bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA-33 suppresses CCL2 expression in chondrocytes
Authors: Wei Meng , Xie Qingyun , Zhu Jun , Wang Tao , Zhang Fan , Cheng Yue , Guo Dongyang , Wang Ying , Mo Liweng , Wang Shuai
Published: March 2016

CCL2-mediated macrophage infiltration in articular tissues plays a pivotal role in the development of the osteoarthritis (OA). miRNAs regulate the onset and progression of diseases via controlling the expression of a series of genes. How the CCL2 gene was regulated by miRNAs was still not fully elucidated. In the present study, we demonstrated that the binding sites of miR-33 in the 3′UTR of CCL2 gene were conserved in human, mouse and rat species. By performing gain- or loss-of-function studies, we verified that miR-33 suppressed CCL2 expression in the mRNA and protein levels. We also found that miR-33 suppressed the CCL2 levels in the supernatant of cultured primary mouse chondrocytes. With reporter gene assay, we demonstrated that miR-33 targeted at AAUGCA in the 3′UTR of CCL2 gene. In transwell migration assays, we demonstrated that the conditional medium (CM) from miR-33 deficient chondrocytes potentiated the monocyte chemotaxis in a CCL2 dependent manner. Finally, we demonstrated that the level of miR-33 was decreased, whereas the CCL2 level was increased in the articular cartilage from the OA patients compared with the control group. In summary, we identified miR-33 as a novel suppressor of CCL2 in chondrocytes. The miR-33/CCL2 axis in chondrocytes regulates monocyte chemotaxis, providing a potential mechanism of macrophage infiltration in OA.
Integrated Physiotherapy and Speech Pathology Dysphagia Assessment and Treatment: A Single Pediatric Case Study
Authors: Godwin Emma , Rogers Katrina
Published: March 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the effectiveness of an integrated physiotherapy, and speech pathology approach to pediatric dysphagia assessment and treatment.

Method

A single retrospective case study design was used for a 3:2 year old child (Y) with a dysphagia only diagnosis over a 2:8 year period. An integrated feeding and postural assessment was completed. Treatment for Y then included the use of speech pathology techniques, core stability and adapted Shaker et al. (2002) exercises, and elastic therapeutic taping (ETT).

Results

Reassessment suggested that due to the exercises Y had improved core stability and supra-hyoid muscle strength. Videofluoroscopy (VFSS) results indicated that there was increased anterior tilt during hyolaryngeal excursion leading to reduced valleculae post swallow residue, with residue remaining at the level of the cricopharyngeus and pyriform sinuses. Elastic therapeutic taping (ETT) was then used with the aim of supporting an increase in superior hyolaryngeal movement. Results showed that in the absence of being able to create change in superior hyo-laryngeal excursion, ETT potentially altered Y's swallow pattern positively. It was hypothesized this was due to improved sensory awareness.

Conclusion

In summary, an integrated approach allowed holistic assessment and treatment of the varied aspects of Y's dysphagia.
Human Oral Sensory Systems and Swallowing
Authors: Running Cordelia A.
Published: March 2016

Numerous oral sensations contribute to the flavor experienced from foods. Texture is sensed throughout the mouth by nerve endings in the oral epithelium. Chemesthetic sensations, including irritation, spiciness, and chemical burn or cooling, are sensed by these same nerves. Tastes are sensed by taste buds, primarily on the tongue, which transduce information through the gustatory nerves. Even after placing food in the mouth, odor is still experienced through retronasal olfaction, the air that passes through the rear of the oral cavity into the nasal passages. All of these sensations combine to give an overall experience of flavor. In individuals with dysphagia, these oral sensory systems can be used to improve swallowing function. Texture is the most common current approach, but the other oral sensations, particularly chemesthesis, may also hold potential for making sensory modified foods for dysphagia management. However, modifying any of these sensory properties also alters the overall food flavor, which can lead to decreased liking of the food.
Computer-Based Cognitive Rehabilitation for Individuals With Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: Politis Adam M. , Norman Rocío S.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the efficacy of computer-based cognitive rehabilitation (CCR) for improving cognitive and cognitive-communication skills in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Method

A systematic search using key words related to CCR and TBI was conducted in 11 databases. Studies investigating CCR in children, adolescents, and adults with TBI were identified using a set of predetermined clinical questions, inclusion/exclusion criteria, and search parameters. Studies were evaluated for methodological quality according to American Academy of Neurology guidelines (AAN, 2011).

Results

Thirteen studies were included in this review. One study was classified as AAN Class II and 12 were rated as AAN Class III. Results across studies were inconsistent. In addition, studies contained a range of limitations that reduced the confidence of the reported findings.

Conclusion

At this time, there is insufficient evidence to support or refute the efficacy of CCR in improving the cognitive or cognitive-communication skills of individuals with TBI. Additional, high-quality research is needed to determine if individuals with TBI will benefit from CCR. Until this occurs, clinicians are encouraged to review existing expert recommendations and engage in practice-based evidence to determine if CCR is appropriate for their individual clients with TBI.
A Review of Computer-Based Cognitive Training for Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Mueller Kimberly D.
Published: March 2016

Computer-based cognitive training programs are increasing in popularity, not only due to trends in technological advances, but also due to the intense marketing campaigns of such programs toward late-middle-aged and older adults. This article's objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based cognitive training programs in maintaining or improving cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and early-stage Alzheimer's disease (AD). Twelve databases were searched using terms related to computerized cognitive training (CCT) and MCI and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Two raters independently extracted articles using agreed-upon criteria. Due to the heterogeneity of the samples, interventions, and outcomes, data of the studies was not statistically pooled for meta-analysis. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria and the findings were summarized. All of the studies reviewed provided support that computerized cognitive interventions are feasible in people with MCI or early-stage AD. None of the studies yielded significant evidence to support the use of CCT alone for improvement or maintenance of cognitive function in people with MCI or AD. Further, no studies presented significant evidence of transfer of training to everyday skills and tasks. Recommendations for evaluating products and for areas of research need are provided.
Polarisation‐dependent absorber based on resistor‐loaded rectangular loop resonators
Authors: Wang S. , Deng G. , Horestani A.K. , Fumeaux C.
Published: March 2016

This Letter presents a design of a polarisation‐dependent resistor‐loaded resonant absorber at microwave frequencies. The unit cell includes a metallic loop and a metallic ground plane, separated by a 3.2 mm FR‐4 substrate. A resistor is used to connect the top and bottom layers to create an optimal load for dissipation of the power accepted by the structure in a desired polarisation. Experiments performed on a prototype consisting of 10 × 10 unit cells demonstrate that the absorber can achieve near unity absorption in co‐polarised direction and almost full reflection in cross‐polarised direction at its working frequency of 2.52 GHz. The measured bandwidth of the absorber reaches 0.17 GHz (6.7%), which is wider than comparable designs using electric‐field‐coupled‐LC resonators. The optimal resistor selection and the effect of radio‐frequency behaviour of the loading resistor on the absorbing properties is investigated.
High speed and reliability gearbox for 100GE physical coding sublayer
Authors: Weihua Ruan , Qingsheng Hu
Published: March 2016

Two differently structured 66:8 gearboxes according to the IEEE802.3ba standard for 100GE transmit (TX) physical coding sublayer (PCS) system are described. By comparing their number of cells (area), power consumption, speed and reliability, the better one is applied to the 100GE TX PCS circuit. The better one is based on a kind of register which uses a round‐robin saving way. It is this special deposit way that makes it possible to take out the output data within a certain range, so as to overcome the influence of the phase difference between the input and the output clock and greatly improve its speed and reliability. The synthesis result shows that this structure of the gearbox can make it possible to run reliably at more than 700 MHz clock frequency (using the 0.18 μm CMOS standard cells). The PCS circuit which includes the better gearbox has been taped out using the 0.18 μm CMOS process and the measured results show that it can run properly at a speed of 100 Gbit/s.
Algorithm for reducing PAPR of Multicode CDMA using Reed–Muller codes
Authors: Hasan S.R. , Siddiqui N.
Published: March 2016

A new algorithm for reducing peak‐to‐average power ratio (PAPR) of multicode code division multiple access (MC‐CDMA) systems under binary PSK modulation is presented. The algorithm is based on Reed–Muller (RM) codes that are modified by finding a suitable binary sequence that minimises the PAPR of the MC‐CDMA. Three types of RM codes are investigated: namely, zero order, first order and second order. Simulation studies conducted show that the proposed algorithm achieves transmitter power savings of up to 6 dB. Zero‐order and first‐order codes exhibit 0 dB PAPR, while several others maintain a constant and low PAPR as compared with the original MC‐CDMA systems.
Step length estimation based on D‐ZUPT for pedestrian dead‐reckoning system
Authors: Liu Yu , Li Shenglong , Mu Chong , Wang Yingxue
Published: March 2016

Step length estimation has a significant impact on performance of pedestrian dead‐reckoning system. A new algorithm (named as D‐ZUPT) which uses two features (toe‐off and heel‐strike) of walking to estimate length of each step unit is presented. Numerous experiments demonstrate that the D‐ZUPT algorithm can improve the accuracy of step length estimation.
Deterministic bipolar measurement matrices with flexible sizes from Legendre sequence
Authors: Zhang Guohua , Mathar Rudolf , Zhou Quan
Published: March 2016

A deterministic method to construct bipolar measurement matrices for compressed sensing is proposed based on Legendre sequences. The novel matrices have remarkably flexible measurement sizes, relatively low coherence and show empirically good performance compared with Gaussian matrices.
Continuous‐time ΔΣ modulator having time‐interleaved switched‐capacitor brief‐return‐to‐zero DAC with first‐order jitter noise shaping
Authors: Choi M.‐Y. , Roh H.‐D. , Lee M.‐J. , Kwon S. , Lee Y.‐H. , Park H.‐J. , Kong B.‐S.
Published: March 2016

A continuous‐time delta‐sigma modulator (CT DSM) having a time‐interleaved switched‐capacitor brief‐return‐to‐zero DAC with first‐order jitter noise shaping is proposed to reduce the sensitivity to clock jitter. The proposed CT DSM allows higher power efficiency and lower intersymbol interference by using a time‐interleaved nearly full clock period integration with its current returning to zero briefly. Evaluation results indicate that the proposed third‐order single‐bit CT DSM operating at 168‐MHz achieves 79.1 dB SNDR with 50% reduced DAC current for a 2‐MHz signal bandwidth having 1% clock jitter as compared with conventional techniques.
Highly reliable 10‐W X/Ku‐band pHEMT monolithic microwave integrated circuit power amplifier
Authors: Frounchi Milad , Mohammadi Elham , Medi Ali
Published: March 2016

In this study, a reliable 10 W high‐power amplifier (HPA) is presented along with its design procedure. Implemented on a 0.25‐μm InGaAs/AlGaAs/GaAs pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistor (pHEMT) process, the designed HPA achieves power added efficiency (PAE) of more than 33% across the 7.8–12.8 GHz band. The proposed two‐stage PA provides 15 dB large signal gain with an average small‐signal gain of 18 dB. Peak results are achieved at 12.2 GHz with 40.8 dBm output power and 44% PAE. The reliability of the designed HPA is studied in detail along with a thorough discussion of related concerns.
Microstructure and hardness of electrodeposited copper microcylinders in through‐silicon via by direct current power
Authors: Wang Huiying , Wang Hong , Cheng Ping , Liu Rui , Wang Zhaoyu , Ding Guifu
Published: March 2016

Two‐step direct current electroplating was used to fabricate copper microcylinders with a 50 μm diameter and 150 μm depth. The microstructure was characterised by electron back scattering detection. Twin boundaries appeared and the twin quantity depended on the current density. Near the edge (2 mA/cm2), the grain size was large (∼2 μm) and many twins existed, while the size was small (∼0.5 μm) and few twins occurred in the middle (4 mA/cm2). The hardness was measured by nano‐indentation technique. The results showed that the hardness (2.7 GPa) at the edge of the sample was higher than that in the middle (2.2 GPa), which was probably enhanced by twins. The hardness of annealed sample was about 1.7 Gpa, which was independent of the position.
Assessing the distinguishable cluster approximation based on the triple bond-breaking in the nitrogen molecule
Authors: Rishi Varun , Perera Ajith , Bartlett Rodney J.
Published: March 2016

Obtaining the correct potential energy curves for the dissociation of multiple bonds is a challenging problem for ab initio methods which are affected by the choice of a spin-restricted reference function. Coupled cluster (CC) methods such as CCSD (coupled cluster singles and doubles model) and CCSD(T) (CCSD + perturbative triples) correctly predict the geometry and properties at equilibrium but the process of bond dissociation, particularly when more than one bond is simultaneously broken, is much more complicated. New modifications of CC theory suggest that the deleterious role of the reference function can be diminished, provided a particular subset of terms is retained in the CC equations. The Distinguishable Cluster (DC) approach of Kats and Manby [J. Chem. Phys. 139, 021102 (2013)], seemingly overcomes the deficiencies for some bond-dissociation problems and might be of use in quasi-degenerate situations in general. DC along with other approximate coupled cluster methods such as ACCD (approximate coupled cluster doubles), ACP-D45, ACP-D14, 2CC, and pCCSD(α, β) (all defined in text) falls under a category of methods that are basically obtained by the deletion of some quadratic terms in the double excitation amplitude equation for CCD/CCSD (coupled cluster doubles model/coupled cluster singles and doubles model). Here these approximate methods, particularly those based on the DC approach, are studied in detail for the nitrogen molecule bond-breaking. The N2 problem is further addressed with conventional single reference methods but based on spatial symmetry-broken restricted Hartree–Fock (HF) solutions to assess the use of these references for correlated calculations in the situation where CC methods using fully symmetry adapted SCF solutions fail. The distinguishable cluster method is generalized: 1) to different orbitals for different spins (unrestricted HF based DCD and DCSD), 2) by adding triples correction perturbatively (DCSD(T)) and iteratively (DCSDT-n), and 3) via an excited state approximation through the equation of motion (EOM) approach (EOM-DCD, EOM-DCSD). The EOM-CC method is used to identify lower-energy CC solutions to overcome singularities in the CC potential energy curves. It is also shown that UHF based CC and DC methods behave very similarly in bond-breaking of N2, and that using spatially broken but spin preserving SCF references makes the CCSD solutions better than those for DCSD.
Revealing electronic open quantum systems with subsystem TDDFT
Authors: Krishtal Alisa , Pavanello Michele
Published: March 2016

Open quantum systems (OQSs) are perhaps the most realistic systems one can approach through simulations. In recent years, describing OQSs with Density Functional Theory (DFT) has been a prominent avenue of research with most approaches based on a density matrix partitioning in conjunction with an ad-hoc description of system-bath interactions. We propose a different theoretical approach to OQSs based on partitioning of the electron density. Employing the machinery of subsystem DFT (and its time-dependent extension), we provide a novel way of isolating and analyzing the various terms contributing to the coupling between the system and the surrounding bath. To illustrate the theory, we provide numerical simulations on a toy system (a molecular dimer) and on a condensed phase system (solvated excimer). The simulations show that non-Markovian dynamics in the electronic system-bath interactions are important in chemical applications. For instance, we show that the superexchange mechanism of transport in donor-bridge-acceptor systems is a non-Markovian interaction between the donor-acceptor (OQS) with the bridge (bath) which is fully characterized by real-time subsystem time-dependent DFT.
Modification of chirped laser pulses via delayed rotational nonlinearity
Authors: Romanov D. A. , Odhner J. H. , Levis R. J.
Published: March 2016

To interpret single-shot measurements of rotational revival patterns in molecular gases excited by an ultrashort laser pulse, an analytical description of the probe pulse modulation by the impulsively excited medium is developed. A femtosecond pump laser pulse prepares a rotational wavepacket in a gas-phase sample, and the resulting periodic revivals are mapped into the frequency domain by using a substantially chirped continuum probe pulse. Since the standard approximate descriptions of probe pulse propagation are inapplicable (such as the slowly varying envelope approximation and the slowly evolving wave approximation), we propose an approach capable of incorporating both the substantial chirp of the pulse and the temporal dispersion of the medium response. Theory is presented for the case where the frequency change of the probe during the probe pulse duration is comparable with the carrier frequency. Analytical expressions are obtained for the probe signal modulation over the pump-probe interaction region and for the resulting heterodyned transient birefringence spectra. The approach is illustrated using the case of nitrogen gas.
High power cascade diode lasers emitting near 2 μm
Authors: Hosoda Takashi , Feng Tao , Shterengas Leon , Kipshidze Gela , Belenky Gregory
Published: March 2016

High-power two-stage cascade GaSb-based type-I quantum well diode lasers emitting near 2 μm were designed and fabricated. Coated devices with cavity length of 3 mm generated about 2 W of continuous wave power from 100-μm-wide aperture at the current of 6 A. The power conversion efficiency peaked at 20%. Carrier recycling between quantum well gain stages was realized using band-to-band tunneling in GaSb/AlSb/InAs heterostructure complemented with optimized electron and hole injector regions. Design optimization eliminated parasitic optical absorption and thermionic emission, and included modification of the InAs quantum wells of electron and composition and doping profile of hole injectors. Utilization of the cascade pumping scheme yielded 2 μm lasers with improved output power and efficiency compared to existing state-of-the-art diodes.
Energy landscapes for a machine learning application to series data
Authors: Ballard Andrew J. , Stevenson Jacob D. , Das Ritankar , Wales David J.
Published: March 2016

Methods developed to explore and characterise potential energy landscapes are applied to the corresponding landscapes obtained from optimisation of a cost function in machine learning. We consider neural network predictions for the outcome of local geometry optimisation in a triatomic cluster, where four distinct local minima exist. The accuracy of the predictions is compared for fits using data from single and multiple points in the series of atomic configurations resulting from local geometry optimisation and for alternative neural networks. The machine learning solution landscapes are visualised using disconnectivity graphs, and signatures in the effective heat capacity are analysed in terms of distributions of local minima and their properties.
Stability of the Tonks–Langmuir discharge pre-sheath
Authors: Tskhakaya D. D. , Kos L. , Tskhakaya D.
Published: March 2016

The article formulates the stability problem of the plasma sheath in the Tonks–Langmuir discharge. Using the kinetic description of the ion gas, i.e., the stability of the potential shape in the quasi-neutral pre-sheath regarding the high and low frequency, the perturbations are investigated. The electrons are assumed to be Maxwell–Boltzmann distributed. Regarding high-frequency perturbations, the pre-sheath is shown to be stable. The stability problem regarding low-frequency perturbations can be reduced to an analysis of the “diffusion like” equation, which results in the instability of the potential distribution in the pre-sheath. By means of the Particle in Cell simulations, also the nonlinear stage of low frequency oscillations is investigated. Comparing the figure obtained with the figure for linear stage, one can find obvious similarity in the spatial-temporal behavior of the potential.
Surface enhanced single-molecule magnetism involving 4f spin
Authors: Zhang Yachao
Published: March 2016

We study the magnetic anisotropy energy (MAE) of the isolated and deposited Eu(C8H8)2 by first-principles calculations considering the van der Waals correction and the strong correlation effects. We find that both the molecular spin moment and the easy-axis magnetic anisotropy are enhanced upon deposition on Cu(111). We propose a mechanism in terms of the weakened spin polarization of the π-2p orbitals and the induced anisotropic occupations of the 4f orbitals. Our findings pave the way for raising the MAE of 4f-element single-molecule magnets by tailoring the molecule–surface contacts.
Infrared studies of the evolution of the CiOi(SiI) defect in irradiated Si upon isothermal anneals
Authors: Angeletos T. , Chroneos A. , Londos C. A.
Published: March 2016

Carbon-oxygen-self-interstitial complexes were investigated in silicon by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Upon irradiation, the CiOi defect (C3) forms which for high doses attract self-interstitials (SiIs) leading to the formation of the CiOi(SiI) defect (C4) with two well-known related bands at 939.6 and 1024 cm−1. The bands are detectable in the spectra both in room temperature (RT) and liquid helium (LH) temperature. Upon annealing at 150 °C, these bands were transformed to three bands at 725, 952, and 973 cm−1, detectable only at LH temperatures. Upon annealing at 220 °C, these bands were transformed to three bands at 951, 969.5, and 977 cm−1, detectable both at RT and LH temperatures. Annealing at 280 °C resulted in the transformation of these bands to two new bands at 973 and 1024 cm−1. The latter bands disappear from the spectra upon annealing at 315 °C without the emergence of other bands in the spectra. Considering reaction kinetics and defect metastability, we developed a model to describe the experimental results. Annealing at 150 °C triggers the capturing of SiIs by the C4 defect leading to the formation of the CiOi(SiI)2 complex. The latter structure appears to be bistable: measuring at LH, the defect is in configuration CiOi(SiI)2 giving rise to the bands at 725, 952, and 973 cm−1, whereas on measurements at RT, the defect converts to another configuration CiOi(SiI)2* without detectable bands in the spectra. Possible structures of the two CiOi(SiI)2 configurations are considered and discussed. Upon annealing at 220 °C, additional SiIs are captured by the CiOi(SiI)2 defect leading to the formation of the CiOi(SiI)3 complex, which in turn on annealing at 280 °C converts to the CiOi(SiI)4 complex. The latter defect anneals out at 315 °C, without being accompanied in the spectra by the growth of new bands.
Habitat Alterations and a Nonnative Predator, the Striped Bass, Increase Native Chinook Salmon Mortality in the Central Valley, California
Authors: Sabal Megan , Hayes Sean , Merz Joseph , Setka Jose
Published: March 2016

Anthropogenic stressors are the leading causes of species and biodiversity declines, driving wide-scale ecosystem changes. Additionally, synergistic effects of multiple anthropogenic modifications, including species introductions and habitat alterations, can have complex outcomes for native species. We assessed how a nonnative predator (the Striped Bass Morone saxatilis) and habitat alterations (a small diversion dam and other altered habitats) interacted to influence mortality of native juvenile Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha during their emigration from the lower Mokelumne River, California. Relative abundance and diet surveys across natural and human-altered habitats were used to assess Striped Bass functional and aggregative responses. Per capita consumption (PCC) of juvenile salmon and behavioral aggregation (CPUE) by Striped Bass at a small diversion dam (Woodbridge Irrigation District Dam [WIDD]) were elevated in comparison with those at other altered and natural habitats (WIDD: PCC = 3.54 juvenile salmon, CPUE = 0.189 Striped Bass/s of electrofishing; other altered habitats: PCC = 0 juvenile salmon, CPUE = 0.0024 Striped Bass/s; natural habitats: PCC = not estimable, CPUE = 0.0003 Striped Bass/s). Increased aggregative and functional predator responses created a localized area of heightened predation at WIDD. At this predation hot spot, we used three approaches (experimental Striped Bass removals, diet energetic analysis, and before–after impact assessment) to estimate Striped Bass consumption at 8–29% of the emigrating juvenile salmon population. Striped Bass PCC rates for juvenile salmon as determined by the three approaches were 0.92% (predator removals), 0.71–1.20% (diet energetic analysis), and 0.96–1.11% (before–after impact assessment). Our results (1) illustrate how the synergistic effect of habitat modification and a nonnative predator can exacerbate the mortality of native juvenile salmon during their emigration and (2) highlight the importance of considering interactions among stressors when planning local management strategies and assessing population-level impacts on salmon.

Received February 12, 2015; accepted November 8, 2015 Published online March 30, 2016
On the influence of re-reading on mind wandering
Authors: Phillips Natalie E. , Mills Caitlin , D'Mello Sidney , Risko Evan F.
Published: March 2016

Re-reading has been shown to have a minimal benefit on text comprehension, in comparison to reading only once or other types of study techniques (e.g., testing; self-explanation). In two experiments we examined the effect of re-reading on mind wandering. Participants read two texts, during which they responded to intermittent mind wandering probes. One text was read once and the other twice. Consistent with previous findings, there was no effect of re-reading on comprehension even though participants reported feeling more competent when they re-read the text. Critically, participants mind wandered more while re-reading. Furthermore, the effect of re-reading on mind wandering was specific to intentional forms of mind wandering rather than unintentional. The implications of these results for understanding mind wandering and the limited effectiveness of re-reading as a mnemonic are discussed.
4-[(1-Benzyl-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methoxy]benzene-1,2-dicarbonitrile: crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and energy-minimization calculations
Authors: Shamsudin Norzianah , Tan Ai Ling , Young David J. , Jotani Mukesh M. , Otero-de-la-Roza A. , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: March 2016

In the solid state, the title compound, C18H13N5O, adopts a conformation whereby the phenyl ring and methoxy–benzene-1,2-dicarbonitrile residue (r.m.s. deviation of the 12 non-H atoms = 0.041 Å) lie to opposite sides of the central triazolyl ring, forming dihedral angles of 79.30 (13) and 64.59 (10)°, respectively; the dihedral angle between the outer rings is 14.88 (9)°. This conformation is nearly 7 kcal mol−1higher in energy than the energy-minimized structure which has asyndisposition of the outer rings, enabling intramolecular π–π interactions. In the crystal, methylene-C—H...N(triazolyl) and carbonitrile-N...π(benzene) interactions lead to supramolecular chains along theaaxis. Supramolecular layers in theabplane arise as the chains are connected by benzene-C—H...N(carbonitrile) interactions; layers stack with no directional interactions between them. The specified intermolecular contacts along with other, weaker contributions to the supramolecular stabilization are analysed in a Hirshfeld surface analysis.
trans-2,5-Dimethylpiperazine-1,4-diium bis(perchlorate) dihydrate: crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis
Authors: Ben Mleh Cherifa , Roisnel Thierry , Marouani Houda
Published: March 2016

The asymmetric unit of the title hydrated molecular salt, C6H16N22+·2ClO4−·2H2O, contains a half dication (completed by inversion symmetry), a perchlorate anion and a water molecule. The extended structure consists of infinite chains of formula [(ClO4)H2O]nn−ions extending along thebaxis linked by Ow—H...O (w = water) hydrogen bonds. These chains are cross-linked by the dicationsviaN—H...Owand weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds, thus forming a three-dimensional supramolecular network. Three-dimensional Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint maps reveal that the structure is dominated by H...O/O...H and H...H contacts.
Doing business in India: cross-cultural issues in managing human resources
Authors: Gupta Seeta , Bhaskar A. Uday
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Given the increasing global significance of Indian markets, multi-national corporations (MNCs) are keen to do business here; however, cross-cultural issues can be barriers in managing human resources (HR) in international businesses. The purpose of this paper is to understand how MNCs can successfully do business in India, with special reference to cross-cultural issues and management of HR.

Design/methodology/approach

– In-depth interviews were conducted with executives working in MNCs and Indian MNCs based in India and abroad. Respondents were senior professionals, working in diverse sectors and had global work experience for about five years. Majority of the interviews were conducted in Delhi and some were conducted in Singapore. Interviews responses were qualitatively analysed.

Findings

– Findings reveal that MNCs wanting to do business in India need to have a long-term business focus, a well-defined expatriate policy and deep pockets to experience growth and payoffs on investments. In order to be successful, they need to understand India culturally and geographically, build trusting relationships with HCNs, partner with local players who are familiar with domestic challenges and localize the best practices of the west. Attrition and retention being the major challenges in India, compensation alone is not enough to attract and retain talent. Understanding Indian psyche and offering individuals a unique value proposition such as challenging roles and professional growth is imperative for creating an attractive employer brand in order to win the war for talent.

Research limitations/implications

– Though sample size is small, this research has implications for MNCs operating in India or planning to set up Indian operations.

Originality/value

– Inferences have been drawn out of primary data collected from senior executives who were handling core MNC operations and sharing their wealth of experience. The findings give fresh insights into the whole issues of MNC management involving cross-cultural and HR issues.
Background characteristics as predictors of Greek teachers’ self-efficacy
Authors: Gkolia Aikaterini , Dimitrios Belias A. , Koustelios Athanasios
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between elementary and secondary teachers’ background characteristics and constructs of self-efficacy, using the Teachers’ Sense of Efficacy Scale – TSES, during a difficult economic period for Greece and other European countries.

Design/methodology/approach

– Equation modeling techniques were used to examine the construct validity of Greek version of TSES and second to examine teachers’ self-efficacy profile in primary and secondary schools during a difficult economic period for Greece and other European countries.

Findings

– The findings of the study, using the equation modeling techniques, revealed that a multidimensional first-order three-factor model fits well to the data using multiple-group analysis, the results of the study indicate that background characteristics, such as teachers’ gender, teaching experience, educational level (elementary and secondary level) and age affect their self-efficacy factors (efficacy in student engagement, efficacy in instructional strategies and efficacy in classroom management).

Research limitations/implications

– The data of the specific analysis is based on centralized education systems during a difficult economic period. For improvement, future research using longitudinal approaches may give further important factors across different academic years and across the same individuals. Further research is also required in order to investigate the relationship between self-efficacy and students’ achievement.

Originality/value

– The originality and value of the current manuscript highlights the confirmation and the interpretation of latent factors measuring elementary and secondary school teachers’ self-efficacy (TSES) based on a centralized educational system.
Value-focused objectives for CRM system adoption
Authors: Pedron Cristiane Drebes , Picoto Winnie Ng , Dhillon Gurpreet , Caldeira Mário
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to define objectives for Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system adoption. The objectives provide a theoretical basis for strategizing about CRM system adoption. The objectives also provide managers to clearly direct CRM system adoption, thus ensuring a highly successful outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors conducted a sequential multi-method research in Europe. The initial qualitative phase constituted 62 in-depth interviews. Using Keeney’s (1992) value-focused thinking approach, the authors defined 102 CRM system adoption objectives. Quantitative purification techniques, using a sample of 210 organisations, a more parsimonious set of objectives were developed. The complete set of objectives were classified into fundamental and means objectives.

Findings

– Results present three fundamental and three means objectives. These objectives allow for successful CRM system adoption. The three fundamental objectives are: maximise CRM organisational culture; ensure an effective relationship with CRM providers; and minimise CRM project risks. The three means objectives are: maximise CRM usage, maximise relational marketing capabilities, maximise CRM orientation.

Practical implications

– This study provides strategic objectives that can be used by companies to plan adoption of a CRM system. Hence the fundamental and means objectives take the form a strategic planning template.

Originality/value

– Although technology adoption has been well researched and has also been extended to address CRM systems, the focus has largely been behavioural. The strategic objectives for CRM system adoption, presented in this paper, are novel. Objectives enable decision making and resource planning. The combination of fundamental and means objectives provide a theoretical basis for ensuring successful CRM system adoption.
How a sustainable message affects brand attributes
Authors: Huertas-Garcia Ruben , Consolación Carolina , Mas-Machuca Marta
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to understand how an advertising campaign incorporating an ecological message affects heuristic structure of consumer preferences for hedonic (design and aesthetics) and utilitarian benefits (functionality and performance) provided by the product advertised. Also, the second objective is to reach an understanding of how brand equity moderates these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper proposes a two-stage study: a qualitative and exploratory part, in which the authors seek to determine the most important hedonic and utilitarian attributes as well as strong and weak brands, and a quantitative and causative part to test the hypothesis proposed.

Findings

– The results show that when the brand advertised incorporates an ecological message, consumers show a greater preference for hedonic attributes than when the advertisement does not incorporate this message. On the other hand when the brand incorporating the sustainable message is weaker, consumers show a greater preference for hedonic attributes than when it is stronger.

Practical implications

– The result shows important managerial implications for companies with weaker brands, since it indicates that it is much more profitable, in terms of consumer’s perceived usefulness, to invest in social and ecological actions than stronger brands.

Originality/value

– Analyse how the used of ecological messages can modify consumer’s heuristic according to utilitarian and hedonics attributes.
Impact of behavioral integrity on workplace ostracism
Authors: Erkutlu Hakan , Chafra Jamel
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between leader’s behavioral integrity and his/her workplace ostracism as well as to test the moderating roles of narcissistic personality and psychological distance on that relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected from 13 state universities in Turkey. The sample included 1,003 randomly chosen faculty members and deans of their faculties. The moderating roles of narcissistic personality and psychological distance on the behavioral integrity and workplace ostracism relationship were tested using the moderated hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings

– The moderated hierarchical regression analysis results revealed that there was a significant negative relationship between leader’s behavioral integrity and his/her workplace ostracism. In addition, the negative relationship between behavioral integrity and workplace ostracism was weaker when both leader’s narcissistic personality and psychological distance were higher than when they were lower.

Practical implications

– This study showed that behavioral integrity lowered workplace ostracism. Workplace ostracism could be reduced by displaying the behavioral integrity (the alignment between words and deeds) and breaking down the barriers preventing effective communication and discussion in the organization. Moreover, the results of this study indicated that psychological distance was a significant predictor of workplace ostracism. Organizational practices and policies, especially human resource practices, should be carefully designed and implemented as to minimize psychological distance, an important source of employee dissatisfaction and distrust.

Originality/value

– The study provides new insights into the influence that behavioral integrity may have on workplace ostracism and the moderating roles of narcissistic personality and psychological distance in the link between behavioral integrity and workplace ostracism. The paper also offers a practical assistance to employees in the higher education and their leaders interested in building trust and lowering workplace ostracism.
Academic experiences in teaching Chinese international students
Authors: McCrohon Mark , Nyland Berenice
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate on the factors, which influence the academic perspectives and integrity of the Chinese international students (CISs) perspectives of academic integrity. The paper reports on the views and experiences of academicians interviewed as part of the study.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study used a trans-disciplinary conceptual framework based on grounded and positioning theory to interpret qualitative data derived from in-depth interviews and research literature. In line with this constructivist approach, a version of Auditable Systematised Qualitative Analysis was a tool used to conceptualise the participant’s ideas about academic integrity.

Findings

– Analysis of the gathered data from interviews with lecturers suggests that representing a line of discourse expressed by the institution was in many, but not all cases, difficult for these lecturers.

Practical implications

– This research has the potential to contribute to administrator, educator and policy makers in their understanding of CIS perspectives, international student experiences in host institutions and local academic experiences, perceptions and attitudes.

Originality/value

– This is a primary research paper designed to explore academic perspectives of academic integrity in working with international students. The complexities and changing nature of understanding of the international student context gives the research value.
A HARMONISE’d approach to building security-driven urban resilience: a call to arms
Authors: Coaffee Jon , Clarke Jonathan , Davis Peadar T.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Resilience is a topical concept in many academic disciplines world-wide and also among practitioners. In Europe, however, the current conceptualisations of urban resilience are highly specific to institutional contexts, national cultures and traditions and emergent risks faced in particular countries and their urban areas. The differences in how urban resilience is understood and applied are important, and yet such differences are only scarcely addressed in current resilience literature. This paper draws from the EU’s Seventh Framework Programme for research, technological development and demonstration security project HARMONISE – A Holistic Approach to Resilience and Systematic Actions to Make Large Scale Built Infrastructure Secure.

Design/methodology/approach

– The project develops a comprehensive, multifaceted, yet mutually reinforcing concept for the enhanced security, resilience and sustainability of urban infrastructure and development. As part of the project, 61 experts were interviewed in six European countries (UK, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Spain and Finland) to establish a comprehensive understanding of the current role and position of resilience in urban-built infrastructure. These interviews elicit the current views of professionals from a number of contributory and competing disciplines.

Findings

– Results indicate that there is no shared holistic understanding of urban resilience in Europe. The definitions of the concept vary across disciplines. The research identifies that there are a number of existing theoretical and practice gaps that require to be addressed.

Originality/value

– This paper presents a number of research and practice “gaps” which are being addressed in the HARMONISE project and which require to be addressed by the wider academic and practice communities.
Disclosure of corporate social responsibility information and explanatory factors
Authors: Gallego-Álvarez Isabel , Quina-Custodio Ivo Alexandre
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the voluntary disclosure of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in companies of different countries.

Design/methodology/approach

– Based on a sample of 110 companies for the year 2014, a total of 79 indicators were analyzed, nine of which correspond to economic aspects of the company, 30 to environmental aspects and 40 to social aspects, according to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI G3.1). Moreover, a dependence model was set up to see which variables may affect the disclosure of economic, social and environmental information, both separately and as a whole.

Findings

– The companies in the sample showed an average of six economic indicators, 20 environmental indicators and 27 social indicators. Regarding the explanatory variables tested, the results obtained showed that company SIZE, LEVERAGE, DJSI and CIVILLAW were the most significant variables, most affecting a company’s decision to make voluntary disclosure in relation to CSR issues.

Practical implications

– The disclosure of more information about economic, environmental and social aspects can be used by the firm as a mechanism to reduce social and governmental pressure. It is important to point out that the information provided by companies in their CSR reports is essential in corroborating the legitimacy of their activity.

Social implications

– Improving a company’s image in society is one of the reasons why firms disclose CSR information and Internet and online tools are appropriate means of dissemination in an age of increasing speed of knowledge.

Originality/value

– Previous studies have provided scores to reflect whether or not companies disclosed CSR, whereas the present study goes deeper by making a detailed analysis of the type of economic, environmental and social information presented by companies analyzed.
Levels of immunoglobulin E specific to the major food allergen and chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand (CCL)17/thymus and activation regulated chemokine and CCL22/macrophage‐derived chemokine in infantile atopic dermatitis on Ishigaki Island
Authors: Esaki Hitokazu , Takeuchi Satoshi , Furusyo Norihiro , Yamamura Kazuhiko , Hayashida Sayaka , Tsuji Gaku , Takemura Masaki , Hayashi Jun , Furue Masutaka
Published: March 2016

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a multifactorial T‐helper (Th)2‐mediated skin disease frequently associated with elevated serum immunoglobulin (Ig)E and food allergy is also a Th2‐ and IgE‐mediated adverse immunological reaction. Our previous study indicated the relation of egg allergy history and disease severity of AD. Thus, the purpose of the study was to investigate the levels of IgE specific to major food allergens (egg, milk, wheat) and Th2 chemokines (chemokine [C‐C motif] ligand [CCL]17/thymus and activation regulated chemokine [TARC] and CCL22/macrophage‐derived chemokine [MDC]) and the relationship between them. A total of 743 nursery school children were enrolled. Dermatologist‐based physical examination and a questionnaire survey were also conducted. Significantly increased levels of disease severity markers (CCL17/TARC and CCL22/MDC) were confirmed in children with AD. The levels of CCL22/MDC in all of the children were markedly high compared with those reported in adults. IgE specific to egg white, ovomucoid, wheat and mite antigen were significantly higher in the AD group than in the non‐AD group. Among them, IgE specific to egg allergens were well associated with disease severity markers, and IgE specific to ovomucoid seemed particularly well correlated with the presence of egg allergy history. In conclusion, the markedly high level of CCL22/MDC in children as compared with those reported in adults may partly explain the AD‐prone nature of children and their spontaneous remission afterwards. Mild but significant correlation of IgE specific to egg allergens and Th2 chemokines may explain correlation of disease severity and comorbidity of egg allergy in our previous study.