bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complete integrability of nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equation
Authors: Gerdjikov V. S. , Saxena A.
Published: January 2017

Based on the completeness relation for the squared solutions of the Lax operator L, we show that a subset of nonlocal equations from the hierarchy of nonlocal nonlinear Schrödinger equations (NLS) is a completely integrable system. The spectral properties of the Lax operator indicate that there are two types of soliton solutions. The relevant action-angle variables are parametrized by the scattering data of the Lax operator. The notion of the symplectic basis, which directly maps the variations of the potential of L to the variations of the action-angle variables has been generalized to the nonlocal case. We also show that the inverse scattering method can be viewed as a generalized Fourier transform. Using the trace identities and the symplectic basis, we construct the hierarchy Hamiltonian structures for the nonlocal NLS equations.
Absence of detectable MOKE signals from spin Hall effect in metals
Authors: Su Yudan , Wang Hua , Li Jie , Tian Chuanshan , Wu Ruqian , Jin Xiaofeng , Shen Y. R.
Published: January 2017

Recently, observation of the magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) from the spin Hall effect (SHE) in beta-tungsten (β-W) and platinum (Pt) films was reported in the literature. This is most interesting, as it would provide an alternative means to probe the SHE in metals. However, despite repeated attempts on different samples, we were unable to find a true SHE-induced MOKE signal from β-W and Pt even with a current density of 2.5 × 105 A/cm2. The results indicate that the MOKE signal from the SHE in metals ought to be very weak, below the detection limit of currently available MOKE setups (0.08 mdeg). Our theoretical calculation shows that in order to observe an SHE-induced MOKE signal of 0.1 mdeg in β-W, one would need a driving current density of ∼108 A/cm2.
Rocking curve imaging of high quality sapphire crystals in backscattering geometry
Authors: Jafari A. , Sergueev I. , Bessas D. , Klobes B. , Roschin B. S. , Asadchikov V. E. , Alexeev P. , Härtwig J. , Chumakov A. I. , Wille H.-C. , Hermann R. P.
Published: January 2017

We report on the characterization of high quality sapphire single crystals suitable for high-resolution X-ray optics at high energy. Investigations using rocking curve imaging reveal the crystals to be of uniformly good quality at the level of ∼10−4 in lattice parameter variations, δd/d. However, investigations using backscattering rocking curve imaging with a lattice spacing resolution of δd/d∼5×10−8 show very diverse quality maps for all crystals. Our results highlight nearly ideal areas with an edge length of 0.2–0.5 mm in most crystals, but a comparison of the back reflection peak positions shows that even neighboring ideal areas exhibit a relative difference in the lattice parameters on the order of δd/d=10–20×10−8; this is several times larger than the rocking curve width. Stress-strain analysis suggests that an extremely stringent limit on the strain at a level of ∼100 kPa in the growth process is required in order to produce crystals with large areas of the quality required for X-ray optics at high energy.
Ultra-low coercive field of improper ferroelectric Ca3Ti2O7 epitaxial thin films
Authors: Li X. , Yang L. , Li C. F. , Liu M. F. , Fan Z. , Xie Y. L. , Lu C. L. , Lin L. , Yan Z. B. , Zhang Z. , Dai J. Y. , Liu J.-M. , Cheong S. W.
Published: January 2017

Hybrid improper ferroelectrics have their electric polarization generated by two or more combined non-ferroelectric structural distortions, such as the rotation and tilting of Ti-O octahedral in the Ca3Ti2O7 (CTO) family. In this work, we prepare the high quality (010)-oriented CTO thin films on (110) SrTiO3 (STO) substrates by pulsed laser deposition. The good epitaxial growth of the CTO thin films on the substrates with the interfacial epitaxial relationship of [001]CTO//[001]STO and [100]CTO//[-110]STO is revealed. The in-plane ferroelectric hysteresis unveils an ultralow coercive field of ∼5 kV/cm even at low temperature, nearly two orders of magnitude lower than that of bulk CTO single crystals. The huge difference between the epitaxial thin films and bulk crystals is most likely due to the lattice imperfections in the thin films rather than substrate induced lattice strains, suggesting high sensitivity of the ferroelectric properties to lattice defects.
Fabrication and applications of multi-layer graphene stack on transparent polymer
Authors: Krajewska Aleksandra , Pasternak Iwona , Sobon Grzegorz , Sotor Jaroslaw , Przewloka Aleksandra , Ciuk Tymoteusz , Sobieski Jan , Grzonka Justyna , Abramski Krzysztof M. , Strupinski Wlodek
Published: January 2017

In this report, we demonstrate the preparation method of a multi-layer stack with a pre-defined number of graphene layers, which was obtained using chemical vapor deposition graphene deposited on a copper substrate and subsequently transferred onto a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) substrate. The prepared multi-layer stack can also be transferred onto an arbitrary substrate and in the end, the polymer can be removed, which in consequence significantly increases the range of possible graphene applications. The multi-layer character was confirmed by optical transmittance measurements and Raman spectroscopy, whereas the microstructure of the multi-layer graphene stack was investigated using Scanning Electron Microscopy. The electrical properties in the function of the number of graphene layers were assessed with standard Hall Effect measurements. Finally, we showed the practical application of the multi-layer graphene stack as a saturable absorber of a mode-locked Er-doped fiber laser.
Insights into the spontaneous formation of silicene sheet on diboride thin films
Authors: Fleurence A. , Yamada-Takamura Y.
Published: January 2017

The realization of silicene-free ZrB2(0001) thin films grown on Si(111) by Ar+ ion bombardment allowed for studying the spontaneous formation of silicene on their surfaces. Imaging the bare ZrB2(0001) surface by STM revealed the structures of Zr-terminated and B-terminated ZrB2(0001) created by the bombardment. The spontaneous formation of a continuous silicene sheet on a sputtering-induced disordered ZrB2 surface demonstrates that silicene does not require an atomically-flat crystalline template to be stabilized. This opens the way to the fabrication of large scale single-crystal sheets and points out the potential of silicene to be used in the next generation silicon-based technologies.
Operating conditions and stability of spin torque majority gates: Analytical understanding and numerical evidence
Authors: Vaysset Adrien , Manfrini Mauricio , Nikonov Dmitri E. , Manipatruni Sasikanth , Young Ian A. , Radu Iuliana P. , Thean Aaron
Published: January 2017

The functionality of a cross-shaped Spin Torque Majority Gate (STMG) is primarily limited by the pinning of a domain wall (DW) at the center of the device. Here, an analytical model is built to calculate the conditions for such a pinning and to deduce the operating range. The assumptions of the model and the conclusions are validated by micromagnetic simulations. The total magnetic energy of the DW state is derived. By minimizing this energy with respect to two degrees of freedom, the DW stability condition is obtained. We find that the lateral length of the STMG is the critical dimension: it must be smaller than about five times the DW width. This result is confirmed by micromagnetic simulations with a high accuracy. In process, we solved a more fundamental problem: the macrospin limit of a finite ferromagnet containing one pinning site. We found the correction of the usual DW width expression due to finite length of wires.
Inelastic X-ray scattering measurements of III–V multiple quantum wells
Authors: Xia Hongze , Patterson Robert , Smyth Suntrana , Feng Yu , Chung Simon , Zhang Yi , Shrestha Santosh , Huang Shujuan , Uchiyama Hiroshi , Tsutsui Satoshi , Sugiyama Masakazu , Baron Alfred Q. R. , Conibeer Gavin
Published: January 2017

Inelastic X-ray scattering (IXS) on an In0.17Ga0.83As/GaAs0.8P0.2 multiple quantum well (MQW) superlattice has been conducted to investigate the potential for phonon bottlenecks in low dimensional materials. This work shows that the measured spectra are in good agreement with an adiabatic bond charge model prediction and back-folded phonon modes make large contributions to the broadening of peaks observed in the spectra. The high-lying mode at 45 meV in the MQW is attributed to vibrations of Ga and P and confirmed by both experiment and theory. The acoustic phonons have a dominant contribution from the Ga and As components, and the contribution from InAs is small and only visible at around 29.7 meV. Low energy optical modes resulting from back-folding might be a key to increased electron-phonon coupling in the material system. The suitability of utilizing IXS as a means to investigate phonon modes in low dimensional materials is also discussed.
Measurement of the acoustic radiation force on a sphere embedded in a soft solid
Authors: Lidon Pierre , Villa Louis , Taberlet Nicolas , Manneville Sébastien
Published: January 2017

The acoustic radiation force exerted on a small sphere located at the focus of an ultrasonic beam is measured in a soft gel. It is proved to evolve quadratically with the local amplitude of the acoustic field. Strong oscillations of the local pressure are observed and attributed to an acoustic Fabry-Pérot effect between the ultrasonic emitter and the sphere. Taking this effect into account with a simple model, a quantitative link between the radiation force and the acoustic pressure is proposed and compared to theoretical predictions in the absence of dissipation. The discrepancy between experiment and theory suggests that dissipative effects should be taken into account for fully modeling the observations.
Circuit quantum electrodynamics architecture for gate-defined quantum dots in silicon
Authors: Mi X. , Cady J. V. , Zajac D. M. , Stehlik J. , Edge L. F. , Petta J. R.
Published: January 2017

We demonstrate a hybrid device architecture where the charge states in a double quantum dot (DQD) formed in a Si/SiGe heterostructure are read out using an on-chip superconducting microwave cavity. A quality factor Q = 5400 is achieved by selectively etching away regions of the quantum well and by reducing photon losses through low-pass filtering of the gate bias lines. Homodyne measurements of the cavity transmission reveal DQD charge stability diagrams and a charge-cavity coupling rate gc/2π= 23 MHz. These measurements indicate that electrons trapped in a Si DQD can be effectively coupled to microwave photons, potentially enabling coherent electron-photon interactions in silicon.
Discrepancy between integral and local composition in off-stoichiometric Cu2ZnSnSe4 kesterites: A pitfall for classification
Authors: Schöppe Philipp , Gurieva Galina , Giraldo Sergio , Martínez-Criado Gema , Ronning Carsten , Saucedo Edgardo , Schorr Susan , Schnohr Claudia S.
Published: January 2017

High-efficiency kesterite-based thin film solar cells typically feature Cu-poor, Zn-rich absorbers although secondary phases occur easily in non-stoichiometric Cu2ZnSnSe4. We therefore applied high-resolution X-ray fluorescence analysis using a synchrotron nanobeam to study the local composition of a CZTSe cross section lamella cut from a sample with an integral composition of Zn/Sn = 1.37 and Cu/(Zn+Sn) = 0.55. We find submicrometer-sized ZnSe-, SnSe/SnSe2-, and even CuSe/Cu2Se-like secondary phases, while the local compositions of the kesterite are highly Zn-rich yet barely Cu-poor with 1.5 ≤ Zn/Sn ≤ 2.2 and Cu/(Zn+Sn) ∼ 1.0. Consequently, great care must be taken when relating the integral composition to other material properties including the device performance.
Exceeding 4% external quantum efficiency in ultraviolet organic light-emitting diode using PEDOT:PSS/MoOx double-stacked hole injection layer
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , You Fengjiao , Liu Shiqi , Mo Bingjie , Zhang Zheling , Xiong Jian , Cai Ping , Xue Xiaogang , Zhang Jian , Wei Bin
Published: January 2017

An effective and simple method has been explored to construct an efficient ultraviolet organic light-emitting diode (OLED) by incorporating poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/MoOx double-stacked hole injection layer (HIL) and slightly retarding electron injection for achieving extremely balanced charge carriers. The device produces 4.6% external quantum efficiency with an attractive ultraviolet emission peak of 377 nm and full width at half maximum of 35 nm. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy and impedance spectroscopy analysis determine the substantially enhanced hole injection capacity of PEDOT:PSS/MoOx double-stacked HIL, which accordingly contributes to optimizing carrier balance. The results pave a way to advancing OLED in potential application towards short wavelength emission.
Mechanical stress-controlled tunable active frequency-selective surface
Authors: Huang Bo-Cin , Hong Jian-Wei , Lo Cheng-Yao
Published: January 2017

This study proposes a tunable active frequency-selective surface (AFSS) realized by mechanically expanding or contracting a split-ring resonator (SRR) array. The proposed AFSS transfers mechanical stress from its elastic substrate to the top of the SRR, thereby achieving electromagnetic (EM) modulation without the need for an additional external power supply, meeting the requirements for the target application: the invisibility cloak. The operating mechanism of the proposed AFSS differs from those of other AFSSs, supporting modulations in arbitrary frequencies in the target range. The proposed stress-controlled or strain-induced EM modulation proves the existence of an identical and linear relationship between the strain gradient and the frequency shift, implying its suitability for other EM modulation ranges and applications.
Polarization multiplexing in large-mode-area waveguides and its application to signal enhancement in multiphoton microscopy
Authors: He Jiexing , Wang Yuxin , Wen Wenhui , Wang Kai , Liu Hongji , Qiu Ping , Wang Ke
Published: January 2017

Soliton self-frequency shift (SSFS) is an efficient technique of generating broadband tunable femtosecond optical pulses. By using large-mode-area (LMA) waveguides such as photonic-crystal (PC) rods or LMA fibers, SSFS is capable of generating solitons with tens of or even >100 nJ pulse energy, enabling deep-tissue multiphoton microscopy (MPM) with the unprecedented imaging depth. MPM signals are proportional to the repetition rate of the laser. Here, we demonstrate an efficient technique of enhancing MPM signals in LMA waveguides, through polarization multiplexing, in both a PC rod with no polarization-maintaining (PM) structure and a PM LMA fiber. The collinear output soliton pulses with orthogonal linear polarizations show similar pulse energy, pulse width, and spectrum. We also demonstrate the application of this polarization multiplexing technique to MPM signal enhancement in biological tissues. Compared with single-polarization soliton excitation, excitation with polarization-multiplexed solitons can efficiently boost MPM signals in different modalities of MPM.
Extremely high magnetic-field sensitivity of charge transport in the Mn/SiO2/p-Si hybrid structure
Authors: Volkov N. V. , Tarasov A. S. , Smolyakov D. A. , Gustaitsev A. O. , Rautskii M. V. , Lukyanenko A. V. , Volochaev M. N. , Varnakov S. N. , Yakovlev I. A. , Ovchinnikov S. G.
Published: January 2017

We report on abrupt changes in dc resistance and impedance of a diode with the Schottky barrier based on the Mn/SiO2/p-Si structure in a magnetic field. It was observed that at low temperatures the dc and ac resistances of the device change by a factor of more than 106 with an increase in a magnetic field to 200 mT. The strong effect of the magnetic field is observed only above the threshold forward bias across the diode. The ratios between ac and dc magnetoresistances can be tuned from almost zero to 108% by varying the bias. To explain the diversity of magnetotransport phenomena observed in the Mn/SiO2/p-Si structure, it is necessary to attract several mechanisms, which possibly work in different regions of the structure. The anomalously strong magnetotransport effects are attributed to the magnetic-field-dependent impact ionization in the bulk of a Si substrate. At the same time, the conditions for this process are specified by structure composition, which, in turn, affects the current through each structure region. The effect of magnetic field attributed to suppression of impact ionization via two mechanisms leads to an increase in the carrier energy required for initiation of impact ionization. The first mechanism is related to displacement of acceptor levels toward higher energies relative to the top of the valence band and the other mechanism is associated with the Lorentz forces affecting carrier trajectories between scatterings events. The estimated contributions of these two mechanisms are similar. The proposed structure is a good candidate for application in CMOS technology-compatible magnetic- and electric-field sensors and switching devices.
Fabrication and characterization of Pt/Al2O3/Y2O3/In0.53Ga0.47As MOSFETs with low interface trap density
Authors: Kim Seong Kwang , Geum Dae-Myeong , Shim Jae-Phil , Kim Chang Zoo , Kim Hyung-jun , Song Jin Dong , Choi Won Jun , Choi Sung-Jin , Kim Dae Hwan , Kim Sanghyeon , Kim Dong Myong
Published: January 2017

In this work, we fabricated the In0.53Ga0.47As metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect-transistors (MOSFETs) with a MOS interface of Y2O3/In0.53Ga0.47As and recessed gate structure. We investigated the interfacial properties of the gate stack and the junction characteristics of the fabricated MOSFETs. Low subthreshold slope (SS = 110 mV/dec), high on/off current ratio (Ion/Ioff = 106), and high effective mobility of 1600 cm2/V·s were achieved in the MOSFETs at a sheet charge density (Ns) = 1.2 × 1012 cm−2. From the temperature dependence of I–V characteristics, the interface trap density was extracted to be Dit = 2.2 × 1011 cm−2·eV−1 with a negligible trap-assisted leakage current.
A snapshot of physical activity programs targeting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia
Authors: Macniven Rona , Elwell Michelle , Ride Kathy , Bauman Adrian , Richards Justin
Published: January 2017

Issue addressed

Participation in physical activity programs can be an effective strategy to reduce chronic disease risk factors and improve broader social outcomes. Health and social outcomes are worse among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders than non‐Indigenous Australians, who represent an important group for culturally specific programs. The extent of current practice in physical activity programs is largely unknown. This study identifies such programs targeting this population group and describes their characteristics.

Methods

Bibliographic and Internet searches and snowball sampling identified eligible programs operating between 2012 and 2015 in Australia (phase 1). Program coordinators were contacted to verify sourced information (phase 2). Descriptive characteristics were documented for each program.

Results

A total of 110 programs were identified across urban, rural and remote locations within all states and territories. Only 11 programs were located through bibliographic sources; the remainder through Internet searches. The programs aimed to influence physical activity for health or broader social outcomes. Sixty five took place in community settings and most involved multiple sectors such as sport, health and education. Almost all were free for participants and involved Indigenous stakeholders. The majority received Government funding and had commenced within the last decade. More than 20 programs reached over 1000 people each; 14 reached 0–100 participants. Most included process or impact evaluation indicators, typically reflecting their aims.

Conclusion

This snapshot provides a comprehensive description of current physical activity program provision for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia. The majority of programs were only identified through the grey literature. Many programs collect evaluation data, yet this is underrepresented in academic literature.

So what?

Capturing current practice can inform future efforts to increase the impact of physical activity programs to improve health and social indicators. Targeted, culturally relevant programs are essential to reduce levels of disadvantage experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Barriers and facilitators to participation in workplace health promotion (WHP) activities: results from a cross‐sectional survey of public‐sector employees in Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Kilpatrick Michelle , Blizzard Leigh , Sanderson Kristy , Teale Brook , Jose Kim , Venn Alison
Published: January 2017

Issue addressed

Workplaces are promising settings for health promotion, yet employee participation in workplace health promotion (WHP) activities is often low or variable. This study explored facilitating factors and barriers associated with participation in WHP activities that formed part of a comprehensive WHP initiative run within the Tasmanian State Service (TSS) between 2009 and 2013.

Methods

TSS employee (n = 3228) completed surveys in 2013. Data included sociodemographic characteristics, employee‐perceived availability of WHP activities, employee‐reported participation in WHP activities, and facilitators and barriers to participation. Ordinal log‐link regression was used in cross‐sectional analyses.

Results

Significant associations were found for all facilitating factors and participation. Respondents who felt their organisation placed a high priority on WHP, who believed that management supported participation or that the activities could improve their health were more likely to participate. Time‐ and health‐related barriers were associated with participation in fewer activities. All associations were independent of age, sex, work schedule and employee‐perceived availability of programs. Part‐time and shift‐work patterns, and location of activities were additionally identified barriers.

Conclusion

Facilitating factors relating to implementation, peer and environmental support, were associated with participation in more types of activities, time‐ and health‐related barriers were associated with less participation.

So what?

Large and diverse organisations should ensure WHP efforts have manager support and adopt flexible approaches to maximise employee engagement.
Development of an Opioid-Related Overdose Risk Behavior Scale (ORBS)
Authors: Pouget Enrique R. , Bennett Alex S. , Elliott Luther , Wolfson-Stofko Brett , Almeñana Ramona , Britton Peter C. , Rosenblum Andrew
Published: January 2017

Background

Drug overdose has emerged as the leading cause of injury-related death in the United States, driven by prescription opioid (PO) misuse, polysubstance use, and use of heroin. To better understand opioid-related overdose risks that may change over time and across populations, there is a need for a more comprehensive assessment of related risk behaviors. Drawing on existing research, formative interviews, and discussions with community and scientific advisors an opioid-related Overdose Risk Behavior Scale (ORBS) was developed.

Methods

Military veterans reporting any use of heroin or POs in the past month were enrolled using venue-based and chain referral recruitment. The final scale consisted of 25 items grouped into 5 subscales eliciting the number of days in the past 30 during which the participant engaged in each behavior. Internal reliability, test-retest reliability and criterion validity were assessed using Cronbach's alpha, intraclass correlations (ICC) and Pearson's correlations with indicators of having overdosed during the past 30 days, respectivelyInternal reliability, test-retest reliability and criterion validity were assessed using Cronbach's alpha, intraclass correlations (ICC) and Pearson's correlations with indicators of having overdosed during the past 30 days, respectively.

Results

Data for 220 veterans were analyzed. The 5 subscales—(A) Adherence to Opioid Dosage and Therapeutic Purposes; (B) Alternative Methods of Opioid Administration; (C) Solitary Opioid Use; (D) Use of Nonprescribed Overdose-associated Drugs; and (E) Concurrent Use of POs, Other Psychoactive Drugs and Alcohol—generally showed good internal reliability (alpha range = 0.61 to 0.88), test-retest reliability (ICC range = 0.81 to 0.90), and criterion validity ( r range = 0.22 to 0.66). The subscales were internally consistent with each other (alpha = 0.84). The scale mean had an ICC value of 0.99, and correlations with validators ranged from 0.44 to 0.56.

Conclusions

These results constitute preliminary evidence for the reliability and validity of the new scale. If further validated, it could help improve overdose prevention and response research and could help improve the precision of overdose education and prevention efforts.
Identification of natural rubber degradation gene in Rhizobacter gummiphilus NS21
Authors: Kasai Daisuke , Imai Shunsuke , Asano Shota , Tabata Michiro , Iijima So , Kamimura Naofumi , Masai Eiji , Fukuda Masao
Published: January 2017

A Gram-negative rubber-degrading bacterium, Rhizobacter gummiphilus NS21 grew and produced aldehyde metabolites on a deproteinized natural rubber (DPNR)-overlay agar medium forming a clearing zone. A transposon-insertion mutant, which had lost the ability to degrade DPNR, was isolated to identify the rubber degradation genes. Sequencing analysis indicated that the transposon was inserted into a putative oxygenase gene, latA. The deduced amino acid sequence of latA has 36% identity with that of roxA, which encodes a rubber oxygenase of Xanthomonas sp. strain 35Y. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that LatA constitutes a distinct group from RoxA. Heterologous expression in a Methylibium host and deletion analysis of latA indicated that the latA product is responsible for the depolymerization of DPNR. The quantitative reverse transcription-PCR analysis indicated that the transcription of latA is induced during the growth on DPNR. These results strongly suggest that latA is directly involved in the degradation of rubber in NS21.
Leave saving options over the life course – only for the highly skilled? Evidence from two German best-practice companies
Authors: Wotschack Philip
Published: January 2017

Individual leave saving options provide new options to employees to improve their employability and work–life balance over the life course. They are based on a simple idea: Employees can deposit overtime hours or portions of due remuneration in a time credit account and withdraw them at a later point in time in order to take prolonged periods of leave for care, training, or leisure activities. It is the leading question of this article as to what extent and in which way these options are factually used by different categories of employees. By reviewing existing studies in the Netherlands and by analysing German employee data the article reveals constraints in the accessibility of leave saving options. On the basis of transaction cost theory hypotheses are formulated regarding different uses of leave saving options by age, gender, and occupational status. These hypotheses are tested using regression analysis and employee data from two German best-practice companies. They show evidence for significant restrictions in terms of a high degree of selectivity with regard to age, skill and income levels. Based on these findings recommendations for future research and working time policies are discussed.
An inverse theorem for compact Lipschitz regions in ℝ^{𝕕} using localized kernel bases
Authors: Hangelbroek T. , Narcowich F. , Rieger C. , Ward J.
Published: January 2017

While inverse estimates in the context of radial basis function approximation on boundary-free domains have been known for at least ten years, such theorems for the more important and difficult setting of bounded domains have been notably absent. This article develops inverse estimates for finite dimensional spaces arising in radial basis function approximation and meshless methods. The inverse estimates we consider control Sobolev norms of linear combinations of a localized basis by the

L
p

L_p

norm over a bounded domain. The localized basis is generated by forming local Lagrange functions for certain types of RBFs (namely Matérn and surface spline RBFs). In this way it extends the boundary-free construction recently presented by Fuselier, Hangelbroek and Narcowich [Localized bases for kernel spaces on the unit sphere, SIAM J. Numer. Anal. 51 (2013), no. 5, 2358-2562].
A Dictionary of Economics
Authors: Black John , Hashimzade Nigar , Myles Gareth
Published: January 2017

Over 3,500 entries

This authoritative and comprehensive dictionary contains clear, concise definitions of key economic terms. Covering all aspects of economics including economic theory and policy, applied microeconomics and macroeconomics, labour economics, public economics and public finance, monetary economics, and environmental economics, this is the essential reference work in this area.

Entries are supplemented by entry-level web links, and useful appendices include a list of institutional acronyms and their affiliated websites, a list of Nobel prize-winners in economics, the Greek alphabet, and a list of relevant websites.

This dictionary is an essential guide for students and teachers of economics, business, and finance, as well as for professional economists and anyone who has to deal with economic data.
Aromatic Composition and Physicochemical Characteristics of Crackers Containing Barley Fractions
Authors: O'Shea Norah , Kilcawley Kieran N. , Gallagher Eimear
Published: January 2017

Currently, the predominant use for barley in Ireland is as animal food and in brewing. The aim of this study was to find an alternative novel food use for the milling fractions of barley. Three barley milling fractions consisting of the 1) bran (B), 2) middlings (M), and 3) endosperm (E) from Mickle barley were studied in a sourdough saltine cracker formulation. The M and E fractions were combined to form the ingredient ME. Crackers containing 35% ME had a reduced specific volume (1.6 cm3/g) and an increased density (0.7 g/cm3) compared with the control cracker (based entirely on wheat flour, volume = 2.1 cm3/g and density = 0.5 g/cm3, P < 0.001). The control cracker was harder in texture compared with the crackers that contained barley. The control cracker was also found to be crunchier compared with the crackers containing barley. Crackers containing 35% ME and 15% B had a higher fiber content (5.3 and 5.8%) compared with the control cracker (3.6%, P < 0.05). The volatile profiles were considerably altered in samples containing 15% B and 35% ME samples compared with the control sample. This study demonstrated that barley fractions can be incorporated into a saltine cracker product, leading to a crispier cracker with an increased total dietary fiber content compared with the control cracker.
Seed Treatment Effects on Maize Seedlings Coinfected with Rhizoctonia solani and Pratylenchus penetrans
Authors: da Silva M. P. , Tylka G. L. , Munkvold G. P.
Published: January 2017

The roots of maize seedlings typically are attacked by a complex of organisms that includes fungal pathogens and plant-parasitic nematodes but few studies have examined the effects of these organisms in combination. Rhizoctonia solani can be an important component of the seedling disease complex; like other fungi, its effect on the plant may be influenced by the activity of nematodes such as the root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans. In this study, we assessed the impact of seed treatments, including fungicide–nematicide combinations, on maize seedlings exposed to R. solani and P. penetrans alone or in combination. In growth-chamber and greenhouse experiments, seed treated with various active ingredient combinations were planted in an autoclaved sand-soil mixture with or without inoculum of R. solani. In some treatments, a suspension of P. penetrans adults and juveniles was added to the sand-soil mixture. In the greenhouse experiments, infection by R. solani caused dramatic reductions in root length, volume, surface area, and numbers of root tips and root forks, whereas P. penetrans infestation alone reduced only shoot fresh weight. Statistical interactions between the effects of the two organisms were not significant, although fungal infestation significantly reduced the numbers of nematodes extracted from roots. Seed treatments significantly improved most root development variables, and the combination that included four fungicides, thiamethoxam, and abamectin was the best treatment for most variables. Results were similar in the growth-chamber experiments, where R. solani caused significant reductions in nearly all shoot and root development measurements, and seed treatment with sedaxane, alone or combined with abamectin, consistently provided the best results. R. solani was more damaging to seedlings than P. penetrans, and the combination of the two organisms did not cause more damage than R. solani alone. Seed-treatment active ingredients that specifically targeted R. solani (sedaxane) and P. penetrans (abamectin) had large positive effects on seedling health, causing significant improvements in root and shoot growth and development compared with untreated seedlings exposed to these pathogens.
Neural correlate of relief in the anterior cingulate cortex and ventral tegmental area
Authors: Elston Thomas W. , Bilkey David K.
Published: January 2017

Information gained during goal pursuit motivates adaptive behaviour. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) supports adaptive behaviour, but how ACC signals are translated into motivational signals remains unclear. Rats implanted in the ACC and ventral tegmental area (VTA), a dopaminergic brain area implicated in motivation, were trained to run laps around a rectangular track for a fixed reward, where each lap varied in physical effort (a 30cm climbable barrier). Partial directed coherence analysis of local field potentials revealed that ACC theta (4-12 Hz) activity increased as rats entered the barrier-containing region of the maze on trials when the barrier was absent, and predicted similar changes in VTA theta. This did not occur on effortful, barrier-present trials. These data suggest that ACC provides a top-down modulating signal which can influence the motivation with which to pursue a reward, and which may be, in our task, a neural correlate of relief.
Deformations of the α-Fe2O3 rhombohedral lattice across the Néel temperature
Authors: Fabrykiewicz P. , Stękiel M. , Sosnowska I. , Przeniosło R.
Published: January 2017

High-resolution synchrotron radiation powder diffraction patterns of α-Fe2O3 measured between room temperature and 1100 K, i.e. above the Néel temperature T
N = 950 K, have been analyzed. The integral breadths of the Bragg peaks show a hkl-dependent anisotropy, both below and above T
N. This anisotropy can be quantitatively described by using a statistical peak-broadening model [Stephens (1999). J. Appl. Cryst.
32, 281]. Model calculations show that the rhombohedral α-Fe2O3 lattice is deformed and the deformation leads to a monoclinic lattice with the unique monoclinic axis along the hexagonal [110] direction both below and above T
N. The monoclinic symmetry of bulk α-Fe2O3 is compatible with α-Fe2O3 nanowire growth along the [110] direction reported in Fu et al. [Chem. Phys. Lett. (2001), 350, 491].
ISO 9001 certification and corporate performance of Italian companies
Authors: Galetto Maurizio , Franceschini Fiorenzo , Mastrogiacomo Luca
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to verify a possible relationship between quality management system certification according to ISO 9001 standard and risk of failure of Italian companies.

Design/methodology/approach

A synthetic index which summarize the most crucial economic/financial aspects of the studied companies is assumed as the response variable of a statistical model for studying the effects of four specific factors: certification, company size, regional development and manufacturing sub-sector. The analysis is conducted on a sample of Italian companies belonging to different manufacturing sub-sectors. The used data are obtained from the database Aida® by Bureau van Dijk and from the database of the Italian accreditation body Accredia. The study is based on analysis of variance (ANOVA) and contingency tables.

Findings

Preliminary results of ANOVA show that only company size, regional development and manufacturing sub-sector can be considered fully significant. Furthermore, the major conclusion from the analysis of contingency tables is that ISO 9001 certification is connected to the legal status (active, not active) of a company only for a portion for the studied manufacturing sub-sectors. Hence, the scenario is quite variegated and a significant positive interaction between certification and corporate performance is not always confirmed.

Research limitations/implications

Although the research shows some interesting results, it is liable to extensions and improvements. In particular, at the current exploratory level, it is limited to a specific period of time and considers only the Italian sector, but it could be extended to a wider number of years and to European and international level.

Practical implications

The study opens a way for a number of important questions about the meaning, usefulness and effectiveness of ISO 9001 certification. In particular, it may be time to ask whether the paradigm of certification actually needs a radical rethink.

Originality/value

This work represents a first exploratory attempt to correlate the risk of failure with the achievement of ISO 9001 certification. There are several similar works in literature which, however, focus mainly on sectorial aspects of the corporate background.
Analysis of training programs related to quality management system: the Spanish case
Authors: Petnji Yaya Luc Honore , Marimon Frederic , Llach Josep , Bernardo Merce , Casadesus Marti
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identifying, discussing and analyzing the existing education and training programs related to quality management system (QMS) in Spain.

Design/methodology/approach

Exhaustive search of the education system database was used to map the multifaceted of Spanish education system and professional training in addition to their relationships with the labor market. Thereafter, a thorough scan of the existing training related to management system standards was used to classify them into different subgroups as well as identifying possible education and the professional trainings related to QMS.

Findings

The overall results showed that general education in Spain and in particular related to QMS can be classified into four different groups including: official university, unofficial university, official non-university and unofficial non-university. Moreover, this study observed that the general concern about the employment and earnings in Spain has led the local, autonomous communities and national government to launch specific measures designed to both continue to increase the quality of the workforce with the QMS backgrounds and to ease the difficulties encountered when entering the labor market.

Originality/value

This study is the first to analyze and map the multifaceted character of Spanish education system and professional training related to QMS. The findings of this study may be useful for organizations trying to evaluate their QMS efforts, thus, engage their people in order to face the competitive challenges that lie ahead.
Food integrated management systems: dairy industry insights
Authors: Gianni Maria , Gotzamani Katerina , Vouzas Fotis
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the management systems integration from both sector and size perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

Extant literature is reviewed focussing on food-related management topics. A single case is used to delve into the understanding of integrated management systems (IMSs) using the contingency approach. Data are drawn from documents and archives, on-site observations and by interviewing employees of all hierarchy levels.

Findings

This case shows how size and sector-related constraints may condition integration in terms of IMS scope, strategy, level, audits, resources, motives, benefits and difficulties. Traceability is identified as an integration “catalyst” for multiple MSs in food companies. It is further discussed, how an environmental management system would be embedded within the existing integrated structure.

Research limitations/implications

Conclusions bring to light the sustained business leverage provided by food IMSs. Thus, food industry managers are driven to streamline the quality, food safety and environmental processes following an IMS approach. Future research on multiple cases of different size would reflect a wider IMS sector-specific perspective. Research on other sectors is expected to provide different particular aspects of integration, as well.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first in-depth study on the adoption of an integrated generic and sector-specific MS from the contingency perspective. The case visualizes the contribution of integration when addressing the critical food safety and quality operations and the significant environmental aspects.
Core software product management activities
Authors: Maglyas Andrey , Nikula Uolevi , Smolander Kari , Fricker Samuel A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Software product management (SPM) unites disciplines related to product strategy, planning, development, and release. There are many organizational activities addressing technical, social, and market issues when releasing a software product. Owing to the high number of activities involved, SPM remains a complex discipline to adopt. The purpose of this paper is to understand what are the core and supporting SPM activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted the research method of meta-ethnography to present a set of techniques for synthesizing individual qualitative studies to increase the degree of conceptualization. The results obtained from three empirical studies were synthesized using the meta-ethnography approach to enhance, rethink, and create a higher level abstraction of the findings.

Findings

The results show that the study has both theoretical and practical contribution. As the meta-ethnography synthesis has not been widely applied in software engineering, the authors illustrate how to use this research method in the practice of software engineering research. The practical contribution of the study is in the identification of five core and six supporting SPM activities.

Originality/value

The practical value of this paper is in the identification of core SPM activities that should be present in any company practicing SPM. The list of supporting SPM consists of activities that are not reported to product manager but affect the product success.
Processed food supply chain: a framework for literature review
Authors: Mahajan Rajneesh , Garg Suresh , Sharma P.B.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to make a fair attempt to craft a framework for the categorization of the literature linked to food supply chain management (FSCM) and to contribute toward doctoral food research. This will benefit researchers, academicians and corporates. The research is based on an analysis of research articles and research reports. The research articles were mainly extracted from Emerald and Science Direct (Elsevier) databases.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 100 randomly selected peer-reviewed journal articles on FSCM from commercial databases such as Emerald and Science Direct (Elsevier) were systematically analyzed.

Findings

Relatively limited empirical-prescriptive research has been carried out in a food supply chain. The outcome is that the literature on the food supply chain is primarily focused on theoretical-descriptive research.

Originality/value

It is observed that limited research has been carried out on FSCM. Therefore, the authors have suggested a framework for the categorization of the literature linked to FSCM. This will facilitate future research in the area of FSCM.
Inhibition of Propionibacterium acnes lipase activity by the antifungal agent ketoconazole
Authors: Unno Mizuki , Cho Otomi , Sugita Takashi
Published: January 2017

The common skin disease acne vulgaris is caused by Propionibacterium acnes. A lipase secreted by this microorganism metabolizes sebum and the resulting metabolites evoke inflammation in human skin. The antifungal drug ketoconazole inhibits P. acnes lipase activity. We previously showed that the drug also inhibits the growth of P. acnes. Thus, ketoconazole may serve as an alternative treatment for acne vulgaris, which is important because the number of antibiotic‐resistant P. acnes strains has been increasing.
Regulation systems of protease and hemolysin production in Vibrio vulnificus
Authors: Elgaml Abdelaziz , Miyoshi Shin‐Ichi
Published: January 2017

Vibrio vulnificus, a gram‐negative halophilic estuarine bacterium, is an opportunistic human pathogen that causes rapidly progressive fatal septicemia and necrotizing wound infection. This species also causes hemorrhagic septicemia called vibriosis in cultured eels. It has been proposed that a range of virulence factors play roles in pathogenesis during human and/or eel infection. Among these factors, a metalloprotease (V. vulnificus protease [VVP]) and a cytolytic toxin (V. vulnificus hemolysin [VVH]) are of significant importance. VVP elicits the characteristic edematous and hemorrhagic skin damage, whereas VVH exhibits powerful hemolytic and cytolytic activities and contributes to bacterial invasion from the intestine to the blood stream. In addition, a few V. vulnificus strains isolated from diseased eels have recently been found to produce a serine protease designated as V. vulnificus serine protease (VvsA) instead of VVP. Similarly to VVP, VvsA may possess various toxic activities such as collagenolytic, cytotoxic and edema‐forming activity. In this review, regulation of V. vulnificus VVP, VVH and VvsA is clarified in terms of expression at the mRNA and protein levels. The explanation is given on the basis of the quorum sensing system, which is dependent on bacterial cell density. In addition, the roles of environmental factors and global regulators, such as histone‐like nucleoid structuring protein, cyclic adeno monophosphate receptor protein, RpoS, HlyU, Fur, ToxRS, AphB and LeuO, in this regulation are outlined. The cumulative impact of these regulatory systems on the pathogenicity of V. vulnificus is here delineated.
Probiotic properties of ice creams produced with dietary fibres from by‐products of the food industry
Authors: Ayar Ahmet , Siçramaz Hatice , Öztürk Serpil , Öztürk Yilmaz Suzan
Published: January 2017

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of adding dietary fibre‐rich by‐products to probiotic ice creams. For this purpose, fruit (grape, apricot, apple)‐ and grain (rice, corn, sunflower, barley)‐based by‐products were added to ice cream. The viability of Lactobacillus acidophilus (ATCC 4357D‐5) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (ATCC 27536) was determined with microbial analyses at 1, 15, 30 and 60 days of storage. In conclusion, it was shown that dietary fibre‐rich by‐products could be used in ice cream with improved survival of the probiotic strains without any adverse effects on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties of the ice cream.