bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posttraumatic Invasion of Monocytes across the Blood—Cerebrospinal Fluid Barrier
Authors: Szmydynger-Chodobska Joanna , Strazielle Nathalie , Gandy Jessica R , Keefe Timothy H , Zink Brian J , Ghersi-Egea Jean-François , Chodobski Adam
Published: August 2011

The invasion of inflammatory cells occurring after ischemic or traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a detrimental effect on neuronal survival and functional recovery after injury. We have recently demonstrated that not only the blood-brain barrier, but also the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier (BCSFB), has a role in posttraumatic recruitment of neutrophils. Here, we show that TBI results in a rapid increase in synthesis and release into the CSF of a major chemoattractant for monocytes, CCL2, by the choroid plexus epithelium, a site of the BCSFB. Using an in vitro model of the BCSFB, we also show that CCL2 is released across the apical and basolateral membranes of the choroidal epithelium, a pattern of chemokine secretion that promotes leukocyte migration across epithelial barriers. Immunohistochemical and electron microscopic analyses of choroidal tissue provide evidence for the movement of monocytes, sometimes in tandem with neutrophils, along the paracellular pathways between adjacent epithelial cells. These data further support the pathophysiological role of BCSFB in promoting the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the injured brain.
Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Increase tPA Expression and Concomitantly Decrease PAI-1 Expression in Astrocytes through the Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway after Stroke (in vitro Study)
Authors: Xin Hongqi , Li Yi , Shen Li Hong , Liu Xianshuang , Hozeska-Solgot Ann , Zhang Rui Lan , Zhang Zheng Gang , Chopp Michael
Published: August 2011

Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) increase tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) activity in astrocytes of the ischemic boundary zone, leading to increased neurite outgrowth in the brain. To probe the mechanisms that underlie MSC-mediated activation of tPA, we investigated the morphogenetic gene, sonic hedgehog (Shh) pathway. In vitro oxygen and glucose deprivation and coculture of astrocytes and MSCs were used to mimic an in vivo ischemic condition. Both real-time-PCR and western blot showed that MSC coculture significantly increased the Shh level and concomitantly increased tPA and decreased plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels in astrocytes. Inhibiting the Shh signaling pathway with cyclopamine blocked the increase of tPA and the decrease of PAI-1 expression in astrocytes subjected to MSC coculture or recombinant mouse Shh (rm-Shh) treatment. Both MSCs and rm-Shh decreased the transforming growth factor- β1 level in astrocytes, and the Shh pathway inhibitor cyclopamine reversed these decreases. Both Shh-small-interfering RNA (siRNA) and Glil-siRNA downregulated Shh and Gli1 (a key mediator of the Shh transduction pathway) expression in cultured astrocytes and concomitantly decreased tPA expression and increased PAI-1 expression in these astrocytes after MSC or rm-Shh treatment. Our data indicate that MSCs increase astrocytic Shh, which subsequently increases tPA expression and decreases PAI-1 expression after ischemia.
Geodisposal of Higher Activity Wastes
Authors: Morris Katherine , Law Gareth T. W. , Bryan Nick D.
Published: August 2011

In the UK, there is a nuclear waste legacy associated with over 50 years of nuclear power generation that is currently stored at the Earth's surface. This is a global phenomenon in which many nations are now facing up to the radioactive waste legacy of several decades of nuclear power generation. As society considers new nuclear power as a low carbon, secure source of energy, it is apparent that geological disposal of higher activity radioactive wastes is now the favoured route for management of this highly radioactive legacy material. Timely implementation of geological disposal is therefore a current challenge facing the UK and other nuclear nations if we are to demonstrate safe management of these materials for future generations. In this chapter, we review the type and characteristics of the higher activity wastes that the UK needs to dispose of; examine the concept of a geological disposal facility in the context of UK and international experience; and discuss the proposed implementation pathway for UK higher activity waste geodisposal in the context of our large and complex nuclear legacy. Finally, we discuss the environmental chemistry research challenges that we see as vital to the safe management and disposal of these legacy radioactive wastes.
Effect of plasma parameters on growth and field emission of electrons from cylindrical metallic carbon nanotube surfaces
Authors: Sharma Suresh C. , Tewari Aarti
Published: August 2011

The effect of plasma parameters (e.g., electron density and temperature, ion density and temperature, neutral atom density, and temperature) on the growth (without a catalyst), structure, and field emission of electrons from a cylindrical metallic carbon nanotube (CNT) surfaces has been theoretically investigated. A theoretical model of charge neutrality, including the kinetics of electrons, positively charged ions, and neutral atoms, and the energy balance of the various species in plasma, has been developed. Numerical calculations of the radius of the cylindrical CNT for different CNT number densities and plasma parameters have been carried out for the typical glow discharge plasma parameters. It is found that, on increasing the CNT number density and plasma parameters, the radius of cylindrical CNT decreases and consequently, the field emission factor for the metallic cylindrical CNT surfaces increase.
Correlation between low-frequency current-noise enhancement and high-frequency oscillations in GaN-based planar nanodiodes: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Íñiguez-de-la-Torre A. , Íñiguez-de-la-Torre I. , Mateos J. , González T.
Published: August 2011

We present a spectral analysis of time sequences of current, calculated by means of Monte Carlo simulations, in GaN-based asymmetric nanodiodes, devices that are potential candidates to exhibit Gunn oscillations. It is found that the low-frequency noise increases significantly for biases close to the threshold voltage of Gunn oscillations, taking place at much higher frequencies of hundreds of gigahertz. Due to the inherent difficulty in detecting so fast fluctuations, the measurement of the low-frequency noise can be a quite useful tool for predicting current oscillations at sub-terahertz frequencies in these devices.
Origin of threshold voltage shift by interfacial trap density in amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistor under temperature induced stress
Authors: Kim Bosul , Chong Eugene , Hyung Kim Do , Woo Jeon Yong , Hwan Kim Dae , Yeol Lee Sang
Published: August 2011

Effect of trap-density of amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistors (a-IGZO TFTs) were studied using different analysis of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) depth profile and density of states (DOSs). To change trap-densities systematically, rf-power was varied to cause different effect on the initial growth stage of a-IGZO layer grown on gate insulator. The interfacial trap-density was confirmed to be dominant effect on the performance and the threshold voltage shift of a-IGZO TFT by observing the variation of O1s binding energy from XPS. The relation between temperature stress induced and trap-density in deep level was investigated by analyzing DOSs.
New ferroelastic properties and the paraelectric-ferroelectric-paraelectric phase transitions of Rochelle salt
Authors: Lim Ae Ran , Lee Kwang Sei
Published: August 2011

The NMR spectra and the spin-lattice relaxation times, T1, of Rochelle salt crystals were studied as functions of temperature. Two groups of resonance lines were found in the 23Na and 39K NMR spectra of the paraelectric phases below TC1 and above TC2, whereas four groups of resonance lines were obtained in the 23Na and 39K NMR spectra of the ferroelectric phase between TC1 and TC2. To investigate the extra two groups of resonance lines in the ferroelectric phase, the stress-strain hysteresis loop of the Rochelle salt crystal was obtained, and the ferroelastic character of the Rochelle salt crystals suggested by Sapriel’s theory was established by the relationship between the 23Na and 39K NMR spectra and the stress-strain hysteresis loop results. Therefore, ferroelastic and ferroelectric properties coexist in the phase between TC1 and TC2.
Imbibition of concentrated suspensions in capillaries
Authors: Holloway William , Aristoff Jeffrey M. , Stone Howard A.
Published: August 2011

We observe the imbibition of concentrated suspensions of rigid spherical particles into capillary tubes. We find that while the meniscus position advances according to the square root of time, the pre-factor of this “diffusive” scaling is smaller than that predicted by an ad-hoc extension of classical imbibition using an effective viscosity for the imbibing fluid. The reduction in the pre-factor is traced to the presence of axial variations in particle volume fraction, which arise as a result of shear-induced migration of particles across streamlines. In addition, we develop a model that accounts for the effect of both radial and axial variations in particle volume fraction on the movement of the imbibition front which partially accounts for the main experimental observations.
Tribological mechanism of hydrogenated amorphous carbon film against pairs: A physical description
Authors: Bai Lichun , Zhang Guangan , Lu Zhibin , Wu Zhiguo , Wang Yunfeng , Wang Liping , Yan Pengxun
Published: August 2011

The objective of the present study was to investigate the friction and wear mechanisms of hydrogenated amorphous carbon (a-C:H) films sliding against different counterparts. Friction tests were performed by a reciprocating ball-on-disk tribometer with an applied load of 5 N, amplitude of 5 mm, and frequency of 5 Hz, in ambient air at room temperature. The coefficient of friction (COF) was consistent with the varied tendency of the contact area of the counterparts on films and also coincided with the varied tendency of the coverage of transfer film on friction ball surface. It was important to point out that the coverage of the transfer film on the counterpart surface was inversely proportional to the contact area. Furthermore, COF of a-C:H films against different pairs was independent with the film graphitization level. Additionally, wear rate of a-C:H films against different friction pairs was discussed in details. Some indexes including hardness ratio of pair and film, elastic energy density of the friction pair, and effective plastic index were employed to predicting the wear behavior of the a-C:H films sliding against different counterparts. Compared with other indexes, the effective plastic index showed best performance. Description of physical meanings and some formula derivation of the effective plastic index of film with applied load were also performed in this work. The results increased our understanding of the physical mechanism of a-C:H films sliding against pairs, which were able to guide the application of a-C:H films in the future industrial fields.
On-chip collection of particles and cells by AC electroosmotic pumping and dielectrophoresis using asymmetric microelectrodes
Authors: Melvin Elizabeth M. , Moore Brandon R. , Gilchrist Kristin H. , Grego Sonia , Velev Orlin D.
Published: August 2011

The recent development of microfluidic “lab on a chip” devices requiring sample sizes <100 μL has given rise to the need to concentrate dilute samples and trap analytes, especially for surface-based detection techniques. We demonstrate a particle collection device capable of concentrating micron-sized particles in a predetermined area by combining AC electroosmosis (ACEO) and dielectrophoresis (DEP). The planar asymmetric electrode pattern uses ACEO pumping to induce equal, quadrilateral flow directed towards a stagnant region in the center of the device. A number of system parameters affecting particle collection efficiency were investigated including electrode and gap width, chamber height, applied potential and frequency, and number of repeating electrode pairs and electrode geometry. The robustness of the on-chip collection design was evaluated against varying electrolyte concentrations, particle types, and particle sizes. These devices are amenable to integration with a variety of detection techniques such as optical evanescent waveguide sensing.
Exact propagator for a Fokker-Planck equation, first passage time distribution, and anomalous diffusion
Authors: Silva A. T. , Lenzi E. K. , Evangelista L. R. , Lenzi M. K. , Ribeiro H. V. , Tateishi A. A.
Published: August 2011

We obtain an exact form for the propagator of the Fokker-Planck equation ∂tρ = \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\partial _x\left({\cal {D}}(x)\partial _{x}\rho \right)$\end{document}∂xD(x)∂xρ −∂x(F(x, t)ρ), with \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}${\cal {D}}(x)=\widetilde{{\cal {D}}} |x|^{-\eta }$\end{document}D(x)=D̃|x|−η in presence of the external force \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$F(x,t)=-k(t)x+\left({\cal {K}}/x\right)|x|^{-\eta }$\end{document}F(x,t)=−k(t)x+K/x|x|−η. Using the results found here, we also investigate the mean square displacement, survival probability, and first passage time distribution. In addition, we discuss the connection of these results with anomalous diffusion phenomena.
Nonradiative recombination at threading dislocations in 4H-SiC epilayers studied by micro-photoluminescence mapping
Authors: Feng Gan , Suda Jun , Kimoto Tsunenobu
Published: August 2011

Threading dislocations (TDs) in 4H-SiC epilayers have been investigated by means of micro-photoluminescence (μ-PL) mapping at room temperature. Enhanced nonradiative recombination at TDs was confirmed experimentally, resulting in a reduced local PL emission intensity in the μ-PL intensity map performed at 390 nm (near band-edge emission). The behavior of nonradiative recombination at TDs depends on the dislocation type: the screw type of TDs shows stronger effect on the nonradiative recombination activity than the edge type, evidencing a larger local reduction of PL emission intensity. Furthermore, the contrast of TDs in the μ-PL intensity map greatly depends on the carrier lifetimes of the 4H-SiC epilayers. Lifetimes longer than 0.5 μs are essential to obtain a discernible contrast for the individual TDs.
Note: Direct force and ionic-current measurements on DNA in a nanocapillary
Authors: Otto O. , Steinbock L. J. , Wong D. W. , Gornall J. L. , Keyser U. F.
Published: August 2011

We have developed optical tweezers, with force measurements based on fast video tracking, for analysis and control of DNA translocation through nanocapillaries. Nanocapillaries are single-molecule biosensors with very similar characteristics to solid-state nanopores. Our novel experimental setup allows for ionic-current measurements in which the nanocapillary is oriented perpendicular to the trapping laser. Using video-based particle tracking, we are able to measure the position of DNA coated colloids at sub-millisecond resolution and in real-time. We present the first electrophoretic force and simultaneous ionic-current measurements of a single DNA molecule inside the orifice of a nanocapillary.
LaCrO3 heteroepitaxy on SrTiO3(001) by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Qiao L. , Droubay T. C. , Bowden M. E. , Shutthanandan V. , Kaspar T. C. , Chambers S. A.
Published: August 2011

Stoichiometric, epitaxial LaCrO3 films have been grown on SrTiO3(001) by molecular beam epitaxy using O2 as the oxidant. Films grew in a layer-by-layer fashion, giving rise to coherently strained, structurally excellent films and surfaces which preserve the step-terrace structure of the substrate. The critical thickness is in excess of 500 Å. Cr(III) near the surface is easily oxidized to Cr(V) upon exposure to atomic oxygen and reduction back to Cr(III) is readily achieved by vacuum annealing, resulting in tunability of the charge state at the B-site cation.
Interaction of interfacial charge and ferroelectric polarization in a pentacene/poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) double-layer device
Authors: Li Jun , Taguchi Dai , OuYang Wei , Manaka Takaaki , Iwamoto Mitsumasa
Published: August 2011

A two-step polarization reversal process was identified in the pentacene/poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) double-layer device. Displacement current measurement showed that three peaks generated non-symmetrically in the current-voltage characteristics. Accordingly, optical electric-field induced second-harmonic generation measurement displayed two hysteresis loops. A proposed model based on a two-step polarization reversal mechanism accounted for these results, and suggested that interaction of interfacial charge and ferroelectric polarization governed the mechanism. The proposed model is useful to explain the reduced remanent polarization in ferroelectric field-effect transistors, and will be helpful for developing organic devices with a ferroelectric layer.
Hybrid spintronics and straintronics: A magnetic technology for ultra low energy computing and signal processing
Authors: Roy Kuntal , Bandyopadhyay Supriyo , Atulasimha Jayasimha
Published: August 2011

The authors show that the magnetization of a 2-phase magnetostrictive/piezoelectric multiferroic single-domain shape-anisotropic nanomagnet can be switched with very small voltages that generate strain in the magnetostrictive layer. This can be the basis of ultralow power computing and signal processing. With appropriate material choice, the energy dissipated per switching event can be reduced to ∼45 kT at room temperature for a switching delay of ∼100 ns and ∼70 kT for a switching delay of ∼10 ns, if the energy barrier separating the two stable magnetization directions is ∼32 kT. Such devices can be powered by harvesting energy exclusively from the environment without the need for a battery.
Observation of plasma density dependence of electromagnetic soliton excitation by an intense laser pulse
Authors: Sarri G. , Kar S. , Romagnani L. , Bulanov S. V. , Cecchetti C. A. , Galimberti M. , Gizzi L. A. , Heathcote R. , Jung R. , Kourakis I. , Osterholz J. , Schiavi A. , Willi O. , Borghesi M.
Published: August 2011

The experimental evidence of the correlation between the initial electron density of the plasma and electromagnetic soliton excitation at the wake of an intense (1019 W/cm2) and short (1 ps) laser pulse is presented. The spatial distribution of the solitons, together with their late time evolution into post-solitons, is found to be dependent upon the background plasma parameters, in agreement with published analytical and numerical findings. The measured temporal evolution and electrostatic field distribution of the structures are consistent with their late time evolution and the occurrence of multiple merging of neighboring post-solitons.
Wild-type p53 controls cell motility and invasion by dual regulation of MET expression
Authors: Hwang Chang-Il , Matoso Andres , Corney David C. , Flesken-Nikitin Andrea , Körner Stefanie , Wang Wei , Boccaccio Carla , Thorgeirsson Snorri S. , Comoglio Paolo M. , Hermeking Heiko , Nikitin Alexander Yu.
Published: August 2011

Recent observations suggest that p53 mutations are responsible not only for growth of primary tumors but also for their dissemination. However, mechanisms involved in p53-mediated control of cell motility and invasion remain poorly understood. By using the primary ovarian surface epithelium cell culture, we show that conditional inactivation of
p53
or expression of its mutant forms results in overexpression of MET receptor tyrosine kinase, a crucial regulator of invasive growth. At the same time, cells acquire increased MET-dependent motility and invasion. Wild-type p53 negatively regulates MET expression by two mechanisms: (
i
) transactivation of MET-targeting
miR-34
, and (
ii
) inhibition of SP1 binding to
MET
promoter. Both mechanisms are not functional in p53 absence, but mutant p53 proteins retain partial
MET
promoter suppression. Accordingly, MET overexpression, cell motility, and invasion are particularly high in p53-null cells. These results identify MET as a critical effector of p53 and suggest that inhibition of MET may be an effective antimetastatic approach to treat cancers with
p53
mutations. These results also show that the extent of advanced cancer traits, such as invasion, may be determined by alterations in individual components of p53/MET regulatory network.
15-Lipoxygenase 1 interacts with phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein to regulate MAPK signaling in human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Zhao Jinming , O'Donnell Valerie B. , Balzar Silvana , St. Croix Claudette M. , Trudeau John B. , Wenzel Sally E.
Published: August 2011

Epithelial 15-lipoxygenase 1 (15LO1) and activated ERK are increased in asthma despite modest elevations in IL-13. MAPK kinase (MEK)/ERK activation is regulated by interactions of Raf-1 with phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein 1 (PEBP1). Epithelial 15LO1 generates intracellular 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15HETE) conjugated to phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) (15HETE–PE). We hypothesized that (
i
) 15LO1 and its product 15HETE–PE serve as signaling molecules interacting with PEBP1 to activate Raf-1/MEK/ERK and that (
ii
) this 15LO1–15HETE–PE-regulated ERK activation amplifies IL-4Rα downstream pathways. Our results demonstrate that high epithelial 15LO1 levels correlate with ERK phosphorylation ex vivo. In vitro, IL-13 induces 15LO1, which preferentially binds to PEBP1, causing PEBP1 to dissociate from Raf-1 and activate ERK. Exogenous 15HETE–PE similarly induces dissociation of PEBP1 from Raf-1 independently of IL-13/15LO1. siRNA knockdown of 15LO1 decreases the dissociation of Raf-1 from PEBP1, and the resulting lower ERK activation leads to lower downstream IL-4Rα–related gene expression. Identical protein–protein interactions are observed in endobronchial biopsies and fresh epithelial cells from asthmatics ex vivo. Colocalization of Raf-1 to PEBP1 is low in asthmatic tissue and cells compared with normals, whereas there is striking colocalization of 15LO1 with PEBP1 in asthma. Low 15LO1 levels in normals limit its colocalization with PEBP1. The results confirm a previously unknown signaling role for 15LO1 and its PE-conjugated eicosanoid product in human airway epithelial cells. This pathway enhances critical inflammatory pathways integral to asthma pathogenesis.
Yellow Pigment Determination for Single Kernels of Durum Wheat (Triticum durum Desf.)
Authors: Beleggia Romina , Platani Cristiano , Nigro Franca , Papa Roberto
Published: August 2011

The carotenoid concentration of durum wheat is a criterion for the assessment of semolina quality, and it is of particular importance in determining the color of pasta. Thus, the development of a rapid screening method for kernel and semolina color has facilitated increasing the yellow color in durum wheat cultivars. However, the distribution of the pigment might vary within the ear of the wheat. The micromethod for the determination of yellow pigment concentration (YPC) of single wheat kernels now allows the discovery of whether this variation is the same for cultivars with different carotenoid concentrations. All of the cultivars investigated showed similar trends in the arrangements of the kernels within the ears, with the central positions of the ears being the most stable for YPC. Indeed, the best combination of higher YPC and larger kernel size is seen for the basal‐central region of the ear, which can be used for the selection during wheat‐breeding programs of cultivars with a more intense yellow color.
Twinning propensity and offspring
in utero
growth covary in rural African women
Authors: Rickard Ian J. , Prentice Andrew M. , Fulford Anthony J. C. , Lummaa Virpi
Published: August 2011

In humans and other mammals, some females are more likely to experience twin pregnancies than others, but the reasons behind such individual variation are poorly understood. One hypothesis invokes variation in the dynamics of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system, which also regulates foetal growth. Using data from a rural African population living in a highly seasonal environment, we test a novel prediction generated by this hypothesis, that maternal twinning status predicts offspring birthweight. We found that among singleton offspring who experience a favourable
in utero
environment (born January–June), births before and after twins are, respectively, associated with a 134.07 g and 226.41 g increase in birthweight compared with those born to non-twinning mothers. These results were not mediated by maternal anthropometry. This is consistent with a role for the IGF system in individual variation in twinning propensity, a possibility with implications for understanding mechanisms of life-history variation in humans and other vertebrates.
Defluviitoga tunisiensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a thermophilic bacterium isolated from a mesothermic and anaerobic whey digester
Authors: Ben Hania Wajdi , Godbane Ramzi , Postec Anne , Hamdi Moktar , Ollivier Bernard , Fardeau Marie-Laure
Published: August 2011

Strain SulfLac1T, a thermophilic, anaerobic and slightly halophilic, rod-shaped bacterium with a sheath-like outer structure (toga), was isolated from a whey digester in Tunisia. The strain’s non-motile cells measured 3–30×1 µm and appeared singly, in pairs or as long chains. The novel strain reduced thiosulfate and elemental sulfur, but not sulfate or sulfite, into sulfide. It grew at 37–65 °C (optimum 55 °C), at pH 6.5–7.9 (optimum pH 6.9) and with 0.2–3 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum 0.5 %). The G+C content of the strain’s genomic DNA was 33.6 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain SulfLac1T was most closely related to

Petrotoga mobilis

(91.4 % sequence similarity). Based on phenotypic, phylogenetic and chemotaxonomic evidence, strain SulfLac1T represents a novel species of a new genus within the order

Thermotogales

, for which the name Defluviitoga tunisiensis gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the type species is SulfLac1T ( = DSM 23805T  = JCM 17210T).
Cryptococcus cyanovorans sp. nov., a basidiomycetous yeast isolated from cyanide-contaminated soil
Authors: Motaung Thabiso E. , Albertyn Jacobus , Kock Johan L. F. , Pohl Carolina H.
Published: August 2011

Eighteen yeast strains were isolated and identified from cyanide-contaminated soil in South Africa. According to sequence-based analyses using the D1/D2 region of the large ribosomal subunit and ITS region, three of these strains were found to be identical and represent a novel species. Phylogenetic analysis based on the combined dataset of the D1/D2 and ITS regions revealed a grouping with Cryptococcus curvatus, representing a defined clade (Curvatus) in the order Trichosporonales. The three strains were demarcated from Cryptococcus curvatus by standard physiological tests such as assimilation of lactose, xylitol, 5-keto-d-gluconate, succinate and citrate as well as growth on media containing 10 % (w/v) NaCl and 5 % (w/v) glucose. In addition, it was established that these strains could utilize up to 10 mM NaCN as sole carbon source on solid media and as sole nitrogen source in liquid media. On the basis of these findings, it is suggested that the three strains represent a novel species for which the name Cryptococcus cyanovorans sp. nov. is given (type strain CBS 11948T = NRRL Y-48730T).
Paenibacillus chartarius
sp. nov., isolated from a paper mill
Authors: Kämpfer Peter , Falsen Enevold , Lodders Nicole , Martin Karin , Kassmannhuber Johannes , Busse Hans-Jürgen
Published: August 2011

The taxonomy of strain CCUG 55240T, a Gram-staining-positive, aerobic, endospore-forming bacterium that was isolated from a paper mill, was investigated using a polyphasic approach. In phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, the novel strain was grouped with established members of the genus

Paenibacillus

and appeared most closely related to the type strains of

Paenibacillus chinjuensis

(93.7 % sequence similarity),

P. elgii

(93.7 %) and

P. chitinolyticus

(93.6 %). The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with other species of the genus

Paenibacillus

, including the type species of the genus,

Paenibacillus polymyxa

, were all <93.5 %. The fatty acid profile of strain CCUG 55240T, which showed a predominance of iso- and anteiso-branched fatty acids, supported the allocation of the strain to the genus

Paenibacillus

. Unusually high amounts of some iso-branched fatty acids, especially iso-C15 : 0 and iso-C16 : 0, allowed differentiation of strain CCUG 55240T from the most closely related species of the genus

Paenibacillus

. The diagnostic diamino acid found in the cell-wall peptidoglycan was meso-diaminopimelic acid. The predominant menaquinone was MK-7. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, an unknown glycolipid, an unknown aminophosphoglycolipid and an unknown phospholipid. Spermidine was the major polyamine. The results of some physiological and biochemical tests also allowed the phenotypic differentiation of strain CCUG 55240T from the most closely related recognized species. On the basis of the phylogenetic, phenotypic and molecular evidence, strain CCUG 55240T represents a novel species of the genus

Paenibacillus

, for which the name Paenibacillus chartarius sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of the novel species is CCUG 55240T ( = CCM 7759T).
Burkholderia zhejiangensis sp. nov., a methyl-parathion-degrading bacterium isolated from a wastewater-treatment system
Authors: Lu Peng , Zheng Liu-Qiang , Sun Jin-Jin , Liu Hong-Ming , Li Shun-Peng , Hong Qing , Li Wen-Jun
Published: August 2011

The taxonomic status of a methyl-parathion-degrading strain, OP-1T, isolated from a wastewater-treatment system in China, was determined using a polyphasic approach. The rod-shaped cells were Gram-staining-negative, non-spore-forming and non-motile. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the novel strain belonged to the genusBurkholderia, as it appeared closely related toBurkholderia glatheiATCC 29195T(97.4 % sequence similarity),Burkholderia sordidicolaKCTC 12081T(96.5 %) andBurkholderia bryophilaLMG 23644T(96.3 %). The major cellular fatty acids, C16 : 0, C17 : 0cyclo and C18 : 1ω7c, were also similar to those found in established members of the genusBurkholderia.The genomic DNA G+C content of strain OP-1Twas 59.4 mol%. The level of DNA–DNA relatedness between the novel strain and the closest recognized species,Burkholderia glatheiATCC 29195T, was only 30 %. Based on the phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic evidence, strain OP-1Trepresents a novel species of the genusBurkholderia, for which the nameBurkholderia zhejiangensissp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is OP-1T( = CCTCC AB 2010354T = KCTC 23300T).
Creating dynamic capabilities to increase customer value
Authors: Martelo Landroguez Silvia , Barroso Castro Carmen , Cepeda‐Carrión Gabriel
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the strategic management literature by identifying possible combinations of three organizational capabilities (market orientation, knowledge management, and customer relationship management). It seeks to analyze the potential interaction between them that would lead to the creation of superior customer value.

Design/methodology/approach

The research question is: “If the customer demands superior value, how should a firm combine its existing capabilities in order to offer this superior value?”

Findings

It is clear that one should turn to dynamic capabilities to explain the connection between the interaction of these three capabilities and superior customer value. Firms are aware of the customers' demand for superior value and need to know how to combine their existing capabilities to offer this superior value.

Practical implications

A possible way of increasing the value created for the customer is proposed, which is a key factor for the increasing number of firms seeking new ways to achieve and maintain competitive advantage.

Originality/value

It is posited that the interaction between the three proposed capabilities constitutes a dynamic capability.
Antecedents of front‐line managers' perceptions of HR role stressors
Authors: Gilbert Caroline , De Winne Sophie , Sels Luc
Published: August 2011

Purpose

Based on role theory, this paper seeks to investigate the impact of HR devolution characteristics (number of devolved HR tasks), characteristics of the HR devolution context (level of support from the HR department, and presence of institutionalised incentives to perform the allotted HR tasks well), and personal characteristics of the front‐line managers (HR competency) on front‐line managers' perceptions of two HR role stressors, i.e. HR role ambiguity and HR role overload.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a sample of 169 front‐line managers from 47 organisations. The results are based on two moderation regression analyses, taking into account the nested nature of the observations.

Findings

The results suggest that the execution of a high number of HR tasks does not lead to the occurrence of HR role stressors among front‐line managers. However, for the HR department it is important to create an appropriate environment in terms of giving HR support and advice to line managers, and training line managers regarding their HR competencies.

Research limitations/implications

This research opens up interesting lines of inquiry regarding the conditions under which the partnership between the HR department and line management can be successful.

Practical implications

The paper provides HR practitioners with insights into the conditions needed to avoid perceptions of HR role stressors among front‐line managers.

Originality/value

The paper applies role theory in a new context, i.e. the HR role of front‐line managers.
HR transformation and shared services
Authors: Boglind Anders , Hällstén Freddy , Thilander Per
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to compare Ulrich's model of HR transformation/shared service organisation (the “three‐legged stool”) with the empirical evidence from the research. The aim of the paper is to describe the journey from theory to practice of HR transformation in organisations as they adopt and adapt the model.

Design/methodology/approach

An institutional frame of reference is used for case studies of seven Swedish organisations. The respondents in the 192 interviews are HR professionals, line managers and other stakeholders.

Findings

All seven of the organisations adopted the HR transformation as a standard blueprint. Management consultants played a leading role in this process. HR service centres were established, the local HR staffs were reduced radically, and the remaining role, the HR business partners, took on lesser importance. During the adaptation process a variety of solutions resulted, some of which were innovations.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the small sample size, the generalisability of the results is somewhat limited.

Practical implications

The results may useful to both researchers and practitioners, whether they are involved in the study or in the re‐organisation of HR. It is not easy to imitate a theoretical model or a “best practice” model without taking the translation process into consideration.

Originality/value

Previous studies have not examined how HR transformation/shared service travels in different organisations using this number of interviews in in‐depth research. These results show that achieving the desirable HR organisation depends on the translation and interpretations of the concepts in the local context.
Combining diverse knowledge: knowledge workers' experience of specialist and generalist roles
Authors: Kelly Gráinne , Mastroeni Michele , Conway Edel , Monks Kathy , Truss Katie , Flood Patrick , Hannon Enda
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to contribute to understanding the nature of specialist and generalist human capital by exploring the ways in which knowledge workers view their experience of working in specialist and generalist roles in pharmaceutical firms in Ireland and the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings are based on interviews with 55 knowledge workers employed in a range of scientific, technical and managerial positions in four Irish and two UK firms located in the pharmaceutical sector. Interviews were also conducted with nine human resource/training and development managers within these six firms.

Findings

The findings suggest that the categorisation of human capital as either specialist or generalist is too rigid and does not take account of the fact that individuals may themselves choose to shape their careers by investing in a range of education, training and development opportunities that will enable them to move between specialist and generalist roles.

Originality/value

The paper unpacks the concepts of specialist and generalist human capital from an employee perspective and challenges the sharp distinction that is made between specialist and generalist human capital.
RFID and its benefits: a multiple case analysis
Authors: Zare Mehrjerdi Yahia
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the key benefits of the radio frequency identification (RFID) on various industries and supply chains (SCs) all around the world. In this research, author has looked into different case studies and identified a list of benefits that RFID has brought to various industries. The clear benefits of RFID are: automation; transparency; asset management; velocity; insight; traceability; security; reliability; and capability. To understand RF, fundamental key points are identified and reviewed. Some applications of RFID in SCs are briefly reviewed and ten cases of RFID are discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies key benefits of RFID using case studies approach. For this purpose, ten cases are reviewed from the entire industry, and then key benefits of RFID are determined.

Findings

To make business systems functional and successfully operational, manufacturers can use RFID solutions to reduce operating costs through decreasing the labor costs, claims, and returns. This will help them to increase the operating income. They also can reduce working capital by enabling reductions in inventory and lowering the inventory write‐off from the return goods and those items that are un‐saleable at the end. It is the collection of such strategies that can bring higher level of profitability and productivity to the business.

Originality/value

Owing to the fact that a better management of production system is related to the full understanding of the technologies implemented and the system under consideration, the paper provides some background to the RFID technology and its benefits for various industries.
Market intelligence and NPD success: a study of technology intensive companies in Finland
Authors: Haverila Matti , Ashill Nick
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how managers in technology‐intensive companies conceptualize and perceive “intelligence” variables in successful and unsuccessful new product development (NPD) projects, and explore the role that intelligence variables play in differentiating between successful and unsuccessful NPD outcomes. Limitations and future research directions are also discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The most senior person responsible for NPD within a sample of Finnish technology‐intensive companies completed a self‐administered internet survey on the role of intelligence in successful and unsuccessful NPD projects. The JMP 1‐2‐3‐software package (version 8 for Mac) by SAS was used for statistical analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate that managers in technology‐intensive companies rely on two broad types of intelligence, technical production and market information, during the NPD process. Most intelligence variables are positively related to NPD success. In addition, it appears that managers attach lower importance to intelligence variables in successful NPD outcomes when comparisons are made with previous research.

Practical implications

Managers in Finnish technology‐intensive companies should carefully analyze both technical‐production information and market information in the NPD process although technical‐production information is the more important factor in the analysis of information requirements in successful NPD outcomes relative to market information.

Originality/value

Although market intelligence variables have been studied in the context of differentiating successful and unsuccessful industrial NPD, they have largely focused on the NPD process in broad‐based industrial and manufacturing companies. The paper examines the role of market intelligence in the NPD process of technology‐intensive companies using Finland as the study setting.
The effect of online service quality factors on internet usage
Authors: Carlos Pinho José , de Lurdes Martins Maria , Macedo Isabel
Published: August 2011

Purpose

This study aims to examine online service quality factors as main driving forces in the degree of intention of using the Taxation Department web site expressed by certified accountants.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a quantitative methodological approach, a survey was undertaken among a sample of 351 certified accountants to empirically test the proposed model. The paper used an ordered logit model to estimate the effects of several online service quality factors on the certified accountant's degree of intention of using the Portuguese government's tax services web site.

Findings

The results identify a number of key aspects of online service quality that contribute to the increase of the use of the taxation web site by certified accountants. This is particularly evident for web site characteristics such as convenience, research facilities, privacy and security, speed and ease of access.

Practical implications

This study offers the opportunity to rethink existing policies and to set forth specific measures that can be implemented to establish rigorous quality standards.

Originality/value

The paper provides an empirical analysis regarding the online service quality factors that determine the degree of use of a taxation web site. The methodological framework followed in this study has not, as far as is known, been used previously within the literature in this context.
Approximations to g‐renewal functions
Authors: Rangan Alagar , MoghimiHadji Ehsan
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide useful approximations for the computation of g‐renewal function, since no closed form solution of such a function is available

Design/methodology/approach

One of the methods uses a simple identity to obtain an approximation. The second method uses the Riemann sum to approximate the integrals to obtain a method of successive approximation.

Findings

The two methods provide satisfactory approximations with the relative errors in the computations are well within the acceptable limits. The accuracy of the successive approximation method could be improved with finer partition of the interval integration but at the cost of computational time.

Research limitations/implications

The computational time increases for the evaluation of the renewal function for increasing values of t.

Originality/value

The paper provides easy to evaluate approximations for g‐renewal functions, which do not have closed form analytical solutions.
Modeling the tensile behaviour of needle punched nonwoven geotextiles
Authors: Halis Erdogan Umit , Erdem Nilufer
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical model to predict the mechanical behaviour of needle punched heavy geotextiles in uniaxial tensile test.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was constructed using theory of layered composite materials and finite element method. The properties of a reference fabric were used as initial data in theoretical calculations and a commercially available finite element program was chosen to carry out stress analysis. A comparison is made between theoretical calculations and experimental data to evaluate the deformation mechanism of geotextile fabrics in uniaxial tensile test.

Findings

The results indicate that compatible data were predicted in terms of stress values and stress distribution of fabrics. The inconstant lateral contraction of nonwoven fabrics in tensile test is also successfully simulated by the model. However, in the case of elongations, the model could not predict the strains of heavy geotextiles accurately.

Originality/value

The study aims at predicting the mechanical behaviour of needle punched heavy geotextiles by using the structural and mechanical properties of a “reference fabric” instead of constituent fiber properties.
Global business chain and twin advantage
Authors: Kunnanatt James Thomas
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The paper proposes that globalization has opened up opportunities for developing countries that adopt the right type of political economy doctrine and opt to externalize their economies through contemporarily relevant global integration models and country‐level strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Portraying the various phases of globalization, the experiences of developed and developing countries are reviewed to recommend a “global participation model” for developing countries to benefit from the globalization process.

Findings

In profiling the global participation model, the paper introduces the concept of global business chain and shows how countries have formed strategic groups to participate in the global chain as “opportunity exploiters” and “opportunity providers.” If equipped with appropriate and efficient economic doctrine, developing countries could act both as opportunity providers and opportunity exploiters and transform themselves into “twin advantage countries” – with substantial enhancements in their total factor productivity and consequent gains in the quality of life of populations.

Originality/value

Global business chain and twin advantage strategy, the two major propositions of this paper, are a new stream of thought in the discussions on globalization.
Sustaining competitiveness through information technology outsourcing
Authors: Sadiq Sohail M.
Published: August 2011

Purpose

With competitive pressures increasing, outsourcing has become a common phenomenon in today's global economy. While there is growing evidence of organizations increasingly seeking to outsource their information technology (IT) functions, there have been few comprehensive studies on this subject from the Middle East region. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the usage of IT outsourcing in Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical research is used to study the extent that firms use the services of IT companies, the time period these have been used, the decision‐making process for outsourcing IT function, and its impact on the organization.

Findings

Results based on the analysis of data relating to 178 firms in Saudi Arabia indicate that most of these users are satisfied with the service providers and have largely seen positive developments within the organization.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this paper relate to the relatively small size of the sample. This somewhat limits generalization of findings to the entire Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Practical implications

Findings have several practical implications for small startup companies and even larger companies that are deciding to outsource IT function in the Arabian Gulf region. The results provide managers with evidence supporting the benefits of IT outsourcing.

Originality/value

This paper makes a valuable contribution given the fact that there are only a limited number of comprehensive studies dealing with the assessment of IT outsourcing functions.