bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward a Mexican eddy covariance network for carbon cycle science
Authors: Vargas Rodrigo , Yépez Enrico A.
Published: September 2011

First Annual MexFlux Principal Investigators Meeting; Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, 4–8 May 2011; The carbon cycle science community has organized a global network, called FLUXNET, to measure the exchange of energy, water, and carbon dioxide (CO2) between the ecosystems and the atmosphere using the eddy covariance technique. This network has provided unprecedented information for carbon cycle science and global climate change but is mostly represented by study sites in the United States and Europe. Thus, there is an important gap in measurements and understanding of ecosystem dynamics in other regions of the world that are seeing a rapid change in land use. Researchers met under the sponsorship of Red Temática de Ecosistemas and Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia (CONACYT) to discuss strategies to establish a Mexican eddy covariance network (MexFlux) by identifying researchers, study sites, and scientific goals. During the meeting, attendees noted that 10 study sites have been established in Mexico with more than 30 combined years of information. Study sites span from new sites installed during 2011 to others with 9 to 6 years of measurements. Sites with the longest span measurements are located in Baja California Sur (established by Walter Oechel in 2002) and Sonora (established by Christopher Watts in 2005); both are semiarid ecosystems. MexFlux sites represent a variety of ecosystem types, including Mediterranean and sarcocaulescent shrublands in Baja California; oak woodland, subtropical shrubland, tropical dry forest, and a grassland in Sonora; tropical dry forests in Jalisco and Yucatan; a managed grassland in San Luis Potosi; and a managed pine forest in Hidalgo. Sites are maintained with an individual researcher's funds from Mexican government agencies (e.g., CONACYT) and international collaborations, but no coordinated funding exists for a long‐term program.
AGU supports free and open communication of scientific findings
Authors: Anonymous
Published: September 2011

Scientists, policy makers, and supporting institutions should guard and promote unfettered communication of scientific data, debates, and findings as a component of scientific expression. Advances in science and the benefits of science to policy, technological progress, and society as a whole depend upon the free exchange of scientific data and information as well as on open debate. The ability of scientists to present their findings to the scientific community, policy makers, the media, and the public without censorship, intimidation, or political interference is imperative. With the specific limited exception of proprietary information or constraints arising from national security, scientists must be permitted unfettered communication of scientific results. In return, it is incumbent upon scientists to communicate their findings in ways that portray their results and the results of others, objectively, professionally, and without sensationalizing or politicizing the associated impacts.
SBFC - The Systems Biology Format Converter Framework
Authors: Kutmon Martina , Rodriguez Nicolas
Published: September 2011

The System Biology Format Converter (SBFC) aims is to provide a generic framework that potentially allows any conversion between two formats. Interoperability between formats is a recurring issue in Systems Biology. Although there are various tools available to convert models from one format to another, most of them have been independently developed and cannot easily be combined, specially to provide support for more formats. The framework is written in Java and can be used as a standalone executable. Recently a prototype has been developed with OSGi to achieve a more modular framework structure. This is a collaborative project and we hope that developers will provide support for more formats by creating new modules. SBFC allows anyone to easily add new converters and to integrate existing converters with a minimum of changes. We will also allow to combine several existing converters.
A Modular Semantic Annotation Framework: CellML Metadata Specifications 2.0
Authors: Cooling Michael
Published: September 2011

In the last decade or so, model encoding efforts such as CellML and SBML have greatly facilitated model availability. But, as the complexity of models increases, the utility of these models can vary. The addition of semantic information is crucial to transforming mathematical models from esoteric to informative resources.We have developed a metadata specification framework to better enable the annotation of CellML models with metadata. The framework consists of a core specification describing, in general terms, how annotations should be attached using RDF/XML, and satellite specifications covering several domains of immediate interest, using elements from the Dublin Core, FOAF (Friend-Of-A-Friend), BIBO (Bibliographic Ontology), MIRIAM URNs and Biomodels Qualifiers.We also describe what we see as several emerging challenges in the field, uncovered during the application of this annotation scheme to mathematical models.
Towards a Modelling Ecosystem for Libraries of Modular, Reusable Components
Authors: Cooling Michael
Published: September 2011

CellML 1.1 [1] is an XML-based model exchange protocol with inherent support for modularity.To assist in answering complex biomedical research questions, we are developing libraries of modular model components that facilitate mathematical model construction.Stored in the online, publicly accessible CellML Repository [2], the libraries vary from genetic and associated regulatory components for Synthetic Biology [3] to quantifying the Systems Biology of cardiovascular wall mal-adaptation [4,5].Currently however, using the libraries is not as easy as it should be. Here I describe progress towards a modelling ecosystem to encompasses component search and retrieval, composition, visualization and analysis services [6], building upon research in semantic annotation [7,8], graphical rendering [9], collaborative model storage [10] and large-scale parallel model simulation environments [11,12].Development of this ecosystem provides ample motivation to explore the applicability of emerging community standards as well as iteratively refine their efficacy in real biomedical problem scenarios.[1] Cuellar A. A., et al. (2003) Sim.[2] http://models.cellml.org[3] Cooling M. T., et al. (2010) Bioinf.[4] Ho H., et al. (2010) IFMBE Proc.[5] Ho H., et al. (2011) in press.[6] Cooling M. T., et al. (2010) IWBDA Proc.[7] Cooling M. T. (2011) ISMB Proc.[8] Misirli G., et al. (2011) Bioinf.[9] Wimalaratne, S. M., et al. (2009) Bioinf.[10] Yu, T., et al. (2011) Bioinf.[11] Sher, A. A. et al. (2010) IEEE EMBS Proc.[12] Cooling M. T., et al. (2010) NZ eResearch Symp.
Hypertonic stress regulates amino acid transport and cell cycle proteins in chick embryo hepatocytes
Authors: Bruscalupi Giovannella , Massimi Mara , Spagnuolo Silvana , Fiore Anna Maria , Leoni Silvia
Published: September 2011

Hyperosmotic stress affects cell growth, decreasing cell volume and increasing the uptake of organic osmolytes. However, the sensitivity of embryonic cells to osmotic treatment remains to be established. We have analysed some aspects of cell‐cycle control and amino‐acid transport in hypertonic conditions during prenatal life. The effects of hyperosmotic stress on amino‐acid uptake mediated by system A, 3H‐thymidine incorporation, and regulation of cell‐cycle proteins were analysed in chick embryo hepatocytes. Hypertonic stress increased system A activity and caused cell‐cycle delay. Effects on amino‐acid transport involved p38 kinase activation and new carrier synthesis. Cyclin D1, cdk4 (cyclin‐dependent kinase 4) and PCNA (proliferating‐cell nuclear antigen) levels decreased, whereas cyclin E, p21 and p53 levels were unchanged. Incorporation of 3H‐leucine indicated decreased synthesis of cyclin D1. In contrast, analysis of mRNA by qRT‐PCR (quantitative real‐time PCR) showed a net increase of cyclin D1 transcripts, suggesting post‐transcriptional regulation. The data show that chick embryo hepatocytes respond to hyperosmotic conditions by arresting cell growth to prevent DNA damage and increasing osmolyte uptake to regulate cell volume, indicating that the adaptive response to environmental stress exists during prenatal life.
Effect of Si-doping on InAs nanowire transport and morphology
Authors: Wirths S. , Weis K. , Winden A. , Sladek K. , Volk C. , Alagha S. , Weirich T. E. , von der Ahe M. , Hardtdegen H. , Lüth H. , Demarina N. , Grützmacher D. , Schäpers Th.
Published: September 2011

The effect of Si-doping on the morphology, structure, and transport properties of nanowires was investigated. The nanowires were deposited by selective-area metal organic vapor phase epitaxy in an N2 ambient. It is observed that doping systematically affects the nanowire morphology but not the structure of the nanowires. However, the transport properties of the wires are greatly affected. Room-temperature four-terminal measurements show that with an increasing dopant supply the conductivity monotonously increases. For the highest doping level the conductivity is higher by a factor of 25 compared to only intrinsically doped reference nanowires. By means of back-gate field-effect transistor measurements it was confirmed that the doping results in an increased carrier concentration. Temperature dependent resistance measurements reveal, for lower doping concentrations, a thermally activated semiconductor-type increase of the conductivity. In contrast, the nanowires with the highest doping concentration show a metal-type decrease of the resistivity with decreasing temperature.
Symmetry reduction in multiband Hamiltonians for semiconductor quantum dots: The role of interfaces and higher energy bands
Authors: Tomić Stanko , Vukmirović Nenad
Published: September 2011

The role of interfaces and higher bands on the electronic structure of embedded semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) was investigated. The term in the multiband k·p Hamiltonian that captures the effect of interface band mixing was derived starting from the microscopic theory. It was shown, analytically and numerically, that, with such a term included, the right symmetry of the QD system can be captured. It leads to splitting of otherwise degenerate energy levels of the order of several meV. The inclusion of additional higher bands beyond the ones from the standard eight-band model also leads to the reduction of symmetry from an artificially high one to the true atomistic symmetry of the system, however their quantitative effect is weaker. These results prove that the multiband k·p Hamiltonians are fully capable of describing the correct symmetry of a QD.
Energy transfer dynamics in organic light emitting diode emission layers doped with triplet emitters
Authors: Pandey Lesley , Van der Auweraer Mark
Published: September 2011

Herein, we report the study of singlet energy transfer dynamics in two host-guest systems: CNPPP (poly [2-(6′-cyano-6′-methylheptyloxy)-1,4-phenylene]) as host in both and as guests btpIr (iridium (III) bis[2-(2′-benzothienyl)pyridinato-N,C3′] (acetylacetonate)) and Irppy (fac tris(2-phenylpyridine) iridium (III), two triplet emitters. In both systems, the energy transfer was evaluated using the Förster transfer model. Utilizing time-resolved and stationazry measurements, it could be concluded that the behavior of both systems was in good agreement with the proposed model. In addition, this analysis provides a clear indication to the homogenous distribution of the dopants.
Terahertz responsivity of field effect transistors versus their static channel conductivity and loading effects
Authors: Sakowicz M. , Lifshits M. B. , Klimenko O. A. , Schuster F. , Coquillat D. , Teppe F. , Knap W.
Published: September 2011

We study the broadband photovoltaic response of field effect transistors on terahertz radiation. A simple physical analytical model of the response is developed. It is based on plasma density perturbation in the transistor channel by the incoming terahertz radiation. The model shows how the non-resonant detection signal is related to static (dc) transistor characteristics. We analyze loading effects related to capacitive, inductive, and resistive coupling of the detector to the read-out circuit as a function of modulation frequencies and loading resistors. As we show, the proposed physical model completed by loading effects fully describes the experimental results on the non-resonant sub-terahertz detection by all studied III-V (GaAs, GaN) and silicon based transistors. Field effect transistors were recently proposed as the best terahertz detecting pixels for fabrication of low cost focal plane arrays for terahertz imaging. This article gives prospects for electrical simulation of these transistors and their optimal integration in the focal plane arrays.
Role of ambient air on photoluminescence and electrical conductivity of assembly of ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Ghosh Manoranjan , Ningthoujam R. S. , Vatsa R. K. , Das D. , Nataraju V. , Gadkari S. C. , Gupta S. K. , Bahadur D.
Published: September 2011

Effect of ambient gases present in air on photoluminescence (PL) and electrical conductivity of films prepared using ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) have been investigated. It is observed that NPs of size below 20 nm kept inside a chamber exhibit complete reduction in their visible PL when oxygen partial pressure of the surrounding gases is decreased by evacuation. However, the visible PL from ZnO NPs is insensitive to other major gases present in the ambient air. The rate of change of PL intensity with pressure is inversely proportional to the ambient air pressure and increases when particle size decreases due to the enhanced surface to volume ratio. On the other hand, an assembly of ZnO NPs behaves as a complete insulator in the presence of dry air and its major components like N2, O2, and CO2. Electrical conduction having resistivity ∼102–103 Ωm is observed in the presence of humid air. The depletion layer formed at the NP surface after acquiring donor electrons of ZnO by the adsorbed oxygen has been found to control the visible PL and increases the contact potential barrier between the NPs which in turn enhances the resistance of the film.
On the solubility of yttrium in RuO2
Authors: Music Denis , Zumdick Naemi A. , Hallstedt Bengt , Schneider Jochen M.
Published: September 2011

We have investigated the solubility of Y in rutile RuO2 using experimental and theoretical methods. Nanostructured Ru–Y–O thin films were synthesized via combinatorial reactive sputtering with an O/metal ratio of 2.6 and a Y content of 0.3 to 12.6 at. %. A solubility limit of 1.7 at. % was identified using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction. Based on ab initio and thermodynamic modeling, the solubility of Y can be understood. Smaller Y amounts are incorporated into the lattice, forming a metastable film, with local structural deformations due to size effects. As the Y content is increased, extensive local structural deformations are observed, but phase separation does not occur due to kinetic limitations. Nanostructured RuO2 alloyed with Y might lead to enhanced phonon scattering and quantum confinement effects, which in turn improve the thermoelectric efficiency.
Effect of AlN buffer layer properties on the morphology and polarity of GaN nanowires grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Brubaker Matt D. , Levin Igor , Davydov Albert V. , Rourke Devin M. , Sanford Norman A. , Bright Victor M. , Bertness Kris A.
Published: September 2011

Low-temperature AlN buffer layers grown via plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy on Si (111) were found to significantly affect the subsequent growth morphology of GaN nanowires. The AlN buffer layers exhibited nanowire-like columnar protrusions, with their size, shape, and tilt determined by the AlN V/III flux ratio. GaN nanowires were frequently observed to adopt the structural characteristics of the underlying AlN columns, including the size and the degree of tilt. Piezoresponse force microscopy and polarity-sensitive etching indicate that the AlN films and the protruding columns have a mixed crystallographic polarity. Convergent beam electron diffraction indicates that GaN nanowires are Ga-polar, suggesting that Al-polar columns are nanowire nucleation sites for Ga-polar nanowires. GaN nanowires of low density could be grown on AlN buffers that were predominantly N-polar with isolated Al-polar columns, indicating a high growth rate for Ga-polar nanowires and suppressed growth of N-polar nanowires under typical growth conditions. AlN buffer layers grown under slightly N-rich conditions (V/III flux ratio = 1.0 to 1.3) were found to provide a favorable growth surface for low-density, coalescence-free nanowires.
High signal-to-noise Fourier transform spectroscopy with light emitting diode sources
Authors: Bhosale J. S.
Published: September 2011

A temperature tuned light emitting diode (LED) has several advantages over conventional sources for Fourier transform spectroscopy. The large radiation density of LEDs, concentrated in a small spectral region, is ideal for high resolution Fourier transform spectroscopy where a high signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio is desired. A simple, inexpensive LED source leads to a superior performance at high resolutions exceeding that of a tungsten halogen lamp, in the visible region of spectrum.
Linac Coherent Light Source soft x-ray materials science instrument optical design and monochromator commissioning
Authors: Heimann Philip , Krupin Oleg , Schlotter William F. , Turner Joshua , Krzywinski Jacek , Sorgenfrei Florian , Messerschmidt Marc , Bernstein David , Chalupský Jaromir , Hájková Vera , Hau-Riege Stefan , Holmes Michael , Juha Libor , Kelez Nicholas , Lüning Jan , Nordlund Dennis , Fernandez Perea Monica , Scherz Andreas , Soufli Regina , Wurth Wilfried , Rowen Michael
Published: September 2011

We present the x-ray optical design of the soft x-ray materials science instrument at the Linac Coherent Light Source, consisting of a varied line-spaced grating monochromator and Kirkpatrick-Baez refocusing optics. Results from the commissioning of the monochromator are shown. A resolving power of 3000 was achieved, which is within a factor of two of the design goal.
Polymerization of actin filaments coupled with adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis: Brownian dynamics and theoretical analysis
Authors: Guo Kunkun , Xiao Wenjia , Qiu Dong
Published: September 2011

Polymerization dynamics of single actin filaments coupled with adenosine triphosphate (ATP) hydrolysis is investigated via both theoretical analysis and Brownian dynamics simulations. Brownian dynamics simulations have been applied recently to study the growth behaviors of long filaments as a function of the free actin monomer concentrations, CT, which is found to be in agreement with the associated experiments. In the present study, both ATP cap length and length diffusivity are studied as a function of the free ATP-actin monomer concentrations, CT. The exact analytical expressions are found to be in perfect consistency with Brownian dynamics simulations. Likewise, we find that the length diffusion coefficient is peaked near the critical concentration, CT, cr. It is, therefore, expected that the dependence of length diffusivity on ATP-actin monomer concentrations is utilized to analyze the surprising experiments on the length fluctuations of individual actin filaments.
Axial bandgap engineering in germanium-silicon heterostructured nanowires
Authors: Dayeh Shadi A. , Dickerson Robert M. , Picraux S. Thomas
Published: September 2011

Large composition changes along the nanowire axial direction provide an additional degree of freedom for tailoring charge transport in semiconductor devices. We utilize 100% axial composition modulated germanium to silicon semiconductor nanowires to demonstrate bandgap-engineered Schottky barrier heterostructured field-effect transistors that outperform their homogenous counterparts. The built-in electric field in the channel provided by the compositional change and asymmetric Schottky barrier heights enables high carrier injection in one transport direction but not the other, resulting in high on-currents of 50 μA/μm, 107 Ion/Ioff ratios, and no ambipolarity in transfer characteristics.
Structures of trimetallic molybdenum and tungsten suboxide cluster anions
Authors: Rothgeb David W. , Mann Jennifer E. , Waller Sarah E. , Jarrold Caroline Chick
Published: September 2011

Anion photoelectron spectra of Mo3Oy− and W3Oy− (y = 3 − 6) are reported and analyzed using density functional theory results in an attempt to determine whether electronic and structural trends in the less oxidized clusters (y = 3, 4) could elucidate the disparate chemical properties of the M3Oy− (M = Mo, W, y = 5, 6) species. In general, cyclic structures are calculated to be more stable by at least 1 eV than extended structures, and the lowest energy structures calculated for the most reduced species favor M = O terminal bonds. While the numerous low-energy structures found for Mo3Oy−/Mo3Oy and W3Oy−/W3Oy were, in general, similar, various structures of W3Oy−/W3Oy were found to be energetically closer lying than analogous structures of Mo3Oy−/Mo3Oy. Additionally, the Mo–O–Mo bridge bond was found to be a more stabilizing structural motif than the W–O–W bridge bond, with the oxygen center in the former having the highest negative charge. Based on this, the observation of trapped intermediates in reactions between Mo3Oy− and water or CO2 that are not observed in analogous W3Oy− reactivity studies may be partially attributed to the role of bridge bond fluxionality.
Optical Zeeman spectroscopy of the [17.6]2–X3Δ1(1,0) band system of tungsten monocarbide, WC
Authors: Wang Fang , Steimle Timothy C.
Published: September 2011

The Zeeman effect in the [17.6]2–X3Δ1(1,0) band system of tungsten monocarbide, WC, has been recorded and analyzed. Magnetic tuning of the spectral features recorded at high resolution (full width at half maximum ≅ 35 MHz) and at field strengths of 1101 and 2230 G are accurately modeled using an effective Zeeman Hamiltonian. The observed spectra were fit to produce gel -factors for the X3Δ1(υ = 0) and [17.6]2(υ = 1) states. The observed gel-factors are discussed in terms of the proposed electronic state distribution.
New ab initio potential energy surface and quantum dynamics of the reaction H(2S) + NH(X3Σ−) → N(4S) + H2
Authors: Zhai Hong-Sheng , Han Ke-Li
Published: September 2011

A new global potential energy surface is reported for the ground state (4A″) of the reaction H(2S) + NH(X3Σ−) → N(4S) + H2 from a set of accurate ab initio data, which were computed using the multi-reference configuration interaction with a basis set of aug-cc-pV5Z. The many-body expansion and neural network methods have been used to construct the new potential energy surface. The topographical features of the new global potential energy surface are presented. The predicted barrier height is lower than previous theoretical estimates and the heat of reaction with zero-point energy is closer to experimental results. The quantum reactive scattering dynamics calculation was carried out over a range of collision energies (0–1.0 eV) on the new potential energy surface. The reaction probabilities, integral cross-section, and rate constants for the title reaction were calculated. The calculated rate constants are in excellent agreement with the available experimental results.
Multifunctional behavior of ZnO supported Bi1−xDyxFeO3 nanorods
Authors: Mandal M. , Chatterjee Sriparna , Palkar V. R.
Published: September 2011

We have shown that it is possible to realize multifunctional Bi1−xDyxFeO3 (BDFO) nanorods by coating BDFO film on ZnO nanorods. These BDFO coated ZnO (BDFO/ZnO) nanorods are obtained by depositing BDFO on vertical ZnO nanorods grown on Si substrate by using pulsed laser deposition technique. The BDFO/ZnO rods exhibit coexistence of ferroelectric and ferromagnetic properties with significant coupling between two order parameters at room temperature. Moreover, the piezoresponse of these nanorods is found to be even superior to pure ZnO nanorods. The unique multifunctional behavior of these nanorods at room temperature could find different applications in nanodevices like sensors, power generators, etc. with ease and flexibility in operation.
Non-reciprocal devices using attenuated total reflection and thin film magnetic layered structures
Authors: Fal T. J. , Camley R. E.
Published: September 2011

There is need for non-reciprocal devices such as circulators and isolators. Although such devices are common at frequencies below 10 GHz, there is a lack of compact, low-weight, devices at higher microwave frequencies. This paper examines the non-reciprocal behavior associated with attenuated total reflection (ATR) for multi-layered dielectric and magnetic structures. Non-reciprocal behaviors produced by ATR have been explored for semi-infinite magnetic materials. This paper focuses on ATR behavior with magnetic films of finite thickness, from thick layers of around 3 cm to thin layers of about 1 µm. The results show significant non-reciprocity even for magnetic layers less than 0.1 cm thick, with reflection loss differences of more than 30 dB between positive and negative signal propagation. Results are presented for yttrium iron garnet and M type barium hexagonal ferrites. The two materials allow nonreciprocal behavior at different frequencies, 5–20 GHz for the garnet and 45–80 GHz for the hexagonal ferrite.
A hot-carrier solar cell with optical energy selective contacts
Authors: Farrell D. J. , Takeda Y. , Nishikawa K. , Nagashima T. , Motohiro T. , Ekins-Daukes N. J.
Published: September 2011

The hot-carrier solar cell (HC-SC) is an ambitious approach to solar energy conversion which in principle can achieve high efficiency (84%) from a single bandgap semiconductor. Here we propose a method of utilising hot-carriers within a photovoltaic device in which energy is extracted optically from a hot-carrier distribution rather than through the usual approach of electrical conduction. Depending on the optical extraction rate, the concept proposed here may attain an upper efficiency approaching that of the conventional HC-SC.
Unique prospects for graphene-based terahertz modulators
Authors: Sensale-Rodriguez Berardi , Fang Tian , Yan Rusen , Kelly Michelle M. , Jena Debdeep , Liu Lei , (Grace) Xing Huili
Published: September 2011

The modulation depth of two-dimensional electron-gas (2DEG) based terahertz (THz) modulators using AlGaAs/GaAs hetero-structures with metal gates is inherently limited to <30%. The metal gate not only attenuates the THz signal but also severely degrades modulation depth. Metal losses can be significantly reduced employing an alternative material with tunable conductivity. Graphene presents a unique solution to this problem due to its symmetric band structure and extraordinarily high hole mobility. In this work, we show that it is possible to achieve a modulation depth of >90% while simultaneously minimizing signal attenuation to <5% by tuning the Fermi level at its Dirac point.
Preliminary spatial behaviour of warru (Petrogale lateralis MacDonnell Ranges race) in the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands, South Australia
Authors: Ruykys Laura , Ward Matthew J. , Taggart David A. , Breed William G.
Published: September 2011

This study aimed to determine the home range and movement patterns of Petrogale lateralis in the arid-zone Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands in the north-west of South Australia. Ten Global Positioning System radio-collars were attached to animals, with collars programmed to function in 2008–09. Catastrophic collar failure resulted in only 28 days of data, from July 2008, being retrieved from one adult female. During this time, the female occupied a 90% kernel range of 57.9 ha and core (50%) range of 9.3 ha. The animal moved a total of 50.8 km and undertook three journeys of over 1 km. The longest of these was 1.2 km, undertaken in 89 min. The high mobility of the study animal has implications for management, particularly predator baiting and fire management strategies. Future research should assess the validity of these results by increasing sample size and conducting similar work for other arid-zone P. lateralis. The lessons learnt from the current GPS collar deployment may also be of interest to other researchers.
What we don't know and haven't learned about cost - benefit prioritisation of rock-wallaby management
Authors: Soderquist Todd
Published: September 2011

Research and translocations of brush-tailed rock-wallabies (Petrogale penicillata) in New South Wales have, in conjunction with studies in Victoria and Queensland, provided extensive insights yet also document the high variability in the species’ response to management. Nonetheless, experts are being asked to quantify predicted response for cost–benefit prioritisation models that will rank threatened species and populations worthy of future funding, with little consideration of the basic principles behind adaptive management. The weaknesses of these prioritisation models must be evaluated carefully by experts in order that appropriate advice is provided which genuinely assists decision-making. I explore the questions facing rock-wallaby ecologists as a case study of how much more we need to know and learn within adaptive approaches to conservation before our predictions are robust.
Virus symptomatology in accessions of the Medicago truncatula core collection and identification of virus resistance phenotypes
Authors: Saqib M. , Gadja B. E. , Jones M. G. K. , Jones R. A. C.
Published: September 2011

Plants of 212 accessions from the core collection of model legume species Medicago truncatula were inoculated with infective sap containing Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV, isolate EW), Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV, isolate MI) or Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV, isolate SN-1). A diverse range of systemic symptoms were obtained that varied widely in severity depending on the combination of virus isolate and accession, or, especially with AMV, some accessions became infected but did not display symptoms. The delay between virus inoculation and symptom appearance normally varied from 1 to 4 weeks, but with CMV it took up to 8 weeks in two accessions. Five (AMV), 59 (BYMV) and 22 (CMV) core accessions remained uninfected systemically. Plants of most of these accessions, and some that died or gave susceptible phenotypes, were then inoculated with two additional isolates of AMV (eight accessions), or two distinct strains of BYMV (58 accessions) and CMV (21 accessions). Plants of accession 11715 remained uninfected by CMV isolates CP (CMV subgroup 1) and LW (CMV subgroup 2), but those of all other previously uninfected accessions became infected systemically by all three viruses. All accessions inoculated with AMV isolates Aq and Hu, and most inoculated with BYMV isolate LKoj1-NN (generalist strain), BYMV isolate LP-1 (lupin strain), and CMV isolates CP and LW developed typical susceptible phenotypes. However, systemic hypersensitive phenotypes developed with BYMV LKoj1-NN and LP-1 in plants of 4456, or with LKoj1-NN only in 774, 1526, 4327, 14829, 15268, 22922 and 25654; 15268 and 25654 had developed this phenotype previously with MI (generalist strain). Similarly, plants of 21362 developed this phenotype with CMV CP and LW, while plants of 1526, 2748 and 31443 developed it with CP; 2748, 21632 and 31443 had developed it previously with SN-1 (mixture of subgroups 1 and 2). Once the genetic bases of the BYMV and CMV resistances found in M. truncatula are understood, they may prove useful in future virus resistance breeding among crop and pasture legumes.
Discovery and structural characterization of a small molecule 14-3-3 protein-protein interaction inhibitor
Authors: Zhao Jing , Du Yuhong , Horton John R. , Upadhyay Anup K. , Lou Bin , Bai Yan , Zhang Xing , Du Lupei , Li Minyong , Wang Binghe , Zhang Lixin , Barbieri Joseph T. , Khuri Fadlo R. , Cheng Xiaodong , Fu Haian
Published: September 2011

The 14-3-3 family of phosphoserine/threonine-recognition proteins engage multiple nodes in signaling networks that control diverse physiological and pathophysiological functions and have emerged as promising therapeutic targets for such diseases as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Thus, small molecule modulators of 14-3-3 are much needed agents for chemical biology investigations and therapeutic development. To analyze 14-3-3 function and modulate its activity, we conducted a chemical screen and identified 4-[(2Z)-2-[4-formyl-6-methyl-5-oxo-3-(phosphonatooxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylidene]hydrazinyl]benzoate as a 14-3-3 inhibitor, which we termed FOBISIN (FOurteen-three-three BInding Small molecule INhibitor) 101. FOBISIN101 effectively blocked the binding of 14-3-3 with Raf-1 and proline-rich AKT substrate, 40 kD
a
and neutralized the ability of 14-3-3 to activate exoenzyme S ADP-ribosyltransferase. To provide a mechanistic basis for 14-3-3 inhibition, the crystal structure of 14-3-3
ζ
in complex with FOBISIN101 was solved. Unexpectedly, the double bond linking the pyridoxal-phosphate and benzoate moieties was reduced by X-rays to create a covalent linkage of the pyridoxal-phosphate moiety to lysine 120 in the binding groove of 14-3-3, leading to persistent 14-3-3 inactivation. We suggest that FOBISIN101-like molecules could be developed as an entirely unique class of 14-3-3 inhibitors, which may serve as radiation-triggered therapeutic agents for the treatment of 14-3-3-mediated diseases, such as cancer.
The Signature Effect: Signing Influences Consumption-Related Behavior by Priming Self-Identity
Authors: Kettle Keri L. , Häubl Gerald
Published: September 2011

Evidence from four studies shows that signing one’s name influences consumption-related behavior in a predictable manner. Signing acts as a general self-identity prime that facilitates the activation of the particular aspect of a consumer’s self-identity that is afforded by the situation, resulting in behavior congruent with that aspect. Our findings demonstrate that signing causes consumers to become more (less) engaged when shopping in a product domain they (do not) closely identify with (studies 1 and 2), to identify more (less) closely with in(out)-groups (study 3), and to conform more with (diverge more from) in(out)-groups when making consumption choices in preference domains that are relevant to signaling one’s identity (study 4). We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings.
Psychological Distance and the Dual Role of Price
Authors: Bornemann Torsten , Homburg Christian
Published: September 2011

When evaluating a product, consumers may interpret price information as either an indicator of quality or an indicator of monetary sacrifice. On the basis of construal level theory, we propose that psychological distance alters the weight consumers attach to these opposing roles of price. Four experiments show (1) that from both a temporally and a socially distant perspective, the price–perceived quality relationship is more pronounced; (2) that from a temporally proximal perspective, the price–perceived sacrifice relationship is more pronounced; (3) that these effects stem from differences in the way consumers mentally construe price information; and (4) that when people initially use price to judge a product for distant future consumption, it receives less attention as an indicator of sacrifice in a later evaluation for near future consumption. These findings have implications for prelaunch communication activities and preference elicitation methods such as conjoint analysis.
Deformations of rational 𝑇-varieties
Authors: Ilten Nathan , Vollmert Robert
Published: September 2011

We show how to construct certain homogeneous deformations for rational normal varieties with codimension one torus action. This can then be used to construct homogeneous deformations of any toric variety in arbitrary degree. For locally trivial deformations coming from this construction, we calculate the image of the Kodaira-Spencer map. We then show that for a smooth complete toric variety, our homogeneous deformations span the space of first-order deformations.
The impact of manager and top management identification on the relationship between perceived organizational justice and change‐oriented behavior
Authors: Fuchs Sebastian
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is threefold: to better understand what predicts individuals pro‐change behavior (PCB) and anti‐change behavior (ACB) during organizational renewal with respect to organizational justice perceptions, given its significance for change intervention success; to identify and empirically test two new foci of organizational identification, namely manager and top management identification (TMID); and to investigate how these two new identification foci affect the relationship between various types of organizational justice and change‐oriented behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from 137 market research employees on their perceptions of organizational distributive, procedural and interactional justice, manager and TMID and PCB and ACB were collected. Multiple hierarchical regression analysis was used for testing direct relationships between organizational justice and change‐oriented behavior and moderation effects of manager and TMID on these relationships.

Findings

The findings indicate that all types of justice predict PCB and that, in addition, interactional justice perceptions are negatively related to employees' ACB. Neither manager nor TMID had a moderating effect on the relationship between organizational justice and PCB, but both moderated the relationship between distributive justice perceptions and ACB. Moreover, identification with top management moderated the relationship between procedural justice perceptions and ACB.

Research limitations/implications

The use of self‐reported measures on PCB and ACB may present a too optimistic reflection of people's actual behavior during organizational change based on social desirability considerations in organizational research.

Practical implications

The findings contribute to a better understanding of how organizations and change agents can foster PCB and what role a psychological bond of employees with managers and an organization's top management can play during change interventions. Specifically, organizational leaders should seek both some professional and personal credentials in order to tap into the positive self‐concept element of identification and also adopt a leadership style during change which is associated with charismatic leadership behaviors. Scholars in the areas of organizational behavior and I/O psychology benefit from this study as it sheds light on the antecedents of PCB and ACB and offers two new identification foci that interact with the variables at hand.

Originality/value

The creation of manager and TMID as new foci in organizational identification research and their use as a moderating force on the relationship between both PCB and ACB is unprecedented.
Poverty as a transient reality in a globalised world: an economic choice
Authors: Slabbert A.D. , Ukpere W.I.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

Poverty is indeed a terrible monster confronting humanity today. It is alarming and, indeed, not without despair to note that 22,000 children under five die every day as a result of poverty. Thus, in a calendar year, more than eight million children do not progress past the age of five years. One of the world's worst atrocities, which has endured in the minds and hearts of humanity, was the Holocaust, in which six million people were murdered. It continues to be viewed with indignation and revulsion. Bizarrely, the deaths of eight million innocents pass without notice, without indignation and revulsion, and with very few tears being shed. Does this mean that in maybe 50 years from now, we will be condemned as mass murderers, and mentioned in the same context as Hitler's murderers? It is necessary to take note of this. It is necessary to consider our own personal position vis‐à‐vis this reality and take moral decisions. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a meta‐analysis, which relied on secondary sources of information. It is a qualitative study which is based on conceptual analysis, theory building, and the emic perspective (authors' viewpoint).

Findings

Humanity is entrusted with the wellbeing and survival of our planet and its inhabitants, and we have definitive custodian responsibilities to exercise. In the final analysis, the hallmark of a successful life is the ability to say: I have left this earth a better place than when I arrived. If poverty is left unchecked, will we be able to make that statement with a clear and untroubled conscience?

Social implications

There is indeed a solution to global poverty. In order to reach this desired state of affairs, there is just one requirement: international commitment and willingness to change the current status quo. This is not negotiable, but a necessary and sufficient ingredient for change. The rest is detail and can be achieved through a process of hard work, involvement, and essentially, empathy.

Originality/value

This paper is valuable because it confronts one of the disgusting issues affecting humankind today – poverty. Poverty cannot be eradicated if we stand akimbo watching without addressing it. This piece of treatise is an effort by the authors to address it, and proffer possible ways to tackle the malady.
An economic analysis of sports performance in Africa
Authors: Manuel Luiz John , Fadal Riyas
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop insight into the socio‐economic determinants of African sports performance. Previous studies have argued that a country's success in sports is directly related to the economic resources that are available for those sports. However, factors that are used to determine the levels of success for developed countries are not necessarily the same, or bear the same weight, as for developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The premise of this study is to identify specific factors that increase success in sports in developing countries by means of several econometric specifications using cross sectional data for African countries.

Findings

This study finds evidence that suggests that Africa's performance in sports is dependent on a range of socio‐economic factors, which in some respects confirms worldwide studies. Money does indeed matter: GDP was the overwhelmingly consistent dependent variable in all four models tested. Interestingly, important shades of distinction between the various dependent variables are found.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research in the field of sports and organizational economics especially in emerging countries. Previous studies have treated countries as a homogeneous grouping and allowed the broad aggregates to reveal the determinants. This study focuses on a sub‐group of countries that are relatively poor, have had a complex past with colonial masters, and that generally have weak administrative structures.
Financial implications of implementing an e‐learning project
Authors: Sharma Kunal
Published: September 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to outline the financial implications, while deploying information and communication technologies for implementing e‐learning, and to elucidate them, while implementing an e‐learning project in a conventional university environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a descriptive account of the various cost factors and benefits accrued in implementing an e‐learning project and draws on a variety of secondary sources both published and unpublished.

Findings

The paper identifies the various cost factors as well as the benefits involved in e‐learning implementation in conventional educational institutions, so that e‐learning implementation is a smooth process. Three modes of e‐learning exist, namely, substantially online mode; replacement mode; and supplemental mode, and the costs of e‐learning vary for each. The paper also describes how to assess the success or failure of an e‐learning project.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents a review of literature developed from secondary sources since e‐learning implementation is in a budding stage in conventional universities, particularly in the Asian context.

Practical implications

The paper outlines the financial implications of e‐learning and provides information on the various cost factors in implementing an e‐learning project for the first time. These factors should be duly acknowledged and given consideration, if the advantages of e‐learning are to be fully realised and e‐learning implementation is to succeed.

Originality/value

This paper provides a valuable summary of the state of affairs of financial implications, for instance the cost factors and benefits accrued while implementing an e‐learning project in the case of conventional universities. From this summary of the current situation, it goes on to suggest potential ways to transform the “digital divide” into “digital opportunities”.
A practical application of SurveyMonkey as a remote usability‐testing tool
Authors: Symonds Emily
Published: September 2011

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to discuss the application of a web‐based tool as a remote asynchronous usability testing method based on an assessment of an academic library's digital collections website.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the selection of an asynchronous remote usability testing method, the reasons for the selection of SurveyMonkey, an evaluation of its effectiveness through an assessment of the digital collections web site, and the potential for its application in future usability studies.

Findings

SurveyMonkey can be employed as an assessment tool with advance planning by evaluators to capture the responses and opinions of users. Overall, it is a cost effective and time‐saving option for small assessment projects.

Research limitations/implications

This was an informal study where a specific product, SurveyMonkey, was tested with the purpose of evaluating its effectiveness as a remote asynchronous assessment tool through its application for a specific website usability study. The assessment was not compared to other testing methods, and the tool was not evaluated through formal methods.

Practical implications

Libraries and other organizations can look to free, or low‐cost, web‐based tools as an alternative to more traditional methods, such as focus groups, when evaluating services.

Originality/value

The paper describes the creation and implementation of a web‐based usability test for a library website using a specific product. It looks at the effectiveness of the assessment tool based on cost and time requirements, in addition to the benefits and disadvantages of conducting remote usability testing.