bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-ergodicity and polar features of the transitional phase in lead zirconate
Authors: Faye R. , Liu H. , Kiat J.-M. , Dkhil B. , Janolin P.-E.
Published: October 2014

The so-called “intermediate” phase in lead zirconate (PbZrO3) is shown to exhibit a peculiar dielectric signature, both as a function of time and of frequency, on the contrary to the low temperature antiferroelectric and high temperature paraelectric phases. This signature is present over a temperature range that overlaps with the paraelectric phase and depends on whether the sample is cooled or heated. In addition, the time dependence of the dielectric constant indicates that PbZrO3 evolves isothermally toward a state that is neither the one measured while heating nor while cooling. We ascribe the observed non-ergodicity to the establishment of a modulated phase stabilized by polar defects.
Facile fabrication of high-performance InGaZnO thin film transistor using hydrogen ion irradiation at room temperature
Authors: Ahn Byung Du , Park Jin-Seong , Chung K. B.
Published: October 2014

Device performance of InGaZnO (IGZO) thin film transistors (TFTs) are investigated as a function of hydrogen ion irradiation dose at room temperature. Field effect mobility is enhanced, and subthreshold gate swing is improved with the increase of hydrogen ion irradiation dose, and there is no thermal annealing. The electrical device performance is correlated with the electronic structure of IGZO films, such as chemical bonding states, features of the conduction band, and band edge states below the conduction band. The decrease of oxygen deficient bonding and the changes in electronic structure of the conduction band leads to the improvement of device performance in IGZO TFT with an increase of the hydrogen ion irradiation dose.
Low dark current and high speed ZnO metal–semiconductor–metal photodetector on SiO2/Si substrate
Authors: Çalışkan Deniz , Bütün Bayram , Çakır M. Cihan , Özcan Şadan , Özbay Ekmel
Published: October 2014

ZnO thin films are deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering on thermally grown SiO2 on Si substrates. Pt/Au contacts are fabricated by standard photolithography and lift-off in order to form a metal-semiconductor-metal (MSM) photodetector. The dark current of the photodetector is measured as 1 pA at 100 V bias, corresponding to 100 pA/cm2 current density. Spectral photoresponse measurement showed the usual spectral behavior and 0.35 A/W responsivity at a 100 V bias. The rise and fall times for the photocurrent are measured as 22 ps and 8 ns, respectively, which are the lowest values to date. Scanning electron microscope image shows high aspect ratio and dense grains indicating high surface area. Low dark current density and high speed response are attributed to high number of recombination centers due to film morphology, deducing from photoluminescence measurements. These results show that as deposited ZnO thin film MSM photodetectors can be used for the applications needed for low light level detection and fast operation.
First-principles investigation of the vacancy effect on the electronic properties in M2AlC(M = V and Nb)
Authors: Kun Liu , Yuan Qi , Ji-Zheng Duan
Published: October 2014

First principles calculations have been performed to study the mono-vacancy formation energies and electronic properties of M2AlC (M = V and Nb) compound. The results show that the M mono-vacancy has a maximum formation energy. While the C mono-vacancy has a minimum formation energy, which means that the C mono-vacancy is the energetically most favorable in M2AlC. The d-electrons of M element contribute most to the DOS of M2AlC around the Fermi level, it implies that the conductivity of M2AlC comes from the transition metal M. The M-C bond is stronger than the M-Al bond, which is caused by the strong hybridization energy peak between M and C atom. In addition, the M-C bond is weaken in the presence of the M or C mono-vacancy. The cell volumes are reduced when the mono-vacancy is formed. These results help us to understand the origin of the defect-related properties and phase stability of V2AlC and Nb2AlC under extreme environment.
Medicare rebate for specialist medical practitioners from physiotherapy referrals: analysis of the potential impact on the Australian healthcare system
Authors: Byrnes Joshua M. , Comans Tracy A.
Published: October 2014

Objective To identify and examine the likely impact on referrals to specialist medical practitioners, cost to government and patient out-of-pocket costs by providing a rebate under the Medicare Benefits Scheme to patients who attend a specialist medical practitioner upon referral direct from a physiotherapist. Methods A model was constructed to synthesise the costs and benefits of referral with a rebate. Data to inform the model was obtained from administrative sources and from a direct survey of physiotherapists. Results Given that six referrals per month are made by physiotherapists for a specialist consultation, allowing direct referral to medical specialists and providing patients with a Medicare rebate would result in a likely cost saving to the government of up to $13 million per year. A range of sensitivity analyses were conducted with all scenarios resulting in some cost savings. Conclusions The impact of the proposed policy shift to allow direct referral of patients by physiotherapists to specialist medical practitioners and provide patients with a Medicare rebate would be cost saving. What is known about the topic? Extending Medicare rebates payable to patients when physiotherapists directly refer patients to specialist medical practitioners is a contentious topic. Physiotherapy groups have argued that direct referral with a rebate would allow faster access to consultant advice resulting in better patient care. However, it has also been argued that widening criteria for rebates would increase overall costs to Medicare Australia. What does this paper add? This analysis finds that allowing direct referral with a rebate would result in a cost saving to both the government funder and patient out-of-pocket costs. What are the implications for practitioners? Policymakers should consider widening the criteria for rebates payable for referral to medical specialists to include physiotherapists, as this could result in faster management of patients and cost savings for both patients and Medicare Australia.
Genomic and transcriptomic analyses of the medicinal fungusAntrodia cinnamomeafor its metabolite biosynthesis and sexual development
Authors: Lu Mei-Yeh Jade , Fan Wen-Lang , Wang Woei-Fuh , Chen Tingchun , Tang Yi-Ching , Chu Fang-Hua , Chang Tun-Tschu , Wang Sheng-Yang , Li Meng-yun , Chen Yi-Hua , Lin Ze-Shiang , Yang Kai-Jung , Chen Shih-May , Teng Yu-Chuan , Lin Yan-Liang , Shaw Jei-Fu , Wang Ting-Fang , Li Wen-Hsiung
Published: October 2014

Significance

Antrodia cinnamomea, a mushroom, has long been used as a remedy for cancer, hypertension, and hangover. However, the molecular basis of its medicinal effects is unclear and its genome has not been studied. We obtained a genome draft and conducted gene annotation. Genome ontology enrichment and pathway analyses shed light on sexual development and metabolite biosynthesis. We identified genes differentially expressed between mycelium and fruiting body and also proteins in the mevalonate pathway, terpenoid pathways, cytochrome P450s, and polyketide synthases, which may contribute to production of medicinal metabolites. Genes of metabolite biosynthesis pathways showed expression enrichment for tissue-specific compounds in mycelium and in fruiting body. Our data will be useful for developing a strategy to increase the production of valuable metabolites.
G protein-coupled receptor 56 regulates mechanical overload-induced muscle hypertrophy
Authors: White James P. , Wrann Christiane D. , Rao Rajesh R. , Nair Sreekumaran K. , Jedrychowski Mark P. , You Jae-Sung , Martínez-Redondo Vicente , Gygi Steven P. , Ruas Jorge L. , Hornberger Troy A. , Wu Zhidan , Glass David J. , Piao Xianhua , Spiegelman Bruce M.
Published: October 2014

Significance

The work reported in this paper describes a previously unknown signaling pathway in skeletal muscle acting through G protein-coupled receptor 56-Galpha12/13. This discovery elucidates a previously unknown mechanism of muscle anabolism and gives another target of investigation for therapies against the loss of muscle mass seen with aging and various wasting diseases.
Spelling-to-sound correspondences affect acronym recognition processes
Authors: Playfoot David , Izura Cristina
Published: October 2014

A large body of research has examined the factors that affect the speed with which words are recognized in lexical decision tasks. Nothing has yet been reported concerning the important factors in differentiating acronyms (e.g., BBC, HIV, NASA) from nonwords. It appears that this task poses little problem for skilled readers, in spite of the fact that acronyms have uncommon, even illegal, spellings in English. We used regression techniques to examine the role of a number of lexical and nonlexical variables known to be important in word processing in relation to lexical decision for acronym targets. Findings indicated that acronym recognition is affected by age of acquisition and imageability. In a departure from findings in word recognition, acronym recognition was not affected by frequency. Lexical decision responses for acronyms were also affected by the relationship between spelling and sound—a pattern not usually observed in word recognition. We argue that the complexity of acronym recognition means that the process draws phonological information in addition to semantics.
Written object naming, spelling to dictation, and immediate copying: Different tasks, different pathways?
Authors: Bonin Patrick , Méot Alain , Lagarrigue Aurélie , Roux Sébastien
Published: October 2014

We report an investigation of cross-task comparisons of handwritten latencies in written object naming, spelling to dictation, and immediate copying. In three separate sessions, adults had to write down a list of concrete nouns from their corresponding pictures (written naming), from their spoken (spelling to dictation) and from their visual presentation (immediate copying). Linear mixed models without random slopes were performed on the latencies in order to study and compare within-task fixed effects. By-participants random slopes were then included to investigate individual differences within and across tasks. Overall, the findings suggest that written naming, spelling to dictation, and copying all involve a lexical pathway, but that written naming relies on this pathway more than the other two tasks do. Only spelling to dictation strongly involves a nonlexical pathway. Finally, the analyses performed at the level of participants indicate that, depending on the type of task, the slower participants are more or less influenced by certain psycholinguistic variables.
“We're not much use, but good for logistics”: an exploratory study of parenting leaves in Ireland
Authors: Drew Eileen , Watters Anna
Published: October 2014

This paper examines family leaves in Ireland, particularly for fathers, in the context of changing parenting roles and the increased involvement of fathers in the care of their child(ren). Drawing upon the results of a survey that captured the views of 637 parents and focus group discussions with parents, it highlights parental experiences of parental, paternity and maternity leave. Policy changes are explored to assess the preferences of fathers and mothers in terms of payment, duration and transferability of leaves between parents. In tandem with women's increased access to employment, the study examines evidence of men's desire for greater equality in family roles. The question posed is whether a policy response is needed in relation to fathers' rights to family leave and, if so, on what terms?
In Vitro Starch Digestibility of Gluten‐Free Spaghetti Based on Maize, Chickpea, and Unripe Plantain Flours
Authors: Bello‐Perez Luis A. , Flores‐Silva Pamela C. , Utrilla‐Coello Rubi G. , Agama‐Acevedo Edith , Hamaker Bruce R.
Published: October 2014

Gluten‐free and high indigestible carbohydrate food development is a topic that deserves investigation because of an increased focus on gluten intolerance and celiac disease and on metabolic disorders caused by overweight and obesity. Here, chickpea and maize flours were used as sources of protein and carbohydrate (because of the level used in the mixture) and unripe plantain as an indigestible carbohydrate source in composite gluten‐free spaghetti elaboration. The mixture of unripe plantain, chickpea, and maize was used at different levels to prepare spaghetti (samples S15Pla and S25Pla); control pasta was made of 100% semolina (S100Sem), and a 100% unripe plantain flour (S100Pla) pasta was also evaluated. In vitro amylolysis rate of fresh and stored (three and five days) spaghetti was assessed. The spaghetti with 100% unripe plantain (S100Pla) had higher resistant starch (RS) content than the control sample and the two cooked composite gluten‐free spaghettis (S15Pla, S25Pla), and RS further increased with the storage time. The plantain spaghetti (S100Pla) also had the highest rapidly digestible starch and the lowest slowly digestible starch contents; this pattern agrees with the hydrolysis rate, especially after cold storage. The stored S25Pla spaghetti showed the lowest hydrolysis rate and predicted glycemic index. Blending chickpea, maize, and unripe plantain flours represents a way to obtain gluten‐free spaghetti with high nondigestible carbohydrate content and slow digestion properties.
Retrogradation of Rice Flour Gel and Dough: Plasticization Effects of Some Food Additives
Authors: Ploypetchara Thongkorn , Suwannaporn Prisana , Pechyen Chiravoot , Gohtani Shoichi
Published: October 2014

Certain food additives commonly used in flour products also have a plasticization effect on product shelf life regarding retrogradation. Sucrose, sorbitol, glycerol, citric acid, and acetic acid at 25, 25, 25, 0.5, and 0.5%, respectively, were added to two different starch gel systems: slurry (high‐amylose rice flour gel) and dough (waxy rice flour dough). All plasticizers increased gelatinization temperature, decreased enthalpy (ΔH), and promoted a more homogeneous system. Sucrose had the greatest effect on gelatinization increase. Rice dough was more susceptible to plasticizers, resulting in higher moisture content and a more amorphous structure. Retrogradation was highly positively correlated with amylose content, moisture retention, ratio of protons of water/starch, and previous occurrence of retrogradation. Moisture retention was increased in plasticizer‐added samples, especially waxy rice dough. Over a longer storage period, sucrose and sorbitol showed an antiplasticization effect in waxy rice flour dough, but glycerol and acid caused higher retrogradation in high‐amylose rice flour gel.
The Mutualist Laccaria bicolor Expresses a Core Gene Regulon During the Colonization of Diverse Host Plants and a Variable Regulon to Counteract Host-Specific Defenses
Authors: Plett Jonathan M. , Tisserant Emilie , Brun Annick , Morin Emmanuel , Grigoriev Igor V. , Kuo Alan , Martin Francis , Kohler Annegret
Published: October 2014

The coordinated transcriptomic responses of both mutualistic ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi and their hosts during the establishment of symbiosis are not well-understood. This study characterizes the transcriptomic alterations of the ECM fungus Laccaria bicolor during different colonization stages on two hosts (Populus trichocarpa and Pseudotsuga menziesii) and compares this to the transcriptomic variations of P. trichocarpa across the same timepoints. A large number of L. bicolor genes (≥8,000) were significantly regulated at the transcriptional level in at least one stage of colonization. From our data, we identify 1,249 genes that we hypothesize is the ‘core’ gene regulon necessary for the mutualistic interaction between L. bicolor and its host plants. We further identify a group of 1,210 genes that are regulated in a host-specific manner. This variable regulon encodes a number of genes coding for proteases and xenobiotic efflux transporters that we hypothesize act to counter chemical-based defenses simultaneously activated at the transcriptomic level in P. trichocarpa. The transcriptional response of the host plant P. trichocarpa consisted of differential waves of gene regulation related to signaling perception and transduction, defense response, and the induction of nutrient transfer in P. trichocarpa tissues. This study, therefore, gives fresh insight into the shifting transcriptomic landscape in both the colonizing fungus and its host and the different strategies employed by both partners in orchestrating a mutualistic interaction.
Functional Analysis of Plant Defense Suppression and Activation by the Xanthomonas Core Type III Effector XopX
Authors: Stork William , Kim Jung-Gun , Mudgett Mary Beth
Published: October 2014

Many phytopathogenic type III secretion effector proteins (T3Es) have been shown to target and suppress plant immune signaling but perturbation of the plant immune system by T3Es can also elicit a plant response. XopX is a “core” Xanthomonas T3E that contributes to growth and symptom development during Xanthomonas euvesicatoria infection of tomato but its functional role is undefined. We tested the effect of XopX on several aspects of plant immune signaling. XopX promoted ethylene production and plant cell death (PCD) during X. euvesicatoria infection of susceptible tomato and in transient expression assays in Nicotiana benthamiana, which is consistent with its requirement for the development of X. euvesicatoria-induced disease symptoms. Additionally, although XopX suppressed flagellin-induced reactive oxygen species, it promoted the accumulation of pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) gene transcripts. Surprisingly, XopX coexpression with other PCD elicitors resulted in delayed PCD, suggesting antagonism between XopX-dependent PCD and other PCD pathways. However, we found no evidence that XopX contributed to the suppression of effector-triggered immunity during X. euvesicatoria–tomato interactions, suggesting that XopX's primary virulence role is to modulate PTI. These results highlight the dual role of a core Xanthomonas T3E in simultaneously suppressing and activating plant defense responses.
A Novel Periplasmic Protein, VrpA, Contributes to Efficient Protein Secretion by the Type III Secretion System in Xanthomonas spp.
Authors: Zhou Xiaofeng , Hu Xiufang , Li Jinyun , Wang Nian
Published: October 2014

Efficient secretion of type III effector proteins from the bacterial cytoplasm to host cell cytosol via a type III secretion system (T3SS) is crucial for virulence of plant-pathogenic bacterium. Our previous study revealed a conserved hypothetical protein, virulence-related periplasm protein A (VrpA), which was identified as a critical virulence factor for Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri. In this study, we demonstrate that mutation of vrpA compromises X. citri subsp. citri virulence and hypersensitive response induction. This deficiency is also observed in the X. campestris pv. campestris strain, suggesting a functional conservation of VrpA in Xanthomonas spp. Our study indicates that VrpA is required for efficient protein secretion via T3SS, which is supported by multiple lines of evidence. A CyaA reporter assay shows that VrpA is involved in type III effector secretion; quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis suggests that the vrpA mutant fails to activate citrus-canker-susceptible gene CsLOB1, which is transcriptionally activated by transcription activator-like effector PthA4; in vitro secretion study reveals that VrpA plays an important role in secretion of T3SS pilus, translocon, and effector proteins. Our data also indicate that VrpA in X. citri subsp. citri localizes to bacterial periplasmic space and the periplasmic localization is required for full function of VrpA and X. citri subsp. citri virulence. Protein–protein interaction studies show that VrpA physically interacts with periplasmic T3SS components HrcJ and HrcC. However, the mutation of VrpA does not affect T3SS gene expression. Additionally, VrpA is involved in X. citri subsp. citri tolerance of oxidative stress. Our data contribute to the mechanical understanding of an important periplasmic protein VrpA in Xanthomonas spp.
Molecular Characterization of a Begomovirus and Betasatellite Causing Yellow Vein Net Disease of Ageratum houstonianum
Authors: Srivastava Ashish , Kumar Susheel , Raj Shri Krishna
Published: October 2014

Ageratum houstonianum was introduced in India as an annual ornamental plant and is grown in beds for blue head flowers. Yellow vein net disease was observed on A. houstonianum plants with about 9.0% disease incidence during a survey in February 2012 at gardens of NBRI, Lucknow, India. Association of a begomovirus and betasatellite with the disease was characterized based on sequence analyses of their cloned full length genome isolated from diseased A. houstonianum. Sequence analysis of the begomovirus showed presence of the six open reading frames in its genome, similar to the arrangement of Old World begomoviruses. The begomoviral genome shared 95 to 97% sequence identities with various strains of Ageratum enation virus (AEV); however, it showed distinct phylogenetic relationships with them, and hence was identified as a variant of AEV based on more than 94% sequence homology, the criteria defined by ICTV. The sequence analysis of associated betasatellite revealed highest 93% sequence identity and close phylogenetic relationships with Ageratum leaf curl betasatellite (ALCB) molecules; therefore, it was identified as an isolate of ALCB (based on 93% sequence homology). Agroinfiltration of partial dimers of the AEV variant and ALCB induced similar systemic yellow vein net and leaf curl symptoms on A. houstonianum when infiltrated in combination, fulfilling Koch’s postulates. Characterization of AEV and ALCB causing yellow vein net disease of A. houstonianum is being reported for the first time.
Interpreting biological degradative processes acting on mammalian hair in the living and the dead: which ones are taphonomic?
Authors: Tridico Silvana R. , Koch Sandra , Michaud Amy , Thomson Gordon , Kirkbride K. Paul , Bunce Michael
Published: October 2014

Although the taphonomic (post-mortem) degradation processes relevant to teeth and bones have been well described, those taking place with regards to mammalian hairs have not been characterized to the same extent. This present article describes, in detail, microscopic changes resulting from the actions of biological agents that digest and degrade hairs. The most noteworthy and prevalent agents responsible for the destruction of hair structure are fungi, which use a range of strategies to invade and digest hairs. One of the most important finds to emerge from this study is that taphonomic structures and processes can easily be interpreted by the unwary as ‘real’, or as class characteristics for a particular animal taxon. Moreover, under certain conditions, ‘taphonomic’ processes normally associated with the dead are also present on the hairs of the living. This work will improve the reliability of hair examinations in forensic, archaeological and palaeontological applications—in addition, the finding has relevance in the protection of mammalian collections susceptible to infestation. This article also addresses the popular myth that ancient peoples were often red-haired and discusses phenomena responsible for this observation. Insights gained from detailed characterization of taphonomic processes in 95 hairs from a variety of species demonstrate the range and breadth of degradative effects on hair structure and colour. Lastly, the study demonstrates that hairs often tell a story and that there is value of extracting as much morphological data as possible from hairs, prior to destructive sampling for biomolecules.
Processing of simple and complex acoustic signals in a tonotopically organized ear
Authors: Hummel Jennifer , Wolf Konstantin , Kössl Manfred , Nowotny Manuela
Published: October 2014

Processing of complex signals in the hearing organ remains poorly understood. This paper aims to contribute to this topic by presenting investigations on the mechanical and neuronal response of the hearing organ of the tropical bushcricket speciesMecopoda elongatato simple pure tone signals as well as to the conspecific song as a complex acoustic signal. The high-frequency hearing organ of bushcrickets, thecrista acustica(CA), is tonotopically tuned to frequencies between about 4 and 70 kHz. Laser Doppler vibrometer measurements revealed a strong and dominant low-frequency-induced motion of the CA when stimulated with either pure tone or complex stimuli. Consequently, the high-frequency distal area of the CA is more strongly deflected by low-frequency-induced waves than by high-frequency-induced waves. This low-frequency dominance will have strong effects on the processing of complex signals. Therefore, we additionally studied the neuronal response of the CA to native and frequency-manipulated chirps. Again, we found a dominant influence of low-frequency components within the conspecific song, indicating that the mechanical vibration pattern highly determines the neuronal response of the sensory cells. Thus, we conclude that the encoding of communication signals is modulated by ear mechanics.
Prey state shapes the effects of temporal variation in predation risk
Authors: Matassa Catherine M. , Trussell Geoffrey C.
Published: October 2014

The ecological impacts of predation risk are influenced by how prey allocate foraging effort across periods of safety and danger. Foraging decisions depend on current danger, but also on the larger temporal, spatial or energetic context in which prey manage their risks of predation and starvation. Using a rocky intertidal food chain, we examined the responses of starved and fed prey (
Nucella lapillus
dogwhelks) to different temporal patterns of risk from predatory crabs (
Carcinus maenas
). Prey foraging activity declined during periods of danger, but as dangerous periods became longer, prey state altered the magnitude of risk effects on prey foraging and growth, with likely consequences for community structure (trait-mediated indirect effects on basal resources,
Mytilus edulis
mussels), prey fitness and trophic energy transfer. Because risk is inherently variable over time and space, our results suggest that non-consumptive predator effects may be most pronounced in productive systems where prey can build energy reserves during periods of safety and then burn these reserves as ‘trophic heat’ during extended periods of danger. Understanding the interaction between behavioural (energy gain) and physiological (energy use) responses to risk may illuminate the context dependency of trait-mediated trophic cascades and help explain variation in food chain length.
Bombella intestini gen. nov., sp. nov., an acetic acid bacterium isolated from bumble bee crop
Authors: Li Leilei , Praet Jessy , Borremans Wim , Nunes Olga C. , Manaia Célia M. , Cleenwerck Ilse , Meeus Ivan , Smagghe Guy , De Vuyst Luc , Vandamme Peter
Published: October 2014

In the frame of a bumble bee gut microbiota study, acetic acid bacteria (AAB) were isolated using a combination of direct isolation methods and enrichment procedures. MALDI-TOF MS profiling of the isolates and a comparison of these profiles with profiles of established AAB species identified most isolates asAsaia astilbisor as ‘Commensalibacter intestini’, except for two isolates (R-52486 and LMG 28161T) that showed an identical profile. A nearly complete 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain LMG 28161Twas determined and showed the highest pairwise similarity toSaccharibacter floricolaS-877T(96.5 %), which corresponded with genus level divergence in the familyAcetobacteraceae. Isolate LMG 28161Twas subjected to whole-genome shotgun sequencing; a 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequence as well as partial sequences of the housekeeping genesdnaK,groELandrpoBwere extracted for phylogenetic analyses. The obtained data confirmed that this isolate is best classified into a new genus in the familyAcetobacteraceae. The DNA G+C content of strain LMG 28161Twas 54.9 mol%. The fatty acid compositions of isolates R-52486 and LMG 28161Twere similar to those of established AAB species [with C18 : 1ω7c(43.1 %) as the major component], but the amounts of fatty acids such as C19 : 0cyclo ω8c, C14 : 0and C14 : 02-OH enabled to differentiate them. The major ubiquinone was Q-10. Both isolates could also be differentiated from the known genera of AAB by means of biochemical characteristics, such as their inability to oxidize ethanol to acetic acid, negligible acid production from melibiose, and notable acid production fromd-fructose, sucrose andd-mannitol. In addition, they produced 2-keto-d-gluconate, but not 5-keto-d-gluconate fromd-glucose. Therefore, the nameBombella intestinigen nov., sp. nov. is proposed for this new taxon, with LMG 28161T( = DSM 28636T = R-52487T) as the type strain of the type species.
Thiogranum longum gen. nov., sp. nov., an obligately chemolithoautotrophic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterium of the family Ectothiorhodospiraceae isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal field, and an emended description of the genus Thiohalomonas
Authors: Mori Koji , Suzuki Ken-ichiro , Yamaguchi Kaoru , Urabe Tetsuro , Hanada Satoshi
Published: October 2014

A novel, obligately chemolithoautotrophic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterial strain, designated strain gps52T, was isolated from a rock sample collected near the hydrothermal vents of the Suiyo Seamount in the Pacific Ocean. The cells possessed a Gram-stain-negative-type cell wall and contained menaquinone-8(H4) and menaquinone-9(H4) as respiratory quinones, and C16 : 1ω7c, C16 : 0 and C18 : 1ω7c as major cellular fatty acids. Neither storage compounds nor extensive internal membranes were observed in the cells. Strain gps52T grew using carbon dioxide fixation and oxidation of inorganic sulfur compounds with oxygen as electron acceptor. Optimal growth was observed at 32 °C, pH 6.5 and with 3 % (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain gps52T belongs to the family

Ectothiorhodospiraceae

and is different from any other known bacteria, with sequence similarities of less than 93 %. Based on phenotypic and phylogenetic findings, the isolate is considered to represent a novel genus and species in the family

Ectothiorhodospiraceae

, and the name Thiogranum longum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is gps52T ( = NBRC 101260T = DSM 19610T). An emended description of the genus Thiohalomonas is also proposed.
Convergent evolution of primate testis transcriptomes reflects mating strategy
Authors: Yapar Etka , Saglican Ekin , Dönertaş Handan Melike , Özkurt Ezgi , Yan Zheng , Hu Haiyang , Guo Song , Erdem Babür , Rohlfs Rori V. , Khaitovich Philipp , Somel Mehmet
Published: October 2014

In independent mammalian lineages where females mate with multiple males (multi-male mating strategies), males have evolved larger testicles relative to those lineages where females mate with fewer males (single-male mating strategies). Here we study published bulk testis transcriptomes from humans, chimpanzees, gorillas and rhesus macaques, as well as mice and rats. Employing a formal model of adaptive evolution, we find that testis transcriptomes have also evolved convergently, reflecting each species’ mating strategy. Using deconvolution, we infer that testis transcriptome divergence patterns largely reflect convergent shifts in tissue cell type composition. However, we also identify modest amounts of convergent evolution at the cell-autonomous level by analyzing cell-type specific transcriptome data from spermatids and spermatocytes. We further show that in the single-male mating primates, human and gorilla, testis transcriptome profiles are paedomorphic relative to those of multi-male primates, chimpanzee and macaque, suggesting that shifts in timing or rate of testis development could underlie convergent changes in testis mass, histology, and transcriptomes.
Small-angle neutron scattering reveals the assembly mode and oligomeric architecture of TET, a large, dodecameric aminopeptidase
Authors: Appolaire Alexandre , Girard Eric , Colombo Matteo , Durá M. Asunción , Moulin Martine , Härtlein Michael , Franzetti Bruno , Gabel Frank
Published: October 2014

The specific self-association of proteins into oligomeric complexes is a common phenomenon in biological systems to optimize and regulate their function. However,de novostructure determination of these important complexes is often very challenging for atomic-resolution techniques. Furthermore, in the case of homo-oligomeric complexes, or complexes with very similar building blocks, the respective positions of subunits and their assembly pathways are difficult to determine using many structural biology techniques. Here, an elegant and powerful approach based on small-angle neutron scattering is applied, in combination with deuterium labelling and contrast variation, to elucidate the oligomeric organization of the quaternary structure and the assembly pathways of 468 kDa, hetero-oligomeric and symmetricPyrococcus horikoshiiTET2–TET3 aminopeptidase complexes. The results reveal that the topology of thePhTET2 andPhTET3 dimeric building blocks within the complexes is not casual but rather suggests that their quaternary arrangement optimizes the catalytic efficiency towards peptide substrates. This approach bears important potential for the determination of quaternary structures and assembly pathways of large oligomeric and symmetric complexes in biological systems.
Ligand-dependent active-site closure revealed in the crystal structure ofMycobacterium tuberculosisMenB complexed with product analogues
Authors: Song Haigang , Sung Hoi Pang , Tse Yuk Sing , Jiang Ming , Guo Zhihong
Published: October 2014

1,4-Dihydroxy-2-naphthoyl coenzyme A (DHNA-CoA) synthase catalyzes an essential intramolecular Claisen condensation in menaquinone biosynthesis and is an important target for the development of new antibiotics. This enzyme inMycobacterium tuberculosisis cofactor-free and is classified as a type II DHNA-CoA synthase, differing from type I enzymes, which rely on exogenous bicarbonate for catalysis. Its crystal structures in complex with product analogues have been determined at high resolution to reveal ligand-dependent structural changes, which include the ordering of a 27-residue active-site loop (amino acids 107–133) and the reorientation of the carboxy-terminal helix (amino acids 289–301) that forms part of the active site from the opposing subunit across the trimer–trimer interface. These structural changes result in closure of the active site to the bulk solution, which is likely to take place through an induced-fit mechanism, similar to that observed for type I DHNA-CoA synthases. These findings demonstrate that the ligand-dependent conformational changes are a conserved feature of all DHNA-CoA synthases, providing new insights into the catalytic mechanism of this essential tubercular enzyme.
Strengthening regional identities and culture through wine industry cross border collaboration
Authors: Contò Francesco , Vrontis Demetris , Fiore Mariantonietta , Thrassou Alkis
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the potentialities of cross border projects to develop and promote wine culture, and consequently tourism and hospitality; paying particular attention to the process and actions supporting the development and refinement of cultural attributes, traditional values and regional identity.

Design/methodology/approach

– Methodologically, it is a deductive reasoning exploratory research, based on the findings of an extensive undergoing project across ten countries, spanning from Italy to Eastern Europe, and theoretically founded on an extensive literature review.

Findings

– The findings identify the spectrum and nature of opportunities and constraints of cross border collaborations in developing the wine industry and reaping of its wider economic and cultural benefits. Further to the scholarly value of the findings, the paper identifies and presents the descriptive managerial/industrial implications, along with prescriptively explicit directions toward practical implementation.

Research limitations/implications

– The research is exploratory and therefore, by nature, in need of further empirical validation.

Practical implications

– The research constructs a viable framework for an integrative approach involving the improved definition of regional cultural image and identity, proper strategic industry-region and cross-border collaborations, and socio-economic development.

Social implications

– To promote cross border countries and cultural territorial values and identity.

Originality/value

– The research's value lies in its multi-perspective outlook which keeps the wine business at its focus, but investigates its development outside the strict confines of its own industry to present potentialities through strategic collaborations with the tourist industry and other regions/countries in integrative synergistic approach and with strong cultural elements.
Graphic nonfiction: a survey of nonfiction comics
Authors: Irwin Ken
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– This bibliographic essay examines the scope and variety of nonfiction works in comics form with the intent of expanding librarians’ awareness of the diversity of such materials and serving as a resource for librarians.

Design/methodology/approach

– It provides some theoretical background for understanding what constitutes nonfiction in graphic form and an overview of works available in print.

Findings

– The article provides a representative (but not comprehensive) survey of graphic nonfiction works in the genres of memoir, travel, journalism, history, biography, science, essays and educational materials.

Research limitations/implications

– The essay focuses on materials published in books in English; the library world would benefit from subsequent research exploring the richness of materials available in other formats and other languages.

Originality/value

– The field of graphic nonfiction is expanding, and this article serves as a guide for libraries interested in building or expanding collections in this format.
An examination of product innovation and buyer-supplier relationship in Pakistani firms
Authors: Shakeel Sadiq Jajja Muhammad , Ali Brah Shaukat , Zahoor Hassan Syed , R. Kannan Vijay
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the interface between buyers and suppliers in the context of product innovation in an emerging economy. Specifically, it examines the strategic and tactical initiatives necessary to drive inter-organizational alignment and thus positive innovation outcomes. It also examines the impact of organizational characteristics on product innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using survey data from 191 organizations in Pakistan, a structural equation model of the relationships between buyers’ and suppliers’ strategic focus on innovation, supplier innovation focus, collaborative innovation, and measures of product innovation and market performance is tested. In addition, hierarchical regression analysis is used to identify the impact of various organizational characteristics on product innovation performance.

Findings

– The results suggest that a firm's product innovation performance is positively influenced by strategic buyer-supplier alignment with regard to product innovation, and the existence of mechanisms that foster inter-organizational collaboration. This in turn has a positive impact on market performance. Product innovation performance is also influenced by a firm's age, the nature of its ownership, and the extent to which it exports its products.

Originality/value

– The study offers new insight into the role of inter-organizational collaboration as a driver of product innovation. Moreover, it adds to a limited literature on supply chain management in emerging economies generally, and on product innovation in the Indian sub-continent specifically.
Corporate efficiency in the UK: a stochastic frontier analysis
Authors: Manzur Quader Syed , Dietrich Michael
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– Using a panel of 1,122 UK firms listed on the London Stock Exchange over the period of 1981-2009, corporate efficiencies are predicted in this paper as inverse proxies of agency cost and the agency cost hypotheses are tested. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

– Stochastic frontier analysis is used to estimate corporate efficiency of firms, but from two different perspectives. The long-run and short-run corporate efficiencies are predicted focussing on modern approach of value maximization and traditional approach of profit maximization, respectively.

Findings

– The estimation results reveal that, an average firm in the sample achieves 74.5 percent of its best performing peer's market value and 86.6 percent of its best performing peer's profit and both of them are highly significant in the analysis. The long-run market value efficiency supports the agency cost of outside equity and the short-run profit efficiency supports the agency cost of outside debt hypothesis. Also there is a positive rank correlation between these two efficiencies which confirms that an average firm in the UK suffers from inefficiency or agency conflicts to a certain extent, no matter whether the firm is driven by short-run or long-run growth perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

– The predicted broad measures of agency costs in the paper have wider implications in enhancing the understanding of the UK firms’ corporate performance especially when they operate under a relatively free and market based governance and financial system.

Originality/value

– The work is distinguished by the large panel of UK firms and a long period of time that is considered. Emphasizing on the empirical implications of the distinctions between short-run and long-run efficiency is also novel.
Prominent demotivational factors influencing the productivity of construction project managers in Qatar
Authors: M. Jarkas Abdulaziz , Radosavljevic Milan , Wuyi Liu
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– An extensive search of the literature revealed a dearth of research on the demotivational factors affecting the performance and productivity level of site-based construction project managers. Following the announcement of awarding the FIFA 2022 World Cup hosting rights to the State of Qatar, the State is pledging to spend tens of Billions of Dollars on hundreds of new construction projects. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to identify, explore, and rank the relative importance of the demotivational factors influencing the productivity of the State's construction management force.

Design/methodology/approach

– A structured questionnaire survey comprising 38 potential demotivational factors, which were shortlisted based on relevant previous studies on the impact of motivation on construction productivity, and numerous interviews with local industry professionals, was distributed to a relatively large sample of site-resident project managers. Using the “Relative Importance Index” technique, the influence ranks of the factors explored were determined.

Findings

– The results obtained reveal the following as the prominent demotivational factors influencing the productivity of construction project managers: lack of financial incentive schemes; slow decision-making process by owners; remuneration scale; delay in responding to Requests For Information (RFI); shortage of skilled labour force; shortage of materials; clarity and completeness of technical specifications; frequent changing orders during execution; drawings quality level; and rework.

Research limitations/implications

– It is clear, based on the outcomes, that the cultural background of individuals, and the prevalent practices within the environment in which they operate, are two critical factors in determining their motivation drivers. Hence, it is prudent to explore the dominant culture and values of the management workforce, in addition to the characteristics of the working environment, before trying to apply relevant motivational theories, or even implement new management strategies.

Practical implications

– The results demonstrate that, within the geographical setting and cultural aspects of the sample surveyed, “tributes” and “pecuniary” may be interpreted to have the largest effect on the productivity of construction project managers.

Originality/value

– The findings not only contribute to the overall body of knowledge related to the effect of the motivation phenomenon on the productivity of the construction operation, but can also be used to provide industry practitioners with guidance for focusing, acting upon, and controlling the significant demotivational factors affecting the efficiency of the construction project management force practicing in State.
Vouching for childcare assistance with two quasi-experimental studies
Authors: L. Gullekson Nicole , Griffeth Rodger , B. Vancouver Jeffrey , T. Kovner Christine , Cohen Debra
Published: October 2014

Purpose

– Human resource management (HRM) practices are implemented to improve outcomes, such as reducing turnover, absenteeism, and improving performance. Using social exchange theory (SET), the purpose of this paper is to examine one HRM practice that has received less attention by researchers: employer-sponsored childcare assistance programs.

Design/methodology/approach

– Study 1 – a field study compared three groups of hospital employees’ (n=148) attitudes and behaviors using MANCOVA/ANOVA over two time periods. Study 2 – using a field study, on-site and voucher childcare assistance programs were evaluated in terms of the cost to the organization and the relationship to attitudinal variables.

Findings

– Study 1 – results indicated that employee performance was higher and absenteeism lower for employees using the on-site childcare center than employees using an off-site center or with no children. Although the attitudinal results did not align with hypotheses, they were not inconsistent with SET. Study 2 – results indicate that childcare assistance programs may be a beneficial HRM practice for organizations to implement.

Research limitations/implications

– One limitation of Study 1 is the small sample size. Future research should continue to examine how employee benefits like childcare programs affect employees, as well as examine how such benefits differentially employees who value and do not value the benefits. In Study 2, although the authors randomly selected the sample of on-site and voucher programs, the health care facilities self-selected themselves to participate in the program and selected the type of childcare program, a potential source of bias. Future research should examine childcare assistance programs and their impact on work-family balance and strain-based conflict in a wider variety of samples.

Practical implications

– Implications for research and practice: Both studies offer researchers a “next step” in the evaluation of childcare assistance research. Additionally, these studies are of practical value to administrators/researchers in organizations who may be considering vouchers or on-site programs as they relate such programs to organizational outcomes.

Originality/value

– The first study is one of the few studies on this topic to use a field design with two time points and with multiple behaviors and attitudes. The second study provides a descriptive comparison of two types of childcare assistance programs, a comparison made by few studies to date.