bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biocatalytic asymmetric Michael addition reaction ofl-arginine to fumarate for the green synthesis of N-(([(4S)-4-amino-4-carboxy-butyl]amino)iminomethyl)-l-aspartic acid lithium salt (l-argininosuccinic acid lithium salt)
Authors: Schoenenberger B. , Wszolek A. , Meier R. , Brundiek H. , Obkircher M. , Wohlgemuth R.
Published: October 2017

The biocatalytic asymmetric Michael addition ofl-arginine to fumarate using argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) has enabled the synthesis of the key metabolitel-argininosuccinic acid lithium salt1for the first time, with excellent yield and purity.
Micromixing enables chemoselective reactions of difunctional electrophiles with functional aryllithiums
Authors: Nagaki Aiichiro , Ishiuchi Satoshi , Imai Keita , Sasatsuki Kengo , Nakahara Yuichi , Yoshida Jun-ichi
Published: October 2017

Generation of highly unstable functional aryllithiums followed by chemoselective reactions with difunctional electrophiles were successfully achieved using flow microreactor systems equipped with micromixers to give highly functionalized compounds without protecting functional groups.
Small molecular organic nanocrystals resemble carbon nanodots in terms of their properties
Authors: Khan Syamantak , Sharma Akshita , Ghoshal Sourav , Jain Sanjhal , Hazra Montu K. , Nandi Chayan K.
Published: October 2017

We show that hydrothermal treatment of citric acid produces methylenesuccinic acid, which gives rise to hydrogen-bonded nano-assemblies with CND-like properties.
Copper-catalyzed aminoalkynylation of alkenes with hypervalent iodine reagents
Authors: Shen Kun , Wang Qiu
Published: October 2017

A copper-catalyzed aminoalkynylation reaction of alkenes is developed for construction of diverse azaheterocycles and installation of an alkyne group in one step, presenting broad applications in synthesis, bioconjugation, and molecular imaging.
Evolved polymerases facilitate selection of fully 2′-OMe-modified aptamers
Authors: Liu Zhixia , Chen Tingjian , Romesberg Floyd E.
Published: October 2017

Evolved DNA polymerases are used in selections with fully 2′-OMe modified libraries to identify aptamers with high affinity for HNE.
Hydroxyl-triggered fluorescence for location of inorganic materials in polymer-matrix composites
Authors: Tian Rui , Zhong Jinpan , Lu Chao , Duan Xue
Published: October 2017

We present a locating technique for inorganic materials in polymer-matrix composites through a post-labeling approach based on specific covalent binding.
Bioinspired synthesis of pentacyclic onocerane triterpenoids
Authors: Bartels Florian , Hong Young J. , Ueda Daijiro , Weber Manuela , Sato Tsutomu , Tantillo Dean J. , Christmann Mathias
Published: October 2017

The first chemical synthesis of pentacyclic onocerane triterpenoids (+)-cupacinoxepin and (+)-onoceranoxide is described.
Imidazolium-based anion exchange membranes for alkaline anion fuel cells: (2) elucidation of the ionic structure and its impact on conducting properties
Authors: Yoshimura Kimio , Zhao Yue , Hasegawa Shin , Hiroki Akihiro , Kishiyama Yoshihiro , Shishitani Hideyuki , Yamaguchi Susumu , Tanaka Hirohisa , Koizumi Satoshi , Appavou Marie-Sousai , Radulescu Aurel , Richter Dieter , Maekawa Yasunari
Published: October 2017

We report a novel ionic structure of dispersed ions and its impact on conducting properties.
Intermediate-temperature solid oxide electrolysis cells with thin proton-conducting electrolyte and a robust air electrode
Authors: Lei Libin , Tao Zetian , Wang Xiaoming , Lemmon John P. , Chen Fanglin
Published: October 2017

A proton-conducting solid oxide electrolysis cell (H-SOEC) is a promising device that efficiently converts electrical energy to chemical energy.
Modification of thin film composite polyamide membranes with 3D hyperbranched polyglycerol for simultaneous improvement in their filtration performance and antifouling properties
Authors: Liu Zhongyun , An Xiaochan , Dong Chunhong , Zheng Sunxiang , Mi Baoxia , Hu Yunxia
Published: October 2017

3D hyperbranched polyglycerol-modified thin film composite polyamide membranes for simultaneous improvement in their filtration performance and antifouling properties.
Vancomycin-conjugated polythiophene for the detection and imaging of Gram-positive bacteria
Authors: Gui Ning Ling , Wang Shuai , Feng Hu Xue , Ming Li Chang , Qun Xu Li
Published: October 2017

Vancomycin-conjugated polythiophene was synthesized for the discrimination and elimination of Gram-positive bacteria.
Investigating light curve modulation via kernel smoothing
Authors: Süveges Maria , Anderson Richard I.
Published: October 2017

Context.Recent studies have revealed a hitherto unknown complexity of Cepheid pulsations by discovering irregular modulated variability using photometry, radial velocities, and interferometry.

Aims.We aim to perform a statistically rigorous search and characterization of such phenomena in continuous time, applying it to 53 classical Cepheids from the OGLE-III catalog.

Methods.We have used local kernel regression to search for both period and amplitude modulations simultaneously in continuous time and to investigate their detectability. We determined confidence intervals using parametric and non-parametric bootstrap sampling to estimate significance, and investigated multi-periodicity using a modified pre-whitening approach that relies on time-dependent light curve parameters.

Results.We find a wide variety of period and amplitude modulations and confirm that first overtone pulsators are less stable than fundamental mode Cepheids. Significant temporal variations in period are more frequently detected than those in amplitude. We find a range of modulation intensities, suggesting that both amplitude and period modulations are ubiquitous among Cepheids. Over the 12-year baseline offered by OGLE-III, we find that period changes are often nonlinear, sometimes cyclic, suggesting physical origins beyond secular evolution. Our method detects modulations (period and amplitude) more efficiently than conventional methods that are reliant on certain features in the Fourier spectrum, and pre-whitens time series more accurately than using constant light curve parameters, removing spurious secondary peaks effectively.

Conclusions.Period and amplitude modulations appear to be ubiquitous among Cepheids. Current detectability is limited by observational cadence and photometric precision: detection of amplitude modulation below 3 mmag requires space-based facilities. Recent and ongoing space missions (K2, BRITE, MOST, CoRoT) as well as upcoming ones (TESS, PLATO) will significantly improve detectability of fast modulations, such as cycle-to-cycle variations, by providing high-cadence high-precision photometry. High-quality long-term ground-based photometric time series will remain crucial to study longer-term modulations and to disentangle random fluctuations from secular evolution.
Acupuncture for Infertility in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: What Does It Add?
Authors: Stener-Victorin Elisabet
Published: October 2017

Acupuncture is a nonpharmacological therapy to induce ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but not until recently there has been a study reporting the live birth rate following ovulation induction by acupuncture or its potential as an adjuvant to pharmacological ovulation induction. Clomiphene citrate, the first-line treatment for ovulation induction in women with PCOS, was twice as effective at achieving live birth, with no effect of acupuncture alone or in combination with clomiphene. Thus, the findings from the recent randomized control trial do not support acupuncture as an infertility treatment, alone or in combination, in women with PCOS. The recent trial has important clinical implications not only for women with PCOS with an active wish for pregnancy but also for those with no active wish of pregnancy, as acupuncture induces ovulation to a higher degree than no treatment and also relieves other PCOS-related symptoms. This narrative review dissects possible mechanism of action of acupuncture on reproductive function, it discusses stimulation parameters, it discusses the recent findings on live birth, and it also discusses the control situation in potential future acupuncture trials.
Patellofemoral Cartilage Restoration: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes of Autologous Chondrocytes Implantation, Matrix-Induced Chondrocyte Implantation, and Particulated Juvenile Allograft Cartilage
Authors: Hinckel Betina , Gomoll Andreas
Published: October 2017

Focal chondral defects are common in the patellofemoral (PF) joint and can significantly impair the quality of life. The autologous chondrocytes implantation (ACI) technique has evolved over the past 20 years: the first-generation technique involves the use of a periosteal patch, the second-generation technique (collagen-cover) uses a type I/III collagen membrane, and the newest third-generation technique seeds and cultivates the collagen membrane with chondrocytes prior to implantation and is referred to as matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation. Particulated juvenile allograft cartilage (PJAC) (DeNovo NT) is minced cartilage allograft from juvenile donors. A thorough physical exam is important, especially for issues affecting the PF joint, to isolate the location and source of pain, and to identify associated pathologies. Imaging studies allow further characterization of the lesions and identification of associated pathologies and alignment. Conservative management should be exhausted before proceeding with surgical treatment. Steps of surgical treatment are diagnostic arthroscopy and biopsy, chondrocytes culture and chondrocyte implantation for the three generations of ACI, and diagnostic arthroscopy and implantation for PJAC. The techniques and their outcomes will be discussed in this article.
Theoretical analysis of the mobility of two-dimensional electron gas in the quaternary AlxInyGa1-x-yN/GaN heterojunctions limited by the alloy composition fluctuation
Authors: Li Yao , Zhang Jinfeng , Liu Guipeng , Quan Rudai , Duan Xiaoling , Zhang Jincheng , Hao Yue
Published: October 2017

We established the model of the electron mobility limited by the alloy composition fluctuation scattering in the quaternary AlxInyGa1-x-yN/GaN heterojunctions for the first time. The alloy composition fluctuation along the AlxInyGa1-x-yN/GaN heterointerface was considered and characterized by the lateral correlation length L, and the fluctuations of aluminum and indium mole fractions (Δx and Δy) independent to each other. The situation of alloy composition fluctuation is investigated in the following cases. Only x or y fluctuates, and both x and y fluctuate with equal/unequal amplitudes in the same/opposite direction. We find that the scattering with both x and y fluctuating in the same direction is the weakest, while x and y fluctuating in the opposite directions leads to the strongest scattering. This in nature stems from the disparity of the bandgap and polarization in AlInN, AlGaN and GaN. The effects of different parameters, such as x and y, Δx and Δy, L, and the thickness of AlxInyGa1-x-yN barrier layer d on the mobility are also studied. The model will in principle give a universal explanation to the effect of alloy composition fluctuation scattering on the carrier mobility in the GaN-based heterostructures with ternary or quaternary alloy barrier layers.
Microstructure evolution and large magnetocaloric effect of La0.8Ce0.2(Fe0.95Co0.05)11.8Si1.2 alloy prepared by strip-casting and annealing
Authors: Zhong X. C. , Feng X. L. , Huang J. H. , Zhang H. , Huang Y. L. , Liu Z. W. , Jiao D. L.
Published: October 2017

The microstructure and magnetocaloric effect of the La0.8Ce0.2(Fe0.95Co0.05)11.8Si1.2 strip-cast flakes annealed between 1273K and 1423K for different time have been investigated. For the flakes annealed for 2h from 1273K to 1423K, the shape and distribution of α-Fe, La-rich and NaZn13-type 1:13 phases are quite sensitive to the annealing temperature. Especially, at a high annealing temperature of 1423K, the 1:13 phase began to decompose into macroscopic α-Fe conglomerations and La-rich dendrites. With the increase of annealing time from 0 to 12h at 1323K, the amount of 1:13 phase increased significantly and reached ∼93.50 wt.% at 12h. However, an overlong annealing time also led to 1:13 phase decomposition and influenced the magnetic performance. For the flakes annealed at 1323K for 12h, large magnetic entropy change value of 18.12Jkg-1K-1 at 5T has been obtained. The present results indicate that strip casting method can potentially be used in mass production of high performance magnetocaloric materials.
Influence of spark plasma sintering parameters on magnetic properties of FeCo alloy
Authors: Albaaji Amar J. , Castle Elinor G. , Reece Mike J. , Hall Jeremy P. , Evans Sam L.
Published: October 2017

Equiatomic FeCo alloys with average particle size of 24 μm were sintered using spark plasma sintering (SPS) system at sintering temperatures of 1100, 800, and 850 °C for heating rates 50, 100, 300 °C/min by applying pressure of 50 MPa instantly at room temperature for sintering time of 5 and 15 minutes. The highest saturation induction was achieved at SPS conditions of 50 MPa, 50 °C/min, 1100 °C, without dwelling, of value 2.39 T. The saturation induction was improved with extending sintering time, the coercivity was higher in samples sintered at a fast heating rate in comparison to the slowest heating rate.
Combination of electromagnetic measurements and FEM simulations for nondestructive determination of mechanical hardness
Authors: Gabi Yasmine , Martins Olivier , Wolter Bernd , Strass Benjamin
Published: October 2017

The paper considers the Rockwell hardness investigation by finite element simulation in inspection situation of press hardened parts using the 3MA non-destructive testing system. The FEM model is based on robust strategy calculation which manages the issues of geometry and the time multiscale, as well as the local nonlinear hysteresis behavior of ferromagnetic materials. 3MA simulations are performed at high level operating point in order to saturate the soft microscopic surface soft layer of press hardened steel and access mainly to the bulk properties. 3MA measurements are validated by comparison with numerical simulations. Based on the simulation outputs, a virtual calibration is run. This result constitutes the first validation; the simulated calibration is in agreement with the conventional experimental data. As an outstanding highlight a correlation between magnetic quantities and hardness can be described via FEM simulated signals and shows high accuracy to the measured results.
Influence of initial heating during final high temperature annealing on the offset of primary and secondary recrystallization in Cu-bearing grain oriented electrical steels
Authors: Rodriguez-Calvillo P. , Leunis E. , Van De Putte T. , Jacobs S. , Zacek O. , Saikaly W.
Published: October 2017

The industrial production route of Grain Oriented Electrical Steels (GOES) is complex and fine-tuned for each grade. Its metallurgical process requires in all cases the abnormal grain growth (AGG) of the Goss orientation during the final high temperature annealing (HTA). The exact mechanism of AGG is not yet fully understood, but is controlled by the different inhibition systems, namely MnS, AlN and CuxS, their size and distribution, and the initial primary recrystallized grain size. Therefore, among other parameters, the initial heating stage during the HTA is crucial for the proper development of primary and secondary recrystallized microstructures. Cold rolled 0.3 mm Cu-bearing Grain Oriented Electrical Steel has been submitted to interrupted annealing experiments in a lab tubular furnace. Two different annealing cycles were applied:• Constant heating at 30°C/h up to 1000°C. Two step cycle with initial heating at 100°C/h up to 600°C, followed by 18 h soaking at 600°C and then heating at 30°C/h up to 1050°C. The materials are analyzed in terms of their magnetic properties, grain size, texture and precipitates. The characteristic magnetic properties are analyzed for the different extraction temperatures and Cycles. As the annealing was progressing, the coercivity values (Hc 1.7T [A/m]) decreased, showing two abrupt drops, which can be associated to the on-set of primary and secondary recrystallization. The primary recrystallized grain sizes and recrystallized fractions are fitted to a model using a non-isothermal approach. This analysis shows that, although the resulting grain sizes were similar, the kinetics for the two step annealing were faster due to the lower recovery. The on-set of secondary recrystallization was also shifted to higher temperatures in the case of the continuous heating cycle, which might end in different final grain sizes and final magnetic properties. In both samples, nearly all the observed precipitates are Al-Si-Mn nitrides, ranging from pure AlN to Si4Mn-nitride.
Rich hybridized-polarization surface phonon polaritons in hyperbolic metamaterials
Authors: Zhang Q. , Zhou S. , Fu S. F. , Wang X. Z.
Published: October 2017

We investigated hybridized-polarization surface phonon polaritons (HSPhPs) of transversely truncated a metamaterial (MM) that consists of alternating ionic-crystal and ordinary-dielectric layers. We predicted five HSPhPs in the reststrahlen frequency window of ionic-crystal layers, which belong to five different types, respectively. One is of Dyakonov-like type and another is traditional-like. The other three HSPhPs are of new type. We used a numerical-simulating method of attenuated total reflection (ATR) measurements to examine them. The obtained ATR spectra also demonstrate that they are observable and exhibit their polarization features. These results expand the potential-application space of phononics and photonics in the infrared to the terahertz range.
Strain compensation in InGaN-based multiple quantum wells using AlGaN interlayers
Authors: Al Muyeed Syed Ahmed , Sun Wei , Wei Xiongliang , Song Renbo , Koleske Daniel D. , Tansu Nelson , Wierer Jonathan J.
Published: October 2017

Data are presented on strain compensation in InGaN-based multiple quantum wells (MQW) using AlGaN interlayers (ILs). The MQWs consist of five periods of InxGa1-xN/AlyGa1-yN/GaN emitting in the green (λ ∼ 535 nm ± 15 nm), and the AlyGa1-yN IL has an Al composition of y = 0.42. The IL is varied from 0 - 2.1 nm, and the relaxation of the MQW with respect to the GaN template layer varies with IL thickness as determined by reciprocal space mapping about the (202¯5) reflection. The minimum in the relaxation occurs at an interlayer thickness of 1 nm, and the MQW is nearly pseudomorphic to GaN. Both thinner and thicker ILs display increased relaxation. Photoluminescence data shows enhanced spectral intensity and narrower full width at half maximum for the MQW with 1 nm thick ILs, which is a product of pseudomorphic layers with lower defect density and non-radiative recombination.
Optical resonant tunneling in photonic heterostructures containing a tunable dielectric layer
Authors: Cui Liyong , Lu Guang , Zhang Shan , Liu Fen , Xin Yanqing , Wang Kunlun , Yang Tianlin , Wang Li , Du Guiqiang
Published: October 2017

We demonstrate theoretically and experimentally that complete light transmission can be realized using a photonic heterostructure containing a tunable dielectric layer inserted between two different truncated photonic crystals (PCs). A perfect tunneling state is produced within enlarged photonic band gap (PBG) of the heterostructure by varying the thickness of inserted dielectric layer and the transmittance of the tunneling state depends on the dielectric layer thickness. Additionally, the tunneling state frequency varies with inserted layer thickness but is always located within the small overlapped PBG of two PCs. Therefore, both a perfect tunneling state and an ultrawide PBG can be realized in these heterostructures. The experimental results showed good agreement with theoretical values.
A rhetorical change that changed reality
Authors: Kayam Orly
Published: October 2017

This paper is the first to explore the development of Iranian rhetoric from former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to the current president Hassan Rouhani, in messages delivered to the international community. The study compares eight speeches given by Ahmadinejad at the UN, to two speeches given on the same platform by Rouhani. The speeches were explored by qualitative research of the prominent rhetorical strategies employed by each president, as well as by quantitative research of the frequently used words in each president’s speeches. The findings reveal a radical change in Iran’s rhetoric since Rouhani succeeded Ahmadinejad in 2013. The newly elected president adopted a moderate, modern and rational discourse regarding both Iran’s attitude to the West and the Iranian nuclear program. The findings suggest that this change made the new president and the “new” Iran possible partners to negotiating with the West, and eventually enabled the historic nuclear deal in 2015.
Microstructures and properties of high-fraction Sip–6061Al composites fabricated by pressureless sintering
Authors: Wang Binhao , Zhang Zhiqi , Zhang Jianhua , Yang Lei , Feng Dong , Wu Yucheng , Tang Wenming
Published: October 2017

Pre-treated Si powder (Sip) and 6061Al powder were used to fabricate high-fraction Sip/6061Al composites via pressureless sintering, and the effects of the Sip content and the sintering temperature on the microstructures and properties of the composites were studied. The results show that in the composites, there exist MgAl2O4 nanocrystalline particles, and the Si phase varied from a discontinuous particulate state to a semi-continuous skeleton state as the Si content increased from 30 to 50 wt-%. Densities, bending strengths, hardness, and thermal conductivities of the composites all increased initially and then decreased with the sintering temperature. The 680°C sintered 30 wt-% Sip/6061Al composites and the 700°C sintered 50 wt-% Sip/6061Al composites have the optimal mechanical and thermophysical properties.
Narrow band CE-Chirp stimulus in auditory steady state response threshold estimation in normal hearers and patients with various degrees of sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Dabbous Abeir Osman , El-Shennawy Amira Maged , Medhat Mariam Magdy , Abdel-Latief Dina Fouad
Published: October 2017

Background:

Auditory steady-state responses (ASSRs) are periodic scalp potentials that arise in response to auditory stimuli. Narrow-band (NB) CE-Chirps stimuli have been developed to combine the advantages of compensation for the cochlear traveling wave delay and frequency specificity.

Objectives:

To measure the hearing threshold objectively using ASSR in adults with normal behavioural hearing thresholds and adult patients with different degrees of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and its comparison to the behavioural thresholds.

Methods:

In the present study, 35 subjects (70 ears) were enrolled. Ears were grouped according to the level of hearing obtained by pure tone audiometry (PTA) into 7 equal groups. NB-CE-Chirp ASSR was done for all groups by means of auditory-evoked potential device.

Results:

The estimated ASSR audiograms configuration matched the behavioural curves. ASSR was equally accurate at all frequencies tested except for 1 kHz in the normal-hearing group who showed less accuracy compared to 500 and 4000 Hz in air conduction (AC) and in bone conduction (BC). Although the AC estimation was not equal among the different degrees of hearing compared to the BC estimation, the AC PTA-ASSR thresholds difference range was small. BC PTA-ASSR threshold difference was statistically significantly less than AC at all tested degrees of hearing loss, in most of the frequencies; which reflects that the ASSR was more accurate in estimating BC than the AC thresholds. There was a negative correlation regarding behavioural BC PTA thresholds with PTA-ASSR threshold difference and PTA-estimated audiograms threshold difference at all tested frequencies.

Conclusion:

ASSR using either AC or BC NB-CE-Chirp is a reliable objective method in estimating the behavioural threshold in normal hearers and patients with various degrees of SNHL, so it can be used in difficult-to-test cases where accurate behavioural thresholds could not be obtained.
Special issue of Psyecology: social norms and environmental behaviour / Número especial de Psyecology: normas sociales y comportamiento ambiental
Authors: Demarque Christophe , Lima Maria-Luisa
Published: October 2017

In recent years there have been growing expectations from policymakers towards social sciences in order to reach sustainability goals. Research on social norms is often used to promote changes in pro-environmental behaviour. However, the underlying social psychological mechanisms that explain those changes are not yet well described. This special issue puts together four papers that, from different perspectives, contribute to innovation in this field, proposing theoretically relevant mediators and contextual moderators.
Sweet potato feathery mottle virus and Sweet potato virus C from East Timorese and Australian Sweetpotato: Biological and Molecular Properties, and Biosecurity Implications
Authors: Maina Solomon , Barbetti Martin J. , Edwards Owain R. , de Almeida Luis , Ximenes Abel , Jones Roger A. C.
Published: October 2017

Sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV) and Sweet potato virus C (SPVC) isolates from sweetpotato were studied to examine genetic connectivity between viruses from Australia and Southeast Asia. East Timorese samples from sweetpotato were sent to Australia on FTA cards. Shoot and tuberous root samples were collected in Australia and planted in the glasshouse, and scions were graft inoculated to Ipomoea setosa plants. Symptoms in infected sweetpotato and I. setosa plants were recorded. RNA extracts from FTA cards and I. setosa leaf samples were subjected to high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Complete genomic sequences (CS) of SPFMV and SPVC (11 each) were obtained by HTS, and coat protein (CP) genes from them were compared with others from GenBank. SPFMV sequences clustered into two major phylogroups (A and B = RC) and two minor phylogroups (EA[I] and O[II]) within A; East Timorese sequences were in EA(I) and O(II), whereas Australian sequences were in O(II) and B(RC). With SPVC, CP trees provided sufficient diversity to distinguish major phylogroups A and B and six minor phylogroups within A (I to VI); East Timorese sequences were in minor phylogroup I, whereas Australian sequences were in minor phylogroups II and VI and in major phylogroup B. With SPFMV, Aus13B grouped with East Timorese sequence TM64B within minor phylogroup O, giving nucleotide sequence identities of 97.4% (CS) and 98.3% (CP). However, the closest match with an Australian sequence was the 97.6% (CS) and 98.7% (CP) nucleotide identity between Aus13B and an Argentinian sequence. With SPVC, closest nucleotide identity matches between Australian and East Timorese sequences were 94.1% with Aus6a and TM68A (CS) and 96.3% with Aus55-4C and TM64A (CP); however neither pair member belonged to the same minor phylogroup. Also, the closest Australian match was 99.1% (CP) nucleotide identity between Aus4C and New Zealand isolate NZ4-4. These first complete genome sequences of SPFMV and SPVC from sweetpotato plantings in the Australian continent and neighboring Southeast Asia suggest at least two (SPFMV) and three (SPVC) separate introductions to Australia since agriculture commenced more than two centuries ago. These findings have major implications for both healthy stock programs and biosecurity management in relation to pathogen entry into Australia and elsewhere.
Paternal easiRNAs regulate parental genome dosage in Arabidopsis
Authors: Martinez German , Wolff Philip , Wang Zhenxing , Moreno-Romero Jordi , Santos-González Juan , Liu Conze Lei , DeFraia Christopher , Slotkin Keith , Köhler Claudia
Published: October 2017

The regulation of parental genome dosage is of fundamental importance in animals and plants, exemplified by X chromosome inactivation and dosage compensation. The “triploid block” is a classical example of dosage regulation in plants that establishes a reproductive barrier between species differing in chromosome number1,2. This barrier acts in the endosperm, an ephemeral tissue that nurtures the developing embryo and induces the abortion of hybrid seeds through a yet unknown mechanism. Interploidy hybridizations involving diploid (2×) maternal parents and tetraploid (4×) pollen donors cause failure in endosperm cellularization, leading to embryo arrest3. Here we show that paternal epigenetically activated small interfering RNAs (easiRNAs) are responsible for the establishment of the triploid block-associated seed abortion inArabidopsis thaliana. Paternal loss of the plant-specific RNA polymerase IV suppressed easiRNA formation and rescued triploid seeds by restoring small RNA-directed DNA methylation at transposable elements (TEs), correlating with reduced expression of paternally expressed imprinted genes (PEGs). We propose that excess of paternally derived easiRNAs in diploid pollen prevents establishment of DNA methylation, leading to triploid seed abortion. Our data further suggest that easiRNAs form a quantitative signal for chromosome number and their balanced dosage is required for post-fertilization genome stability and seed viability.
Genomics in healthcare: GA4GH looks to 2022
Authors: Birney Ewan , Vamathevan Jessica , Goodhand Peter
Published: October 2017

The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH), the standards-setting body in genomics for healthcare, aims to accelerate biomedical advancement globally. We describe the differences between healthcare- and research-driven genomics, discuss the implications of global, population-scale collections of human data for research, and outline mission-critical considerations in ethics, regulation, technology, data protection, and society. We present a crude model for estimating the rate of healthcare-funded genomes worldwide that accounts for the preparedness of each country for genomics, and infers a progression of cancer-related sequencing over time. We estimate that over 60 million patients will have their genome sequenced in a healthcare context by 2025. This represents a large technical challenge for healthcare systems, and a huge opportunity for research. We identify eight major practical, principled arguments to support the position that virtual cohorts of 100 million people or more would have tangible research benefits.
Multi-step regulation of transcription kinetics explains the non-linear relation between RNA polymerase II density and mRNA expression in Dosage Compensation
Authors: Dasmeh Pouria
Published: October 2017

In heterogametic organisms, expression of unequal number of X chromosomes in males and females is balanced by a process called dosage compensation. In Drosophila and mammals, dosage compensation involves nearly two-fold up-regulation of the X chromosome mediated by dosage compensation complex (DCC). Experimental studies on the role of DCC on RNA polymerase II (Pol II) transcription in mammals disclosed a non-linear relationship between Pol II densities at different transcription steps and mRNA expression. An ~20-30% increase in Pol II densities corresponds to a rough 200% increase in mRNA expression and two-fold up-regulation. Here, using a simple kinetic model of Pol II transcription calibrated by in vivo measured rate constants of different transcription steps in mammalian cells, we demonstrate how this non-linearity can be explained by multi-step transcriptional regulation. Moreover, we show how multi-step enhancement of Pol II transcription can increase mRNA production while leaving Pol II densities unaffected. Our theoretical analysis not only recapitulates experimentally observed Pol II densities upon two-fold up-regulation but also points to a limitation of inferences based on Pol II profiles from chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq) or global run-on assays.
Enhancement of radiosensitivity of oral carcinoma cells by iodinated chlorinp6copper complex in combination with synchrotron X-ray radiation
Authors: Sarbadhikary Paromita , Dube Alok
Published: October 2017

The combination of synchrotron X-ray radiation and metal-based radiosensitizer is a novel form of photon activation therapy which offers the advantage of treating malignant tumors with greater efficacy and higher precision than conventional radiation therapy. In this study the anticancer cytotoxic efficacy of a new chlorophyll derivative, iodinated chlorinp6copper complex (ICp6-Cu), combined with synchrotron X-ray radiation (8–10 keV) in two human oral cancer cell lines is explored. Pre-treatment of cells with 20 µMand 30 µMICp6-Cu for 3 h was found to enhance the X-ray-induced cytotoxicity with sensitization enhancement ratios of 1.8 and 2.8, respectively. ICp6-Cu localized in cytoplasm, mainly in lysosomes and endoplasmic reticulum, and did not cause any cytotoxicity alone. The radiosensitization effect of ICp6-Cu accompanied a significant increase in the level of reactive oxygen species, damage to lysosomes, inhibition of repair of radiation-induced DNA double-strand breaks, increase in cell death and no significant effect on cell cycle progression. These results demonstrate that ICp6-Cu is a potential agent for synchrotron photon activation therapy of cancer.
A nonlinear impact-angle guidance law
Authors: Kamalaskar Mandar Bhanudas , Varma S. Aditya , Kothari Mangal
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new nonlinear guidance law to satisfy terminal impact-angle constraints against a stationary target in every possible planar surface-to-surface engagement scenario. The proposed guidance scheme is developed based on the geometry of a circular arc trajectory. The proposed guidance scheme is developed based on the geometry of circular arc trajectory. This trajectory is calculated based on the terminal impact angle and target range. The efficacy of the proposed guidance scheme is demonstrated through numerical simulations. The proposed scheme is compared with existing guidance schemes and relevant analysis is provided.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a new nonlinear guidance law to satisfy terminal impact-angle constraints against a stationary target in every possible planar surface-to-surface engagement scenario. The proposed guidance scheme is developed based on the geometry of a circular arc trajectory. This guidance scheme is further extended to moving targets.

Findings

The proposed guidance intercepts a stationary target with a smooth lateral acceleration command, which is desirable for realistic implementation. The efficacy of the approach is demonstrated through numerical simulation. A comparative study with the existing algorithm is presented and it is shown that the proposed algorithm is better on many counts.

Originality/value

There are many approach exists in the literature for impact-angle guidance laws. The paper proposes a computationally efficient guidance law using geometric and kinematic properties. As the approach produces smooth command, it has a practical relevance. A comparative study shows superiority on some counts (miss distance, flight time, smoothness).
Examining the role of empathy on third-country nationals’ foreign product purchase behaviour
Authors: Halimi Tariq Abdullatif , D’Souza Clare , Sullivan-Mort Gillian
Published: October 2017

Purpose

As the Arab/Muslim-Israeli animosity case is attracting international attention, citizens of non-Arab and non-Muslim countries around the world, referred to as third-country nationals (TCNs), are increasingly joining the boycott against Israel. The purpose of this paper is to examine the role of empathy for the citizens of the countries offended by Israel, namely Palestine and Lebanon, as a potential factor affecting TCNs decision to boycott Israeli products.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 20 in-depth interviews were conducted with non-Arab, non-Muslim, and non-Israeli informants from different national and religious backgrounds, supported by secondary data sources. The qualitative grounded theory approach was employed to analyse data in order to answer the research questions.

Findings

TCNs decision to boycott Israeli products is affected by their empathic concern for the citizens of Palestine and Lebanon rather than by animosity towards Israel. Such concern is evoked by their awareness of the animosity case and further strengthened by their self-transcendence/universalism values and interaction with the case which activate their altruism towards the citizens of the offended countries, and consequently motivates them to relieve or reduce the suffering of these citizens by avoiding Israeli products. Greater emphasis is given to the Arab/Muslim-Israeli animosity case as a result of the greater empathic emotional impact it generates compared to other cases.

Originality/value

This is an original attempt to distinguish empathy from animosity as a factor which can affect TCNs decision to buy from a country engaged in hostile actions against another country other than their own. As the boycott campaign against the country under examination is growing internationally, this study can help international marketers in setting strategies to either exploit or combat the boycott campaign.
Indian healthcare value chain – status quo not a sustainable solution
Authors: Narayanamurthy Gopalakrishnan , Moser Roger , Sutter Yves , Shainesh G.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Indian healthcare system, especially in rural regions, faces several problems that prevent it from achieving universal and sustainable healthcare coverage. The purpose of this paper is to capture such problems through expert opinions and provide solution concepts that are derived from other similar scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Delphi study has been conducted with 38 experts from diverse areas related to the Indian healthcare sector. Nineteen theses were formulated based on the discussion with experts and were reconfirmed through intensive desktop research. Finally, theses were subjected to expert panel member’s evaluation.

Findings

The pool of arguments provided by the participating experts included 415 written statements explaining the (dis-)agreement with the theses. The experts achieved consensus in six theses with interquartile ranges smaller or equal to 20. The written arguments provided by experts were summarized into five different categories, namely interrelations/dependencies in healthcare, inequalities in healthcare, lack of proactive measures, importance of healthcare personnel and role of government in healthcare. Finally, a framework is proposed mapping the issues identified at different stages of the healthcare value chain. Problem-based cost allocation and hub-and-spoke model are discussed as potential solutions for the issues identified.

Research limitations/implications

Lack of empirical and statistical data on the effective cost arising from the present issues suggests future research to determine these expenses and therefore examine the feasibility of applying the problem-based cost allocation framework discussed in this study.

Practical implications

Results show that merely targeting the supply side of healthcare falls short of the mark, especially in a country, such as India, with large socio-economic differentials. Healthcare system, hence, should be viewed from a market perspective, taking both forces of supply and demand into consideration.

Originality/value

This study intends to allow for a comprehensive approach to identify the issues in Indian healthcare system by reviewing the existing key studies in literature and validating it through empirical inputs from experts in the domain. Based on the validation, a framework is proposed mapping the issues identified at different stages of the healthcare value chain.
Value perception of world heritage sites and tourism sustainability matters through content analysis of online communications
Authors: Garbelli Maria , Adukaite Asta , Cantoni Lorenzo
Published: October 2017

Purpose

The debate on tourism sustainability and its contribution to local development has been very active, especially in connection with world heritage sites (WHSs). The analysis conducted was intended to evaluate the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in promoting sustainable tourism, stating the relevance given online by local and international operators to the fact a destination was a WHS and to its commitment over sustainability issues. With this aim, the authors aim to take the perspective of a person navigating online to collect information on possible travel to a specific globally recognised WHS: the Victoria Falls.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, for its structure, the authors propose the UN World Tourism Organisation book on sustainability (Sustainable Tourism for Development Guidebook, 2013) to define a framework suitable for a content analysis of websites and mobile applications – available to a prospective traveller, interested in visiting the Victoria Falls, one of the most known WHSs in Africa, not directly for a heritage end.

Findings

There are 91 available online resources that have been studied to assess whether the Victoria Falls is an area recognised and protected by UNESCO; the presence of sustainability-related contents; and the importance of information providers covering this topic and sharing with readers. A potential tourist to the Falls is not well informed online about issues related to sustainable tourism; his attention is likely not to be drawn to such issues, at least not explicitly. The results show there is plenty of room to improve the online communication value of an area recognised by UNESCO.

Originality/value

Literature does not offer other studies linking both WHSs and sustainability (and the related issues) to ICTs and adopting the tourist point of view. Using a WHS case, the results give evidence of the lack of a proper online communication, underlying the outstanding value of the area, and the destination’ initiatives towards sustainability. Results suggest how relevant could be for a destination to offer a proper and complete online communication, to educate travellers about the several implications of being a WHS and about a sustainable and responsible behaviour in case they choose to visit it.
The talent climate
Authors: King Karin A.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Navigating a dynamic global landscape, businesses must not only define talent strategy but apply it effectively in practice. By intentionally establishing consistent talent practices, discernible to employees, organisations signal priorities for talent, establishing a psychological “climate for talent” to sustain talent development over time. The strong talent system and talent climate are introduced. The purpose of this paper is to introduce the importance of organisational context to talent management.

Design/methodology/approach

A strategic climate for talent and strong talent system are theorised with “strong situation” specifications: distinctiveness, consistency, consensus and context.

Findings

A strategic climate for talent is defined. Empirical study is required to develop and validate the talent climate construct.

Practical implications

Employees’ interpretations of talent practices as signals of organisational priorities will influence the effectiveness of talent strategy implementation. This paper highlights the importance of a contextually relevant, consistently implemented talent system which signals the organisation’s invitation to employees to develop their potential in alignment with business strategy, enhancing career outcomes and supporting employees’ perceptions of inclusion and procedural fairness in talent management (TM). It supports management practice in an increasingly dynamic context to implement sufficiently distinct, consistent and contextually relevant talent practices.

Originality/value

The strategic climate for talent, perceivable by individual employees and resulting from a strong talent system, is introduced. This paper extends strategic human resources management, TM and climate literatures introducing a cross-level model of strategic organisational climate which examines proximal employee outcomes of TM practices.
Measuring the components of visitor experience on a mountain attraction: the case of the Nordkette, Tyrol, Austria
Authors: Milman Ady , Zehrer Anita , Tasci Asli D.A.
Published: October 2017

Purpose

Previous mountain tourism research addressed economic, environmental, social and political impacts. Because limited studies evaluated visitors’ perception of their experience, this study aims to examine the tangible and intangible visitor experience in a Tyrolean alpine tourist attraction.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted Klaus and Maklan’s (2012) customer experience model, suggesting that customers base their experience perception on the quality of product experience, outcome focus, moments of truth and peace-of-mind. Their model was used to validate the impact on overall customer experience quality at the mountain attraction through conducting a structured survey with 207 face-to-face interviews on-site.

Findings

The results of the confirmatory factor analysis did not confirm the four-dimensional structure, probably due to the differences between mountain tourism experience and the mortgage lending experience in the original study. Instead, principal component analysis suggested a different dimensional structure of components that were arbitrarily named as functional, social, comparative and normative aspects of the visitors’ experience.

Research limitations/implications

The results are based on a sample in a given period of time, using convenience sampling. While the sample size satisfied the data analysis requirements, confirmatory factor analysis would benefit from a larger sample size.

Practical implications

Consumer experience dimensions while visiting a mountain attraction may not be concrete or objective, and consequently may yield different types of attributes that influence behavior.

Social implications

The social exchange theory could explain relationships between visitors and service providers and their consequences. Attraction managers should increase benefits for visitors and service providers to enhance their relationships, and thus experience.

Originality/value

The study explored the applicability of an existing experiential consumption model in a mountain attraction context. The findings introduce a revised model that may be applicable in other tourist attractions.