 glaucoma patients. We modeled NBSL distribution using a two-dimensional non-linear regression approach and correlated NBSL with spherical equivalent (SE). Additionally, we compared PD values of groups with longer and shorter distances than median, and larger and smaller angles than median between NBSL and fixation. Mean and standard deviation of horizontal and vertical NBSL were 14.33° ± 1.37° and −2.06° ± 1.27°, respectively. SE decreased with increasing NBSL (correlation: r = −0.14, p < 0.001). For NBSL distances longer than median distance (14.32°), average PD values decreased in the upper central (average difference for significant points (ADSP): −0.18 dB) and increased in the lower nasal VF region (ADSP: 0.14 dB). For angles in the direction of upper hemifield relative to the median angle (−8.13°), PD values decreased in lower nasal (ADSP: −0.11 dB) and increased in upper temporal VF areas (ADSP: 0.19 dB). In conclusion, we demonstrate that NBSL has a systematic effect on the spatial distribution of VF sensitivity.
Revealing higher than expected meiofaunal diversity in Antarctic sediments: a metabarcoding approach
Authors: Fonseca V. G. , Sinniger F. , Gaspar J. M. , Quince C. , Creer S. , Power Deborah M. , Peck Lloyd S. , Clark Melody S.
Published: July 2017

An increasing number of studies are showing that Antarctic mega- and macrofauna are highly diverse, however, little is known about meiofaunal biodiversity in sediment communities, which are a vital part of a healthy and functional ecosystem. This is the first study to analyse community DNA (targeting meiofauna) using metabarcoding to investigate biodiversity levels in sediment communities of the Antarctic Peninsula. The results show that almost all of the meiofaunal biodiversity in the benthic habitat has yet to be characterised, levels of biodiversity were higher than expected and similar to temperate regions, albeit with the existence of potentially new and locally adapted species never described before at the molecular level. The Rothera meiofaunal sample sites showed four dominant eukaryotic groups, the nematodes, arthropods, platyhelminthes, and the annelids; some of which could comprise species complexes. Comparisons with deep-sea data from the same region suggest little exchange of Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) between depths with the nematodes prevalent at all depths, but sharing the shallow water benthos with the copepods. This study provides a preliminary analysis of benthic Antarctic Peninsula meiofauna using high throughput sequencing which substantiates how little is known on the biodiversity of one of the most diverse, yet underexplored communities of the Antarctic: the benthos.
Anisotropic microfibrous scaffolds enhance the organization and function of cardiomyocytes derived from induced pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Wanjare Maureen , Hou Luqia , Nakayama Karina H. , Kim Joseph J. , Mezak Nicholas P. , Abilez Oscar J. , Tzatzalos Evangeline , Wu Joseph C. , Huang Ngan F.
Published: July 2017

Engineering of myocardial tissue constructs is a promising approach for treatment of coronary heart disease.
Design and characterization of hydrogel nanoparticles with tunable network characteristics for sustained release of a VEGF-mimetic peptide
Authors: Young Daniel A. , Pimentel Marja B. , Lima Luana Dias , Custodio Aline F. , Lo Wesley C. , Chen Szu-Chun , Teymour Fouad , Papavasiliou Georgia
Published: July 2017

Hydrogel nanoparticles of varying crosslink density encapsulating a proangiogenic peptide result in altered release kinetics and peptide bioactivity.
Elucidation of the higher coking resistance of small versus large nickel nanoparticles in methane dry reforming via computational modeling
Authors: Aleksandrov Hristiyan A. , Pegios Nikolaos , Palkovits Regina , Simeonov Kalin , Vayssilov Georgi N.
Published: July 2017

Monoatomic C species remain separated in the subsurface regions of small Ni nanoparticles, while in larger particles, carbon chains are formed, which can be considered as precursors for coke or graphene formation.
Deposition of metallic silver coatings by Aerosol Assisted MOCVD using two new silver β-diketonate adduct metalorganic precursors
Authors: Liu H. , Battiato S. , Pellegrino A. L. , Paoli P. , Rossi P. , Jiménez C. , Malandrino G. , Muñoz-Rojas D.
Published: July 2017

Deposition of Ag coatings by Aerosol Assisted MOCVD using two new silver β-diketonate adduct metalorganic precursors with enhanced solubility in alcohol solvents.
Substitution reactions of iron(ii) carbamoyl-thioether complexes related to mono-iron hydrogenase
Authors: Xie Zhu-Lin , Durgaprasad Gummadi , Ali Azim K. , Rose Michael J.
Published: July 2017

A C,N,S pincer complex has been synthesized for structural modeling of the organometallic active site of mono-[Fe] hydrogenase (HMD).
Lactobacillus casei CCFM419 attenuates type 2 diabetes via a gut microbiota dependent mechanism
Authors: Wang Gang , Li Xiangfei , Zhao Jianxin , Zhang Hao , Chen Wei
Published: July 2017

Probiotics, as dietary supplements, transmit their major effects through the regulation of gut microbiota.
Insights into the Giardia intestinalis enolase and human plasminogen interaction
Authors: Aguayo-Ortiz R. , Meza-Cervantez P. , Castillo R. , Hernández-Campos A. , Dominguez L. , Yépez-Mulia L.
Published: July 2017

Giardia intestinalis enolase exhibits two possible human plasminogen binding sites and a potential N-glycosylation motif.
One-pot synthesis of dendritic Pt3Ni nanoalloys as nonenzymatic electrochemical biosensors with high sensitivity and selectivity for dopamine detection
Authors: Gao Ge , Zhang Zongkui , Wang Kai , Yuan Qiang , Wang Xun
Published: July 2017

We report a facile synthesis of dendritic Pt3Ni nanoalloys and their applications for dopamine biosensors. The LOD of dopamine on dendritic Pt3Ni nanoalloy microelectrodes can decrease down to 0.01 μM.
Structural evidence for the covalent modification of FabH by 4,5-dichloro-1,2-dithiol-3-one (HR45)
Authors: Ekström Alexander G. , Kelly Van , Marles-Wright Jon , Cockroft Scott L. , Campopiano Dominic J.
Published: July 2017

Mass spectrometry and modelling shows the antimicrobial inhibitor 4,5-dichloro-1,2-dithiol-3-one (HR45) acts by forming a covalent adduct with the target β-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III (FabH). The 5-chloro substituent directs attack of the essential active site thiol (C112)viaa Michael type addition elimination reaction mechanism.
Synthesis of (4E,6Z,10Z)-hexadeca-4,6,10-trien-1-ol and (4E,6E,10Z)-hexadeca-4,6,10-trien-1-ol, the pheromone components of cocoa pod borer moth Conopomorpha cramerella
Authors: Huang Fei , Zhang Yushun , Yao Yun , Yang Wanqiu , Tao Yunhai
Published: July 2017

A concise and efficient synthesis of (4E,6Z,10Z)-hexadeca-4,6,10-trien-1-ol and (4E,6E,10Z)-hexadeca-4,6,10-trien-1-ol, the pheromone components of cocoa pod borer moth.
Investigations on the existence of piezoelectric property of a bio-polymer – chitosan and its application in vibration sensors
Authors: Praveen E. , Murugan S. , Jayakumar K.
Published: July 2017

A variety of physical and chemical properties of bio-polymers like chitosan have been investigated although their inherent behavior, such as piezoelectricity, has not been investigated to date.
A novel compact cathode using sponge-like RANEY® nickel as the sulfur immobilizer for lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhu Xi , Tian Jianhua , Liu Xiaoyan , Huang Wenlong , Luo Didi , Wang Zhaodong , Shan Zhongqiang
Published: July 2017

A novel sulfur immobilizer named RANEY® nickel is introduced for lithium–sulfur batteries for the first time.
Few-layer-graphene with high yield and low sheet resistance via mild oxidation of natural graphite
Authors: Kim S. , Lee J. Y. , Yoon T. H.
Published: July 2017

The mild oxidation of natural graphite was obtained via the modified Hummers method by employing an oxidation temperature of 20 °C and KMnO4 loading of 2 g, while varying the oxidation time from 30 to 60, 90 or 120 min.
Synthesis, crystal structure and remote allosteric binding properties of cone thiacalix[4]pseudocrown receptors bearing anthraquinone function and different arms
Authors: Lv Xue-Xin , Wang Qian , Zhang Li-Jing , Liu Ling-Ling , Zhao Mei , Guo Dian-Shun
Published: July 2017

Herein, three novel cone thiacalix[4]pseudocrown receptors1–3, bearing anthraquinone and triazole functions as well as different side arms, were successfully synthesizedviaa double click reaction as the key step.
Alq3 (tris(8-hydroxyquinolinato)aluminium) as a selective n-type contact for FAMAPIBr perovskite solar cells with efficient energy transfer to increase the solar cell photocurrent
Authors: Méndez Maria , Palomares Emilio
Published: July 2017

We investigate the dual use of tris(8-hydroxyquinolinato)aluminium, known as Alq3, as selective contact for electrons and, moreover, as fluorescence emitting layer to increase the photocurrent of perovskite solar cells.
A thin multifunctional coating on a separator improves the cyclability and safety of lithium sulfur batteries
Authors: Xu Guiyin , Yan Qing-bo , Wang Shitong , Kushima Akihiro , Bai Peng , Liu Kai , Zhang Xiaogang , Tang Zilong , Li Ju
Published: July 2017

The separator has an electrocatalytic effect for polysulfide transformation, and can confine the polysulfides within the cathode and block the dendritic lithium in the anode.
Preparation and characterization of chemically bonded argon–boroxol ring cation complexes
Authors: Jin Jiaye , Li Wei , Liu Yuhong , Wang Guanjun , Zhou Mingfei
Published: July 2017

Infrared spectroscopy combined with quantum chemical calculations indicates that the [ArB3O5]+, [ArB4O6]+and [ArB5O7]+cation complexes each involve an aromatic boroxol ring and an argon–boron covalent σ bond.
Language Sampling With Adolescents: Building a Normative Database With Fables
Authors: Nippold Marilyn A. , Vigeland Laura M. , Frantz-Kaspar Megan W. , Ward-Lonergan Jeannene M.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The goal of the study was to create a language sampling task appropriate for adolescents and to contribute normative data from speakers with typical language development.

Method

Thirty adolescents (mean age = 14 years, 1 month) participated in an interview that involved the retelling and interpretation of 4 Greek fables. Each speaker's performance on the task was audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and entered into the Systematic Analysis of Language Transcripts computer program (Miller & Iglesias, 2015). Samples were analyzed statistically for language productivity and syntactic complexity. In addition, each participant's perspective on the moral messages of the fables was examined informally.

Results

The Fables task was effective in prompting adolescents to use complex language and in encouraging them to express their opinions about the moral messages. Although boys and girls did not differ in their performance on the task, some fables were more effective than others at eliciting spoken language and complex syntax. Moreover, the adolescents tended to agree with the moral messages of the fables and appeared to find them relevant to their lives.

Conclusion

The Fables task has potential for clinical use with adolescents. Research is necessary to expand the normative database to include larger and more diverse groups of adolescents.
Portfolio selection with robust estimators considering behavioral biases in a causal network
Authors: Momen Omid , Esfahanipour Akbar , Seifi Abbas
Published: July 2017

In this study, we develop a behavioral portfolio selection model that incorporates robust estimators for model inputs in order to reduce the need to change the portfolio over consecutive periods. It also includes Conditional Value at Risk as a sub-additive risk measure, which is preferable in behavioral portfolio selection. Finally, we model a varying risk attitude in a causal network in which investor behavioral biases and latest realized return are related to using a causation algorithm. We also provide a case study in Tehran Stock Exchange, where the results disclose that albeit our model is not mean-variance efficient, it selects portfolios that are robust, well diversified, and have less utility loss compared to a well-known behavioral portfolio model.
The influence of solid scaffolds on flat and curved lipid membranes
Authors: de Jong D. H. , Heuer A.
Published: July 2017

Solid-supported membranes have become a common tool to study lipid membrane properties in a controlled environment. One particular example is the study of membrane curvature and its effect on lipid sorting. Here we simulate solid-supported membranes using the coarse grain molecular dynamics Martini force field. We characterize basic properties of the solid surfaces and lipid membranes deposited on them. Subsequently we construct large, solid ridges and use them to induce curvature in DOPC membranes. We study membrane properties, such as lateral diffusion and tail order parameters, relative to the curved membrane. Finally, we study the effect of the induced curvature on lateral lipid sorting in a ternary lipid membrane. Thus, we obtain comprehensive and microscopic insight into the impact of curvature on a lipid membrane in terms of structure and dynamics.
Chimera states in a multilayer network of coupled and uncoupled neurons
Authors: Majhi Soumen , Perc Matjaž , Ghosh Dibakar
Published: July 2017

We study the emergence of chimera states in a multilayer neuronal network, where one layer is composed of coupled and the other layer of uncoupled neurons. Through the multilayer structure, the layer with coupled neurons acts as the medium by means of which neurons in the uncoupled layer share information in spite of the absence of physical connections among them. Neurons in the coupled layer are connected with electrical synapses, while across the two layers, neurons are connected through chemical synapses. In both layers, the dynamics of each neuron is described by the Hindmarsh-Rose square wave bursting dynamics. We show that the presence of two different types of connecting synapses within and between the two layers, together with the multilayer network structure, plays a key role in the emergence of between-layer synchronous chimera states and patterns of synchronous clusters. In particular, we find that these chimera states can emerge in the coupled layer regardless of the range of electrical synapses. Even in all-to-all and nearest-neighbor coupling within the coupled layer, we observe qualitatively identical between-layer chimera states. Moreover, we show that the role of information transmission delay between the two layers must not be neglected, and we obtain precise parameter bounds at which chimera states can be observed. The expansion of the chimera region and annihilation of cluster and fully coherent states in the parameter plane for increasing values of inter-layer chemical synaptic time delay are illustrated using effective range measurements. These results are discussed in the light of neuronal evolution, where the coexistence of coherent and incoherent dynamics during the developmental stage is particularly likely.
Carbon-hydrogen defects with a neighboring oxygen atom in n-type Si
Authors: Gwozdz K. , Stübner R. , Kolkovsky Vl. , Weber J.
Published: July 2017

We report on the electrical activation of neutral carbon-oxygen complexes in Si by wet-chemical etching at room temperature. Two deep levels, E65 and E75, are observed by deep level transient spectroscopy in n-type Czochralski Si. The activation enthalpies of E65 and E75 are obtained as EC-0.11 eV (E65) and EC-0.13 eV (E75). The electric field dependence of their emission rates relates both levels to single acceptor states. From the analysis of the depth profiles, we conclude that the levels belong to two different defects, which contain only one hydrogen atom. A configuration is proposed, where the CH1BC defect, with hydrogen in the bond-centered position between neighboring C and Si atoms, is disturbed by interstitial oxygen in the second nearest neighbor position to substitutional carbon. The significant reduction of the CH1BC concentration in samples with high oxygen concentrations limits the use of this defect for the determination of low concentrations of substitutional carbon in Si samples.
Dynamics study of a laser-induced bubble on a finite metallic surface in water
Authors: Qiang Hao , Han Bing , Chen Jun , Yang Chen , Li Thomas , Pan Yunxiang , Shen Zhonghua , Lu Jian , Ni Xiaowu
Published: July 2017

To investigate the dynamics of a bubble induced on a finite rigid boundary in water, a simple experimental method based on laser beam transmission probe is developed to measure the time dependence of the bubble’s radius on a finite metallic surface under different incident laser energies, and a numerical method is employed to simulate the bubble’s first collapse. A correction factor based on the Raleigh collapse time formula is proposed to describe the collapse time of the bubble induced on a finite rigid boundary. The experimental and simulation results show that the correction factor is slightly different for the bubble’s first and subsequent two oscillations, and its detailed expression is obtained from the experimental and simulation results. The experimental results show that the conversion efficiency of the incident laser energy into bubble energy increases with the former, and the ratio of the energy left for subsequent bubble oscillation increases with the number of bubble oscillation.
Finding hot singles: matching males to females in dimorphic spiders (Araneidae: Micrathena) using phylogenetic placement and DNA barcoding
Authors: Magalhaes Ivan L. F. , Martins Pedro H. , Nogueira André A. , Santos Adalberto J.
Published: July 2017

Many orb-weaving spiders exhibit remarkable sexual dimorphism, hampering the matching of males and females in taxonomic studies. This is the case for the spiny Micrathena spiders, a species-rich Neotropical genus with 27% of its species known from a single sex. In this paper we document several undescribed Micrathena specimens, and test whether they belong to some of those incompletely known species. In order to do so, we: (1) tested the phylogenetic position of males and their putative females using a previous morphological dataset; (2) calculated genetic distances among individuals based on a fragment of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I; and (3) examined their geographical distributions. These approaches, isolated or in combination, allowed us to identify and describe the previously unknown males of M. embira Levi, M. reimoseri Mello-Leitão, M. exlinae Levi, M. miles Simon, M. spinulata F.O. Pickard-Cambridge, M. yanomami Magalhães & Santos and M. cornuta (Taczanowski), and the female of M. beta di Caporiacco. We found that the males previously associated with M. bicolor (Keyserling), M. cornuta and M. lata Chickering had been incorrectly matched with females. The latter actually belongs to a hitherto unnamed species, herein described as Micrathena perfida, sp. nov. New geographical data are given for these and other Micrathena species. Our study highlights the importance of using different sources of data for matching the sexes in diverse groups with strong sexual dimorphism. http://zoobank.org/urn:lsid:zoobank.org:urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:AFEDA522-D0B4-4902-A747-9721DEED8B89
Superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin C1 inhibits the growth of bladder cancer
Authors: Liu Tao , Li Lin , Yin Lei , Yu Hongyuan , Jing Hongwei , Liu Yang , Kong Chuize , Xu Mingkai
Published: July 2017

Superantigens can induce cell-mediated cytotoxicity preferentially against MHC II-positive target cells with large amounts of inflammatory cytokines releasing. In this study, superantigen staphylococcal enterotoxin C (SEC) 1 was investigated to evaluate its potential in bladder cancer immunotherapy in vitro and in vivo. Our results revealed that SEC1 could stimulate the proliferation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in a dose-dependent manner, accompanied with the release of interleukin-2, interferon-γ, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and increased the population of CD4+ T cells and CD8+ T cells. PBMCs stimulated by SEC1 could initiate significant cytotoxicity towards human bladder cancer cells in vitro. The results of in vivo antitumor experiment indicated that SEC1 could decrease the rate of tumor formation and prolong the survival time of tumor-bearing mice. Our study demonstrated that SEC1 inhibited the growth of bladder cancer. And it is also suggested that SEC1 may become a candidate for bladder cancer immunotherapy.
Different strokes for different synaptotagmins
Authors: Sedwick Caitlin
Published: July 2017

JGP study shows how synaptotagmins 1 and 7 affect chromaffin cell granule fusion.
Time Operator in Relativistic Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Khorasani Sina
Published: July 2017

It is first shown that the Dirac’s equation in a relativistic frame could be modified to allow discrete time, in agreement to a recently published upper bound. Next, an exact self-adjoint 4 × 4 relativistic time operator for spin-1/2 particles is found and the time eigenstates for the non-relativistic case are obtained and discussed. Results confirm the quantum mechanical speculation that particles can indeed occupy negative energy levels with vanishingly small but non-zero probablity, contrary to the general expectation from classical physics. Hence, Wolfgang Pauli’s objection regarding the existence of a self-adjoint time operator is fully resolved. It is shown that using the time operator, a bosonic field referred here to as energons may be created, whose number state representations in non-relativistic momentum space can be explicitly found.
Enhanced tau pathology via RanBP9 and Hsp90/Hsc70 chaperone complexes
Authors: Woo Jung A , Liu Tian , Zhao Xingyu , Trotter Courtney , Yrigoin Ksenia , Cazzaro Sara , Narvaez Emilio De , Khan Hirah , Witas Richard , Bukhari Anusha , Makati Kamal , Wang Xinming , Dickey Chad , Kang David E
Published: July 2017

Accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) and tau represent the two major pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Despite the critical importance of Aβ accumulation as an early event in AD pathogenesis, multiple lines of evidence indicate that tau is required to mediate Aβ-induced neurotoxic signals in neurons. We have previously shown that the scaffolding protein Ran-binding protein 9 (RanBP9), which is highly elevated in brains of AD and AD mouse models, both enhances Aβ production and mediates Aβ-induced neurotoxicity. However, it is unknown whether and how RanBP9 transmits Aβ-induced neurotoxic signals to tau. Here we show for the first time that overexpression or knockdown of RanBP9 directly enhances and reduces tau levels, respectively, in vitro and in vivo. Such changes in tau levels are associated with the ability of RanBP9 to physically interact with tau and heat shock protein 90/heat shock cognate 70 (Hsp90/Hsc70) complexes. Meanwhile, both RanBP9 and tau levels are simultaneously reduced by Hsp90 or Hsc70 inhibitors, whereas overexpression or knockdown of RanBP9 significantly diminishes the anti-tau potency of Hsp90/Hsc70 inhibitors as well as Hsc70 variants (WT & E175S). Further, RanBP9 increases the capacity for Hsp90 and Hsc70 complexes to bind ATP and enhances their ATPase activities in vitro. These observations in vitro and cell lines are recapitulated in primary neurons and in vivo, as genetic reduction in RanBP9 not only ameliorates tauopathy in Tau-P301S mice but also rescues the deficits in synaptic integrity and plasticity.
The development of service provider’s BPO-IT framework
Authors: Ikerionwu Charles , Edgar David , Gray Edwin
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The decision to operate BPO-IT organisational model by a business process outsourcing (BPO) service provider has far reaching benefits. The purpose of this paper is to develop a service provider’s BPO-IT framework that provides in-house IT function (software) required to process client services.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-case study adopted an exploratory sequential mixed method research approach. In the first instance, seven BPO service provider organisations were investigated in the qualitative phase and 156 in the quantitative phase, respectively.

Findings

The adoption of the developed framework indicates that it could reduce failures in BPO relationships through reduced turnaround time in processing client services, improved quality of service, reduced cost, improved client and provider’s competitiveness, and confidentiality of client operations. Outsourcing clients could lay the foundation for a successful relationship by adopting a selection process that could choose the right provider.

Originality/value

The paper reveals BPO-IT organisation’s operation towards in-house provision of software required to process client services. A research exploring BPO service providers from a top outsourcing destination like India could provide offshore outsourcing clients the information to move towards onshore outsourcing.
Explorative learning strategy and its impact on creativity and innovation
Authors: Valaei Naser , Rezaei Sajad , Emami Maryam
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the structural relationships among explorative learning strategy, improvisational creativity, compositional creativity, and innovation in information and communication technology small- and medium-sized enterprises (ICT-SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 213 valid questionnaires from SMEs’ top management positions were evaluated to investigate the proposed model of the research empirically. As a methodological approach, partial least square (PLS) path modeling approach, a variance-based structural equation modeling was employed.

Findings

The statistical results imply that explorative learning has a positive impact on improvisational creativity and innovation while improvisational creativity has a positive influence on compositional creativity and innovation as well. Compositional creativity and innovation are also positively associated. Surprisingly, improvisational creativity mediates the relationship between explorative learning and innovation. Furthermore, PLS-multi group analysis reveals that heterogeneity exists in the collected data and number of employees is a moderating variable. The results of the research indicate that companies with number of employees between 51 and 100 are more creative and innovative in comparison with other groups. On the other hand, the positive relationship between explorative learning and compositional creativity was not supported in this research.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few research works in the realm of examining the structural relationship among explorative learning strategy, improvisational creativity, compositional creativity, and innovation in ICT-SMEs, regarding the number of employees as a moderating variable.
Corporate social irresponsibility: review and conceptual boundaries
Authors: Riera Marta , Iborra María
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to carry out a review of the academic literature about corporate social irresponsibility (CSIR) highlighting aspects that help us to define socially irresponsible behaviour and its relationship with socially responsible behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a Boolean search of studies related to terms of irresponsibility undertaken from 1956 to October 2016, the authors develop a review of the literature focussing on the main perspectives used for defining the term of CSIR.

Findings

The paper provides a framework of three main dimensions for understanding the differences in the literature that defines CSIR: who defines irresponsible behaviour, an impartial observer or a specific group of stakeholders, whether it is a firm strategy or a punctual action and which is the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and CSIR, continuity vs orthogonal relationship.

Originality/value

The paper provides and extensive and original review of a key construct, CSIR, and develops some insights about its antecedents and consequences. The authors try to provide light to the contradictory situation where a growing interest in CSR and the increase in voluntary commitments adopted by company leaders incorporating CSR into their strategies are, paradoxically, increasingly associated with CSIR.
Research and technology organizations’ mobilizers of the regional environment
Authors: Rincón Díaz Carlos Augusto , Albors Garrigós José
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a contingent model that facilitates knowledge of the strategies followed by the research technology organizations (RTOs) of Valencia and the Basque Country, Spain, to adapt to the turbulence of their environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The research includes context, organizational and results variables and identifies some barriers that the RTOs encounter in collaborating with SMEs and also the best practices they follow to develop competitive advantages. The methodology used consisted of applying the proposed model to the 27 RTOs of both autonomous regions; a factor analysis was then performed to determine whether there exist groups of related (correlated) variables; finally, the authors proceeded to carry out a hierarchical cluster analysis to observe how the 27 RTOs are distributed according to their ability to adapt and respond to environmental turbulence.

Findings

The technological policy must consider the characteristics of each region to propose more efficient and equitable mechanisms that allow the RTOs to face new challenges.

Originality/value

This study proposes a theoretical model suitable for RTOs to respond to environmental changes, to the current economy globalization and to cope with new challenges. This proposal means that RTOs must manage an appropriate combination of key factors, including the development of more proactive innovation strategies, an organic organizational structure to relate better with other innovation agents and universities, which help them to work more efficiently with SMEs and to obtain a higher innovative performance.
Attraction factors of shopping centers
Authors: Ortegón-Cortázar Leonardo , Royo-Vela Marcelo
Published: July 2017

Purpose

People visit malls not only to buy a product they need but also to enjoy the atmosphere or environment of the shopping center. Based on design and eco-natural environment, the purpose of this paper is to analyze the attraction factors of shopping centers.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprised 449 consumers from 25 different shopping centers in Bogota. The structural equation model (AMOS) enables the authors to discuss the influence of the design of green and natural spaces in the commercial management of shopping centers, given its positive and significant effect on the intention to visit.

Findings

Shopping centers are, by definition, spaces with a high level of design of the commercial environment. In this case, as evidenced in the results of this research, the design of ecological spaces and environments has the potential of becoming a field of interest for the commercial management of shopping centers, given its potential effect on visiting and shopping intentions.

Originality/value

The main originality of this study was to empirically include and demonstrate the influence of design and natural eco-environment on the intention to visit, along with other elements considered in previous investigations. Therefore, identification of specific empirical findings related to the way attraction factors work allows marketing directors and managers to improve their management decisions concerning design and implementation of marketing strategies, tactical decision guidance, decision-making assessment or control, and the proposal of alternative positioning attributes, such as the design, management, and arrangement of eco-natural environments that allow to increase the number of visits and purchases within these establishments.
How does confirmation of motivations influence on the pre- and post-visit change of image of a destination?
Authors: Beerli-Palacio Asunción , Martín-Santana Josefa D.
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the influence of the confirmation of the motivations of tourists in changing image of a tourist destination pre- and post-visit. That is, considering whether once the tourist has made the trip, depending on whether their expectations have been met and confirmed motivations, will have a more or less image gap.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an empirical study with a representative sample of leisure tourists to Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain) of both sexes, 16 or more years of age, and visiting the island of Tenerife for the first time from abroad and from the rest of Spain. The final sample was 411 participants.

Findings

The results verify that the confirmation of the intellectual and escape motivations influences directly and positively change cognitive image pre- and post-visit. The fact that the affiliation motivations do not influence the cognitive image gap may be due to that tourists who visit a destination stay with friends or family and for this they interact less with the destination, which will imply that the cognitive image pre- and post-visit do not vary.

Originality/value

This research has sought to contribute towards a better understanding of the area, which is concerned, with the image of destinations and, more specifically, the concept of how the image changes after a visit to the destination. In this sense, and given the of lack empirical evidence about how confirmation of motivations influences on destination image gap, this research aims to contribute to the improvement of knowledge about the personal factors that influence the change of the pre- and post-visit destination image.
Critical multimodal literacy with moving-image texts
Authors: Huang Shin-ying
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examine language learners’ critical multimodal literacy practices with a moving-image text, focusing on text comprehension and interpretation rather than text production. It takes a critical perspective towards multimodality and proposes the simultaneous emphasis on critical and multimodal literacies.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative teacher-inquiry adopts critical multimodal literacy as the framework for understanding learners’ literacy practices. The course implementation highlights images, sounds and words as encompassing the five modes of visual, aural, linguistic, gestural and spatial (Arolaet al., 2014) in emphasizing the multimodal in critical multimodal literacy, and the purposeful organization of the images, sounds and words as reflecting the critical in critical multimodal literacy. The analysis also adopts Serafini’s (2010) concentric perceptual, structural and ideological perspectives as the tenets of critical multimodal literacy.

Findings

The findings show that focusing on images, sounds, words and their purposeful organization enabled the students to critically examine a moving-image text through considerations for the multiple modes and arriving at the structural and ideological interpretive perspectives.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap in the literature, as very little research has been done to investigate the ways in which language learners engage with, that is, comprehend and interpret, moving-image multimodal texts. In addition, it presents a critical multimodal literacy framework based on Serafini’s (2010) tripartite perspectives and offers pedagogical suggestions for incorporating critical multimodal literacy in language classrooms.