bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical design of experiments for optimization of arsenate reductase production by Kocuria palustris (RJB-6) and immobilization parameters in polymer beads
Authors: Banerjee Anindita , Banerjee Suchetana , Sarkar Priyabrata
Published: April 2016

This study presents statistical optimization of operational parameters for enhancement of arsenate reductase production by an arsenic tolerant bacterium Kocuria palustris (RJB-6).
Improving the photoelectrocatalytic performance of boron-modified TiO2/Ti sol–gel-based electrodes for glycerol oxidation under visible illumination
Authors: Mancilla Federico J. , Rojas Silvia F. , Gualdrón-Reyes Andrés F. , Carreño-Lizcano María I. , Duarte Liseth J. , Niño-Gómez M. E.
Published: April 2016

B-TiO2 photoelectrodes showed a high photoelectrocatalytic performance under visible illumination due to efficient electron transport and charge carrier separation.
Colloidal nanocrystal superlattices as phononic crystals: plane wave expansion modeling of phonon band structure
Authors: Sadat Seid M. , Wang Robert Y.
Published: April 2016

Colloidal nanocrystal superlattices are a natural platform for high frequency three-dimensional phononic crystals (~102 GHz) because they consist of a periodic array of hard nanoparticles in a soft organic matrix.
Graphene oxide with zinc partially substituted magnetite (GO–Fe1−xZnxOy) for the UV-assisted heterogeneous Fenton-like reaction
Authors: Zubir Nor Aida , Motuzas Julius , Yacou Christelle , Zhang Xiwang , Diniz da Costa João C.
Published: April 2016

A series of graphene oxide (GO) and zinc partially substituted magnetite GO–Fe1−xZnxOy (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.285) catalysts were synthesised through a precipitation-oxidation method.
Multifunctional hollow polydopamine-based composites (Fe3O4/PDA@Ag) for efficient degradation of organic dyes
Authors: Mao Bingqi , An Qingda , Zhai Bin , Xiao Zuoyi , Zhai Shangru
Published: April 2016

As a newly appeared biomimetic platform and universal surface modification agent, polydopamine (PDA) has been paid great attention recently.
Porous ceramic stabilized phase change materials for thermal energy storage
Authors: Liu Songyang , Yang Huaming
Published: April 2016

This paper aimed to develop a novel form-stable composite phase change material (PCM) by infiltrating molten Na2SO4 into a mullite-corundum porous ceramic preform (M-PCP).
Cytocompatible antibacterial fibrous membranes based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) and quaternarized N-halamine polymer
Authors: Fan Xiaoyan , Ren Xuehong , Huang Tung-Shi , Sun Yuyu
Published: April 2016

A novel polymeric N-halamine-containing quaternary ammonium salt (PHQS) was synthesized and used to make antibacterial electrospun fibrous membranes by blending with biodegradable poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB-4HB)).
Nanosized (Y1−xGdx)2O2S:Tb3+ particles: synthesis, photoluminescence, cathodoluminescence studies and a model for energy transfer in establishing the roles of Tb3+ and Gd3+
Authors: Brüninghoff Robert , Engelsen Daniel den , Fern George R. , Ireland Terry G. , Dhillon Rupinder , Silver Jack
Published: April 2016

Herein we describe the synthesis and spectral analysis of nanosized (Y1−xGdx)2O2S:Tb3+ phosphors between x = 0 and x = 1 with 0.1 and 2 mol% Tb3+.
N-doped Li4Ti5O12 nanoflakes derived from 2D protonated titanate for high performing anodes in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Rodriguez Erwin F. , Xia Fang , Chen Dehong , Hollenkamp Anthony F. , Caruso Rachel A.
Published: April 2016

Optimised dehydrated, nitrogen doped Li4Ti5O12 featuring mesoporosity, high crystallinity and 2D nano-sized flakes properties that deliver high electrochemical performance.
Improved dual‐capacitive arrays DAC architecture for SAR ADC
Authors: Li Dong , Meng Qiao , Li Fei
Published: April 2016

An improved dual‐capacitive arrays DAC (IDCA‐DAC) architecture for successive approximation register ADC is presented. By using a switching‐back switching scheme and a third reference voltage for the last bit conversion, the proposed IDCA‐DAC architecture achieves 42% savings in average switching energy and 47.1% reduction in area compared with the original DCA‐DAC architecture. Additionally, it can achieve 99.3% savings in average switching energy and 71.9% reduction in area compared with the conventional method.
Super‐resolution orbital angular momentum based radar targets detection
Authors: Lin Mingtuan , Gao Yue , Liu Peiguo , Liu Jibin
Published: April 2016

Radiating twisted beams, orbital angular momentum (OAM) based radar provides a new perspective for present radar techniques. However, estimation methods now used has a demerit of resolution. Thus, we raised multiple signal classification (MUSIC) algorithm to improve resolution ability based on this innovative concept. The echo model based on uniform circular array for MUSIC was first built. In contrast to uncorrelated signals in classical MUSIC algorithm, echo signals from targets are fully coherent with each other. Spatial smoothing technique was subsequently utilised in OAM regime to tackle it. Simulation results showed the super‐resolution capacity of MUSIC to detect objectives compared with the traditional fast Fourier transform method.
Fine‐pitch surface component mounting on screen‐printed fabric circuits
Authors: Lin X. , Seet B.‐C. , Joseph F.
Published: April 2016

A novel method of bonding surface mount components to screen‐printed fabric circuits is proposed. The method is achieved by applying the same technique of screen‐printing conductive ink patterns of fabric circuit for printing a layer of low‐temperature solder paste onto uncured conductive ink pads, and placing the circuit with mounted components inside an oven for a one‐step curing process. A screen‐printing frame with 42 μm mesh opening is used for both conductive ink and solder paste layers. Thus, a 0.2 mm resolution for printed traces and spaces is achieved, which meets the demanding geometrical requirements of most integrated circuit chips with fine‐pitch and tiny footprints. Measurement results show the printed tracks after curing exhibit excellent conductivity while retaining good flexibility. Examination under the microscope shows the components are well‐bonded to their on‐fabric pads. The proposed method for surface component mounting and one‐step curing process for screen‐printed fabric circuits can potentially streamline and expedite the twin process of circuit fabrication and component mounting for future smart textile applications.
Outlier filtering algorithm for travel time estimation using dedicated short‐range communications probes on rural highways
Authors: Jang Jinhwan
Published: April 2016

With increasing market penetration, dedicated short‐range communications (DSRC) probes are attracting more interest in the advanced traveller information system as a way to efficiently alleviate traffic congestion. Generally, DSRC probes, thanks to their ability to directly collect point‐to‐point travel time, are considered to be superior to conventional point detectors. However, outlying observations are inevitable in DSRC probe data, and can erroneously indicate abnormally long travel times. In this study, a practical algorithm to filter out outliers in DSRC probe data is proposed. The suggested algorithm is divided into two parts. In the case of small sample, it uses a previous interval value to determine a valid range for current interval values; otherwise, it uses a modified median filter that uses the median and absolute deviation of current interval observations to determine the valid range. The algorithm has been thoroughly verified using various types of DSRC probe data in interrupted and uninterrupted rural highways near Seoul, Korea. Consequently, it was proven to be sufficient to overcome the deficiencies of the previous techniques.
Ion properties in a Hall current thruster operating at high voltage
Authors: Garrigues L.
Published: April 2016

Operation of a 5 kW-class Hall current Thruster for various voltages from 400 V to 800 V and a xenon mass flow rate of 6 mg s−1 have been studied with a quasi-neutral hybrid model. In this model, anomalous electron transport is fitted from ion mean velocity measurements, and energy losses due to electron–wall interactions are used as a tuned parameter to match expected electron temperature strength for same class of thruster. Doubly charged ions production has been taken into account and detailed collisions between heavy species included. As the electron temperature increases, the main channel of Xe2+ ion production becomes stepwise ionization of Xe+ ions. For an applied voltage of 800 V, the mass utilization efficiency is in the range of 0.8–1.1, and the current fraction of doubly charged ions varies between 0.1 and 0.2. Results show that the region of ion production of each species is located at the same place inside the thruster channel. Because collision processes mean free path is larger than the acceleration region, each type of ions experiences same potential drop, and ion energy distributions of singly and doubly charged are very similar.
Design and analysis of a MEMS-based bifurcate-shape piezoelectric energy harvester
Authors: Luo Yuan , Gan Ruyi , Wan Shalang , Xu Ruilin , Zhou Hanxing
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a novel piezoelectric energy harvester, which is a MEMS-based device. This piezoelectric energy harvester uses a bifurcate-shape. The derivation of the mathematical modeling is based on the Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, and the main mechanical and electrical parameters of this energy harvester are analyzed and simulated. The experiment result shows that the maximum output voltage can achieve 3.3V under an acceleration of 1g at 292.11Hz of frequency, and the output power can be up to 0.155mW under the load of 0.4MΩ. The power density is calculated as 496.79μWmm−3. Besides that, it is demonstrated efficiently at output power and voltage and adaptively in practical vibration circumstance. This energy harvester could be used for low-power electronic devices.
Narrative mediatisation of the “Chinese Dream” in Chinese and American media
Authors: Wang Jiayu
Published: April 2016

This paper examines how the political slogan of the “Chinese Dream”, coined and promoted by China’s president, Xi Jinping, was mediatised in the Chinese and the American media. Applying theoretical frameworks in narrative studies and concepts inmediated discourse analysis, it investigates how elements such as context, time, and space played a vital part in the construal and interpretation of the “Chinese Dream” in a nexus of media practices; as such differing characteristics of mediatisation in the Chinese and the American media emerged. These mediatising mechanisms demonstrate a constant “othering” practice of the American media in mediatising the slogan, and the “blind-to-others” practice of the Chinese media. It is suggested the nexus of the mediatising practice be changed by enhancing the mutual understanding between the two cultural systems.
Socio-legal status and experiences of forced labour among asylum seekers and refugees in the UK
Authors: Dwyer Peter , Hodkinson Stuart , Lewis Hannah , Waite Louise
Published: April 2016

Socio-legal status determines the differential rights to residence, work and social welfare that accrue to migrants depending on their particular immigration status. This paper presents analysis of original empirical data generated in qualitative interviews with migrants who had both made a claim for asylum and experienced conditions of forced labour in the UK. Following an outline of the divergent socio-legal statuses assigned to individual migrants within the asylum system, early discussions in the paper offer a summary of key aspects and indicators of forced labour. Subsequent sections highlight the significance of socio-legal status in constructing such migrants as inherently vulnerable to severe exploitation. It is concluded that immigration policy and, more particularly, the differential socio-legal statuses that it structures at various stages of the asylum process, helps to create the conditions in which severe exploitation and forced labour are likely to flourish among asylum seekers and refugees in the UK.
Factors affecting the abundance of age-0 Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) in Chesapeake Bay
Authors: Houde Edward D. , Annis Eric R. , Harding Lawrence W. , Mallonee Michael E. , Wilberg Michael J.
Published: April 2016

The abundance of prerecruit, age-0 Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus), declined to low levels in Chesapeake Bay in the 1990s, after two decades of high abundances in the 1970s–1980s. Environmental factors and trophodynamics were hypothesized to control age-0 menhaden abundance. Data on age-0 menhaden abundance from seine and trawl surveys were analysed with respect to primary productivity, chlorophyll a (Chl a), and environmental variables. Abundance from 1989 to 2004 was strongly correlated with metrics of primary production and euphotic-layer Chl a, especially during spring months when larval menhaden transform into filter-feeding, phytoplanktivorous juveniles. Correlation, principal components, and multiple regression analyses were conducted that identified factors associated with age-0 menhaden abundance. Primary production, Chl a, and variables associated with freshwater flow, e.g. Secchi disk depth and zooplankton assemblages, were correlated with age-0 menhaden abundance. Lengths of age-0 menhaden were positively related to mean levels of annual primary production. However, lengths were negatively related to age-0 menhaden abundance, indicating that growth may be density-dependent. The identified relationships suggest that numbers of menhaden larvae ingressing to Chesapeake Bay and environmental factors that subsequently control primary productivity and food for juveniles within the Bay may control recruitment levels of Atlantic menhaden.
Prevalence of Dementia 7.5 Years after Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Evered Lisbeth A. , Silbert Brendan S. , Scott David A. , Maruff Paul , Ames David
Published: April 2016

AbstractAbstract

The prevalence of dementia at 7.5 yr after coronary artery bypass graft surgery is greatly increased compared to population prevalence. Impaired cognition before surgery or the presence of cardiovascular disease may contribute to the high prevalence.

Background

Although postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is well described after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, a major concern has been that a progressive decline in cognition will ultimately lead to dementia. Since dementia interferes with the ability to carry out daily functions, the impact has far greater ramifications than cognitive decline defined purely by a decreased ability to perform on a battery of neurocognitive tests. The authors hypothesized that early cognitive impairment measured as baseline cognitive impairment is associated with an increased risk of long-term dementia.

Methods

The authors conducted a prospective longitudinal study on 326 patients aged 55 yr and older at the time of undergoing CABG surgery. Dementia was classified by expert opinion on review of performance on the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale and several other assessment tasks. Patients were also assessed for POCD at 3 and 12 months and at 7.5 yr using a battery of neuropsychologic tests and classified using the reliable change index. Associations were assessed using univariable analysis.

Results

At 7.5 yr after CABG surgery, the prevalence of dementia was 36 of 117 patients (30.8%; 95% CI, 23 to 40). POCD was detected in 62 of 189 patients (32.8%; 95% CI, 26 to 40). Due to incomplete assessments, the majority (113 patients), but not all, were assessed for both dementia and POCD. Fourteen of 32 (44%) patients with dementia were also classified as having POCD. Preexisting cognitive impairment and peripheral vascular disease were both associated with dementia 7.5 yr after CABG surgery. POCD at both 3 (odds ratio, 3.06; 95% CI, 1.39 to 9.30) and 12 months (odds ratio, 4.74; 95% CI, 1.63 to 13.77) was associated with an increased risk of mortality by 7.5 yr.

Conclusions

The prevalence of dementia at 7.5 yr after CABG surgery is greatly increased compared to population prevalence. Impaired cognition before surgery or the presence of cardiovascular disease may contribute to the high prevalence.
Methoxetamine, a novel psychoactive substance with serious adverse pharmacological effects: a review of case reports and preclinical findings
Authors: Zanda Mary T. , Fadda Paola , Chiamulera Cristiano , Fratta Walter , Fattore Liana
Published: April 2016

An increasing number of novel psychoactive substances are currently available and sold as ‘legal highs’ or ‘research chemicals’ accompanied by the indication that they are ‘not for human consumption’. Among those that have emerged in the last few years, methoxetamine (MXE) owes its wide popularity to its easy access on the Internet and its reputation of being a ‘safe’ drug. MXE is an arylcyclohexylamine with a chemical structure analogous to ketamine and phencyclidine, and similar noncompetitive glutamate N-methyl d-aspartate receptor antagonist properties. Yet, very recent preclinical data highlighted a stimulatory effect of MXE on dopamine neurotransmission within the mesolimbic pathway. The aim of this review is to provide an updated review of the behavioral and toxicological effects of MXE as well as the latest findings on its pharmacology that might explain sought effects and frequent occurrence of adverse effects. In light of the growing number of intoxications induced by MXE, knowledge of its short-term and long-term effects is urgently needed. However, the hypothetical rapid antidepressant activity of MXE suggested by its chemical analogy with ketamine and supported by recent preclinical findings deserves further investigation.
Nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor expression in clinical pain disorders and functional effects in cultured neurons
Authors: Anand Praveen , Yiangou Yiangos , Anand Uma , Mukerji Gaurav , Sinisi Marco , Fox Michael , McQuillan Anthony , Quick Tom , Korchev Yuri E. , Hein Peter
Published: April 2016

The nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor (NOP), activated by its endogenous peptide ligand nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ), exerts several effects including modulation of pain signalling. We have examined, for the first time, the tissue distribution of the NOP receptor in clinical visceral and somatic pain disorders by immunohistochemistry and assessed functional effects of NOP and μ-opioid receptor activation in cultured human and rat dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Quantification of NOP-positive nerve fibres within the bladder suburothelium revealed a remarkable several-fold increase in detrusor overactivity (P < 0.0001) and painful bladder syndrome patient specimens (P = 0.0014) compared with controls. In postmortem control human DRG, 75% to 80% of small/medium neurons (≤50 μm diameter) in the lumbar (somatic) and sacral (visceral) DRG were positive for NOP, and fewer large neurons; avulsion-injured cervical human DRG neurons showed similar numbers. NOP immunoreactivity was significantly decreased in injured peripheral nerves (P = 0.0004), and also in painful neuromas (P = 0.025). Calcium-imaging studies in cultured rat DRG neurons demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of capsaicin responses in the presence of N/OFQ, with an IC50 of 8.6 pM. In cultured human DRG neurons, 32% inhibition of capsaicin responses was observed in the presence of 1 pM N/OFQ (P < 0.001). The maximum inhibition of capsaicin responses was greater with N/OFQ than μ-opioid receptor agonist DAMGO. Our findings highlight the potential of NOP agonists, particularly in urinary bladder overactivity and pain syndromes. The regulation of NOP expression in visceral and somatic sensory neurons by target-derived neurotrophic factors deserves further study, and the efficacy of NOP selective agonists in clinical trials.
Diseases of Subchondral Bone 2
Authors: Lerebours Frantz , ElAttrache Neal S. , Mandelbaum Bert
Published: April 2016

Osteonecrosis of the knee can be divided into the following 3 categories: primary or Spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee (SONK), secondary osteonecrosis (ON), and postarthroscopic osteonecrosis. Patient characteristics as well as underlying risk factors can help categorize the type of osteonecrosis and guide treatment. SONK was ﬁrst described by Ahlback et al in 1968. It is described as a disease of subchondral bone that leads to focal ischemia and bone marrow edema, necrosis, and possible subsequent structural collapse. SONK typically presents in the older women with frequent involvement of the medial femoral condyle. Secondary osteonecrosis is typically present in patients below 55 years of age. Unlike SONK, secondary ON presents multiple foci of bone marrow involvement with extension into the metaphysis and diaphysis. Postarthroscopic ON has been described after arthroscopic meniscectomy, shaver-assisted chondroplasty, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and laser or radiofrequency-assisted debridement.
Group 3 innate lymphoid cells in tissue damage and graft-versus-host disease pathogenesis
Authors: Karrich Julien J. , Cupedo Tom
Published: April 2016

Purpose of review

Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) have emerged as modulators of conditioning-induced tissue damage and development of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) in the context of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). This review highlights experimental and clinical evidence for a role of ILC in GVHD pathogenesis.

Recent findings

ILC are well known for their role in epithelial homeostasis and innate immunity. In addition, recent studies identified ILC as architects of intestinal responses to tissue damage after experimental radio and chemotherapy. Group 3 ILC, and their signature cytokine IL-22, can enhance intestinal stem cell regeneration and protect the stem cell niche from damage during experimental HSCT. Moreover, in leukemia patients undergoing HSCT conditioning, appearance of activated group 3 ILC prior to transplant is correlated to reduced incidence of acute GVHD.

ILC have a profound impact on the recovery from tissue damage and severity of GVHD in experimental models. Together with the available data from leukemia patients, this argues for in-depth analysis of the mechanisms of ILC function and the translation of experimental findings to clinical application. Ultimately, control of ILC activation, or of the cytokines they produce, could be employed to reduce GVHD lesion in patients receiving allogeneic HSCT.
Factors Influencing Amount of Weekly Exercise Time in Colorectal Cancer Survivors
Authors: Chou Yun-Jen , Lai Yeur-Hur , Lin Been-Ren , Liang Jin-Tung , Shun Shiow-Ching
Published: April 2016

Background:

Performing regular exercise of at least 150 minutes weekly has benefits for colorectal cancer survivors. However, barriers inhibit these survivors from performing regular exercise.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to explore exercise behaviors and significant factors influencing weekly exercise time of more than 150 minutes in colorectal cancer survivors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study design was used to recruit participants in Taiwan. Guided by the ecological model of health behavior, exercise barriers were assessed including intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environment-related barriers. A multiple logistic regression was used to explore the factors associated with the amount of weekly exercise.

Results:

Among 321 survivors, 57.0% of them had weekly exercise times of more than 150 minutes. The results identified multiple levels of significant factors related to weekly exercise times including intrapersonal factors (occupational status, functional status, pain, interest in exercise, and beliefs about the importance of exercise) and exercise barriers related to environmental factors (lack of time and bad weather). No interpersonal factors were found to be significant.

Conclusions:

Colorectal cancer survivors experienced low levels of physical and psychological distress. Multiple levels of significant factors related to exercise time including intrapersonal factors as well as exercise barriers related to environmental factors should be considered.

Implications for Practice:

Healthcare providers should discuss with their patients how to perform exercise programs; the discussion should address multiple levels of the ecological model such as any pain problems, functional status, employment status, and time limitations, as well as community environment.
Comparative Safety, Efficiency, and Nursing Preference Among 3 Methods for Intravenous Push Medication Preparation: A Randomized Crossover Simulation Study
Authors: Burger Maureen , Degnan Dan
Published: April 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare total time for drug preparation, associated errors, and nurses' preferences among 3 different intravenous (IV) push medication methods.

Research Design

A randomized crossover simulation design was used to compare total time for drug preparation and incidence of medication preparation errors between BD Simplist (BDS), Carpuject (CJ), and traditional vial-and-syringe process (TVSP). Three medication preparation areas were created to mimic a hospital setting. Twenty-four critical care nurses were asked to prepare an IV dose of diphenhydramine, ketorolac, and morphine in random order using BDS, CJ, and TVSP, also in random order. Total time for the preparation of each drug was measured. Medication preparation errors were noted. At the start of the study, nurses were surveyed about their stress levels regarding aspects of IV push medications. At completion, nurses were asked to rank order from the most to the least preferred administration method.

Results

Mean time in seconds for drug preparation was significantly shorter (P < 0.004) with BDS (28.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 23.3–34.2) and CJ (28.3; 95% CI, 23.1–33.5) compared with TSVP (65.8; 95% CI, 57.7–73.9). The time difference between BDS and CJ was not statistically significant. Medication preparation errors were significantly reduced with BDS compared with both CJ and TVSP (1.4% versus 77.8% versus 73.6%; P < 0.001). The BDS was ranked by nurses as the most preferred method.

Conclusions

The BD Simplist system for IV push medications may offer nurses an opportunity to reduce steps and reduce errors during medication preparation.
Increased taxon sampling reveals thousands of hidden orthologs in flatworms
Authors: Martín-Durán José M. , Ryan Joseph F. , Vellutini Bruno C. , Pang Kevin , Hejnol Andreas
Published: April 2016

Gains and losses shape the gene complement of animal lineages and are a fundamental aspect of genomic evolution. Acquiring a comprehensive view of the evolution of gene repertoires is limited by the intrinsic limitations of common sequence similarity searches and available databases. Thus, a subset of the complement of an organism consists of hidden orthologs, those with no apparent homology with common sequenced animal lineages –mistakenly considered new genes– but actually representing rapidly evolving orthologs or undetected paralogs. Here, we describe Leapfrog, a simple automated BLAST pipeline that leverages increased taxon sampling to overcome long evolutionary distances and identify hidden orthologs in large transcriptomic databases. As a case study, we used 35 transcriptomes of 29 flatworm lineages to recover 3,427 hidden orthologs, some of them not identified by OrthoFinder, a common orthogroup inference algorithm. Unexpectedly, we do not observe a correlation between the number of hidden orthologs in a lineage and its ‘average’ evolutionary rate. Hidden orthologs do not show unusual sequence composition biases (e.g. GC content, average length, domain composition) that might account for systematic errors in sequence similarity searches. Instead, gene duplication and divergence of one paralog and weak positive selection appear to underlie hidden orthology in Platyhelminthes. By using Leapfrog, we identify key centrosome-related genes and homeodomain classes previously reported as absent in free-living flatworms, e.g. planarians. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that hidden orthologs comprise a significant proportion of the gene repertoire in flatworms, qualifying the impact of gene losses and gains in gene complement evolution.
Naïve chicks prefer hollow objects
Authors: Versace Elisabetta , Schill Jana , Nencini Andrea Maria , Vallortigara Giorgio
Published: April 2016

Biological predispositions influence approach and avoid responses since the beginning of life. Neonates of species that require parental care (e.g. human babies and chicks of the domestic fowl) are attracted by stimuli associated with animate social partners, such as face-like configurations, biological motion and self-propulsion. The property of being filled is used as a cue of animacy by 8-month-old infants but it is not known whether this reflects the effect of previous experience. We use chicks of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus) to investigate whether the property of being filledvs.hollow elicits spontaneous or learned preferences. To this aim we tested preferences of naΪve and imprinted chicks for hollow and closed cylinders. Contrary to our expectations, we documented an unlearned attraction for hollow stimuli. The preference for hollow stimuli decreased when chicks were imprinted on filled stimuli but did not increase when chicks were imprinted on hollow stimuli, suggesting that this feature is not crucial to categorize the familiarity of imprinting objects. When chicks were imprinted on occluded stimuli that could be either filled or hollow, the preference for hollow stimuli emerged again, showing that imprinting does not disrupt the spontaneous preference for hollow objects. Further experiments revealed that hollow objects were mainly attractive by means of depth cues such as darker innards, more than as places to hide or as objects with high contrast. Our findings point to predisposed preferences for hollow objects that might be unrelated to social behaviour.
Single-crystal diamond refractive lens for focusing X-rays in two dimensions. Erratum
Authors: Antipov S. , Baryshev S. V. , Butler J. E. , Antipova O. , Liu Z. , Stoupin S.
Published: April 2016

A correction is made to a citation in the article by Antipovet al.(2016) [J. Synchrotron Rad.23, 163–168].
15-(4-Chlorophenyl)-6b-hydroxy-17-methyl-6b,7,16,17-tetrahydro-7,14a-methanonaphtho[1′,8′:1,2,3]pyrrolo[3′,2′:8,8a]azuleno[5,6-b]quinolin-14(15H)-one methanol hemisolvate
Authors: Joseph J. M. , Viswanathan Vijayan , Velmurugan Devadasan
Published: April 2016

In the title solvate, C35H25ClN2O3·0.5CH3OH, the conformation of the central 1-methylpyrrolidine ring is best described as an envelope with the N atom as the flap. The cyclopentane ring adopts a twist conformation on the CH—CH2bond and the cyclohexane ring has an envelope conformation with the CH2atom as the flap. The pyrrolidine ring makes dihedral angles of 40.87 (12), 67.89 (11), 81.86 (9) and 70.86 (12)° with the mean planes of the cyclopentane, cyclohexane, acenaphthylene and chlorobenzene rings, respectively. The quinoline ring system is inclined to the naphthalene ring system by 54.14 (6)°. There is a short O—H...N contact in the molecule making anS(5) ring motif. In the crystal, there is a disordered and partially occupied ethan-1,2-diol solvent molecule present, located about an inversion centre, which links the title moleculesviaO—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains propagating along thea-axis direction.
5,6-Dipropylphthalazino[2,3-a]cinnoline-8,13-dione
Authors: Vimala G. , Krishnan S. Maya , Perumal P. T. , SubbiahPandi A.
Published: April 2016

In the title compound, C22H22N2O2, the two central fused pyridazine rings have screw-boat conformations and the dihedral angle between their mean planes is 36.22 (8)°. The mean plane of the cinnoline ring system makes a dihedral angle of 46.56 (5)° with the mean plane of the phthalazine ring to which it is fused. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming chains along thebaxis. The chains are reinforced by C—H...π interactions.
Corporate governance and firm performance in developing countries: evidence from India
Authors: Arora Akshita , Sharma Chandan
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of corporate governance on firm performance for a large representative sample.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical analysis focuses on a large number of companies covering 20 important industries of the Indian manufacturing sector for the period 2001-2010. Several alternative specifications and estimation techniques are used for analysis purposes, including system generalized methods of moments, which effectively overcomes the problem of endogeneity and simultaneity bias.

Findings

On one side, the findings indicate that larger boards are associated with a greater depth of intellectual knowledge, which in turn helps in improving decision-making and enhancing the performance. On the other side, the results indicate that return on equity and profitability is not related to corporate governance indicators. The results also suggest that CEO duality is not related to any firm performance measures for the sample firms.

Practical implications

The outcomes of the analyses advocated that companies that comply with good corporate governance practices can expect to achieve higher accounting and market performance. It implies that good corporate governance practices lead to reduced agency costs. Hence, it is concluded that firms of the developing world can possibly enhance their performance by implementing good corporate governance practices.

Originality/value

Departing from the conventional system of the prior studies and instead of focusing on a single measure framework, a range of measures of corporate governance and firm's performance variables are used. Also, several alternative specifications and estimation techniques are used for analysis purposes. Furthermore, the sample also covers a large sample of manufacturing firms.
Business students’ perceptions of corporate governance best practices
Authors: Zuckweiler Kathryn M. , Rosacker Kirsten M. , Hayes Suzanne K.
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a better understanding of business students' perceptions of the relative importance of corporate governance best practices within the context of major area of study and compare student rankings of corporate governance best practices to those of working professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a previously published survey, data were collected from business students at two Midwestern US universities and analyzed using factor analysis.

Findings

This research demonstrated that students rank strategic human resource management as the most important corporate governance practice, matching the perceptions of professionals. Accounting majors report significantly greater understanding of corporate governance, the importance of corporate governance to business and the role of understanding corporate governance in their careers as compared to management majors.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the inclusion of business students at only two US universities. Further studies should be conducted to better understand the similarities and differences between students and professionals and accounting and management majors in their perceptions of corporate governance best practices.

Practical implications

Managers can use these findings to enhance the training recent college graduates receive on corporate governance topics. Business schools can use these findings to evaluate ways to embed corporate governance throughout the curriculum.

Originality/Value

This research highlights gaps in current business school curriculum coverage of corporate governance best practices. It compares and contrasts students' and professionals' perceptions of best practices and offers suggestions for managers and educators.
Customer relationship management
Authors: Bhat Suhail Ahmad , Darzi Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a comprehensive integrated model which helps in explaining the impact of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) dimensions (complaint resolution, customer knowledge, customer empowerment and customer orientation) on customer loyalty and competitive advantage of a bank. The study also explores the mediating role of customer loyalty in the relationship between CRM and competitive advantage in retail banking.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research is based on a theoretical model which consists of four CRM dimensions and two exogenous variables. These have been used for establishing the hypotheses to analyze relationships between the variables constituting the CRM model. The data have been collected from 278 customers of a private bank. The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The scale was developed and purified through factor analysis (exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis). SEM was then used to examine the causal relationships and “model fit” of the proposed model.

Findings

– The results provide evidence that the four CRM dimensions have a positive effect on customer loyalty and competitive advantage of the bank. Among the CRM dimensions, customer knowledge is most influential of all the dimensions. Furthermore, customer loyalty acts as the mediator in the CRM model between CRM and competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

– Since, the study involved a single bank and therefore the results should be generalized cautiously. Only four CRM variables were included in the study; additional variables can be introduced in further studies involving different contexts.

Practical implications

– The study highlights and supports the need for mangers to devote additional resources toward developing a better CRM system. Therefore, mangers need to think beyond the technological aspects and should focus on these four dimensions, especially customer knowledge, to enhance the loyalty and competitiveness.

Originality/value

– The paper investigated hitherto unexplored relationships between customer-centric CRM dimensions instrumental in providing competitive advantage to a bank through mediational analysis. Thus, it contributes to the information on the implementation of CRM practices valuable for banking sector.
An in-depth analysis of strong t-consistency on secret image sharing
Authors: Hidayat Anneke Soraya , Lee Gil-Je , Yoon Eun-Jun , Yoo Kee-Young
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The detection of an adversary in secret image sharing has been a problematic side in the reconstruction phase. Some of verifiable secret sharing solutions have been proposed to solve the problem. However, there is some computational limitation in the previous schemes. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the importance of consistency for detecting an adversary in a secure reconstruction phase. Strong t-consistency assures the correctness of reconstructed secret as long as participants P ∈ N and n(P) = t. Consistency is a solution for preventing the participant to be absent and helps the dealer to easily detect the adversary without an additional verification step.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses on secure reconstruction, and uses two different approaches, namely, single-secret and multi-secret, to experiment the relationship between the given variable (t,m,n) and the adversaries by observing the quality test result, polynomial approach and visualization.

Findings

The results show that t and m are inversely proportional to the image quality without respect to the polynomial approach. The reconstruction phase is declared as securely conducted when m = 2t − 1, for both single- and multi-secret approaches.

Originality/value

The application of consistency is a considerable step for securing the secret from an adversary by combining the reconstruction phase and the consistency combination at once, removing the need for additional separate verification steps for decreasing the computational time, especially in secret image sharing.
An experimental survey of no-reference video quality assessment methods
Authors: Torres Vega Maria , Sguazzo Vittorio , Mocanu Decebal Constantin , Liotta Antonio
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The Video Quality Metric (VQM) is one of the most used objective methods to assess video quality, because of its high correlation with the human visual system (HVS). VQM is, however, not viable in real-time deployments such as mobile streaming, not only due to its high computational demands but also because, as a Full Reference (FR) metric, it requires both the original video and its impaired counterpart. In contrast, No Reference (NR) objective algorithms operate directly on the impaired video and are considerably faster but loose out in accuracy. The purpose of this paper is to study how differently NR metrics perform in the presence of network impairments.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors assess eight NR metrics, alongside a lightweight FR metric, using VQM as benchmark in a self-developed network-impaired video data set. This paper covers a range of methods, a diverse set of video types and encoding conditions and a variety of network impairment test-cases.

Findings

The authors show the extent by which packet loss affects different video types, correlating the accuracy of NR metrics to the FR benchmark. This paper helps identifying the conditions under which simple metrics may be used effectively and indicates an avenue to control the quality of streaming systems.

Originality/value

Most studies in literature have focused on assessing streams that are either unaffected by the network (e.g. looking at the effects of video compression algorithms) or are affected by synthetic network impairments (i.e. via simulated network conditions). The authors show that when streams are affected by real network conditions, assessing Quality of Experience becomes even harder, as the existing metrics perform poorly.
Women business owners’ start-up motivations and network content
Authors: Sharafizad Jalleh , Coetzer Alan
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine how women small business owners’ (SBOs) business start-up motivations influence their network content.

Design/methodology/approach

– Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 28 women SBOs who were recruited through purposeful sampling methods. Interview data on their start-up motivations were used to categorise them into three types: classic, forced and work-family. The interviews explored the network contents of the three categories of participants.

Findings

– There were many similarities between network contents of classic and forced SBOs, as both groups had started their business for financial reasons rather than family reasons. All the participants’ networks contained information and advice, economic transactions, intangible support and strong ties. However, the sources and types of network content were different for the classic and forced SBOs when compared to work-family SBOs.

Research limitations/implications

– This study has limitations that tend to be commonly found in exploratory studies, such as a small sample size. However, the findings lay the groundwork for future quantitative studies that examine associations between SBOs’ motivations for starting a business and their network contents.

Originality/value

– This research responds to calls for studies aimed at developing a more nuanced understanding of SBOs’ networking behaviour. The study provides empirical evidence of a relationship between the motivations for starting a business and the network content of SBOs. The findings can be used by businesswomen’s network organisations in their mentoring and training interventions.
Innovation in micro enterprises: reality or fiction?
Authors: Faherty Ultan , Stephens Simon
Published: April 2016

Purpose

– Although there is significant literature on innovation activities in large and medium-sized enterprises, studies that report on innovation practices in micro enterprises are lacking. The purpose of this paper is to explore three issues: understanding of the term “innovation”, innovation practice(s) and how innovation can be effectively measured.

Design/methodology/approach

– The 12 case studies presented in this paper involve micro enterprises based in Ireland. Data collected during depth interviews provide insights into understanding, practices, motivations, behaviours and attitudes relating to innovation.

Findings

– Although awareness of innovation theories, processes and procedures is found to be low, all of the micro enterprises studied engage in a range of innovation activities across products, processes, people and marketing. Innovation is important to the development of the enterprises; however, innovation is not a managed or systematic process, and this is often due to lack of resources.

Practical implications

– This paper presents six recommendations which are of use to academics, micro enterprises and government support agencies. These recommendations include making changes to the service provided by support agencies, simplifying innovation, developing an innovation brokering facility, and improving the design/delivery of innovation programmes.

Originality/value

– The paper enriches understanding of the experience of participants through the use of narrative structuring, and augments knowledge on the innovation practices of micro enterprises.
Community-based social marketing: effects on social norms
Authors: Schuster Lisa , Kubacki Krzysztof , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether application of a community-based social marketing (CBSM) principle, namely, increasing the visibility of a target behaviour in the community, can change social norms surrounding the behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A repeated measures quasi-experimental design was used to evaluate the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation’s Walk to School 2013 programme. The target population for the survey were caregivers of primary school children aged between 5-12 years old. The final sample size across the three online surveys administered was 102 respondents.

Findings

The results suggest that the programme increased caregivers’ perceptions that children in their community walked to and from school and that walking to and from school is socially acceptable.

Originality/value

The study contributes to addressing the recent call for research examining the relationship between CBSM principles and programme outcomes. Further, the results provide insight for enhancing the social norms approach, which has traditionally relied on changing social norms exclusively through media campaigns.