bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A conserved oomycete CRN effector targets and modulates tomato TCP14-2 to enhance virulence
Authors: Stam Remco , Motion Graham B. , Boevink Petra C. , Huitema Edgar
Published: December 2013

Phytophthoraspp. secrete vast arrays of effector molecules upon infection. A main class of intracellular effectors are the CRNs. They are translocated into the host cell and specifically localise to the nucleus where they are thought to perturb many different cellular processes. Although CRN proteins have been implicated as effectors, direct evidence of CRN mediated perturbation of host processes has been lacking. Here we show that a conserved CRN effector fromP. capsicidirectly binds to tomato transcription factor SlTCP14-2. Previous studies inArabidopsis thalianahave revealed that transcription factor TCP14 may be key immune signalling protein, targeted by effectors from divergent species. We extend on our understanding of TCP targeting by pathogen effectors by showing that theP. capsicieffector CRN12_997 binds to SlTCP14-2 in plants. SlTCP14-2 over-expression enhances immunity toP. capsici, a phenotypic outcome that can be abolished by co-expression of CRN12_997.

We show that in the presence of CRN12_997, SlTCP14-2 association with nuclear chromatin is diminished, resulting in altered SlTCP14 subnuclear localisation. These results suggest that CRN12_997 prevents SlTCP14 from positively regulating defence againstP. capsici. Our work demonstrates a direct interaction between an oomycete CRN and a host target required for suppression of immunity. Collectively, our results hint at a virulence strategy that is conserved within the oomycetes and may allow engineering of resistance to a wide range of crop pathogens.
Bis(μ2-isopropylimido-κ2
N:N)bis[(η5-cyclopentadienyl)(ethenolato-κO)titanium(IV)]
Authors: Haehnel Martin , Spannenberg Anke , Rosenthal Uwe
Published: December 2013

The title dinuclear half-sandwich complex, [CpTi(OCH=CH2)(μ2-N-iPr)]2 (Cp = cyclopentadienyl; iPr = isopropyl), was obtained from the reaction of Cp2TiCl2, n-butyllithium and isopropylamine in tetrahydrofuran. Each TiIV atom is coordinated by one Cp ligand, one vinyloxy unit and two bridging imido groups in a strongly distorted tetrahedral geometry. There are two half molecules in the asymmetric unit, such that whole molecules being generated by inversion symmetry.
2-(3-Cyano-4-{3-[1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3,3-dimethyl-1,3-dihydroindol-2-ylidene]prop-2-enyl}-5,5-dimethyl-5H-furan-2-ylidene)malononitrile
Authors: Gainsford Graeme J. , Bhuiyan M. Delower H. , Kay Andrew J.
Published: December 2013

The title compound, C25H24N4O2, adopts a cisoid configuration and has twofold orientational disorder of the 2-hydroxyethyl group. The molecule is twisted from planarity so that the dihedral angle between the terminating indol-2-ylidene and the furan-2-ylidene moiety mean planes is 12.75 (7)°. Conformational disorder occurs at the indol-2-ylidene N atom, which results in two orientations for the hydroxyethyl group [occupancy ratio = 0.896 (2):0.104 (2)], and the hydroxy O atom of the 2-hydroxyethyl group is located over three sites [occupancy ratio = 0.548 (2):0.348 (2):0.104 (2)]. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond involving the lowest occupancy hydroxy O atom is observed. In the crystal, the molecules pack in parallel dimeric sheets about centres of symmetry, utilizing O—H...N(cyano), C—H...N(cyano) and O—H...O hydrogen bonds, in two sets parallel to (02-1) and (021) planes.
2-(Naphthalen-1-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-benzimidazole benzene hemisolvate
Authors: Srinivasan N. , Thiruvalluvar A. , Rosepriya S. , Prakash S. M. , Butcher R. J.
Published: December 2013

In the title compound, C23H16N2·0.5C6H6, the benzimidazole unit [maximum deviation = 0.0258 (6) Å] and the naphthalene ring system [maximum deviation = 0.0254 (6) Å] are both essentially planar and make a dihedral angle of 61.955 (17)°. The imidazole ring makes dihedral angle of 61.73 (4)° with the phenyl ring. An intramolecular C—H...N hydrogen bond generates an S(6) ring motif. In the crystal, seven weak C—H...π interactions involving the fused ring system, the benzene solvent molecule, the imidazole phenyl rings are observed, leading to a three-dimensional architecture.
4-Chloro-N′-[(3Z)-2-oxo-2,3-dihydro-1H-indol-3-ylidene]benzohydrazide
Authors: Mohamed Shaaban K. , Mague Joel T. , Akkurt Mehmet , Jaber Abdel-Aal M. , Albayati Mustafa R.
Published: December 2013

In the title compound, C15H10ClN3O2, the benzene ring is slightly twisted out of the plane of the 2,3-dihydro-1H-indole ring system (r.m.s. deviation = 0.007 Å), forming a dihedral angle of 7.4 (3)°. An intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond forms a six-membered ring. In the crystal, molecules are linked via N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming layers alternately perpendicular to [011] and [0-11].
2-(5-Chloro-2-oxoindolin-3-ylidene)hydrazinecarbothioamide
Authors: Bittencourt Viviane Conceição Duarte de , Vicenti Juliano Rosa de Menezes , Velasques Jecika Maciel , Zambiazi Priscilla Jussiane , Gervini Vanessa Carratu
Published: December 2013

The title molecule, C9H7ClN4OS, is almost planar, with an r.m.s. deviation of 0.034 (2) Å for the mean plane through all the non-H atoms. Intramolecular N—H...O and N—H...N hydrogen bonds form S(6) and S(5) ring motifs, respectively. In the crystal, molecules are assembled into inversion dimers through pairs of co-operative N—H...Cl interactions. These dimers are connected along the b axis by N—H...O and N—H...S hydrogen bonds, generating layers parallel to (103). The layers are further connected along the a axis into a three-dimensional network, through weak π–π stacking interactions [centroid–centroid distance = 3.849 (2) Å].
A multi-level ecological model of psychotropic prescribing to adults with intellectual disability
Authors: Edwards Niki , Bain Chris , Mutch Allyson , Dean Julie , Lennox Nicholas
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– Simple linear accounts of prescribing do not adequately address reasons “why” doctors prescribe psychotropic medication to people with intellectual disability (ID). Greater understanding of the complex array of factors that influence decisions to prescribe is needed.

Design/methodology/approach

– After consideration of a number of conceptual frameworks that have potential to better understand prescribing of psychotropic medication to adults with ID, an ecological model of prescribing was developed. A case study is used to outline how the model can provide greater understanding of prescribing processes.

Findings

– The model presented aims to consider the complexity and multi-dimensional nature of community-based psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The utility of the model is illustrated through a consideration of the case study.

Research limitations/implications

– The model presented is conceptual and is as yet untested.

Practical implications

– The model presented aims to capture the complexity and multi-dimensional nature of community-based psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The model may provide utility for clinicians and researchers as they seek clarification of prescribing decisions.

Originality/value

– The paper adds valuable insight into factors influencing psychotropic prescribing to adults with ID. The ecological model of prescribing extends traditional analysis that focuses on patient characteristics and introduces multi-level perspectives that may provide utility for clinicians and researchers.
Assessing risks arising from challenging behaviours: a model and a brief review of existing resources
Authors: W. Turton Raistrick
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– Challenging behaviours are defined in part by the risks of harm they present and the support of individuals who challenge would be improved with effective assessments of the risks posed by challenging behaviours. The purpose of this paper is to outline a model of risk assessment and review literature that provides relevant information.

Design/methodology/approach

– Literature review.

Findings

– Forensic risk assessment has a well worked-out and validated approach but tools used to assess challenging behaviours are not effective risk predictors. Applied Behaviour Assessment provides methods that can be more effectively used for risk assessment.

Practical implications

– There is a need to develop valid risk assessment procedures for assessing the risks presented by challenging behaviours.

Originality/value

– This is a fresh perspective on risk assessment in relation to challenging behaviours.
Optimal promotional strategy for intra-category cross-selling
Authors: Tang Ying-Chan , Wang Yu-Mei , Huang Jiun-Yan
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to investigate an optimal promotional strategy of intra-category cross-selling on culinary products for the fiercely competitive, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.

Design/methodology/approach

– A linear regression model and a Markov switching autoregressive model is used, that incorporates a retailing demand process to capture a nonlinear structure among promotional budget allocation, and evaluate promotional performance, and optimal promotional frequency within a given time span. Three product categories are applied with 39 months of time-series data from a multinational packaged food company in Taiwan.

Findings

– The result shows that most previous decisions on promotional budget allocation are non-optimal – most promotional investments were either extended too long or allocated too low in stimulating sales.

Research limitations/implications

– This study suggests implications for the brand or category manager in removing such non-optimal promotional policies.

Originality/value

– Previous promotional investment is evaluated by comparing the changes in promotional budget allocation. Markov's switching feedback rules are then applied to determine the proper length of equilibrium state with and/or without promotion. Finally, effective decision rules on magnitude, duration, and frequency of intra-category promotional strategy are induced.
Toward a learner-centered system for adult learning
Authors: Hermans Henry , Kalz Marco , Koper Rob
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present an e-learning system that integrates the use of concepts of virtual learning environments, personal learning environments, and social network sites. The system is based on a learning model which comprises and integrates three learning contexts for the adult learner: the formal, instructional context, the personal context for learning management, and the social peer context. The paper outlines how the Open University of the Netherlands (OUN) implemented this model in the OpenU system and has piloted this system within the field of a MSc Program in the learning sciences.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper describes the design and development of an integrated e-learning system following an ADDIE-based strategy and shows how the resulting system has been piloted.

Findings

– The result of the design and development process is an integrated e-learning system that was piloted with the OUN.

Research limitations/implications

– The limitations of the paper are that the paper reports only on the learner perspective. The paper does not report on the implication for faculty and staff. Additionally, a key question that needs further research is how the integrated approach will affect learner dropout rates.

Originality/value

– The value of the paper is that it provides an integrated e-learning approach, bringing together the personal, formal as well as informal context into one system.
Competence, performance and trainability of older workers of higher educational institutions in Malaysia
Authors: Hashim Junaidah , Wok Saodah
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the competence, performance, and trainability of older workers of higher educational institutions in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

– Survey methods were used in this study. The survey measures were adopted from Rothwell (2002) and Sarmiento et al. (2007) for performance and competence, respectively, while trainability measurements were adopted from Maurer et al. (2008). The sample of 325 respondents consisted older workers in the higher education sector aged between 55 and 60 years old.

Findings

– Based on the assessments made by the older workers themselves and their superiors, it is found that the older workers are competent, performing well, and are trainable. The administrative older staff, however, were rated lower by the superior as compared to the academic older staff. This may be due to the fact that most of the assessors are academicians. Regardless of the category of the staff, performance of older workers is positively related to their competence and trainability.

Research limitations/implications

– Competence and trainability are important factors as they are found related to performance. This study focuses on education sector. It would be interesting to include older workers from other sectors because the education sector is perceived to be less physically demanding.

Practical implications

– This study provides valuable insights into considering of revising the retirement age of academician in higher education sector even higher. Age seems to be an advantage to this group of employees.

Originality/value

– This study is unique and significant because it focuses on important sector, i.e. higher education. It would reduce the knowledge gap in performance management of older workers especially in higher education sector.
Managing diversity through flexible work arrangements: management perspectives
Authors: Michielsens Elisabeth , Bingham Cecilie , Clarke Linda
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the role flexible work arrangements (FWA) play in diversity policies, and the reasons for/barriers to their implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on qualitative case study research in four large multinational service companies. Primary data were collected through senior and line-manager interviews and questionnaires.

Findings

– The research shows FWA are an integral part of diversity implementation but organisational imperatives, particularly management concerns about client interaction, constrain the acceptance of FWA and therefore restrict their impact as a means to greater diversity. As FWA have different effects (being available “remotely” vs not being available) their acceptability is not inclusive, but dependent on job character and level.

Research limitations/implications

– Further research is needed on the difficulties of implementing FWA and, particularly, its impact on career progression. The prioritisation of business imperatives over social arguments, such as client needs and staff availability, with its impact on the acceptability of FWA and hence ultimate enhancement of diversity deserves more attention.

Practical implications

– This paper shows that company discourse with its unambiguous business focus highlights the shortcomings of relying upon FWA to bring about a changed climate for diversity.

Originality/value

– Importantly issues are explored which have not featured significantly in the literature to date, especially the role of clients/customers and differences in the effect of FWA as elements in managerial perspectives on the acceptability of FWA, which can act as constraints to its use for diversity enhancement.
Standing on the shoulders of strategic management giants to advance organizational project management
Authors: Drouin Nathalie , Jugdev Kam
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine relevant issues within the strategic management domain related to concepts and terms used within the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities (DC) theory. The paper explains how these theories from strategic management can be translated for organizational project management (OPM). The paper also shares lessons learned by the co-authors as used in project management.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on a literature review and research experience of co-authors, the paper bridges two theories from the strategic management field to OPM and demonstrates conceptual challenges experienced.

Findings

– From a translational perspective, the paper outlines how theories from strategic management can be adopted to OPM. Since OPM is evolving, there is merit in drawing from a solid theoretical foundation such as those found in strategic management.

Research limitations/implications

– This paper is conceptual and makes a case for further empirical research using strategic management literature. Only recently has research in project management raised the important topic of translating knowledge from more established fields (the giants) to project management research.

Practical implications

– Strategic management theories offer insights that can be leveraged to make OPM environments more effective through improved research foundations.

Originality/value

– By critically exploring and assessing the resource-based view and DC bodies of literature, this paper's value rests in applying learnings from these fields to OPM and to develop a clearer understanding of concepts and emphasize their importance.
Organization development throughad hocproblem solving
Authors: Rezania Davar , Ouedraogo Noufou
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this research is to study thead hocproblem of developing capabilities for knowledge transfer between various constituencies of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) implementation project. The paper studies how an ERP project develops ability to network, link, and integrate its various knowledge resources over time.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper conducted a case study of an ERP project, from its initiation in 2008 to its completion in 2011.

Findings

– The case demonstrates the dynamics of development of knowledge transfer capacities throughad hocproblem solving. The paper identifies five mechanisms used in this case for the development of knowledge transfer capacities.

Practical implications

–Ad hocproblem solving mechanisms demonstrated in this paper can be intentionally planned and utilized in similar projects to enable interaction, integration, and institutionalization.

Originality/value

– Even thoughad hocproblem solving as a model for change is prevalent in many organizations, studies ofad hocproblem solving capabilities as a mechanism for change are not extensive. This case describesad hocmechanisms that foster change and development of knowledge transfer capacities during large IT project implementations.
Integrating service practice into project management: a matter of “do or die”?
Authors: Allan Burström Thommie , Jacobsson Mattias , L. Wilson Timothy
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe and analyze service management practices within a project management context.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research supporting conceptual developments was both exploratory and qualitative in nature and utilized an in-depth case study of a major product development project.

Findings

– The conceptual framework developed is applied to empirical observations of product development project. Because there is an adequate fit with observations, elements of a service management approach appear to be viable in the description, managing, and control of projects.

Research limitations/implications

– Because the research was built on a case study, one has the limitations common with that approach. Conversely, case studies are acknowledged as useful in the identification of important variables in situations in which there is little control over events in a real-world context.

Practical implications

– Customer satisfaction is a requirement of project organizations, which is an inherent requisite of any service organization. Consequently, one turns to those elements in the practice of service management that lead to best management practices.

Originality/value

– This paper contributes with a practice-based understanding of how project management is based on integrated service practice.
Ontological realism, concepts and classification in molecular biology
Authors: Mayor Charlie , Robinson Lyn
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to evaluate the development and use of the gene ontology (GO), a scientific vocabulary widely used in molecular biology databases, with particular reference to the relation between the theoretical basis of the GO, and the pragmatics of its application.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study uses a combination of bibliometric analysis, content analysis and discourse analysis. These analyses focus on details of the ways in which the terms of the ontology are amended and deleted, and in which they are applied by users.

Findings

– Although the GO is explicitly based on an objective realist epistemology, a considerable extent of subjectivity and social factors are evident in its development and use. It is concluded that bio-ontologies could beneficially be extended to be pluralist, while remaining objective, taking a view of concepts closer to that of more traditional controlled vocabularies.

Originality/value

– This is one of very few studies which evaluate the development of a formal ontology in relation to its conceptual foundations, and the first to consider the GO in this way.
Assigning publications to multiple subject categories for bibliometric analysis
Authors: Bornmann Lutz
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– This study is concerned with a problem in measuring citation impact with the aid of percentile data, which arises from the assignment of publications (or the journals in which the publications have appeared) by Thomson Reuters for the Web of Science to more than one subject category. If there is more than one subject category for a publication, it is initially unclear which category is to be used to create the reference set for the calculation of the percentile. This paper seeks to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– In this study the author would like to look at whether the calculation of differences between the citation impact of research institutions is affected by whether the minimum (the maximum percentile), the maximum (the minimum percentile), the mean or the median impact (percentile) for the different subject categories is used. The study is based on a sample of percentile data for three research institutions (n=4,232).

Findings

– The result of the comparison of citation impact of the three institutions remains very similar for all the calculation methods, but on a different level.

Originality/value

– It is the first study, which investigates how far it makes a difference in the comparison of the citation impact of three different research institutes whether – with multiple assignments of subject categories to one publication – the minimum, the maximum, the mean or the median inverted percentile is used. An answer to the question is very relevant since different methods are used in practical application. For example, the web-based research evaluation tool InCites uses the minimum percentile.
Beyond obscenity: an analysis of sexual discourse in LIS educational texts
Authors: Hill Heather , Harrington Marni
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– This research seeks to discover the type of discourse encouraged around controversial materials, particularly those of a sexual nature, in LIS educational texts. Censorship and controversial materials are often issues addressed in the LIS literature, but even with ideals of neutrality it can be difficult to remain balanced on certain issues, particularly those dealing with sex.

Design/methodology/approach

– A content analysis of 85 LIS texts on collection development, reference, and intellectual freedom was completed using the following thematic elements: sex, pornography, erotica, curiosa, facetiae, obscenity, censorship, and controversial materials. Deeper analysis of individual definitions and usages was informed by Michel Foucault's perspective that education “follows the well-trodden battle lines of social conflict. Every educational system is a political means of maintaining or of modifying the appropriation of discourse” (Foucault, 1972, p. 227).

Findings

– Findings from the investigation indicate that LIS texts are predominately pejorative when discussing sexual topics such as erotica and pornography. Few texts provide distinctions between different types or genres of sexual materials.

Research limitations/implications

– The majority of texts analyzed for this study were published in the USA and hence have an American bias. This bias necessitated the use of American legal terminology and a reliance on American Library Association guidelines for examination purposes. The emphasis on American terminology may limit the applicability of the results outside of North America.

Originality/value

– Sex is one of the most highly cited reasons for challenges to materials in libraries. At the same time the mainstream popularity of theFifty Shades of Greytrilogy has created a new, widespread interest in the publishing, reading, and collecting of erotica. An understanding of how these texts are defined and identified in the LIS literature provides greater understanding of the discipline's biases.
Ian Macneil and relational contract theory: evidence of impact
Authors: McLaughlin Josetta , McLaughlin Jacqueline , Elaydi Raed
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– This paper seeks to describe the work of Ian Macneil, a legal scholar advocating the use of relational contract theory and behavioral norms to evaluate exchange relations in business. The aim is to show through bibliometric and comparative analyses that Macneil has influenced management scholarship and dialogue about relational contract theory to an extent not recognized by management scholars.

Design/methodology/approach

– Evidence of impact is evaluated through a bibliometric analysis of primary and secondary citations. This is followed by a comparison of Macneil's theory with four theories – integrated social contract theory, stakeholder theory, transaction cost theory, and rational choice theory.

Findings

– Results indicate that Macneil has had a substantial impact on researchers working in different business disciplines, from marketing to economics and management. Bibliometric analysis reveals that his work is widely cited, suggesting that Macneil's contribution extends beyond legal scholarship to influence business scholarship.

Research limitations/implications

– Implications are that Macneil's relational contract theory should be considered when developing frameworks for guiding research on workplaces that are increasingly relational, connected and global. This is especially relevant in cases where workplace exchange appears on the surface to be non-contractual and based on societal customs and norms.

Originality/value

– This paper recognizes the work of a major legal scholar in the formulation and discussion of relational contract theory in business scholarship. It introduces concepts that can support and act as a guide for future research on forms of relational exchange and recognizes the importance of Ian Macneil's work in supporting that research stream.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau and the science of management: the illusion of free will
Authors: Vauleon Florian
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to focus on Rousseau's three major works: the epistolary novelJulia. Or, The New Eloisa, one of the eighteenth century's best sellers, the political essayThe Social Contract, and the pedagogical treatiseEmile: or On Education. It seeks to explore the innovative management theories Rousseau develops as he embarks in the simultaneous composition of these three major works, particularly as he conceptualizes his ideal society and envisions a brand new political system, one that would take into account the natural state of humankind in order to socialize them more efficiently.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper explores Rousseau's solution to these obstacles, and examines his understanding of censorship, as well as the surreptitious control of people's values, tastes, and aspirations. His vision of humanity is very similar to that of “a machine to be put together by skillful devices”, assuming “that the materials of which it is composed are colorless and lifeless”.

Findings

– The conclusions reached in this paper hinge upon, in significant part, Rousseau's approach to management science, and the individual's subjection to authority, as well as the overarching necessity for any form of power to be imperceptible.

Originality/value

– The paper shows that in Rousseau's mind, people are mere pawns on the political chessboard, “to be arranged by the fancy of the legislator.”
Professional skepticism and auditor cognitive performance in a hypothesis-testing task
Authors: Peytcheva Marietta
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– This paper aims to study the effects of two different types of state skepticism prompts, as well as the effect of the trait of professional skepticism on auditor cognitive performance in a hypothesis-testing task. It examines the effect of a professional skepticism prompt, based on the presumptive doubt view of professional skepticism, as well as the effect of a cheater-detection prompt, based on social contracts theory.

Design/methodology/approach

– Seventy-eight audit students and 85 practising auditors examine an audit case and determine the evidence needed to test the validity of a management's assertion in a Wason selection task. The experiment manipulates the presence of a professional skepticism prompt and the presence of a cheater-detection prompt. The personality trait of professional skepticism is measured with Hurtt's scale.

Findings

– The presence of a professional skepticism prompt improves cognitive performance in the sample of students, but not in the sample of auditors. The presence of a cheater-detection prompt has no significant effect on performance in the student or auditor sample. The personality trait of professional skepticism is a significant predictor of cognitive performance in the sample of students but not in the sample of auditors.

Research limitations/implications

– Results suggest that increasing the states of skepticism or suspicion toward the client firm's management may have no incremental effect on the normative hypothesis testing performance of experienced auditors. However, actively encouraging skeptical mindsets in novice auditors is likely to improve their cognitive performance in hypothesis testing tasks.

Originality/value

– The study is the first to examine the joint effects of two specific types of state skepticism prompts, a professional skepticism prompt and a cheater-detection prompt, as well as the effect of the personality trait of professional skepticism, on auditor cognitive performance in a hypothesis-testing task. The study contributes to the literature by bringing together the psychology theory of social contracts and auditing research on professional skepticism, to examine auditors' reasoning performance in a hypothesis-testing task.
Control of tube parameters on SWCNT bundle interconnect delay and power dissipation
Authors: Kumar Rai Mayank , Khanna Rajesh , Sarkar Sankar
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– This paper aims to propose to study the control of tube parameters in terms of diameter, separation between adjacent tubes and length, on delay and power dissipation in single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) bundle interconnect for VLSI circuits.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper considers a distributed-RLC model of interconnect. A CMOS-inverter driving a distributed-RLC model of interconnect with load of 1 pF. A 0.1 GHz pulse of 2 ns rise time provides input to the CMOS-inverter. For SPICE simulation, predictive technology model (PTM) is used for the CMOS-driver. The performance of this setup is studied by SPICE simulation in 22 nm technology node. The results are compared with those of currently used copper interconnect.

Findings

– SPICE simulation results reveal that delay increases with increase in separation between tubes and diameter whereas the reverse is true for power dissipation. The authors also find that SWCNT bundle interconnects are of lower delay than copper interconnect at various lengths and higher power dissipation due to dominance of larger capacitance of tube bundle.

Originality/value

– The investigations show that tube parameters can control delay and this can also be utilized to decrease power dissipation in SWCNT bundle interconnects for VLSI applications.
Store creativity mediating the relationship between affective tone and performance
Authors: Rego Arménio , Reis Júnior Dálcio , Pina e Cunha Miguel , Stallbaum Gabriel , Neves Pedro
Published: December 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to show how store positive affective tone predicts store performance (i.e. sales achievement) through creativity, and how store negative affective tone enhances the relationship between positive affective tone and creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

– A sample of 94 stores of a Brazilian retail chain is used to test the model. Store supervisors reported (October 2011) the store's affective tone and creativity relative to the last six months. Three periods are considered for measuring performance: the last six months (May to October 2011), the preceding four months (January to April 2011), and the subsequent semester (November 2011 to April 2012).

Findings

– The main findings are: positive affective tone predicts the stores’ performance through the mediating role of creativity, even after controlling the effects of preceding stores’ performance; negative affective tone makes the relationship between positive affective tone and creativity stronger.

Originality/value

– The paper empirically validates theory suggesting that creativity may be a source of retail stores’ competitive advantage, and shows that fostering positive affective tone may be a pathway to promote creativity. The paper also suggests that negative affective tone is not necessarily a “problem”; rather, it can be used to enhance the favorable impact of positive affective tone upon creativity. These are important contributions for the retailing literature, considering that creativity (mainly at the team and organizational level) in that field is understudied. It is also an important contribution to the literature on the services sector, in which research on creativity is scarce.
Detecting impacts of non‐native species on associated invertebrate assemblages depends on microhabitat
Authors: Harvey Kerinne J. , Britton David R. , Minchinton Todd E.
Published: December 2013

Invasive plants that displace native floral communities can cause changes to associated invertebrate species assemblages. Using a mini‐review of the literature and our own data we add to the still considerable debate about the most effective methods for testing community‐level impacts by invasive species. In endangered saltmarshes of southeast Australia, the non‐native rush Juncus acutus L. is displacing its native congener J. kraussii Hochst., with concurrent changes to floral and faunal assemblages. In two coastal saltmarshes, we tested the hypothesis that the ability to detect differences in the invertebrate assemblage associated with these congeneric rushes depends on the microhabitat of the plant sampled. We used three sampling methods, each targeting specific microhabitats: sweep netting of the plant stems, vacuum sampling of the plant tussock, and vacuum sampling of the ground directly below the plants. Over 3800 individuals and 92 morphospecies were collected across four main taxa: gastropods, crustaceans, hexapods and arachnids. Detection of differences in invertebrate density, richness and composition associated with native compared with non‐native rushes was dependent on the microhabitat sampled and these differences were spatially variable. For example, at one saltmarsh the stems and tussock of J. acutus had a lower density and richness of total invertebrates and hexapods than those of the native J. kraussii. In contrast, crustaceans on the ground were in greater abundance below J. acutus than J. kraussii. This study demonstrates that on occasions where overall differences in the assemblage are not detected between species, differences may become apparent when targeting different microhabitats of the plant. In addition, separately targeting multiple microhabitats likely leads to a greater probability of detecting impacts of invasion. Comparing the invertebrate assemblage without differentiating between or sampling an array of microhabitats can fail to determine the impact of invasive species. These results highlight that a combination of methods targeting different microhabitats is important for detecting differences within the invertebrate community, even for phylogenetically related species.
The 3rd International Conference on Reproductive Immunology in Shanghai: September 27–29, 2013. Shanghai, China
Authors: Du MeiRong , Piao HaiLan , Li DaJin
Published: December 2013

Problem

After the first and second international conferences on reproductive immunology held by Dr. DaJin Li in Shanghai, the related investigators all over the world hope to get together to share their latest findings with each other.

Method of study

Drs. DaJin Li and MeiRong Du sponsored and organized the third international conference on reproductive immunology at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital affiliated with Fudan University, Shanghai, China, in the autumn of 2013.

Results

This congress brought together more than 100 International and National investigators representing a wide range of scientific disciplines. All the investigators actively work on reproductive immunology using human or large and small animal models. A range of reproductive immunological topics including the maternal‐fetal immune regulation, reproductive tract mucosal immunology, immunocontraception, and pregnancy complications were highlighted and discussed in this conference.

Conclusion

This conference supplied a good platform for the international reproductive immunologists to exchange their latest study progression and discuss the development direction of reproductive immunology in the near future.
Changes in serum immunomolecules during antibiotic therapy forMycobacterium aviumcomplex lung disease
Authors: Kim S-Y , Koh W-J , Park H Y , Jeon K , Kwon O J , Cho S-N , Shin S J
Published: December 2013

Little information is available regarding changes in immune status for patients with Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) lung disease during antibiotic therapy. Serum immunomolecules from 42 patients with MAC lung disease were assayed comparatively using an array-based system according to (i) patients with MAC lung disease at the time of diagnosis versus healthy controls and (ii) alterations after 12 months of antibiotic therapy in the MAC lung disease group. In addition, cytokine analyses were performed to determine whether cytokine responses were associated specifically with the disease phenotype, treatment outcome and aetiological agent. Notably, the serum concentrations of type 1 cytokine-associated molecules, such as CD40L, interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-8 and IL-23, were decreased significantly in patients at the time of diagnosis, suggesting that these molecules may serve as indicators of host susceptibility to MAC disease. Although the overall serum level of T helper type 1 (Th1)-related molecules, such as CD40L and IFN-γ, was restored after treatment, Th17-related cytokines, such as IL-17 and IL-23, were down-regulated significantly at 12 months post-treatment compared to pretreatment. Furthermore, these cytokine patterns differed among patient subgroups. Decreased serum concentrations of IL-17 and/or IL-23 were associated with failure of sputum conversion, the fibrocavitary disease phenotype and M. intracellulare lung disease. Thus, the reciprocal balance between Th1 and Th17 immunity during antibiotic therapy for MAC lung disease is critical for dictating the treatment response. In conclusion, a low level of Th1-related immunomolecules may perpetuate MAC lung disease, and the serum concentrations of Th17-related cytokines can reflect the treatment outcome, disease phenotype and aetiological agent.
Mechanisms of selective laser trabeculoplasty: a review
Authors: Kagan Dov B , Gorfinkel Nathan S , Hutnik Cindy ML
Published: December 2013

Selective laser trabeculoplasty is a safe and effective treatment for glaucoma, with greater cost effectiveness than its pharmacological and surgical alternatives. Nevertheless, although the basic science literature on selective laser trabeculoplasty continues to grow, there remains uncertainty over the mechanism by which laser trabeculoplasty reduces intraocular pressure. To address this uncertainty, the evidence behind several potential biological and mechanical mechanisms of selective laser trabeculoplasty were reviewed. In particular, cytokine secretion, matrix metalloproteinase induction, increased cell division, repopulation of burn sites and macrophage recruitment were discussed. Refining our understanding of these mechanisms is essential both to understanding the pathophysiology of ocular hypertension and developing improved therapies to treat the condition.
Development of a surgical procedure for implantation of a prototype suprachoroidal retinal prosthesis
Authors: Saunders Alexia L , Williams Chris E , Heriot Wilson , Briggs Robert , Yeoh Jonthan , Nayagam David AX , McCombe Mark , Villalobos Joel , Burns Owen , Luu Chi D , Ayton Lauren N , McPhedran Michelle , Opie Nicholas L , McGowan Ceara , Shepherd Robert K , Guymer Robyn , Allen Penelope J
Published: December 2013

Background

Current surgical techniques for retinal prosthetic implantation require long and complicated surgery, which can increase the risk of complications and adverse outcomes.

Method

The suprachoroidal position is known to be an easier location to access surgically, and so this study aimed to develop a surgical procedure for implanting a prototype suprachoroidal retinal prosthesis. The array implantation procedure was developed in 14 enucleated eyes. A full‐thickness scleral incision was made parallel to the intermuscular septum and superotemporal to the lateral rectus muscle. A pocket was created in the suprachoroidal space, and the moulded electrode array was inserted. The scleral incision was closed and scleral anchor point sutured. In 9 of the 14 eyes examined, the device insertion was obstructed by the posterior ciliary neurovascular bundle. Subsequently, the position of this neurovascular bundle in 10 eyes was characterized. Implantation and lead routing procedure was then developed in six human cadavers. The array was tunnelled forward from behind the pinna to the orbit. Next, a lateral canthotomy was made. Lead fixation was established by creating an orbitotomy drilled in the frontal process of the zygomatic bone. The lateral rectus muscle was detached, and implantation was carried out. Finally, pinna to lateral canthus measurements were taken on 61 patients in order to determine optimal lead length.

Results

These results identified potential anatomical obstructions and informed the anatomical fitting of the suprachoroidal retinal prosthesis.

Conclusion

As a result of this work, a straightforward surgical approach for accurate anatomical suprachoroidal array and lead placement was developed for clinical application.
The Association Between CYP2C19 Genotype and of In‐stent Restenosis Among Patients with Vertebral Artery Stent Treatment
Authors: Lin Yong‐Juan , Li Jing‐Wei , Zhang Mei‐Juan , Qian Lai , Yang Wen‐Jie , Zhang Chun‐Lei , Shao Yuan , Zhang Yang , Huang Yu‐Jie , Xu Yun
Published: December 2013

Aims

Preventing stroke through endovascular treatment with vertebral artery stent remains a great challenge due to the occurrence of an in‐stent restenosis.

Materials & Methods

In this study, a retrospective analysis was conducted in 90 patients who had been treated with VAS between 2004 and 2011 in Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital. Patients were followed up at 3 months, 6 months,and 1 year after VAS treatment and annually thereafter. For each time point, neurological function tests, vessel ultrasound and computer tomography angiography were performed to preliminarily screen the vessel stenosis. Digital subtraction angiography was used to verify the narrow sign on CTA or ultrasound. Clinical features of each patient including clopido‐grel metabolization genes (CYP2C19, CYP3A4, and P2Y12) were recorded with purpose to investigate the possible risk factors for the development of ISR.

Results

Single factor analysis dem‐onstrated that hyperlipidemia (P < 0.05) and CYP2C19 (P < 0.01) loss‐of‐function geno‐type increased the likelihood of ISR. A multiple logistic cox regression analysis also showed that stroke patients with hyperlipidemia (HR 3.719, 95% CI: 1.094–12.637, P = 0.035), and CYP2C19 loss‐of‐function genotype (HR 2.959, 95% CI: 1.325–6.610, P = 0.008) were more likely to suffer from ISR. Furthermore, CYP2C19 alleles were mainly divided into three groups: wt/wt (CYP2C19 *1/*1), wt/m (CYP2C19 *1/*2 and *1/*3), and m/m (CYP2C19 *2/*2,*2/*3 and*3/*3). Recurrent rate of ischemic stroke in m/m and wt/m groups was higher than the wt/wt group (OR: 0.141, 95% CI: 0.016–1.221, P = 0.042).

Conclusion

The study leads to the conclusion that hyperlipidemia and CYP2C19 impotency are possible risk factors for the development of ISR in VAS‐treated patients with ischemic. Moreover, VAS‐treated patients with CYP2C19 impotency were susceptible to recurrent stroke during our 54‐month follow‐up.
Total mesorectal excision with water‐jet dissection in patients with rectal cancer: surgical and morphological aspects
Authors: Sidorov D. V. , Frank G. A. , Mainovskaya O. A. , Lozhkin M. V. , Grishin N. A. , Petrov L. O. , Troitskiy A. A. , Kirsanova O. N.
Published: December 2013

Aim

This publication will describe our own experience of using the ERBEJET2® water‐jet dissector during surgical interventions for rectal cancer.

Method

We utilized the water‐jet dissection technique to obtain tissue specimens in 10 patients with rectal cancer. All patients thus underwent nerve‐sparing low anterior resection of the rectum along with para‐aortic lymphadenectomy. No intraoperative complications were registered. The postoperative period went uncomplicated in all patients. No dysuria was observed. Obtained tissue specimens were examined morphologically. Macroscopic examination included assessments of the preservation of the rectal fascia propria and the amount of cellular tissue along the anterior, posterior, and lateral surfaces of the rectum. We performed microscopy of the circumferential resection margin to characterize the surgical clearance and the intensity and depth of damage to the mesorectal tissue. On morphological examination, the quality of mesorectal excision was found to be good (Grade 3) in all 10 patients.

Results

As the results of our study demonstrate, the depth of lateral tissue damage is minimal with the water‐jet dissector.

Conclusion

Water‐jet dissectors have their own place in the long list of armamentarium used in surgical interventions performed for rectal cancer and contribute to improving oncological and functional outcomes of surgical treatment in this patient population.