bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy management for on‐grid and off‐grid wind/PV and battery hybrid systems
Authors: Basaran Kivanc , Cetin Numan Sabit , Borekci Selim
Published: October 2016

Renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy systems are widely designed grid connected or autonomous. This is a problem especially in small powerful system due to the restriction on the inverter markets. Inverters which are utilised in these kinds of energy systems operate on grid or off grid. In this study, a novel power management strategy has been developed by designing a wind‐PV hybrid system to operate both as an autonomous system and as a grid‐connected system. The inverter used in this study has been designed to operate both on‐grid and off‐grid. Due to the continuous demand for energy, gel batteries are used in the hybrid system. The designed Power Management Unit performs measurement from various points in the system and in accordance with this measurement; it provides an effective energy transfer to batteries, loads and grid. The designed control unit provided the opportunity to work more efficiently up to 10% rate.
Titanium Clamps for a Simple Low-Profile Autologous Osteosynthesis in the Reconstruction of Posttraumatic Craniofacial Convexital Skeletal Disruption
Authors: Adeleye AmosOlufemi , Malomo ToluyemiAdefolarin
Published: October 2016

Attempts at reconstruction of posttraumatic craniofacial defects (PTCDs) can be a challenge in low-resource practice areas of the world where the needed biomaterials are logistically beyond reach. A simple low-profile technique of autologous osteosynthesis for PTCD using the titanium clamps is presented in this report. In addition, a 6-year prospective database on a consecutive cohort of patients who underwent this procedure was analyzed for clinical, functional, and aesthetic outcomes, both in-hospital and at midterm follow-up. The clinical data of 18 patients, all males, mean age 31.3 years (standard deviation, 9.7), were analyzed. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) were the cause of trauma in 14 of 18 patients (78%) and motorcycle crash, none helmeted, in 10 of the 18 patients (71% of RTAs). Out of 18 cases, 17 were open fractures; 89% suffered mild head injury, and associated brain injury on CT scan included pneumocephalus in 6 (5 of them significant); acute extradural hematoma in 4 and subdural in 2, and brain contusions in 9. The surgery was successful in all the cases: operative time <3 hours in 10 cases (56%), the in-hospital outcome was good in 95%. The median follow-up time was 24 months, in 6 of the 18 cases for ≥36 months. There was no case of surgical site infection in the perioperative or the follow-up period to date. The aesthetic outcome was also acceptable. This surgical technique for the reconstruction of PTCD appears effectual. Although its low cost makes it very attractive therein, it appears to be actually also recommendable even outside the low-resource developing countries.
Magnetic field effect on the electrochemical performance of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3-δ cathodes
Authors: Greiner Yoan , Mascot Manuel , Naa Christian Freddy , Fasquelle Didier
Published: October 2016

La 0.7 Sr 0.3 MnO 3 − δ (LSM) magnetic properties are exploited through the application of a magnetic field, resulting in a significant decrease of the cathode polarization resistance, a crucial component of high temperature solid oxide fuel cells. The magnetic field is applied during the drying process after the deposition of LSM cathodes by screen-printing on a Gd0.1Ce0.9O1.95 (GDC) electrolyte. This specific process aims to decrease the cathode polarization resistance of solid oxide fuel cells. X-ray diffraction patterns show a structural modification triggered by the magnetic field. LSM cathode performance is investigated over a temperature range of 700–800 °C by impedance spectroscopy. The measured electrode area specific resistance (ASR) of a LSM/GDC/LSM symmetric half-cell without and with magnetic field was 0.30 Ω cm2 and 0.20 Ω cm2, respectively, at 800 °C. The ASR value was therefore decreased by 33% with the magnetic field effect. This behaviour may be attributed to LSM grain reorientation, microstructure change, and tortuosity modification of LSM cathodes.
Going up, going down: the experience, control and management of gestational diabetes mellitus among Southeast Asian migrant women living in urban Australia
Authors: Jirojwong Sansnee , Brownhill Suzanne , Dahlen Hannah G. , Johnson Maree , Schmied Virginia
Published: October 2016

Issue addressed

In many developed countries the rate of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) for Asian‐born women is higher than other groups. Studies suggest that some women have limited knowledge of the disease and poor self‐management leading to health problems for themselves and their baby. Few studies report the experience of GDM among Southeast Asian migrant women living in Australia and factors that influence their management of the disease.

Methods

A qualitative interpretive design was used to explore Southeast Asian migrant women’s experience and management of GDM. Women diagnosed with the disease during pregnancy were recruited from an antenatal clinic at two Sydney metropolitan hospitals. Nineteen women were interviewed in their first language. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

A diagnosis of GDM conferred an unanticipated ‘up and down’ experience for this group of Southeast Asian women. Their experience of the disease, likened to an elevator ride, was modulated by ‘insulin’ and ‘information’ used to control the disease and manage blood glucose levels, dietary levels, exercise levels and anxiety levels.

Conclusions

Health promotion material that captures the fluctuating experience of GDM has the potential to help women, particularly at the time of diagnosis, to be better prepared, and health professionals to be better informed to control and manage the disease more effectively.

So what?

GDM is a serious problem. The model generated from our study has the potential to better inform health professionals to prepare women for the inevitable fluctuating physical and emotional effects of the disease. Culturally sensitive material and an educational strategy based on the model may also facilitate women’s lifestyle changes and compliance, and improve migrant women’s relationship with, and trust in, health professionals involved in their GDM care.
Developing research priorities in Australian primary health care: a focus on nutrition and physical activity
Authors: Ball Lauren , Barnes Katelyn , Leveritt Michael , Mitchell Lana , Williams Lauren T. , Ball Dianne , Patterson Elizabeth
Published: October 2016

Research priority setting is an important component of research planning, particularly when research options exceed available resources. This study identified the research priorities for supporting healthy lifestyle behaviours in the Australian primary healthcare setting. A five-step stakeholder engagement process was undertaken. Ten stakeholder organisations participated in the process, including patient representatives, health professional associations, health educators, researchers, government advisors and policymakers. Each organisation was asked to provide up to three research questions deemed as a priority. Research questions were critically appraised by the project team for answerability, sustainability, effectiveness, potential for translation and potential to affect disease burden. A blinded scoring system was used to rank the appraised questions, with higher scores indicating higher priority (range of scores possible 87–156). Thirteen unique research questions were submitted by stakeholders and achieved a range of scores from 87 to 139 points. The highest scoring research questions focused on: (i) the effectiveness of different health professionals at facilitating healthy lifestyle behaviours; (ii) the effect of health literacy on behaviour change; and (iii) cost-benefit analysis of healthy lifestyle promotion in primary health care. These priorities can be used to ensure future research projects directly align with the needs and preferences of research end-users.
An integrative revision of Dinckleria (Plagiochilaceae: Jungermanniopsida)
Authors: Renner Matt A. M. , Heslewood Margaret M. , Jamy Mahwash , Patzak Simon D. F. , Engel John J. , Glenny David S. , von Konrat Matt J. , Schäfer-Verwimp Alfons , Heinrichs Jochen
Published: October 2016

On the basis of variation in molecular sequence data and morphology, three species are recognised within Dinckleria. The generitype D. pleurata is widespread in Tasmania and New Zealand and has outlier populations in Victoria, and in rainforests around the New South Wales–Queensland border. Dinckleria fruticella is endemic to New Zealand, records of this species from Tasmania and Queensland are based on misidentifications. The widespread Malesian species Plagiochila singularis is transferred to Dinckleria, and newly reported for Australia and Vanuatu. In Australia, this species is known by two collections, one from the Atherton Tableland the other from the Paluma Range. Dinckleria can be distinguished from other genera of Plagiochilaceae by the presence of papillae on leaf-cell surfaces in combination with monomorphic leafy shoots arising from a basal stolon, the stolons originating by ventral-intercalary branching, presence of cell surface wax, and the restriction of rhizoids to the ventral merophyte.
Pulmonary vascular effect of insulin in a rodent model of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Trammell Aaron W. , Talati Megha , Blackwell Thomas R. , Fortune Niki L. , Niswender Kevin D. , Fessel Joshua P. , Newman John H. , West James D. , Hemnes Anna R.
Published: October 2016

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is associated with metabolic derangements including insulin resistance, although their effects on the cardiopulmonary disease are unclear. We hypothesized that insulin resistance promotes pulmonary hypertension (PH) development and mutations in type 2 bone morphogenetic protein receptor (BMPR2) cause cellular insulin resistance. Using a BMPR2 transgenic murine model of PAH and two models of inducible diabetes mellitus, we explored the impact of hyperglycemia and/or hyperinsulinemia on development and severity of PH. We assessed insulin signaling and insulin‐mediated glucose uptake in human endothelial cells with and without mutations in BMPR2. PH developed in control mice fed a Western diet and PH in BMPR2 mutant mice was increased by Western diet. Pulmonary artery pressure correlated strongly with fasting plasma insulin but not glucose. Reactive oxygen species were increased in lungs of insulin‐resistant animals. BMPR2 mutation impaired insulin‐mediated endothelial glucose uptake via reduced glucose transporter translocation despite intact insulin signaling. Experimental hyperinsulinemia is strongly associated with PH in both control and BMPR2‐mutant mice, though to a greater degree in those with BMPR2 mutation. Human pulmonary endothelial cells with BMPR2 mutation have evidence of reduced glucose uptake due to impaired glucose transporter translocation. These experiments support a role for hyperinsulinemia in pulmonary vascular disease.
ViSiBooL—visualization and simulation of Boolean networks with temporal constraints
Authors: Schwab Julian , Burkovski Andre , Siegle Lea , Müssel Christoph , Kestler Hans A
Published: October 2016

Mathematical models and their simulation are increasingly used to gain insights into cellular pathways and regulatory networks. Dynamics of regulatory factors can be modeled using Boolean networks (BNs), among others. Text-based representations of models are precise descriptions, but hard to understand and interpret. ViSiBooL aims at providing a graphical way of modeling and simulating networks. By providing visualizations of static and dynamic network properties simultaneously, it is possible to directly observe the effects of changes in the network structure on the behavior. In order to address the challenges of clear design and a user-friendly graphical user interface (GUI), ViSiBooL implements visual representations of BNs. Additionally temporal extensions of the BNs for the modeling of regulatory time delays are incorporated. The GUI of ViSiBooL allows to model, organize, simulate and visualize BNs as well as corresponding simulation results such as attractors. Attractor searches are performed in parallel to the modeling process. Hence, changes in the network behavior are visualized at the same time.

Availability and Implementation

ViSiBooL (Java 8) is freely available at http://sysbio.uni-ulm.de/?Software:ViSiBooL.
1. Introduction and Overview:
Authors: Lowe Vaughan
Published: October 2016

Celebrated for their conceptual clarity, titles in the Clarendon Law Series offer concise, accessible overviews of major fields of law and legal thought. This book is a text about international law, not a text of international law. It tries to explain what international law does and how the international legal system operates, but not to set out a comprehensive or systematic account of what the rules of international law are. This introductory chapter provides a brief outline of the scope and nature of international law. It discusses the changing scope of international law; the emergence of international organizations; the emergence of new international actors; why people should comply with international law; and how international law is invoked and applied.
5. Inside the State
Authors: Lowe Vaughan
Published: October 2016

Celebrated for their conceptual clarity, titles in the Clarendon Law Series offer concise, accessible overviews of major fields of law and legal thought. This chapter examines the limits of State jurisdiction under international law. It begins by considering the limits of a State's legislative jurisdiction, its jurisdiction to prescribe laws. It covers jurisdiction over territory; maritime jurisdiction; jurisdiction over nationals; protective jurisdiction; universal jurisdiction; and other extra-territorial extensions of jurisdiction. The discussions then turn to treaty-based jurisdiction; competing and conflicting jurisdiction; extradition and legal co-operation; resolving jurisdictional conflicts; and immunities and other limitations on the exercise of a State's jurisdiction.
Hierarchical model-based estimation of population growth curves for redfish (Sebastes mentella and Sebastes fasciatus) off the Eastern coast of Canada
Authors: Cadigan Noel G. , Campana Steven E.
Published: October 2016

Northwest Atlantic (NWA) redfish (Sebastes mentella and Sebastes fasciatus) stocks are currently assessed using survey indicators and age-aggregated production models rather than age-based models because routine age readings are not available due to the difficulty in obtaining reliable measurements for these fish. However, recruitment is highly variable for redfish species so age-aggregated production models are not a good approach to provide short-term harvest advice. Recently a relatively large dataset of validated age readings was published that provide a good basis to model growth and its variability [i.e. population growth curve (PGC)]. In this article we propose a hierarchical random effects growth model that includes between-individual variation to estimate PGCs for 10 NWA redfish stocks and for males and females separately. These growth curves are required to develop age-based stock assessment models. External estimates of measurement error in length and age are included in our model to separate these sources of variation from the PGC variability. The hierarchical approach leads to more realistic growth curves than if each stock and sex are modelled separately. Model results indicated that S. mentella usually grow to larger sizes than S. fasciatus and that females of both these species grow to larger sizes than males. There was little evidence of a change in growth rates over time.
Antihypertensive Effect of Protein Hydrolysate from Azufrado Beans in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Valenzuela‐García Paola , Bobadilla Norma A. , Ramírez‐González Victoria , León‐Villanueva Andrés , Lares‐Asseff Ismael A. , Valdez‐Ortiz Angel , Medina‐Godoy Sergio
Published: October 2016

The objective of this study was to evaluate the antihypertensive potential of common bean protein hydrolysate. Protein concentrates were obtained, followed by Alcalase enzymatic hydrolysis, and then ultrafiltrated (3,000 molecular weight cutoff); the lyophilized product was named BP3. The angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity was determined as IC50 (3.68 ± 0.07 μg/mL). The antihypertensive effect was evaluated in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) by two assays; Captopril ACE inhibitor was used as a reference compound and water as a control. A short‐term assay showed a maximum decrease in mean arterial pressure of –41 ± 5 mmHg in SHR, 3 h after oral administration of 500 mg of BP3/kg of body weight (bw). In a long‐term assay, a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure of –24 ± 5 mmHg was observed in SHR, after 45 days of oral administration of 500 mg of BP3/kg of bw/12 h. In both assays, BP3 treatment showed antihypertensive effect over SHR, similar to Captopril treatment. The sequences of the most abundant peptides present in BP3, determined by mass spectrometry, were identified as KFPWVK, GADFRKK, and PQSPCKRVNRHS. These peptides are reported for the first time in Azufrado Higuera common beans, and they are most likely responsible for the antihypertensive effect of BP3.
Population Genetic Analysis of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Suggests Two Distinct Populations in Tibet and the Other Regions of China
Authors: Hu Xiaoping , Ma Lijie , Liu Taiguo , Wang Conghao , Peng Yuelin , Pu Qiong , Xu Xiangming
Published: October 2016

Wheat stripe rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is an important disease on wheat, seriously threatening wheat production worldwide. China is one of the largest stripe rust epidemic regions in the world. The pathogen sexual reproduction and migration routes between Tibet and the other regions in China are still unknown. In this study, we obtained 961 Pst isolates from 1,391 wheat leaf samples from Gansu (277), Shaanxi (253), Sichuan (172), and Tibet (259), comprising 13 natural populations, and genotyped them with simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. The isolates can be divided into two distinct clusters based on DAPC and STRUCTURE analyses. The genetic diversity of Longnan (in Gansu) and Yibin (in Sichuan) populations was the highest and lowest among the 13 populations, respectively. The hypothesis of multilocus linkage disequilibrium was rejected for the populations from Linzhi in the Himalayan, Longnan, Hanzhong, Guangyuan, Mianyang, Liangshan, and Chendu in the south Qinling Mountains at the level of P = 0.01, which indicated significant linkage among markers in these populations. Populations in the other regions had extensive gene exchange (Nm > 4); little gene exchange was found between Tibet and the other regions (Nm < 1). The results suggest that the Tibet epidemic region of Pst is highly differentiated from the other epidemic regions in China.
Specific Detection of the Root-Lesion Nematode Pratylenchus scribneri Using Conventional and Real-Time PCR
Authors: Huang Danqiong , Yan Guiping
Published: October 2016

Pratylenchus scribneri is a plant-parasitic root-lesion nematode causing economic damage to various crops worldwide. Identifying root-lesion nematodes to species using traditional morphological methods is an arduous task requiring extensive training on nematode taxonomy and years of experience. Thus, molecular methods for P. scribneri detection and identification were developed. Conventional and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays with new species-specific primers were used in this study, which exclusively amplified DNA of P. scribneri but not DNA from other Pratylenchus spp. or non-Pratylenchus spp. tested. Compared with conventional PCR that was able to detect an equivalent to 1/4 of the DNA of a single nematode, real-time PCR was more sensitive and could amplify an equivalent to 1/128 of the DNA of one nematode. Both conventional and real-time PCR assays successfully identified P. scribneri and distinguished it from P. penetrans and P. neglectus isolated from field samples collected from various locations in North Dakota and Minnesota. The Blast-search based on the sequence information confirmed the reliability of the PCR assays for species identification. This is the first report of P. scribneri identification using a real-time PCR assay. The developed PCR assays are suitable for use in diagnostic laboratories and detection of field infestations with this nematode species.
A sensitized mutagenesis screen in Factor V Leiden mice identifies novel thrombosis suppressor loci
Authors: Westrick Randal J. , Tomberg Kärt , Siebert Amy E. , Zhu Guojing , Winn Mary E. , Dobies Sarah L. , Manning Sara L. , Brake Marisa A. , Cleuren Audrey C. , Hobbs Linzi M. , Mishack Lena M. , Johnston Alexander , Kotnik Emilee , Siemieniak David R. , Xu Jishu , Li Jun Z. , Saunders Thomas L. , Ginsburg David
Published: October 2016

Factor V Leiden (F5L) is a common genetic risk factor for venous thromboembolism in humans. We conducted a sensitized ENU mutagenesis screen for dominant thrombosuppressor genes based on perinatal lethal thrombosis in mice homozygous forF5L(F5L/L) and haploinsufficient for tissue factor pathway inhibitor (Tfpi+/−).F8deficiency enhanced survival ofF5L/LTfpi+/−mice, demonstrating thatF5L/LTfpi+/−lethality is genetically suppressible. ENU-mutagenizedF5L/Lmales andF5L/+Tfpi+/−females were crossed to generate 6,729 progeny, with 98F5L/LTfpi+/−offspring surviving until weaning. Sixteen lines exhibited transmission of a putative thrombosuppressor to subsequent generations, with these lines referred to asMF5L(Modifier ofFactor5 Leiden) 1-16. Linkage analysis inMF5L6identified a chromosome 3 locus containing the tissue factor gene (F3). Though no ENU-inducedF3mutation was identified, haploinsufficiency forF3(F3+/−) suppressedF5L/LTfpi+/−lethality. Whole exome sequencing inMF5L12identified anActr2gene point mutation (p.R258G) as the sole candidate. Inheritance of this variant is associated with suppression ofF5L/LTfpi+/−lethality (p=1.7x10−6), suggesting thatActr2p.R258Gis thrombosuppressive. CRISPR/Cas9 experiments to generate an independentActr2knockin/knockout demonstrated thatActr2haploinsufficiency is lethal, supporting a hypomorphic or gain of function mechanism of action forActr2p.R258G. Our findings identifyF8and theTfpi/F3axis as key regulators in determining thrombosis balance in the setting ofF5Land also suggest a novel role forActr2in this process.

Significance Statement

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common disease characterized by the formation of inappropriate blood clots. Inheritance of specific genetic variants, such as the Factor V Leiden polymorphism, increases VTE susceptibility. However, only ~10% of people inheriting Factor V Leiden develop VTE, suggesting the involvement of other genes that are currently unknown. By inducing random genetic mutations into mice with a genetic predisposition to VTE, we identified two genomic regions that reduce VTE susceptibility. The first includes the gene for blood coagulation Factor 3 and its role was confirmed by analyzing mice with an independent mutation in this gene. The second contains a mutation in the Actr2 gene. These findings identify critical genes for the regulation of blood clotting risk.
How we transmit memories to other brains: constructing shared neural representations via communication
Authors: Zadbood A. , Chen J. , Leong Y.C. , Norman K.A. , Hasson U.
Published: October 2016

Humans are able to mentally construct an episode when listening to another person’s recollection, even though they themselves did not experience the events. However, it is unknown how strongly the neural patterns elicited by mental construction resemble those found in the brain of the individual who experienced the original events. Using fMRI and a verbal communication task, we traced how neural patterns associated with viewing specific scenes in a movie are encoded, recalled, and then transferred to a group of naïve listeners. By comparing neural patterns across the three conditions, we report, for the first time, that event-specific neural patterns observed in the default mode network are shared across the encoding, recall, and construction of the same real-life episode. This study uncovers the intimate correspondences between memory encoding and event construction, and highlights the essential role our common language plays in the process of transmitting one's memories to other brains.
Pervasive adaptation inPlasmodium-interacting proteins in mammals
Authors: Ebel Emily R. , Telis Natalie , Venkataram Sandeep , Petrov Dmitri A. , Enard David
Published: October 2016

The protozoan genusPlasmodiumcauses malaria in dozens of mammal species, including humans, non-human primates, rodents, and bats. In humans,Plasmodiuminfections have caused hundreds of millions of documented deaths, imposing strong selection on certain populations and driving the emergence of several resistance alleles. Over the deep timescale of mammalian evolution, however, little is known about host adaptation toPlasmodium. In this work, we expand the collection of knownPlasmodium-interacting-proteins (PIPs) in mammalian hosts from ~10 to 410, by manually curating thousands of scientific abstracts. We use comparative tests of adaptation to show that PIPs have experienced >3 times more positive selection than similar mammalian proteins, consistent withPlasmodiumas a major and long-standing selective pressure. PIP adaptation is strongly linked to gene expression in the blood, liver, and lung, all of which are clinically relevant tissues inPlasmodiuminfection. Interestingly, we find that PIPs with immune functions are especially enriched for additional interactions with viruses or bacteria, which together drive a 3.7-fold excess of adaptation. These pleiotropic interactions with unrelated pathogens, along with pressure from otherPlasmodium-like Apicomplexan parasites, may help explain the PIP adaptation we observe in all clades of the mammalian tree. As a case study, we also show that alpha-spectrin, the major membrane component of mammalian red blood cells, has experienced accelerated adaptation in domains known to interact specifically withPlasmodiumproteins. Similar interactions withPlasmodium-like parasites appear to have driven substantial adaptation in hundreds of host proteins throughout mammalian evolution.
High-temperature tensile cell forin situreal-time investigation of carbon fibre carbonization and graphitization processes
Authors: Behr Michael , Rix James , Landes Brian , Barton Bryan , Billovits Gerry , Hukkanen Eric , Patton Jasson , Wang Weijun , Keane Denis , Weigand Steven
Published: October 2016

A new high-temperature fibre tensile cell is described, developed for use at the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory to enable the investigation of the carbonization and graphitization processes during carbon fibre production. This cell is used to heat precursor fibre bundles to temperatures up to ∼2300°C in a controlled inert atmosphere, while applying tensile stress to facilitate formation of highly oriented graphitic microstructure; evolution of the microstructure as a function of temperature and time during the carbonization and higher-temperature graphitization processes can then be monitored by collecting real-time wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD) patterns. As an example, the carbonization and graphitization behaviour of an oxidized polyacrylonitrile fibre was studied up to a temperature of ∼1750°C. Real-time WAXD revealed the gradual increase in microstructure alignment with the fibre axis with increasing temperature over the temperature range 600–1100°C. Above 1100°C, no further changes in orientation were observed. The overall magnitude of change increased with increasing applied tensile stress during carbonization. As a second example, the high-temperature graphitizability of PAN- and pitch-derived commercial carbon fibres was studied. Here, the magnitude of graphitic microstructure evolution of the pitch-derived fibre far exceeded that of the PAN-derived fibres at temperatures up to ∼2300°C, indicating its facile graphitizability.
A soft XAS transmission cell for operando studies
Authors: Schwanke Christoph , Xi Lifei , Lange Kathrin Maria
Published: October 2016

A new cell for operando soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy in transmission mode is presented. Developed for investigations on solar water-splitting catalysts, the cell allows the study of solid films in direct contact with electrolyte solution while applying voltage and visible light. The design is optimized for fast sample exchange and the simultaneous measurement of fluorescence and transmission signal. The capability of the cell is presented on a manganese oxide (MnOx) film, where electronic structure changes are monitored during forward and backward potential changes. Detailed information about the varying contributions of several Mn oxidation states during this process was revealed.
Micrometer-resolution imaging using MÖNCH: towards G2-less grating interferometry
Authors: Cartier Sebastian , Kagias Matias , Bergamaschi Anna , Wang Zhentian , Dinapoli Roberto , Mozzanica Aldo , Ramilli Marco , Schmitt Bernd , Brückner Martin , Fröjdh Erik , Greiffenberg Dominic , Mayilyan Davit , Mezza Davide , Redford Sophie , Ruder Christian , Schädler Lukas , Shi Xintian , Thattil Dhanya , Tinti Gemma , Zhang Jiaguo , Stampanoni Marco
Published: October 2016

MÖNCH is a 25 µm-pitch charge-integrating detector aimed at exploring the limits of current hybrid silicon detector technology. The small pixel size makes it ideal for high-resolution imaging. With an electronic noise of about 110 eV r.m.s., it opens new perspectives for many synchrotron applications where currently the detector is the limiting factor,e.g.inelastic X-ray scattering, Laue diffraction and soft X-ray or high-resolution color imaging. Due to the small pixel pitch, the charge cloud generated by absorbed X-rays is shared between neighboring pixels for most of the photons. Therefore, at low photon fluxes, interpolation algorithms can be applied to determine the absorption position of each photon with a resolution of the order of 1 µm. In this work, the characterization results of one of the MÖNCH prototypes are presented under low-flux conditions. A custom interpolation algorithm is described and applied to the data to obtain high-resolution images. Images obtained in grating interferometry experiments without the use of the absorption grating G2are shown and discussed. Perspectives for the future developments of the MÖNCH detector are also presented.
Analytical formula for two-dimensional ring artefact suppression
Authors: Titarenko Valeriy
Published: October 2016

Ring artefacts are the most disturbing artefacts when reconstructed volumes are segmented. A lot of effort has already been put into better X-ray optics, scintillators and detectors in order to minimize the appearance of these artefacts. However, additional processing is often required after standard flat-field correction. Several methods exist to suppress artefacts. One group of methods is based on minimization of the Tikhonov functional. An analytical formula for processing of a single sinogram was developed. In this paper a similar approach is used and a formula for processing two-dimensional projections is found. Thus suppression of ring artefacts is organized as a two-dimensional convolution of `averaged' projections with a given filter. Several approaches are discussed in order to find elements of the filter in a faster and accurate way. Examples of experimental datasets processed by the proposed method are considered.
Family firms in Ibero-America: an introduction
Authors: José Parada Maria , Müller Claudio , Gimeno Alberto
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper highlights the importance of understanding family firms in different contexts. The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the characteristics and behavior of family firms in Ibero-America, and their contribution and fit to the broader field of research. Based on the five articles in this special issue, this paper attempts to give an overview of their main contributions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explains in a contextual and analytical way the contributions of five papers that focus their attention on Ibero-American family firms, by linking them to the current research in the field and finding their fit within the broader field of family business. Tackling different topics, these five papers discuss about the comparison between family vs non-family businesses, innovation in family firms, and governance in family firms

Findings

Findings suggest that there is a need to stimulate research in family business in Ibero-America, especially Latin America, regarding family business dynamics, the different roles of the family within the enterprise, family governance, and the role of women. With regards to innovation the cultural and economic context play an important role in how they perform innovative activities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to further understanding family firms by discussing the importance of the context and by linking all five papers with the broader literature in family business. The introduction also discusses topics worth to be further researched in Ibero-America.
Open innovation search strategies in family and non-family SMEs
Authors: Basco Rodrigo , Calabrò Andrea
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate what types of open innovation search strategies are associated with internal innovation activities in family and non-family SMEs within natural resource-based clusters.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an empirical analysis of a sample of 245 Chilean firms.

Findings

Results suggest that while family and non-family SMEs do not significantly differ in terms of internal innovation activities, important differences exist in terms of open innovation search strategies. In particular, family SMEs search for new ideas and knowledge within their closest network of relationships (e.g. customers, suppliers and competitors), whereas non-family SMEs mainly focus on broader network relationships (e.g. universities, public institutions and fair trade organizations).

Practical implications

This study shows that within a natural resource cluster, the types of firm do matter. In fact, family and non-family SMEs use different open innovation search strategies to innovate; hence, this research may help and assist policy makers in tailoring innovation policies aimed at expanding the potential benefits of clusters for regional growth and development.

Originality/value

This research addresses the call to further investigate the link between family SMEs and innovation in developing countries, given that SMEs may also act as a lively player for regional development.
Management capability and performance in Spanish family firms
Authors: Garcés-Galdeano Lucia , García-Olaverri Carmen , Huerta Emilio
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the possible causes of the heterogeneous productivity observed in Spanish firms, finding evidence of a link between managerial capability and higher productivity in the context of family firms. Also, innovative human resource policies are much more frequently found in companies where there is a high level of management capability.

Design/methodology/approach

Productivity differences in Spanish family firms are, for the first time, analysed from a managerial view, and using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA).

Findings

This paper proposes a way to measure managerial capability. Innovative human resource policies are much more frequently found in companies with high levels of management capability. The authors show that sustained competitive advantage is not just a function of single or isolated components, but rather a combination of human capital elements. Besides, a clear association between high managerial capability and performance in family firms is established. Thus, better management skills enable Spanish family firms to design the necessary strategies and internal structures to facilitate their adjustment to the business environment, and, thereby, achieve operational performance gains.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a way to measure managerial capability and its association with productivity in Spanish family firms using MCA. The authors also show a clear positive association between high managerial capability and performance in family firms. Thus, better management skills enable Spanish family firms to achieve operational performance gains.
Global research on air pollution between 2005 and 2014: a bibliometric study
Authors: Kolle Shankar Reddy , Thyavanahalli Shankarappa H.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze research works on air pollution published in 2005-2014 and indexed in Web of Science Core Collection.

Design/methodology/approach

The data of research publications on “air pollution” from the Web of Science Core Collection database were collected with following search strategy: publications with terms “Air contaminat*”, “Air pollut*”, “pollut* air” or “contaminat* air” in their titles for the period of 2005-2014 were collected. A total of 4,424 articles were published on air pollution during the period of 2005-2014, and the data were used for creation of database in Microsoft Excel for the analysis purpose. Bibliometric analysis techniques were applied wherever necessary.

Findings

Out of 4,424 articles published on air pollution in different languages, 4,276 articles were in English. The years 2013 and 2014 showed rapid increase in number of articles published, 563 and 638, respectively. The increased number of articles resulted in an increase in number of pages published and references cited in the articles. The articles published in the year 2006 had received more number of citations (12,318), and the average citation per article for the period was 17.59. Environmental Science was the major Web of Science subject category under which a greater number of articles were published. Article entitled as “Health effects of fine particulate air pollution: Lines that connect”, published in Journal of The Air & Waste Management Association by Pope and Dockery (2006), was the highest cited article (1,743) for the period, and the top most active journals that published huge number of articles were Atmospheric Environment and Environmental Health Perspective, with 11.79 per cent of the total articles (4,424) published.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of the study are limited to the journals covered under Web of Science Core Collection database and articles having the following keywords in their titles: “Air contaminat*”, “Air pollut*”, “pollut* air” or “contaminat* air”.

Originality/value

This study would be useful to researchers and policy makers to get an insight into the research trends of air pollution for effective decision-making and formulation of new research proposals.
Implementation of a local authority workspace strategy in the UK
Authors: Giddings Bob , Ladinski Vladimir
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the implementation of a workspace strategy within Gateshead Metropolitan Borough Council. It identifies the efficiencies that were achieved through the increase in office workspace numbers, as well as the associated advantages of locating more people within the Civic Centre. Equally, this study examines the users’ perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was carried out in 2013, with Property and Design Services as a sample Council Department, to identify employees’ level of satisfaction with the implementation of the strategy. A paper-based questionnaire was handed to all participants. The primary comparison was their experience before and after changes to the workplace.

Findings

The results show that government targets for office space utilisation have been exceeded, thus supporting more efficient property asset management. The research has also established that the employees are generally satisfied with their new workspace.

Research limitations/implications

The issues are whether the reduced space per person can be mitigated by the design, and whether efficiency gains can be introduced without adversely affecting the users’ perception of their workplace.

Practical implications

The findings can guide future trends within the Council, as well as informing the implementation of similar workspace strategies in other organisations.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in a workspace strategy where the responses of users were taken seriously. Despite some concerns about distractions and lack of privacy, the employees responded that their overall satisfaction, and perceived productivity were unaffected by the strategy and reduced space per person.
The role of formal and informal surveillance in creating a safe and entertaining retail environment
Authors: Kajalo Sami , Lindblom Arto
Published: October 2016

Purpose

A key question for shopping malls is to create a retail environment that is at the same time safe and entertaining. The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into this process by examining how consumers view various formal and informal surveillance practices in the context of shopping malls. The classification of surveillance practices into formal and informal surveillance is based on crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) theory. The paper also studies how consumers can be grouped according to their views on these surveillance practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the CPTED theory as a theoretical lens and studies the consumers’ views of formal and informal surveillance using data gathered from a survey of 200 shopping mall visitors. The data are analyzed using principal components analysis and cluster analysis.

Findings

The results show that customer experience of safe retail environments reflects the distinction between informal and formal surveillance in the CPTED theory. The paper also shows that consumers have several different preferences towards surveillance practices and consumers can be grouped according to their preferences for surveillance methods.

Originality/value

This paper has provided new insights regarding the use of CPTED theory in research into formal and informal surveillance practices in shopping malls. The findings provide tools that help mall managers focus on the different needs of consumers in their quest to create safe and entertaining retail environment.
Social movements in crisis? From the 15-M movement to the electoral shift in Spain
Authors: Díaz-Parra Ibán , Jover-Báez Jaime
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Social left-wing political contestation and activism in Spain have undergone great changes over the past four years. First, there has been a shift from the 15-M movement that took over public plazas with its ambiguous claims basically related to radical democracy and rejection of institutional politics, to a new focus on social problems generated by the crisis, highlighting issues such as housing and cutbacks in social rights. Second, there has been a shift towards institutional politics in 2014. How should this recent whirlwind evolution in political contestation to status quo be understood? What is the relation between the changing material conditions of the population and the extremely shifting shape of left-wing militancy in Spain? The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The arguments put forward here are based on the authors’ involvement in social movements in the city of Seville between 2011 and the current time. They have been complemented with in-depth interviews of social activists who have taken part in the movements: 15-M assemblies, the housing movement, general strikes and, in more recent times, electoral initiatives (Podemos and Ganemos). The interviews were done between 2012 and 2014. The fieldwork has been complemented with an exploration of documentary sources: the manifests and writings of the various organisations that are being addressed.

Findings

In the transition from 15-M assemblies to the recent shift in electoral initiatives, social protest have turned from direct democracy demands and the rejection of institutionalised politics to a progressively pragmatic and short-term position where institutions are targeted. This paper argues that the generalised impoverishment of the population, increased numbers of evictions and consistently high unemployment rates have broadened the social framework for the action of social movements. The political and ideological crisis, rooted in the majority of the population’s crumbling expectations of social progress has enabled the array of possibilities to be opened up to emancipatory politics.

Originality/value

It is argued that massive deprivation provoked by the economic crisis has been a fundamental factor in the movements’ new orientation, what as a consequence, and until certain extent, throws the New Social Movements discourses into crisis itself, at least with regard to its post-materialistic nature and its opposition to institutions of the State.
Artifacts in knowledge management research: a systematic literature review and future research directions
Authors: Mariano Stefania , Awazu Yukika
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of artifacts in the knowledge management field in the past 18 years (1997-2015) and to identify directions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a systematic literature review of 101 articles published in seven journals retrieved from EBSCO and Google Scholar online research databases. The framework for analysis included 13 codes, i.e. author(s), title, year of publication, typology, theoretical lens, categorizations, methods for empirical work, relevancy, level of analysis, keywords, findings, research themes and future research directions. Codes were analyzed using qualitative and quantitative methods.

Findings

The findings lacked cumulativeness and consistency in the current knowledge management debate. Empirical works outnumbered conceptual contributions by two to one, and the majority of papers focused at the organizational level of analysis. Knowledge management systems, knowledge sharing and digital archives were the major research themes connected to artifacts, together with other closely aligned concepts such as learning and online learning, knowledge transfer and knowledge creation.

Research limitations/implications

This study has temporal and contextual limitations related to covered time span (18 years) and journals’ subscription restrictions.

Originality/value

This paper is a first attempt to systematically review the role of artifacts in knowledge management research and therefore it represents a primary reference in the knowledge management field. It provides directions to future theoretical and empirical studies and suggestions to managerial practices.